Benidorm and its surroundings offer several excellent diving spots, with crystal-clear waters and rich marine biodiversity, making this area of the Costa Blanca a prime destination for diving enthusiasts. From shipwrecks and underwater rock formations to protected areas with vibrant marine ecosystems, here are some of the best places to dive.
7 Diving Spots in Benidorm and Surroundings
1. Benidorm Island
Benidorm Island, also known as the “Island of Journalists,” is one of the most popular diving spots in the region. Located about 3.5 kilometers off the coast, its waters are teeming with marine life thanks to its status as a protected area. Diving here reveals a wide variety of species, including octopuses, moray eels, groupers, rays, and schools of fish. The island offers several dive sites with varying difficulty levels, and the usually clear waters provide excellent visibility. Additionally, the rocky seabed and vertical walls create an interesting and photogenic underwater landscape.
2. Sierra Helada Natural Park
Sierra Helada Natural Park is another excellent diving spot near Benidorm, particularly in the area between the cliffs of the park and the nearby towns of Altea and Albir. This protected marine area is known for its spectacular underwater rock formations, caves, and natural arches, providing a stunning environment for diving. Some standout sites include the Elephant Cave and La Mina, both offering a unique underwater landscape to explore. The cliffs of Sierra Helada extend beneath the sea, creating an ideal habitat for species such as groupers, gilthead bream, and cuttlefish.
3. La Llosa
La Llosa is a popular dive site near Benidorm Island, especially among experienced divers. It is an underwater rock formation with depths ranging from 6 to 30 meters. This spot is perfect for exploring canyons and rocky walls that are home to a wide variety of marine life, including octopuses, moray eels, and barracudas.
Due to its depth variations, La Llosa is a more demanding dive site, making it ideal for those seeking an exciting and biodiversity-rich experience. Additionally, the waters are usually crystal clear, providing excellent visibility.
4. Cueva de la Virgen in Calpe
Located in Calpe, about 20 minutes from Benidorm, the Cueva de la Virgen is an underwater cave that offers a unique and adventurous diving experience. The entrance to the cave is around 9 meters deep, leading to a fascinating world of stalactites and rock formations inside.
The cave’s waters are home to small marine creatures, and since it is a less frequented dive site, it provides a peaceful and almost magical atmosphere. It’s an ideal spot for experienced divers looking to explore a distinctive and unconventional underwater location.
5. Tabarca Island
Although it requires a short trip from Benidorm, Tabarca Island is one of the most popular diving spots on the Costa Blanca. It is Spain’s first marine reserve and is legally protected, ensuring its waters remain in excellent condition and host a rich variety of marine life.
In its crystal-clear waters, divers can spot groupers, octopuses, seabream, and many other species. The island offers a range of dive sites suitable for all levels, from beginners to advanced divers. Additionally, its proximity to Alicante makes it an easy and worthwhile day trip from Benidorm.
6. Villajoyosa and Its Shipwrecks
Just 15 minutes from Benidorm, Villajoyosa is a unique diving destination due to the presence of shipwrecks in its waters. Diving among these sunken vessels offers a fascinating experience, as the wrecks have become thriving marine habitats over the years.
The area also features reef dives and other biodiversity-rich sites, perfect for those seeking an exciting and unconventional dive. It’s common to spot rays, seahorses, and even small shark species, making this location especially appealing for underwater photographers.
7. El Embarcadero in Altea
North of Benidorm, in Altea, El Embarcadero is a diving spot accessible both from the shore and by boat, making it a great option for divers of all levels. The area is teeming with small fish, cuttlefish, and octopuses, along with various algae species that create a vibrant underwater environment.
With moderate depths and generally good visibility, it offers a peaceful diving experience rich in marine life. Its proximity to Altea’s harbor makes it easily accessible and an excellent choice for beginners looking to explore the region’s waters without too much difficulty.
These diving spots near Benidorm are perfect for exploring the underwater beauty of the Costa Blanca, offering a diverse range of landscapes—from caves and rocky formations to shipwrecks and protected areas teeming with marine life. The combination of clear, warm waters and rich biodiversity makes Benidorm and its surroundings a top choice for diving enthusiasts.
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