Spain has the good fortune of two seas: the Mediterranean lapping its south and the Atlantic minding its north. This is a bit like owning two houses in two climates, and the divers reap the benefit. Each corner of the country offers its own attraction, so a person can dive Spain twice and feel he visited two nations.
The water, region by region
The temperature is a moving target, and that is part of the charm. Across the country it runs between 10 and 26 degrees Celsius, while around the Balearic Islands it can climb to 30 in the summer heat. The weather sorts itself into mild cool winters, dry warm summers, and the easy Mediterranean middle ground. Dress for the sea you choose, and the sea treats you kindly.
The marine reserves
Spain has earned its reputation on its marine reserves, and the jewel among them is the Medes Islands. These small islands sit among the greatest dive sites in the whole Mediterranean, and the protection has let the marine life flourish into something a diver remembers for years.
Friendly to the newcomer
Diving here is not reserved for the salty veterans. Novices are welcome and well trained, which keeps the frustration to a minimum. Courses such as the PADI Underwater Naturalist and the PADI Deep Diver let a beginner sharpen up at a sensible pace. Spanish is the main tongue, English serves fine in the tourist regions, the euro is the currency, and credit cards are widely accepted. In short, the country removes the usual obstacles and leaves you to enjoy the water.
Plan ahead
Settle your dates and your dive center before you travel. Find verified dive centers in Spain on Live is Dive, compare them, and write to the center direct. No middleman, no commission, just you and two fine seas.
Diving in Spain: FAQ
Where is the best diving in Spain?
The Medes Islands off the Costa Brava, a protected reserve with groupers, barracuda, caves, and tunnels.
When is the best time to dive in Spain?
Late spring to autumn, when the water is warmest. The Balearics can reach 30 C in summer.
Is Spain good for beginners?
Yes. The Costa Brava has easy shore and short boat dives, and centers run beginner courses.
What is the water temperature in Spain?
Around 10 to 26 C depending on region and season.
Browse verified dive centers in Spain on Live is Dive and message them directly. See dive centers in Spain.
Photos via Wikimedia Commons: Costa Brava underwater by andre oortgijs (CC BY-SA 3.0); Mediterranean grouper by Nervurax Fishing (CC0). Video: Kevin Phillips (YouTube).