La Palma
La Palma, known as 'La Isla Bonita', offers a truly unique diving experience shaped by its dramatic volcanic origins. The underwater world mirrors the island's rugged landscape, featuring breathtaking basalt columns, intricate lava tubes, caves, and sheer drop-offs into the deep blue Atlantic. With 9 distinct dive sites, divers can explore a topography unlike anywhere else in the Canary Islands. The clear, nutrient-rich waters support a vibrant ecosystem, making every dive a geological and biological adventure. This combination of stark volcanic formations and abundant marine life is what makes La Palma a standout destination.
Diving in La Palma is possible year-round, with excellent conditions prevailing. Water temperatures are comfortable, ranging from 18°C in winter to 24°C in summer, and visibility frequently exceeds 25 meters. The dive sites are easily accessible via shore-based operators and cater to all experience levels, from tranquil shallow reefs for beginners to challenging deep caves for technical divers. Divers should visit La Palma, Spain, to witness the raw beauty of its underwater volcanic architecture and encounter the rich marine biodiversity of the Macaronesian ecoregion in exceptionally clear waters.
Top Sites
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the most popular dive site in La Palma, Spain?
Las Cruces de Malpique is the most famous dive site in La Palma, Spain. It's an underwater memorial featuring 40 stone crosses, honoring missionaries who were martyred by pirates in 1570. This unique historical site combines geology with a poignant story, creating an unforgettable dive. Its shallow depth makes it accessible to most divers, and the surrounding volcanic reef is full of life, adding to its immense popularity and appeal.
What are the good and less popular dive sites in La Palma, Spain?
Well-known sites in La Palma, Spain, include the iconic Las Cruces de Malpique and El Faro (The Lighthouse), known for its drop-offs and large schools of fish. For a less-crowded experience, explore the sites around La Bombilla, which offer fascinating lava flows and archways. Advanced divers seeking a hidden gem should ask local dive centers about Cueva del Diablo (Devil's Cave), a challenging but rewarding cave dive that showcases the island's volcanic heart.
What water temperature is it like throughout the year diving in La Palma, Spain?
Water temperatures for diving in La Palma, Spain, are pleasant year-round. In the winter months (December-March), expect temperatures around 18-20°C (64-68°F). During the summer and autumn (July-November), the water warms up to a comfortable 22-24°C (72-75°F). The warmest water is typically found in September and October, making it an ideal time for those who prefer less thermal protection.
When is the best time to visit La Palma, Spain?
The best time to dive in La Palma, Spain, is from August to November when the water is warmest and underwater visibility is at its peak. However, diving is excellent all year due to the mild climate. The winter offers cooler water but still great diving conditions with fewer crowds. The island's weather is stable, making it a reliable destination for a dive trip any month of the year.
What's the visibility like during the dive season in La Palma, Spain?
Underwater visibility in La Palma, Spain, is generally excellent throughout the year. Divers can typically expect visibility ranging from 15 to 30 meters (50 to 100 feet), and it can often exceed this on calm days. The deep Atlantic waters surrounding the island are clear and less affected by runoff than other locations. While occasional weather systems or plankton blooms can temporarily reduce it, consistently clear water is a hallmark of diving here.
Are there any seasonal migrations or special events (e.g., manta rays, whale sharks) in La Palma, Spain?
While large, predictable migrations are not a primary feature, diving in La Palma, Spain, offers chances for special encounters. The Canary Islands are a pathway for cetaceans, so spotting dolphins or pilot whales from the dive boat is possible. Underwater, you might encounter large schools of pelagic fish like barracuda or tuna passing through. Angel sharks, though more common on other Canary Islands, can sometimes be found resting on sandy bottoms during the winter months.
What marine life can I expect to see in La Palma, Spain?
Marine life in La Palma, Spain, is a mix of Atlantic and subtropical species. Common sights include vibrant parrotfish, ornate wrasse, damselfish, groupers, and moray eels hiding in volcanic crevices. You can also find octopus, cuttlefish, and various rays, including stingrays and eagle rays. Look for schools of roncadores (bastard grunts), barracuda, and jacks in the blue. The volcanic substrate is covered in anemones, sponges, and black coral at deeper sites.
What thickness wetsuit should I wear in La Palma, Spain?
For summer diving in La Palma, Spain (water 22-24°C), a 5mm wetsuit is generally sufficient for most divers. In the cooler winter months (water 18-20°C), a 7mm wetsuit is recommended to stay warm, especially for multiple dives. Alternatively, you can layer a 5mm suit with a hooded vest for added insulation. Consider your personal cold tolerance when choosing your exposure suit.
How do I get to La Palma, Spain?
To get to La Palma, Spain, you will fly into La Palma Airport (SPC). It has direct connections to mainland Spain (Madrid, Barcelona) and several European cities. Another option is to fly to a larger Canary Island like Tenerife (TFN/TFS) or Gran Canaria (LPA) and take a short inter-island flight with Binter Canarias or a ferry with Naviera Armas or Fred. Olsen Express.
Should I book a liveaboard or stay on shore in La Palma, Spain?
Shore-based diving is the standard and recommended option for La Palma, Spain. The island's dive sites are all located relatively close to the coast and are easily reached with daily boat trips organized by local dive centers. There are no dedicated liveaboards operating exclusively around La Palma, as the island's size and infrastructure make staying on shore more practical and cost-effective, allowing you to also enjoy the island's terrestrial beauty.