There are many ways to experience an unforgettable vacation. You can explore a high mountain or enjoy the beauty of the city’s urban area.

But if you’re looking for something a little different and exciting, scuba diving in Cartagena might be the perfect pick for you. The diving experience lets you explore the beauties of the sea and connect with the sea life that lives in the reef around the beach.

Several options around Cartagena can surely catch the attention of both beginner and advanced divers looking for a thriving experience. If this is the kind of adventure you’re looking for, you came to the right place.

Here, we will show you everything you need to have a fantastic experience while exploring the sea bream and all the other species you’ll find while diving or snorkeling. Make sure to look at each aspect to see what to expect and the main aspects you need to know before packing your things and enjoying what this unforgettable experience offers.

Table of Contents

Why Scuba Diving in Spain

Several places in the world offer scuba diving as one of the main attractions. But why choose Spain as your next destination?

Along with being one of the most beautiful countries in Europe, Cartagena offers an enormous sea biodiversity, and you can find tons of interesting species as you swim through the shore or at maximum depth. While diving, you can find moray eels, seahorses, sea bream, and all kinds of fish.

Moreover, the peninsula boasts beautiful landscapes that will stay in your memories forever. Every island has its own beauties and surprises that will make you want to spend the entire day underwater.

It’s the perfect place for all kinds of dives and surely a great experience for you to enjoy alone, with your family, or with anyone else. Grab your swimsuit and explore all the mysteries the sea has to offer.

What You Need to Know Before Diving

We will show you the main aspects and details you need to know to organize your scuba diving experience. Make sure to take a look at all the items below to ensure you have the best time possible when visiting Cartagena.

The place has a lot to discover and is perfect for diving and numerous other activities. Here’s everything you need to know for the best experience possible:

Great for Beginners and Professionals

One of the reasons why Cartagena is such a great place for diving is because it features activities for all levels and skills. Whether you have never swum before and seek a more relaxed experience with comfortable routes and chilling adventures, or you’re a professional diver with open water certification, the place has everything for you.

Diving in maximum depth and swimming through the wreck of an old ship are just some of the possibilities you can sign up for when visiting the site. Some of the activities require a previous level of experience and courses for you to sign up for, so make sure to get informed about these details.

But don’t worry, even if you don’t have previous experience. Most of the options are available to all people. You can swim with octopuses, explore smaller wreck dives, and do other fun things without taking any special courses before.

Another aspect to pay attention to is age. If you’re traveling with kids, pay attention to age restrictions before signing up for any dive or boat ride. Some scuba diving sites require a minimum age of 18 to sign up for the adventures and they don’t allow underage people to participate in the dives, even with their parents. However, there are selected diving centers that allow both kids and adults to do the activities together.

Make sure to visit the company’s website to get informed about this before traveling. Cartagena has several diving sites and most of the ones that I visited allowed both adults and teenagers to participate.

Water Temperature

One of the main aspects people are curious about before diving into the depths of the sea is the water temperature. This is another reason Cartagena is so loved by divers of all kinds, especially beginners.

According to SeaTemperature, the month where the water temperature is the hottest is August, with an average temperature of 25.6°C (78.1°F), while February is the coldest month, with an average temperature of 14.4°C (57.9°F).

The water is very comfortable to stay in for long periods, mainly thanks to its warm temperature compared to other European countries. It’s not the warmest in the world, especially when compared to other continents like South and Central America, but it will surely please you.

It gets even warmer when considering the suit you’ll be wearing, so don’t worry too much about this aspect. The deeper you explore, the colder it gets, so if you’re a beginner, it is improbable that the temperature will bother you.

The waters of Cartagena are great for all kinds of activities and will provide you with a great experience. Whether you leave the sea after a quick swim or continue in the water for the entire day, the sun’s rays will keep you warm and comfortable, but don’t forget the sunscreen.

Crystal Visibility

Some diving sites worldwide have poor visibility, where you can see only bubbles and nothing else around you. This is definitely not the case for Cartagena, as the water is crystal clear and allows you to easily see all the crabs and other creatures around you as you dive.

The sea is also not as sandy as in other places, which contributes to better conditions for exploring every spot of the site.

Since the water is very clear in Cartagena, sunlight illuminates everything you see, even when exploring the depths. Of course, this can drastically vary depending on the city you’re diving, but Cartagena has a lot of light to help guide you through the seas, whether you’re looking for fish, wrecks, or anything else around the island.

