Located in the northeastern part of Spain, Costa Daurada, or the "Golden Coast," is named for its golden sandy beaches that stretch over 200 kilometers. While the coast is famous for its sun, sand, and historical sites, beneath the waves lies a world of marine wonders that make Costa Daurada an attractive destination for scuba divers.
Best Scuba Diving Spots for Experienced Divers
La Mussara: This deep dive, descending beyond 40 meters, is notable for its wall covered with vibrant sea fans and sponges. Marine life like moray eels, grouper, and eagle rays are common sightings. Due to its depth, this site is more suited for advanced divers.
El Pont de l’Armentera: A beautiful dive site where you can discover underwater canyons and overhangs. The rocky formations are home to a variety of marine species and occasionally, sunfish make an appearance in the deeper waters.
Best Scuba Diving Spots for Beginners
La Roca Plana: Located close to Tarragona, this is a shallow and calm dive, perfect for beginners. Divers can explore rocky outcrops and sandy patches, encountering octopuses, wrasses, and seahorses.
Cambrils: A popular beach town, Cambrils offers several dive sites suitable for novices. The calm conditions and rich marine biodiversity make it a favorite spot for introductory dives and training sessions.
Marine Life
The underwater world of Costa Daurada offers a diverse range of marine life. Divers can encounter barracudas, octopuses, cuttlefish, and a variety of reef fish. The rocky bottoms and crevices are often inhabited by moray eels, scorpionfish, and nudibranchs. During certain seasons, the elusive sunfish can be spotted in the deeper waters.
Dive Conditions
Boasting a Mediterranean climate, Costa Daurada offers warm summers and mild winters. The water temperature varies, ranging from 54°F in winter to about 75°F in summer. Visibility in Costa Daurada is generally good, often reaching 20 to 40 feet, but can extend up to 70 feet on clear days. While many dive sites in the region are calm and suitable for beginners, it's essential to check with local dive shops for updated conditions.
Cost
Diving in Costa Daurada offers an excellent experience without breaking the bank. A standard dive, which includes equipment rental, typically ranges from $50 to $110. For those interested in gaining certification, beginner courses usually start at around $350 and can go up to $500, encompassing training, equipment, and the necessary dives. Package deals are quite common in the region, and divers might find discounts for booking multiple dives or group packages.
Costa Daurada is not only a haven for beach lovers and history buffs but also a hidden gem for divers. Its varied marine life, coupled with the Mediterranean's allure, makes it a memorable diving destination. Whether you're an expert diver exploring the depths of La Mussara or a beginner marveling at the marine life in Cambrils, Costa Daurada promises a dive experience rich in beauty and wonder.