Learn to Dive in Spain
Spain’s Highlights
Spain is often disregarded as a scuba diving spot, but there are many beautiful places to explore. It is most popular among local and European divers. In certain spots, you can enjoy diving all year-round. In Spain, diving is usually reef, wall, wreck or caves. The bottom structure is usually sandy and stony. There are dives of all depths but some can be as deep as 50 meters. Some areas to note for diving are Costa del Maresme, Costa Brava, Costa Dorada and the Canary Islands. Spain has some good options for deep dives, technical diving and has some impressive wrecks to explore.
When is the best time to go diving in Spain?
In the Canary Islands, you are able to scuba dive all year-round. In the rest of Spain, the climate varies across the country. In most dive spots, diving starts from April to October, but you may want to bring a thick wetsuit as water temperatures are relatively cold.
Water Temperature: Along the Mediterranean Coast, the water temperature ranges from 15°C in winter to 27°C in summer. In the Canary Islands water temperatures go from 18°C in winter to 24°C in summer.
Currents: Along the Mediterranean coast, there is little or a mild current. Around the Canary Islands, the current can be between mild and strong.
Visibility: In the Mediterranean Sea, visibility is usually very good at around 30 meters. On the Atlantic side, visibility is much less at around 10 to 20 meters on a good day.
Spain’s best dive sites
El Bajón Del Río, Fuerteventura
El Bajon Del Rio is one of Canary Island’s most famous dive sites. The Canary Islands were formed by volcanic eruptions millions of years ago and offer some interesting opportunities with diverse marine life. The seafloor is made up of volcanic rocks, in the shape of giant mushrooms, up to 15 meters tall and home to an abundance of sea life. Divers have the chance to spot parrot fish, barracuda, sting rays, trigger fish, lobsters, prawns, eels and much more.
Cabo De Palos
Cape Palos or Cabo De Palos in Spanish is an area of volcanic rock sitting on the peninsula at the tail end of La Manga close to La Cartagena. Famous for its wrecks, it’s a haven for experienced and technical divers. Lying between Cabo de Palos and Grosa Island, there are vessels from WW1 and WW2, even a Phoenician boat dating back 3,000 years. It is also a meeting point, the cooler water from the Atlantic mixes with the warmer Mediterranean water causing currents that bring nutrients to the reef system ensuring the marine life has plenty to eat.
Islas Medas
Islas Medas or Medes Islands, the small archipelago, is a marine reserve made up of 7 small uninhabited islands. Filled with underwater caves, tunnels and swim throughs, teeming with gorgonian coral and an abundance of marine life. There are 30 kilogram groupers to spot, with the occasional chance to see sunfish and eagle rays. As a result of its marine-preserve status, the dive sites in this area are home to an improbable number of fish.
About the country
Spain is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations with great food, amazing culture combined with interesting history and architecture. It’s a country worth visiting more than once. The country is both geographically and culturally diverse, made up of rich landscapes, vivacious cities and ancient ruins. Spain has 47 UNESCO World Heritage Sites which include historical monuments, cities and more. Hiking, bike riding, surfing, swimming, golfing, water sports and football are outdoor activities enjoyed throughout Spain.
Recreational Courses in Spain
Dive Centers in Spain
Getting to Spain
You can get to Spain by flying, taking a train, driving or by boat. Within cities, public transport can be used to get around. To travel domestically, take a train, drive or catch a bus.
Other important information
- Capital: Madrid
- Official Language: Spanish
- Demonym: Spanish
- Currency: Euro
- Calling code: +34
- Driving Side: Right
- Population: Over 47 million
- Pressure: Bar
- First Stage: DIN
