Diving in the Medes Islands -

Diving in the Medes Islands

An Underwater Paradise on the Costa Brava

Article by David de las Heras

Off the coast of L’Estartit, in the province of Girona, rise the majestic Medes Islands—a small archipelago of seven islets that form part of one of the most important marine reserves in the Mediterranean. Declared a Protected Natural Reserve in 1983, this gem off the Costa Brava is a benchmark for divers across Europe due to its rich marine life, crystal-clear waters, and the diversity of its underwater landscapes.

A Protected Ecosystem

Thanks to decades of environmental protection, the Medes Islands boast one of the best-preserved marine ecosystems along the Spanish coast. Restrictions on fishing, anchoring, and navigation have allowed species such as grouper, dentex, meagre, large moray eels and conger eels, rays, and even the elusive sunfish to be frequently encountered during dives.

The seafloor features vertical walls covered in vibrant gorgonians, caves, underwater passages, and seagrass meadows of Posidonia oceanica, home to everything from tiny nudibranchs to dense schools of barracudas.

Iconic Dive Sites

Among the Best-Known Dive Sites Are:

– El Tascó Grande: A spectacular underwater mountain, home to large groupers, lobsters, and nudibranchs.

– La Vaca: An underwater tunnel with two entrances that cuts through part of an island—ideal for photographers thanks to its dramatic lighting.

– El Dofí Nord and Sud: Caves accessible to experienced divers, with entrances featuring striking backlighting and a dolphin statue on the southern side, giving its name to this 90-meter-long tunnel.

– La Pedra de Déu: A vertical wall descending to over 40 meters, covered in gorgonians and coralligenous formations.

For All Levels

While some sites are reserved for experienced divers, many local dive centers offer dives suitable for most skill levels, including try dives (discovery dives) and guided snorkeling tours. Sea conditions are usually calm, and visibility can exceed 25 m/80 ft. during summer days.

Conservation and Responsibility

Diving in the reserve means following specific rules: a limited number of divers per day, a ban on touching or feeding marine life, and strict respect for the seabed. These guidelines not only protect the environment but also ensure a more authentic and lasting diving experience.

Beyond the Water

L’Estartit and its surrounding area offer plenty of attractions to round out the experience: outstanding local cuisine, hiking through the Montgrí Natural Park, kayaking, snorkeling, cultural visits, and a relaxed atmosphere that blends nature and sea in perfect harmony.

Diving in the Medes Islands is not just about entering the water—it’s about connecting with a unique ecosystem, where nature has reclaimed its space and humans learn to be respectful observers. A must-visit destination for any lover of the blue.

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