Tenerife

Tenerife, a jewel in Spain's Canary Islands, offers a truly unique underwater experience shaped by its volcanic origins. The dramatic submarine landscapes feature basalt columns, intricate caves, swim-throughs, and impressive drop-offs. With over 50 distinct dive sites, the island caters to every interest, from exploring wrecks to encountering diverse marine life. This geological diversity creates a playground for divers, where each site presents a new and exciting topography. The mix of Atlantic and subtropical species, including rays, turtles, and colorful fish, adds to the island's allure.

Diving in Tenerife is possible year-round, thanks to its mild climate and consistently good water conditions. Water temperatures remain pleasant, ranging from 19°C in winter to 24°C in late summer, with visibility often exceeding 20-30 meters. This accessibility, combined with dive sites suitable for all experience levels from beginner to technical, makes it an ideal destination. Whether you're seeking your first certification or an advanced technical dive, Tenerife's clear, warm waters and abundant sea life provide an unforgettable diving adventure just a short flight from mainland Europe.

Top Sites

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the most popular dive site in Tenerife, Spain?
The Palm-Mar Wall, often called "Stingray City," is arguably the most famous dive site in Tenerife, Spain. It's renowned for the large congregations of common, eagle, and sometimes even round fantail stingrays that gather here. The site is a gentle, sloping volcanic rock wall that is easily accessible and suitable for most diver levels. The reliable presence of these majestic rays, along with turtles and moray eels, makes it a must-do dive for visitors seeking incredible photo opportunities and memorable marine encounters.
What are the good and less popular dive sites in Tenerife, Spain?
Popular sites in Tenerife, Spain include the Palm-Mar Wall for its rays and the "El Condesito" wreck. For a less crowded but equally rewarding experience, explore "La Cueva de los Cerebritos" (Cave of the Brains) near Puerto de la Cruz, known for its unique sponge formations. Another hidden gem is "Montaña Amarilla" (Yellow Mountain), offering stunning volcanic rock formations and archways with fewer divers around. These sites showcase the island's diverse underwater topography beyond the main tourist hubs.
What water temperature is it like throughout the year diving in Tenerife, Spain?
Water temperatures in Tenerife, Spain offer comfortable year-round diving. In the winter months (December-March), temperatures typically range from 19-20°C (66-68°F). During the spring and autumn, expect temperatures between 20-22°C (68-72°F). The warmest period is late summer (August-October), when the water can reach a pleasant 23-24°C (73-75°F). This mild fluctuation allows for diving in any season, with the peak warmth occurring in late summer and early autumn.
When is the best time to visit Tenerife, Spain?
The best time to dive in Tenerife, Spain is from late summer to autumn (August to November). During this period, you'll experience the warmest water temperatures, typically around 23-24°C, and excellent visibility. The weather is generally calm and sunny. However, diving is excellent year-round. Spring offers blooming underwater life, while winter still provides good conditions with slightly cooler water, making it a fantastic escape from colder European climates. The island's subtropical climate ensures diving is always an option.
What's the visibility like during the dive season in Tenerife, Spain?
Visibility when diving in Tenerife, Spain is generally excellent, a key feature of the Canary Islands. You can typically expect visibility ranging from 20 to 30 meters (65 to 100 feet) on most days. Conditions are consistently good throughout the year. Occasionally, factors like plankton blooms or weather systems can temporarily reduce visibility, but it rarely drops below 15 meters. The clear Atlantic waters provide fantastic conditions for underwater photography and enjoying the volcanic seascapes.
Are there any seasonal migrations or special events (e.g., manta rays, whale sharks) in Tenerife, Spain?
While Tenerife, Spain is not known for predictable large migrations like whale sharks, it is a world-class destination for cetacean sightings. Short-finned pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins are resident year-round and can sometimes be spotted during boat trips to dive sites. Angelsharks (a critically endangered species) are more common in the winter months (November-March). Occasional, rare sightings of manta rays or even whale sharks have been reported, but these are not regular events. The main draw is the consistent resident marine life.
What marine life can I expect to see in Tenerife, Spain?
Diving in Tenerife, Spain reveals a rich mix of Atlantic and subtropical species. Common encounters include various types of rays (common, eagle, stingray), green turtles, and angelsharks (in winter). You'll see large schools of roncadores (bastard grunts), barracuda, and damselfish. Moray eels, octopus, and cuttlefish are often found in rocky crevices. The vibrant macro life includes nudibranchs and arrow crabs. The volcanic reefs are home to parrotfish, wrasse, and triggerfish, creating a bustling underwater ecosystem.
What thickness wetsuit should I wear in Tenerife, Spain?
For diving in Tenerife, Spain, a 5mm wetsuit is a versatile choice for most of the year. During the warmest months (August-October), when water temperatures reach 24°C, a 3mm or 5mm suit is comfortable for most divers. In the cooler winter months (December-March), with water around 19°C, a 7mm wetsuit or a 5mm with a hood and vest is recommended to stay warm, especially for multiple dives. Personal cold tolerance is key, but these thicknesses will cover the seasonal variations.
How do I get to Tenerife, Spain?
To get to Tenerife, Spain, you can fly into one of two international airports. Tenerife South Airport (TFS) is closer to the main southern dive resorts like Costa Adeje and Los Cristianos. Tenerife North Airport (TFN) serves the capital, Santa Cruz, and dive sites in the north. Both airports receive numerous flights from across Europe. From the airport, rental cars are highly recommended for flexibility, but taxis and bus services are also readily available to get you to your accommodation and chosen dive center.
Should I book a liveaboard or stay on shore in Tenerife, Spain?
In Tenerife, Spain, shore-based diving is the standard and most practical option. The island is relatively small, and all 50+ dive sites are easily accessible via daily boat trips or shore entries from numerous dive centers located in coastal towns. There are no dedicated diving liveaboards operating exclusively around Tenerife, as the logistics don't require them. Staying in a hotel or apartment and booking with a local dive shop offers flexibility, access to island culture, and is the best way to experience diving here.
All Dive Sites in Tenerife (49)
AazaAbades BayAbades MountainAcuarioAlcala Bay Or Baja De La TortugaAlcala ReefAtlantisBarco De Las MorenasBocacangrejoBollulloBrain Cave Cueva De CerebrosCentral ElectricaChimneyCueva De Las MorenasCueva Del ZorroEl AvionEl Balito MarazurEl CondecitoEl Condesito WreckEl MeridianEl Pen Wreck Of TabaibaEl Penon Tabaibas WreckEl PorisGarachicoGuimarHarbor Puerto De La CruzLa NeaLa RapaduraLabyrinthLas ErasLos ChuchosMontaa AmarillaMontaa GuazaMountain Of FishesPalm Mar Cave La Cueva De Las MorenasPalm Mar RoncadoresPalm Mar Wall BufaderoPlaya De Las VistasPortilloPunta MaravillaRadazulRadazul La CruzRadazul PuertoRoncadores Del Palm MarSan MarcosSemiramisTrumpet Fish CaveTunnelTurtle Viilage