The Canary Islands are becoming increasingly popular among lovers of marine depths. Diving in Gran Canaria attracts both professionals and those who want to get started in this liberating activity that makes you feel one with the ocean.
If you choose Gran Canaria for your first diving experience, it can be one of the most enriching experiences of your life. Not only because of the pleasant sensation of weightlessness felt underwater, but also because of the stunning views offered by the island’s marine strip. You will discover a large number of protected species and rich biodiversity, making it a true paradise for divers. In fact, it is considered one of the 100 best destinations in the world for scuba diving.
So much so that, in 2005, UNESCO granted the western part of the island the title of Biosphere Reserve, recognizing its unique biodiversity characteristics and the harmonious integration of human activity. This guarantees environmental protection and quality, ensuring an exceptional visual spectacle, as almost 35% of the Biosphere Reserve is submerged underwater and hosts the best diving spots in Gran Canaria.
But not only the western area, which is part of this natural reserve, is sought after by diving enthusiasts. The coast of Gran Canaria stretches for 230 kilometers, offering endless possibilities for diving lovers. The water temperature, ranging between 18 and 22 degrees, allows this activity to be enjoyed all year round without the need for a heavy wetsuit.
Although Gran Canaria is known for its white, golden, or black sand beaches, the same diversity is found underwater. In fact, it is said that beneath the waters of Gran Canaria you can find small-scale representations of all the seas. The island has a volcanic origin, giving its coastline a unique and highly varied geography, which explains the great biodiversity that attracts diving enthusiasts.
However, not everyone looks for the same thing when diving into the depths of the sea. Those who dive in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria often highlight the large number of marine species found there, ranging from colorful fish to turtles, octopuses, starfish, rays, moray eels, or barracudas. Other enthusiasts look for wrecks and sunken ships, which has become one of the most sought-after practices among diving enthusiasts.
Diving areas in the south of Gran Canaria
Although the western part of the island is known among divers for being home to the Biosphere Reserve, the south of Gran Canaria is also highly valued by diving enthusiasts. Around 70% of all divers on the island are found here. Below are some of the most outstanding spots.
Puerto de Mogán
Considered the best area for advanced diving on the entire island, it is especially valued for being the resting place of many shipwrecks, such as the Blue Bird, a former fishing vessel sunk at around 40 meters deep that serves as a refuge for a wide variety of marine fauna.
El Pajar
This is a shallow reef, no more than five meters deep, where there are many rocks around which large schools of fish of countless colors swim. In addition, you may come across a manta ray during your dive.
Pasito Blanco
In this area, you can observe a reef located about 19 meters deep. It has an almost circular shape and rises one meter above the sand, although there are heights of up to three meters. A large number of marine species are concentrated here.
Diving areas in the east of Gran Canaria
Discover the exciting diving areas in the east of Gran Canaria, where the southeast coast of the island offers you a wide island platform full of fascinating seabeds. With depths reaching up to 30 meters, these areas are ideal for diving enthusiasts in search of underwater adventures.
El Cabrón Marine Reserve
Dive into the wonders of El Cabrón Marine Reserve, one of the most popular diving areas in Gran Canaria, notable for its easy access from the beach. This incredible underwater enclave offers a unique experience, with a special feature that makes it particularly surprising: a sudden drop of 23 meters at just 12 meters depth.
Risco Verde
Located north of Arinaga beach, Risco Verde is a highly valued diving site for beginners, as it offers calm dives of up to 20 meters deep. Many enthusiasts recommend this spot for night dives, adding a unique and exciting experience to your underwater adventure.
Tufia
Created by a volcanic eruption, it is known for its beautiful caves, cracks, and underwater formations that can be explored up to 15 meters deep. It is a common meeting point with rays, making it an exciting experience for marine life lovers.
Diving areas in the north of Gran Canaria
The diving areas in the north of Gran Canaria are known for their natural beauty and rich marine life. With impressive geological formations, caves, and underwater reefs, this region offers exciting diving opportunities for lovers of underwater exploration.
La Catedral
In front of the islet of Las Palmas, in the marine depths, stands a natural cathedral of volcanic origin. Nature has created impressive interconnected caves, vaults, and arches that evoke the grandeur of a Gothic architectural structure. Diving in the waters surrounding La Catedral is a unique experience, where divers can admire these underwater geological formations and enjoy a truly spectacular environment.
Barra of Las Canteras Beach
The reef of Las Canteras beach offers a perfect opportunity to discover the fascinating underwater world in a safe and controlled environment. Divers can enjoy a relaxed dive while exploring marine richness and becoming familiar with basic diving techniques. It is a perfect spot for those looking for a comfortable and safe diving experience in a spectacular coastal setting.
Sardina and Puerto de las Nieves
This is a special enclave for locals, as few tourists visit it. Depths of up to 25 meters can be reached, and the views are spectacular. Here you can swim with all the native Canary marine fauna while exploring caves and tunnels.
In short, diving in Gran Canaria is valued by those who want to practice it all year round. Enthusiasts from all over the world come to this island because of the spectacular nature of its depths, aware of the exclusive waters of this privileged corner of the Atlantic.
Where to stay in Gran Canaria while discovering its underwater mysteries?
If you are planning a diving adventure in Gran Canaria and want to explore the fascinating underwater mysteries that this island has to offer, an excellent accommodation option is Lopesan Hotel Group. We offer a wide range of hotels in Gran Canaria, perfectly located to make the most of your diving activities.