It is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited, and the visibility underwater was perfect. I’ll definitely come back more times to enjoy this unforgettable experience. I highly recommend visiting the islands around it not only to observe the incredible marine life but also to see some of the best landscapes of your life.

But if you plan on opening your eyes underwater, make sure to wear proper equipment. The water is very salty and will burn your eyes if you don’t use swimming goggles.

Much More to Do

Don’t think that diving is the only thing you’ll do when looking for a place to do this activity. Most options offer a complete tour throughout different parts of the place. You’ll dive, visit islands, and learn about the region’s biodiversity, among other things.

Also, what makes Murcia, especially Cartagena, so fun is that there’s an infinite number of options to choose from. After scuba diving, you can also visit museums, take a walk in the sand of the numerous beaches of the region, explore nature and its numerous protected reserves, and do many other things.

I spent three hours doing scuba diving and boat activities and during the rest of the day, explored the urban area of Murcia which has tons of museums and interesting places to visit. Whether you want to chill on the beach or look for a culture-rich vacation, the place has everything you need.

It’s the best destination for the next time you visit Spain. Diving on a sunny day is always recommended, not only because the water temperature is much better but also because the underwater visibility improves.

Make sure to save a sunny day for this, while almost every other activity can be done in all kinds of weather, so you don’t have to worry about that. The weather is usually very stable, with numerous sunny days perfect for all kinds of activities, especially during the high season.

Pay Close Attention to Rules and Instructions

Scuba diving is one of the best activities to do in Cartagena, but it can be dangerous. Always listen to the instructor to ensure a safe experience that will stay on your mind forever.

From types of fish you shouldn’t touch to areas you are not supposed to explore, there are several things to pay attention to and rules you should follow both on the ground and underwater. This is the most essential part of diving safely, and ignoring it can cause problems for both you and the region’s biodiversity. If you love nature and everything the sea offers, following these instructions is the best way to preserve them and have a good experience around these beautiful creatures you won’t find anywhere else.

Where to Go for Scuba Diving in Cartagena

When visiting Cartagena, there are numerous great dive spots to explore. It’s crucial to choose a reputable establishment with experienced professionals who can assist you in case of any incidents during your dive.

There are numerous options to choose from, with different diving sites. Here, we will show you some of the main options that have certified divers and capable professionals who are ready to help divers with all kinds of experiences and of all ages:

• Diving Center Hesperides
  
• Yobuceo Cartagena
  
• The Blue Jump Ecodiving
  
• Scuba Murcia
  
• Adventure Divers & Activity Center
  

Notice that some of these locations offer more than just Scuba Diving. It is always a good idea to visit their website to check details like the days they’re open and the activities they offer.

Enjoy Your Private Paradise in Villa Murcia!

Looking for the perfect place to stay in Murcia? We’ve got just the spot for you!

Villa Murcia – Your Private Paradise

Wake up to coffee on a sun-drenched terrace, unwind in a warm jacuzzi after a day of exploring, and end your evenings with dinners in the summer kitchen. Nestled in charming Santiago de la Ribera, Villa Murcia offers more than just a holiday—it’s your personal oasis of comfort, style, and unforgettable moments.

Highlights:
✔ Spacious living room with a large sofa and open kitchen – perfect for shared memories
✔ Three elegant, air-conditioned bedrooms with private terraces – your peaceful retreat
✔ Extra fold-out sofa in the living room – ideal for additional guests

Whether it’s a romantic escape, a family getaway, or a relaxing break with friends – Villa Murcia is your dream stay.

Book now and experience the magic of the Spanish sun!

Time to Swim

If you think Cartagena’s tourism options are restricted only to beach walks and taking a sea bath, you’re totally wrong. This piece of heaven holds numerous beauties and fun activities waiting to be discovered.

One of them is the numerous scuba diving sites around the island. Nothing is better than observing this place’s biodiversity as closely as possible. Seeing groupers, turtles, and other creatures helps you connect with nature and gives you an unforgettable experience.

Make sure to pay attention to rules and recommendations to have the best time of your life, ensuring your safety and that of those around you. This way, you get to enjoy all the fun aspects of this type of activity.

Now that you know everything you need, it is time to start packing your luggage to Spain and enjoy the best time of your life. Whether traveling alone or with anyone else, scuba diving is the perfect way to spend a sunny day in this beautiful country.

