The arid exterior of the island of volcanoes stands in stark contrast to the explosion of life beneath its waters. A vibrant underwater world boasting diverse landscapes, shipwrecks, corals, turtles, groupers, angel sharks, octopuses, stingrays, and countless other marine species
Lanzarote’s submerged realm is a breathtaking explosion of biodiversity and colour with shallow seabeds and dramatic drop-offs plunging to depths of 200 metres. A single dive is simply not enough to explore all its wonders. Christian Massad, a Lebanese-born instructor with 22 years of experience, offers us a glimpse on behalf of BUCO, the Lanzarote Dive Clubs Association.
Massad highlights Lanzarote’s unique appeal as arguably Europe’s only year-round dive destination, thanks to consistent sea temperatures (18 to 24ºC) and African currents that make its waters the most biodiverse on the continent.
According to Massad, the island’s prime diving locations are along the east and south coasts, with the most spectacular underwater landscapes only accessible by boat. He strongly recommends that divers seeking a safe and rewarding experience join guided dives with any of the reputable local clubs, where equipment rental is also available.
Playa Blanca is home to rich marine life, especially along its coastline stretching from Punta Pechiguera to Papagayo. Puerto del Carmen’s waters are equally vibrant. Both areas also offer superb snorkelling opportunities. Descend to around 25 metres in Playa Blanca, and you’ll discover a kaleidoscope of fish, invertebrates, lobsters, and molluscs. Its crystal-clear waters are perfect for underwater photography and beginner dives.
In Puerto del Carmen, dramatic cliffs give way to wrecks of old tuna boats transformed into reefs, sea caves, large groupers and stingrays. All this within a depth range of 25-40 metres. Further down lies a flourishing forest of protected black coral thrives.
Between 35 and 40 metres just beyond La Tiñosa breakwater are two must-see sites: La Catedral (the Cathedral) and the Blue Hole, both only accessible by boat. And just off the coast of Barranco del Quíquere, at 25 metres, lie another three shipwrecks.
Just 200 metres offshore, Playa Grande reveals an underwater jewel: its entire seafloor, between 20 and 40 meters, is a diving paradise teeming with vibrant orange coral and abundant marine life. Closer to the shore, gentle slopes create ideal conditions for snorkelling. Further north, at the island’s tip, Charco del Palo’s volcanic lava flows conceal intriguing fissures and sandy flats, now recovering from a sea urchin bloom. However, Massad cautions against diving here, citing uncomfortable conditions and safety concerns.
