From glorious marine reserves just off the mainland to incredible sites around the Balearic Islands, there is no question that Spain offers some of the best scuba diving experiences in Europe. In each diving destination, there are many dive centres where qualified instructors can teach beginners and aid novices, while experts can buddy up and explore with a local guide or under their own steam.
Don’t forget to take the kit that is essential to your experience such as a quality wetsuit, and consider accessories that will enhance your experience such as a dive watch from a reliable brand like OMEGA and a trusted underwater camera. You can research the items that are available for hire during your stay to lighten your luggage load.
Whether you are an enthusiastic rookie or a seasoned professional, you are sure to adore the peace and privacy and utter magic of underwater adventure at Spain’s best dive sites.
Costa Brava
The Costa Brava, a 200-km stretch of coastline on the Spanish mainland, is one of the most popular travel destinations in Spain. While the main beach resorts are filled with tourists during the summer, scuba divers can escape the crowds by heading to the smaller towns and villages that are closer to the most rewarding dive sites.
There are 36 PADI dive centres scattered along the Costa Brava which is renowned as one of the best diving destinations in the Mediterranean, so visitors are spoiled for choice! Here are two of the most rewarding diving sites just offshore of the Costa Brava:
Illes Medes
The Medes Islands Reserve is a recognised marine biosphere and draws divers from all over the world. A network of seven islands that are protected from human inhabitation, this area boasts sprawling meadows of Neptune grass unique to the Mediterranean as well as a wide variety of fish.
Beginners cannot dive here, but they can opt to snorkel on the surface instead which is still very much worthwhile.
Llançà
This small fishing village at the north of the coastline is praised for its wild landscape of hidden coves and Albera National Park. The Cap de Creus National Park offers diving at a range of depths to suit all capabilities: the seabed showcases colourful coral adorned with sea anemones and Alcyonacea.
The Balearic Islands
Located just off the eastern shore of Spain, this archipelago of islands feature several of the most popular beach holiday destinations in Europe. The largest island, Mallorca, is renowned for its attractive scuba diving opportunities.
Cabrera
This island just south of Mallorca has been a protected conservation site for over 30 years, so wildlife flourishes here. Only two boats per day are allowed to visit the island so you are ensured of a serene scuba diving experience in Cabrera.
Spot seahorses bobbing through the water alongside sea turtles, shoals of barracuda and even dolphins. Coral clung with starfish sits below.
Illa del Toro
A more accessible diving site in Mallorca is the Illa del Toro, a well-known option that is suited to beginners as well as those who have more experience. This marine reserve enjoys ideal dive conditions throughout the season.
A staggering array of marine life is found here, from the elusive moray eels to scorpionfish, dragonfish, redfish, and amberjacks. It is possible to see seahorses here, too, thanks to the gentle currents. Watch out for octopuses lurking concealed in the crevices around the grottos and caves.