Diving offers a truly one-of-a-kind experience. Beneath the surface lies a whole new world to discover, brimming with astonishing shapes, colors, and textures. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in the marine paradise that’s often depicted in films and photographs, but nothing compares to experiencing it firsthand.

One of the most fascinating regions for scuba diving lovers looking to dive in Europe is the coast of Cabo de Palos, located in Murcia, a city in southeastern Spain. There are countless areas and regions where the activity can be carried out in the region, for all types of professionalism levels in the sport, from amateurs to experienced divers.

In this article, we will explore “Bajo de Fuera,” one of the most attractive diving sites in the region, due to its wonderful geographical features, rich marine life, and historic shipwrecks.

Table of Contents

• Bajo De Fuera: An Underwater Paradise To Scuba Diving
• Understand The Region
• Diving Conditions In The Islas Hormigas Marine Reserve
• Characteristics
• Finding Dive Centers
• Bajo De Fuera: A Paradise Underwater
• Enjoy Your Private Paradise in Villa Murcia!

Understand The Region

Bajo de Fuera is located in one of the best-protected areas in Spain and around the world: the Marine Reserve of Hormigas Islands, in Cabo de Palos.

Cabo de Palos

Image credit: TuPaisaje.com

Cabo de Palos is located between La Manga del Mar Menor and the Spanish city of Cartagena. With a history of human habitation dating back thousands of years, this place continues to attract tourists, many of whom are attracted by its numerous diving centers. Its coastal location, between the Mediterranean Sea and the Mar Menor, is one of its main attractions, offering a variety of beaches ranging from small rocky coves to long stretches of golden sand, all bathed by the clear, warm waters of the central Mediterranean.

Islas Hormigas Marine Reserve

Image credit: universomarino.com

About two nautical miles off the coast of Cartagena, in front of Cabo Palos, there is a group of small islands called Hormigas, the largest of which is 200 meters long and 13 meters high.

Islas Hormigas Marine Reserve is the region between the islands and Cabo de Palos. The reserve covers a total area of 1,898 hectares and is a marine biodiversity protection zone.

The Marine Reserve is comprised of a series of underwater mountains and diverse shoals, each reaching different depths near the surface. Within this reserve lie numerous archaeological sites, formed by a combination of sandbars and extensive shallow areas surrounding the islands. Over centuries, these sites evolved due to intense maritime traffic passing near the islands.

Due to its volcanic composition, the reserve area gains recognition as the best place to dive in the Mediterranean. It contains numerous caves, cuts, and holes that create an ideal habitat for a wide range of marine life in the surrounding waters. The currents that reach the region and the Posidonia meadow that surrounds it contribute to making it one of the most biodiverse areas in the Mediterranean, offering divers a unique experience of underwater exploration.

Diving Conditions In The Islas Hormigas Marine Reserve

The area is ideal to dive in all seasons because it has excellent temperatures throughout the year, ranging from 14ºC in winter to 25ºC in summer.

Divers will enjoy a comfortable and safe experience with exceptional visibility and warm waters. I visited the region in August, during the summer, and I can say that the adventure was amazing!

Bajos: Underwater Mountains

Image Credit: Adventure Divers Spain

The Islas Hormigas Marine Reserve area has “Bajos,” which are submarine mountains with different surfaces and depths. In the marine reserve there are 6 Bajos: Bajo de la Testa, Bajo de Piles 1 and 2, Bajo de Dentro, Bajo de la Morra, and finally Bajo de Fuera (or Piedra del Vapor) – considered one of the most attractive dive sites in the reserve.

Bajo De Fuera: A Beautiful Dive Site

Image Credit: Divers Cabo De Palos

The Bajo de Fuera’s reef system is famous for its wreck diving and the historical and environmental richness it offers. Considered one of the best dives in the Mediterranean, it unites the stunning protected marine life of the Islas Hormigas Reserve and the remains of contemporary wrecks from the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Characteristics

Image Credit: El Rincón Del Buceo

The underwater mountain formation extends in a northwest-southwest direction for about 100 meters. With depths ranging from 3 meters to its southernmost point reaching more than 55 meters, this rocky bar has distinct characteristics on its north and south sides.

Image Credit: Adventure Divers Spain

The south face exhibits a cut chasm that goes down to a sandy bottom more than 50 meters deep.

Image Credit: Adventure Divers Spain

The north face has a gentler slope, gradually descending to the sandy seafloor.

