Explore Costa del Sol
The Costa del Sol is a region in the south of Spain in the community of Andalusia. Translating to the ‘Sun Coast’, the area is known for miles of sandy beaches and a warm climate year-round. Beneath the ocean’s surface, the Costa del Sol offers some impressive dive experiences, from deep current-swept reefs at Marbella to the quiet sheltered bays and cave-systems of Marina del Este. The incredible ocean sunfish can be observed basking at the point where the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean converge in Tarifa while dolphins and pilot whales can be witnessed riding the waves offshore.
Costa del Sol is possible via several dive centres which often serve several areas including; Malaga, Torremolinos, Benalmadena, Fuengirola, Marbella, Mijas Costa, and Estepona. The dive centres offer dive courses from Discover Scuba Diving to Instructor Development. Few liveaboards explore the Costa del Sol where diving is more popular via dive centres.
Top Costa del Sol Dive Sites
1. Marble Wreck, Benalmádena
Located near the shore, this 19th-century brig carried marble Roman sculptures, now scattered across the seafloor. Suitable for all levels and scuba diving, divers can spot octopus, cuttlefish, and conger eels among the cargo remains.
2. SS Menapier, Fuengirola
Lying at a depth of 37 m, this advanced scuba dive starts with a mooring descent. The wreck is home to groupers, giant spider crabs, and conger eels. It’s ideal for experienced divers seeking deep wreck exploration.
3. Tres Picos, La Costa Tropical
Three pinnacles rise dramatically from a 6 m reef wall, descending to 30 m. Scuba divers can explore star coral-covered walls, swim-throughs, and marine life like morays, nudibranchs, and damselfish. Best for intermediate to advanced levels.
4. Wreck of San Andrés, Tarifa
This shallow wreck site is excellent for both scuba and freediving. With good visibility, divers may encounter ocean sunfish, sea turtles, and rays. Calm conditions make it accessible to most divers.
5. Cala del Cañuelo, Nerja (Freediving possible)
This marine-protected cove offers pristine conditions, rich seagrass beds, and calm waters ideal for freediving or beginner scuba. Expect shoals of small fish, starfish, and the occasional stingray amid dramatic rocky landscapes.