The Best Dive Sites in Tenerife: Six Unforgettable Underwater Adventures
Tenerife is home to some of the most breathtaking dive sites in the Canary Islands, offering dramatic volcanic landscapes, rich marine life, and unforgettable experiences for divers of all levels. From vibrant reefs and deep walls to mysterious caves and thrilling drop-offs, the island’s underwater world has something for everyone.
Here’s a look at six of the top dive sites in Tenerife that should be on every diver’s must-visit list.
1. Palm Mar Wall – Tenerife’s Most Popular Dive Site
Palm Mar Wall is widely regarded as the most popular dive site in Tenerife, attracting divers and snorkelers alike. Its reputation is largely due to the resident turtles, which can almost always be encountered in these waters. Alongside the turtles, the site is teeming with a diverse array of fish species, often seen in large schools. Various types of rays are commonly spotted, while angel sharks make seasonal appearances in winter.
Beyond the reef, dolphins are sometimes observed in the distance, taking advantage of the easy hunting opportunities provided by nearby fish farms.
With its calm conditions and excellent visibility, Palm Mar Wall is ideal for divers of all experience levels. It is also a prime location for snorkeling tours and is frequently used for the PADI Discover Scuba Diving programme, making it a perfect introduction to Tenerife’s incredible underwater world.
2. Ali Baba – A Hidden Gem for Advanced Divers
Ali Baba features a large cave at around 40 meters, surrounded by impressive volcanic rock formations. The cave, though spacious, should be explored with care. At the back of the cave, divers will find a nativity scene that has been placed there for many years, adding a unique touch to the dive. Schools of barracuda, moray eels, and stingrays are commonly seen in the area.
3. Barranco del Agua – A Thrill for Deep Diving Enthusiasts
Barranco del Agua offers an exhilarating deep dive with dramatic drop-offs and striking underwater landscapes. Due to the potential for strong currents, this site is recommended for experienced divers only.
Descending into the depths, divers are often welcomed by large groupers leisurely patrolling the overhangs. Peering over the edge of the drop-off, black coral, resembling delicate Christmas trees, can be seen sprouting from the rocky surfaces.
Further along the dive, a prominent pinnacle emerges, serving as a gathering point for schools of barracuda. As the dive continues through the underwater gorge, moving towards shallower depths, encounters with graceful stingrays and shimmering schools of sardines are not uncommon. With its stunning geology and abundance of marine life, Barranco del Agua promises a breathtaking experience for those seeking a deep diving adventure.
4. Palm Mar Cave – A Deep Dive into Mystery and Marine Life
From an anchorage at 16 meters, divers descend along a rugged wall, where various species of moray eels can be seen hiding within the cracks. As the wall ends, the route crosses a sandy seabed leading to a series of towering pinnacles. Here, nestled among the formations, lies the Virgin del Carmen, a statue resting at 32 meters, placed to watch over the island’s divers and fishermen. Just beyond, a vast expanse of garden eels sways gently with the ocean currents.
At 28 meters, the entrance to Palm Mar Cave comes into view. While the cave extends into an intricate network of lava tunnels, it is not to be penetrated due to the risk of disorientation. A small cross at the entrance serves as a solemn reminder of those who entered and never returned.
Despite the dangers beyond, the cave mouth itself offers a wealth of marine life. The walls are teeming with shrimp, while rays and angel sharks are often found resting in the sand nearby. With its striking geological formations, rich biodiversity, and historical significance, Palm Mar Cave remains a top choice for experienced deep divers.
5. Neptune’s Cave – A Stunning Underwater Spectacle
Neptune’s Cave is a breathtaking dive site that captivates divers of all experience levels. The dive begins in shallow waters, where a vibrant plateau is covered in abundant marine flora. Following the coastline into deeper waters, the sandy bay gradually leads to the entrance of a large, cavernous swim-through.
From the moment divers reach the entrance, the cobalt blue of the open sea is visible through the jagged volcanic rocks framing the exit. Inside the cavern, schools of glass-eye fish shimmer in the filtered light, creating a mesmerizing spectacle.
The cave is a haven for marine life, with trumpet fish, bream, big eyes, and shrimp commonly found within its depths. Large stingrays are frequently spotted gliding through the shadows, while the elusive spotfin burrfish occasionally makes an appearance. With its dramatic scenery and diverse marine encounters, Neptune’s Cave remains one of Tenerife’s most unforgettable dive sites.
6. Roncadores del Faro Deep – A Hidden World Below
Also known as “The Steps,” Roncadores del Faro Deep is a fascinating dive site reaching depths of 24 meters. The sandy seabed is home to schools of roncadores (grunt fish), which move in synchronized patterns, creating an impressive underwater display.
Divers may also encounter bull rays, tiger moray eels, and even turtles, adding to the site’s allure. Suitable for all certification levels, this dive provides a stunning mix of marine life and underwater topography, making it a must-visit for those looking to explore Tenerife’s deeper waters.
Experience Tenerife’s Best Dive Sites with Aqua-Marina
Whether you’re a beginner looking for a calm and scenic dive or an experienced diver seeking thrilling depths and dramatic landscapes, Tenerife has something for you. These six dive sites represent just a fraction of the incredible underwater world waiting to be explored.
Ready to dive in? Book your next underwater adventure with Aqua-Marina and discover the best diving Tenerife has to offer!