This unique topography creates a diverse and challenging location for divers, offering opportunities to explore caves, crevices, and a wide variety of marine life around this impressive rock formation.

Marine Life

Image Credit: Padi Blog

In this diving site, it is possible to witness various types of marine life such as sea bass, barracuda, moray eels, octopus, sunfish, salema porgy, conger eels, eagle rays, damselfish fish, hermit crabs, nudibranchs, groupers, snapper, eels, eagles, sea fans, gorgonians, barracudas, and many other fish species.

Maybe you will be lucky enough (unfortunately, I wasn’t) to have the thrill of finding Amberjacks. There are reports of encounters with some reaching 1 meter in length.

Wreck Diving

Image Credit: Buceo Donosti

The underwater landscape of this marine pinnacle is a silent wreck museum, where shipwrecks rest amidst the currents. In times past, this area was a busy corridor, witnessing the fate of several vessels.

Among the wreckage, the Nord America is notable, an Italian ship laden with iron ingots, which sank in 1883. The Minerva, a few years later in 1899, crashed onto the rocks during a storm. However, the most notorious shipwreck is the Sirio. This majestic Italian ocean liner, carrying nearly 1,000 immigrants bound for the United States, plunged into the depths on August 4, 1906, resulting in the loss of nearly 500 lives.

The feeling of diving up to 40 meters deep and witnessing the history preserved in the shipwrecks was truly unique.

Certification Needed

Image Credit: Adventure Divers Spain

The site has robust protection, and the authorities control the number of dives allowed. The access is more restricted due to the intense protection zone, allowing only a limited number of divers per day – 13 during the mid/low season and 30 in the high season.

Being a less accessible location with strong currents, it is required that the divers possess at least an advanced open water certification and demonstrate competence in certain fundamental skills in deep diving.

If you don’t have the necessary certification (like I didn’t), you can talk to diving center instructors to take the courses and steps necessary for the documents that the area needs.

In my case, in addition to the documents that are already required for any dive (medical insurance, diver certificate, etc.), I needed to do some other dives to reach the minimum number required. I recommend contacting the diving centers to obtain more detailed information, as it may change over time. Getting certified in deep dive certainly took time and effort, but the rewards are worth every minute invested.

Finding Dive Centers

Image Credit: Google Maps

The area of Cabo de Palos has a lot of diving centers.

Most people who don’t know the area may have doubts about which one to choose. To make your decision easier, I’ve compiled a list of the top five dive centers, rated by Google, complete with their contact details to book your dive:

Balkysub Dive Operations | Diving School

Address: P.º del Puerto, 30370 Cabo de Palos, Murcia, Spain

Phone: +34 661 49 21 43

Appointments: bookeo.com

Diving Center Naranjito

Address: C. Magre, 26, 30370 Cabo de Palos, Murcia, Spain

Phone: +34 696 54 77 18

Appointments: https://naranjitobuceo.com/

Centro de buceo Mangamar Dive Center

Address: Paseo Puerto de Cabo de Palos, 18, P.º Dimas Ortega, 17, 30370 Cabo de Palos, Murcia, Spain

Phone: +34 968 10 08 60

Appointments: https://mangamardivecenter.com/

Islas Hormigas Diving Club

Address: C. Marín, S/N, 30370 La Manga, Murcia, Spain

Phone: +34 968 14 55 30

Appointments: https://islashormigas.com/

Divers Cabo de Palos

Address: C. Punta de la Azohía, 4, 30370 Cabo de Palos, Murcia, Spain
Phone: +34 687 80 28 91
Appointments: diverscabodepalos.com

Bajo De Fuera: A Paradise Underwater

In short, Bajo de Fuera stands out as an extraordinary dive site, promising a series of exciting underwater encounters. With its crystal clear waters, marine biodiversity of unparalleled beauty, and excellent diving conditions, it is a paradise for diving lovers.

Diving opens up a range of new possibilities and makes your trips more complete. My journey exploring the depths of Bajo de Fuera left an unforgettable mark, ranking among the most memorable experiences of my life. Every encounter with sea creatures, intricate caves, or sunken treasures created fascinating memories that I am sure will last a lifetime.

If you love this sport or are thinking about starting it, be sure to consider Bajo De Fuera (and the entire region of the Marine Reserve of Hormigas Islands) as a dive site.

Enjoy Your Private Paradise in Villa Murcia!

Looking for the perfect place to stay in Murcia? We’ve got just the spot for you!

