L'Estartit
L'Estartit is a premier diving destination on Spain's Costa Brava, renowned for its close proximity to the Medes Islands Marine Reserve. This protected archipelago, a mile off the coast, offers an explosion of marine biodiversity rarely seen in the Mediterranean. Divers are drawn to its dramatic underwater landscapes, which feature steep walls adorned with vibrant gorgonians, intricate cave systems, and swim-through tunnels. The strict conservation measures in place for decades have allowed fish populations, especially large groupers, to thrive, making encounters with abundant and sizable marine life a near certainty on every dive.
The diving in L'Estartit caters to all experience levels, with over 10 distinct sites ranging from shallow, sunlit coves to deep, thrilling drop-offs. Conditions are typically Mediterranean, with the best visibility and warmest waters from June to October. Divers should visit L'Estartit not only for the world-class diving in the Medes Islands but also to experience the charm of the Costa Brava. The combination of incredible underwater sights, reliable dive operators, and a beautiful Spanish coastal town makes it an unforgettable European dive holiday.
Top Sites
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the most popular dive site in L'Estartit, Spain?
The Medes Islands Marine Reserve as a whole is the main attraction. Within the reserve, sites like La Vaca and Dofí Sud are exceptionally popular. La Vaca is famous for its wide, majestic tunnel that passes through the island, teeming with moray eels and scorpionfish. Divers flock here for the dramatic topography and the high concentration of large, curious groupers that are a hallmark of diving in L'Estartit, Spain.
What are the good and less popular dive sites in L'Estartit, Spain?
Well-known sites are concentrated in the Medes Islands, like Carall Bernat for deep walls and Pota del Llop for its gorgonian fields. For a less crowded but equally rewarding experience, explore the dive sites along the Montgrí Coast. Sites like Cova de la Vaca (on the coast) or the wreck of the Reggio Messina offer fascinating topography and marine life without the boat traffic of the islands. These coastal sites are excellent alternatives when conditions in the Medes are rough.
What water temperature is it like throughout the year diving in L'Estartit, Spain?
Water temperatures in L'Estartit, Spain, vary significantly by season. In the peak summer months of July and August, temperatures can reach 24-25°C (75-77°F). During spring and autumn (May-Jun, Sep-Oct), it ranges from 16-22°C (61-72°F). The winter is coldest, with water dropping to around 12-14°C (54-57°F). A thermocline is often present in the summer, with cooler water at depth.
When is the best time to visit L'Estartit, Spain?
The primary diving season in L'Estartit, Spain, runs from May to October. The absolute best time is often considered late summer and early autumn (September), when the water is at its warmest, the summer crowds have dispersed, and underwater visibility is typically at its peak. July and August offer the warmest conditions but are also the busiest months. Diving is possible year-round for those with dry suits.
What's the visibility like during the dive season in L'Estartit, Spain?
Visibility when diving in L'Estartit, Spain, is generally very good, especially within the Medes Islands Marine Reserve. During the main season from May to October, you can typically expect visibility ranging from 15 to 30 meters (50 to 100 feet). It can occasionally be reduced by spring plankton blooms or after storms, but calm summer and autumn days often provide crystal-clear conditions, perfect for admiring the vibrant underwater landscapes.
Are there any seasonal migrations or special events (e.g., manta rays, whale sharks) in L'Estartit, Spain?
L'Estartit, Spain, is not known for large pelagic migrations like whale sharks or manta rays. The main 'event' is the incredible density and size of the resident fish populations, particularly the large groupers, due to the marine reserve's protection. However, divers may have seasonal encounters with pelagic species like sunfish (Mola mola), especially during the late spring and early summer months. The primary attraction remains the thriving, year-round ecosystem.
What marine life can I expect to see in L'Estartit, Spain?
The marine life in L'Estartit, Spain, is prolific thanks to the Medes Islands reserve. Expect to see massive groupers, schools of barracuda, dentex, and bream. The rocky walls and caverns host moray eels, conger eels, octopus, lobsters, and scorpionfish. Eagle rays are a common sight, as are numerous species of nudibranchs. The underwater landscape is just as impressive, with vibrant red gorgonians covering many of the dive sites.
What thickness wetsuit should I wear in L'Estartit, Spain?
For peak summer (July-August), a 5mm wetsuit is generally sufficient, though some divers may be comfortable in a 3mm. During the shoulder seasons (May-June and September-October), a 7mm wetsuit is highly recommended as water temperatures are cooler, especially at depth. For winter diving, a 7mm semi-dry suit with a hood and gloves or a dry suit is essential to stay comfortable in the cold water.
How do I get to L'Estartit, Spain?
To get to L'Estartit, Spain, the nearest airport is Girona-Costa Brava Airport (GRO), about a 50-minute drive away. The larger Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN) is another excellent option, approximately a 90-minute drive. From either airport, renting a car provides the most flexibility for exploring the region. Alternatively, bus services are available from both Girona and Barcelona, though you may need to transfer to reach L'Estartit directly.
Should I book a liveaboard or stay on shore in L'Estartit, Spain?
Diving in L'Estartit, Spain, is entirely shore-based; there are no liveaboards operating in this area. All dive trips, including those to the Medes Islands, are conducted on day boats that depart from the local marina. Staying on shore is the only option and allows you to enjoy the town's restaurants, culture, and other attractions on the Costa Brava. Dive centers offer daily two-tank trips and packages.