Diving and Snorkelling in Canary Islands 2024

Take a deep breath and dive into the diversity of the amazing underwater world of the Canarian coast

Best time: March–October

The warm and clear waters of the Canary Islands attract thousands of divers every year. One can find stunning volcanic underwater formations, wrecked ships, amazing reefs with hundreds of fish species, dolphins, and even whales. For both experts and beginners, it is recommended to take a diving class in qualified schools, because of the peculiarity of the underwater landscape. You can dive as deep as 60 metres under water and the visibility is over 30 metres! Volcanic lava formations are responsible for lots of fascinating underwater tunnels, grottos, arches, and caves. Everyone who wants to dive here should be very careful or take a guided tour.

Snorkelling is one more great way to explore the underwater beauty of the shallow coastal waters. It is also an easy way to appreciate the biodiversity of Canarian marine life. A t-shirt and some fins or jelly shoes will protect you from the sun and sharp rocks. Here you can find lots of places perfect for snorkelling. The marine life of the Canary Islands includes 500 different kinds of fish. You can encounter morays, barracudas, prawns, sea horses, anemones, stingrays, goliath groupers, crabs, and tuna. Manta rays and other rays swim around as well angel sharks and hammerhead sharks. Sea turtles, dolphins, and even whales may be seen as well.

The best spots to visit for diving are Puerto de Mogán in Gran Canaria, Amadores, Caleta de Fuste, Los Chuchos in Tenerife, Arguineguin Reef, Artificial Reef, Las Palmas Wrecks, Corralejo in Fuerteventura, and many many others. El Hierro has a wide sea reservation between La Restinga and Tacorón, at the beach Mar de las Calmas. The average water temperature on every island varies from 18 to 24 ℃, so just make a choice and start your underwater adventure right now.

Practical info

What can be observed by snorkelers or divers in the waters surrounding the Canary Islands?

The waters surrounding the Canary Islands are home to a wide variety of marine life. Divers and snorkelers have a chance to observe more than 500 fish species, including morays, barracudas, prawns, sea horses, and tuna. Some lucky individuals may also spot mantas, angel sharks, and even whales, among other creatures.

Which locations are recommended for snorkeling and diving in the Canary Islands?

Snorkeling and diving enthusiasts have a wealth of options when it comes to prime locations in the Canary Islands. There's the Puerto de Mogán in Gran Canaria, Amadores, Caleta de Fuste, Los Chuchos in Tenerife, Arguineguin Reef, Artificial Reef, Las Palmas Wrecks, and Corralejo in Fuerteventura. Moreover, at El Hierro's Mar de las Calmas beach, there's a wide sea reservation between La Restinga and Tacorón for divers to enjoy.

When is the ideal time of year to visit the Canary Islands for snorkeling and diving?

To make the most of the snorkeling and diving opportunities in the Canary Islands, it is recommended to visit between March and October. During this period, the water temperature ranges from 18 to 24℃, and the visibility can exceed 30 meters. The sea is generally calm, making it an ideal time for diving or snorkelling and appreciating the underwater world.

What precautions should divers take while exploring the underwater terrain of the Canary Islands?

To ensure safety when exploring the unique underwater terrain of the Canary Islands, it's essential to enroll in a diving course with a reputable school. The terrain is highly specific, and inexperienced divers may find it challenging to navigate. It's also important to respect the underwater ecosystem by not disturbing corals or other creatures. Divers should keep an eye out for sea creatures and take advantage of the benefits of guided tours.

What interesting underwater landforms can be seen while diving in the Canary Islands?

While diving in the Canary Islands, one can marvel at unique structures made of volcanic lava, including grottos, underwater tunnels, and caves. Hundreds of fish species, including dolphins, whales, and myriad reef creatures, inhabit these vibrant underwater landscapes. The visibility ranges from 30 meters, providing ideal conditions to dive as deep as 60 meters in the crystal-clear waters of the Canary Islands - an unforgettable adventure.