Villa Murcia – Your Private Paradise

Wake up to coffee on a sun-drenched terrace, unwind in a warm jacuzzi after a day of exploring, and end your evenings with dinners in the summer kitchen. Nestled in charming Santiago de la Ribera, Villa Murcia offers more than just a holiday—it’s your personal oasis of comfort, style, and unforgettable moments.

Highlights:
✔ Spacious living room with a large sofa and open kitchen – perfect for shared memories
✔ Three elegant, air-conditioned bedrooms with private terraces – your peaceful retreat
✔ Extra fold-out sofa in the living room – ideal for additional guests

Whether it’s a romantic escape, a family getaway, or a relaxing break with friends – Villa Murcia is your dream stay.

Book now and experience the magic of the Spanish sun!

La Manga, Murcia, whether on the Mar Menor side or facing the Mediterranean Sea, offers an incredible setting for scuba diving. Its clear waters, splendid weather conditions, and abundance of excellent instructors and courses make it an ideal destination for enthusiasts of all levels.

Having said this, if you really feel a passion for subaquatic exploration and Mediterranean waters and want to know the best places for Diving La Manga and learning this practice, you’ve arrived at the right place. Let’s get straight to the subject!

Table of Contents:

• Exploring and Diving La Manga | An Unforgettable Experience
• What Is La Manga?
• Diving La Manga | Diving Courses in the Area
• Best Places for Scuba Diving in La Manga
• Diving in La Manga is a Dream Come True!
• Enjoy Your Private Paradise in Villa Murcia!

What Is La Manga?

La Manga is a strip of land in the Murcia region, southeast of Spain. It is a natural division between the Mediterranean Sea and the Mar Menor, the largest salty lagoons in Spain. This condition makes the lagoon’s waters—and the Mediterranean Sea’s, of course—calm, perfect for swimming and scuba diving. You can find several beaches in La Manga, all of which are safe for children, families, and amateur divers.

Diving La Manga | Diving Courses in the Area

Naturally, the Murcia region, and especially the coastline zones, have dozens of diving centers where you can learn scuba diving and snorkeling. Let’s check out two of the most important and best-located.

Scuba Murcia

Scuba Murcia is a British-run 5-star PADI diving center located on the coast of La Manga. It is probably one of the best places to learn to dive, thanks to its PADI and TDI courses, which will allow you to enjoy the underwater wealth of La Manga and Costa Calida safely.

Together with a PADI instructor, we can take our first step into the world of diving and develop our underwater diving skills. I took a diving course when I lived in Alicante three years ago, and the instructor was so incredible that I learned a lot in just a few minutes. That said, Scuba Murcia courses are for everyone, adults and children!

Furthermore, if you want to venture into the underwater biome of La Manga, you can also dive with professionals and discover the secrets of the area. The best time of year to visit this dive centre is from July to August, during the summer in Europe.

La Manga Club Resort

This club, located south of La Manga, offers diving and snorkeling courses for beginners and experienced divers. We can also do multiple water activities at the resort, from learning to dive in deep waters to water sports. The club also offers life-saving and first aid courses, as well as jet skiing and kitesurfing classes.

As you can see in the image above, La Manga Club Resort is fifteen kilometers from the La Manga strip, but it is still a great place to stay during your vacation and reach all the beaches in the area. Thanks to La Manga Club Resort, tourists immerse themselves in the calm waters, reefs, and other underwater wonders of the Mar Menor and the Mediterranean Sea.

Best Places for Scuba Diving in La Manga

Below you’ll find a list of the most impressive natural wonders where you can practice diving and snorkeling during the summer season. All of them are close to diving centers and areas of interest in La Manga.

Cabo de Palos

Cabo de Palos is likely the best place to discover scuba diving experience in La Manga and close areas. This is because the zone presents crystalline waters and a shallow depth that does not go beyond a few meters. Besides, Cabo de Palos is close to many settlements, like Los Belones and Cartagena.

Scuba diving near Cabo de Palos offers a rich underwater cultural heritage, thanks to numerous shipwrecks in the area. One famous wreck is the “Sirio,” a transatlantic ship sunk in 1906, now teeming with marine life. Nowadays, this ship hosts crustaceans, cephalopods, mollusks, and other fish species.

Another notable site is the “Carbonero,” a vessel sunk by a German submarine in 1917. Exploring the Carbonero’s depths, 36 meters down, presents a challenging adventure for experienced divers.

