Where to dive in Spain? The 10 best destinations

There are two distinct Spains to consider. The Mediterranean, from the Costa Brava to Andalusia and the Balearic Islands, is best for diving from May to October. The Canaries, with their subtropical climate, can be dived year-round. Here is our selection.

1. Medes Islands (Costa Brava)

Off the coast of L’Estartit, this marine reserve, protected for over thirty years, is the most famous dive in the country. Brown groupers, sometimes enormous, can be approached very closely. Caves, tunnels, and gorgonian drop-offs are accessible to all levels. Season: year-round, ideally from June to October.

2. Cap de Creus (Costa Brava)

At the northern tip of Catalonia, Cap de Creus offers the wildest dives on the coast: steep drop-offs, large red gorgonians, and often clear water. The wind is frequent. Season: from May to October.

3. Cabo de Palos and the Hormigas Islands (Murcia)

Often cited as the best dive in the Spanish Mediterranean. On the offshore reefs, such as Bajo de Dentro, groupers, barracudas, and dentex gather in the hundreds. The current can be strong. Season: from April to November.

4. Columbretes Islands (Castellón)

About fifty kilometers offshore, this uninhabited volcanic archipelago is one of the best-preserved reserves in the country. It is accessible via day trips or short liveaboards, when the sea allows. Season: from June to September.

5. Menorca (Balearic Islands)

Menorca is the Spanish reference for caves and caverns: tunnels, chambers lit by skylights, and very clear water. The northern coast houses a marine reserve. Season: from May to October.

6. Ibiza and Formentera (Balearic Islands)

Between the two islands lie seagrass meadows classified as a World Heritage Site, responsible for exceptional visibility. Drop-offs, arches, and small wrecks complete the offer. Season: from May to October.

7. Cabo de Gata (Andalusia)

Near Almería, this volcanic natural park offers little-frequented dives on rocky and seagrass beds. Further west, La Herradura is the main dive centre on the coast of Granada. Season: from May to October.

8. El Hierro (Canaries)

The La Restinga reserve, in the south of the island, is considered the best dive site in the archipelago. Very clear water, spectacular volcanic reliefs, groupers, trevallies, and passing pelagic species. Season: year-round, ideally from September to November.

9. Lanzarote (Canaries)

Lanzarote combines easy and original dives. Playa Chica, in Puerto del Carmen, is one of the most lively dive sites in the Canaries, accessible from the shore. The Museo Atlántico features submerged sculptures at a dozen meters deep. Season: year-round.

10. Tenerife (Canaries)

Turtles, rays, and lava landscapes: Tenerife offers accessible and regular dives, with many dive centres. It is also one of the islands where you can see the angel shark in winter. Season: all year round.

When to dive in Spain?

In the Mediterranean, the water ranges from about 13°C in February to 23 to 26°C in August. The best time is from June to October, with September being particularly pleasant. A 7 mm wetsuit is the most versatile choice.

In the Canaries, the water ranges from 18 to 19°C at the end of winter to 23 to 24°C in the fall. You can dive there twelve months a year, making it the ideal destination from November to April.

FAQ

What is the best dive site in Spain?

Three names stand out: Cabo de Palos for the density of fish, the Medes Islands for the groupers and accessibility, El Hierro for the visibility and landscapes.

Where to dive in Spain in winter?

In the Canaries, where the water stays around 18 to 20°C and all dive centres are open.

Where to see angel sharks?

In the Canaries, one of the last refuges for this threatened flat shark. They are mostly seen from November to March, resting on the sand at shallow depths.

Which destinations for beginners?

The Medes Islands, the Balearics, Lanzarote, and Tenerife offer many sheltered and shallow dive sites. Cabo de Palos and El Hierro require more experience.