Isla Grosa

Isla Grosa is a medium-sized island directly in front of the middle part of La Manga. It’s 2.5 km away from the coast. It stands out for the orography of its funds and the numerous cavities that sea urchins build. Its depth varies between 6 and 18 meters deep.

Like most islands in the zone, Isla Grosa has a volcanic origin, which makes it ideal for amazing diving experiences and underwater exploration. Thanks to the calm of Zephyr, this piece of land is also great for witnessing the sunset and refreshing yourself with Western Zephyr.

Some interesting places to go scuba diving for underwater adventures in Isla Grosa are El Farallón, La Laja, and La Campana.

El Farallón is located east of Isla Grosa. Its shallow waters feature a rich ecosystem, a rock-cutting view, and underwater meadows full of schooling fish and other typical species that we can’t find on the ocean floor.

La Laja, on the other hand, is located in the northeast of El Farellón. This site is perfect for the experienced diver since La Laja has several depths, which provides a sense of exploration as nowhere, turning it into one of the best places for diving in La Costa Cálida. This site has a magnificent biodiversity and submarine architecture, with a green submarine landscape.

Last but not least, La Campana is a shallow reef located 300 meters from La Laja. It is probably the richest place in the La Manga strip for finding amazing wrecks since much of the cargo of old vessels remains in the sand.

Cartagena

Cartagena is an important settlement where learning scuba diving is easy. Its shallow bay and coves with calm waters are the right places to practice this discipline. Although Cartagena is not in La Manga, it’s close to this strip of land and is easily accessible from most surrounding sites.

As a city with over two thousand years of history, Cartagena has been a mandatory port for most traders and marketers throughout Mediterranean history. This zone probably has the largest number of shipwrecks in the world, which is a plus and an incentive for beginners and professional divers.

Cartagena is relevant to submarine culture heritage because it hosts the National Museum of Underwater Archaeology, one of the most important museums related to underwater archaeology. This museum makes multiple efforts to explore and conserve the subwater heritage of the Mediterranean Sea and Mar Menor.

Here, snorkelers and divers can enjoy wrecks ranging from antiquity to the Spanish Civil War. It is undoubtedly an incredible site in the region of Murcia where we can do underwater excursions and gain knowledge about the city’s history at the same time.

Islas Hormigas

Islas Hormigas is a marine reserve and a rich archipelago in terms of biological and cultural diversity. Due to its location as a mandatory place and reference point for sea routes, Islas Hormigas has plenty of shipwrecks from several decades and centuries ago. One of the most important shipwrecks to visit in south-eastern Spain is precisely a Byzantine ship that was shipwrecked in the 5th century. The multiple dive sites that we can find in the surroundings of the Islas Hormigas will provide us with an essential gaze into antique trade routes and marine life.

Islas Hormigas consists of two blackish islets, shaped by the relentless forces of wind and sea erosion, which have contributed to the formation of a diverse underwater ecosystem. Diving in Islas Hormigas is suitable for divers of all levels, from amateurs to professionals, as the area offers various rocky formations including arches and submarine channels.

The submarine surface is also plagued with Posidonia and has beautiful marine life, including breams, barracudas, and small xuclas.

In the Islas Hormigas, we can also find seabeds over forty-five meters, which are great for qualified divers who want to dive into breathing underwater.

Diving in La Manga is a Dream Come True!

The Mediterranean Sea of the region of Murcia and the Mar Menor are two impressive tourist destinations in Spain and the Mediterranean coastline. In fact, this zone has incredible archaeological treasures and antique constructions. Still, the underwater wealth is unmatched in this part of Spain due to wrecks, rocky formations, and aquatic flora and fauna. This is why I invite you to explore the area and the submarine ecosystem. Take the scuba diving courses I’ve shared below and dive into these magnificent waters!

Enjoy Your Private Paradise in Villa Murcia!

Looking for the perfect place to stay in Murcia? We’ve got just the spot for you!

Villa Murcia – Your Private Paradise

Wake up to coffee on a sun-drenched terrace, unwind in a warm jacuzzi after a day of exploring, and end your evenings with dinners in the summer kitchen. Nestled in charming Santiago de la Ribera, Villa Murcia offers more than just a holiday—it’s your personal oasis of comfort, style, and unforgettable moments.

Highlights:
✔ Spacious living room with a large sofa and open kitchen – perfect for shared memories
✔ Three elegant, air-conditioned bedrooms with private terraces – your peaceful retreat
✔ Extra fold-out sofa in the living room – ideal for additional guests

Whether it’s a romantic escape, a family getaway, or a relaxing break with friends – Villa Murcia is your dream stay.

Book now and experience the magic of the Spanish sun!

Just 30 kilometers from the city of Cartagena, near Murcia, lies Cabo de Palos – a 400-meter wide peninsula with a coastline dotted with tranquil coves and clear waters. However, the region’s major attraction – the Formigas Islands – is located two and a half miles from the coast.

Because of their spectacular beauty and conservation efforts, the peninsula’s seabeds have earned the status of an Integral Marine Reserve and are widely recognized as one of the best diving spots in Spain.

Table of Contents

• Exploring the Depths: Diving Cabo de Palos
• About Cabo De Palos
• Different Dive Sites!
• Choose The Best Option For You
• Where Can I Find Dive Centers?
• Safety and Preservation Tips
• You Should Go Scuba Diving!
• Enjoy Your Private Paradise in Villa Murcia!

About Cabo De Palos

Cabo de Palos is located between La Manga del Mar Menor and the Spanish city of Cartagena.

Cabo Palos has been inhabited by man for thousands of years, and, despite its small permanent population, it continues to attract many tourists, many of whom are attracted by the numerous diving centers in the area.

Cabo Palos’ coastal location, between the Mediterranean Sea and Marmena, makes it popular, with a variety of beaches ranging from small rocky coves to long stretches of golden sand, all lapped by the clear, warm waters of the central Mediterranean.

Hormigas Islands Marine Reserve

About two nautical miles off the coast of Cartagena, in front of Cabo Palos, there is a group of small islands called Hormigas, the largest of which is 200 meters long and 13 meters high.

The seabed, sandbars, and extensive shallow areas around these islands, along with the heavy shipping traffic that has sailed near the islands for centuries, have resulted in numerous archaeological sites in the region.

Between the islands and Cabo de Palos, there is the Islas Hormigas Marine Reserve, a space with a stunning underwater landscape that covers 1.898 hectares. Recognized as the best place for diving in the Mediterranean, it is a genuine paradise for enthusiasts of this activity, offering shipwrecks, stunning landscapes, and rich biological diversity.

Diving Conditions

With excellent temperatures throughout the year, ranging from 14ºC in winter to 25ºC in summer, the area is ideal for diving in all seasons. With exceptional visibility, warm waters and gentle currents, divers will enjoy a comfortable and safe experience. I was in the region at the end of July, the beginning of summer, and I can say that the experience was great!

Scuba Diving In Hormigas Islands Marine Reserve Zones

The Cabo de Palos and Islas Hormigas marine reserve is one of the most popular destinations among diving enthusiasts in Spain. There, it is possible to observe diverse marine life inhabiting the underwater volcanic rocks, in addition to exploring several shipwrecks that occurred near the rocky promontory over the centuries.

One of the most famous shipwrecks is the El Sirio, an ocean liner that ran aground in 1906, resulting in the loss of around 250 lives. Cabo de Palos’ crystal-clear waters are home to a variety of intriguing underwater attractions, from historic shipwrecks like El Sirio to colorful marine life, including schools of fish, rare fish (like sunfish and cuttlefish), sea turtles, and octopus, which make for a thrilling experience in Cabo de Palos.

You Don’t Need To Be A Professional

You don’t have to be a professional or have extensive underwater experience to enjoy a good dive in Cabo de Palos. You can start with a diving baptism, just like I did.

This type of diving is offered in several of the region’s accredited diving schools. Basically, baptismal diving is an introduction to scuba diving, however, without the need for certification. The practice was completely safe, as throughout the activity, a qualified instructor monitored me, making sure I felt comfortable. Unfortunately, I didn’t have as much exploratory freedom on this first dive as I wanted, but this made me even more eager to obtain new certifications to be able to explore the place.

If you already have underwater experience, there are options suited to your level, from night dives to more technical routes recommended only for experts. You can also find different types of diving courses to improve your skills in the sport.

Different Dive Sites!

There are several diving areas in the Islas Hormigas Marine Reserve of Cabo de Palos, each with its irresistible charm.

Bajo De La Testa

The Bajo de la Testa is characterized by a gently sloping plateau surrounded by deeper waters and expanses of oceanic Posidonia. This area is a meeting point for large schools of fish and is notable for the presence of three ancient Roman anchors strategically positioned around the base of the reef.

Bajo De Piles 1

The Bajo de Piles features two distinct rocky mountain ranges stretching towards the Hormigas Islands. With a main crest measuring 75 meters in length, this site is in open waters and suitable for all levels, with different routes for each level. The area is home to a rich diversity of marine life, including groupers, barracudas, and a cave. Conditions vary from light to moderate currents, with more protection on the southern side of the reef.

Bajo De Piles 2

Very close to Bajo De Piles 1, Bajo de Piles 2 is a second, smaller rock ridge that offers a vibrant underwater experience with a thriving marine community. This site is populated by a variety of species, from barracudas to octopuses, providing an enjoyable experience for divers of various skill levels.

Bajo De Dentro

Bajo de Dentro is a high rock formation, home to a great diversity of marine life. With abysms ranging from 4 to 45 meters, this site is appropriate for certified divers and offers the chance to spot large groupers, rays, and even the occasional turtles.

Bajo De Fuera

Bajo de Fuera is known for its wreck diving in shipwrecks and for the historical and environmental richness it offers. With depths ranging from 3 to 70 meters, this site requires Advanced Open Water certification to explore its underwater treasures, which include large schools of fish and fields of shipwrecks.

Bajo De La Morra

This site offers an impressive underwater experience, with a rocky arm that functions as a shelter for moray eels and groupers. With depths between 10 and 30 meters, Bajo De La Morra is appropriate for experienced divers with a high certification level and offers the opportunity to spot a variety of marine life, like groupers, sea bream, and octopus.

Choose The Best Option For You

This site offers an impressive underwater experience, with a rocky arm that functions as a shelter for moray eels and groupers. With depths between 10 and 30 meters, Bajo De La Morra is appropriate for experienced divers with a high certification level and offers the opportunity to spot a variety of marine life, like groupers, sea bream, and octopus.

The dive sites in the area have varying difficulty levels. Some areas are ideal for beginners, with more favorable conditions and shallower depths, while other areas offer more advanced challenges, such as stronger currents or deeper dives. My advice is to choose an area that matches your skill level and experience for a safe and rewarding underwater adventure. Local dive centers often offer instruction and options for divers of all levels.

Where Can I Find Dive Centers?

With so many options for diving centers in the area, I found it challenging to decide which one to pick, mostly because I was unfamiliar with the site.

To facilitate your decision-making process, I’ve gathered a list of the top five diving centers, as rated by Google, complete with their contact details to book your diving.

Balkysub Dive Operations | Diving School

Address: P.º del Puerto, 30370 Cabo de Palos, Murcia, Spain

Phone: +34 661 49 21 43

Appointments: bookeo.com

Diving Center Naranjito

Address: C. Magre, 26, 30370 Cabo de Palos, Murcia, Spain

Phone: +34 696 54 77 18

Appointments: https://naranjitobuceo.com/

Centro de buceo Mangamar Dive Center

Address: Paseo Puerto de Cabo de Palos, 18, P.º Dimas Ortega, 17, 30370 Cabo de Palos, Murcia, Spain

Phone: +34 968 10 08 60

Appointments: https://mangamardivecenter.com/

Islas Hormigas Diving Club

Address: C. Marín, S/N, 30370 La Manga, Murcia, Spain

Phone: +34 968 14 55 30

Appointments: https://islashormigas.com/

Divers Cabo de Palos

Address: C. Punta de la Azohía, 4, 30370 Cabo de Palos, Murcia, Spain
Phone: +34 687 80 28 91
Appointments: diverscabodepalos.com

Safety and Preservation Tips

It is important to follow all safety procedures when diving in Cabo de Palos, which includes using proper diving equipment and practicing responsibly. Divers must respect the marine environment and avoid damaging coral reefs and marine life.

You Should Go Scuba Diving!

In short, Cabo de Palos is an exceptional diving destination that offers a variety of exciting underwater experiences. With its crystal clear waters, lush marine life, and ideal diving conditions, it is a paradise for diving enthusiasts.

I had one of the best experiences of my life exploring the depths of Cabo de Palos. The feeling of seeing every marine animal, cave, or shipwreck was absolutely amazing and made my trip to the region unforgettable.

Cabo de Palos is truly a paradise for diving enthusiasts. Come explore the depths of Cabo de Palos and discover an underwater world full of wonder and adventure.

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