Mediterranean walls, grouper-filled islets, and Costa Brava villages in one easy land-based trip
Updated Apr 20, 2026 • 34 sources
Top species linked to approved dive spots in Costa Brava and Medes Islands.
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Last updated: April 20, 2026 • 34 sources
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Overview
Costa Brava and the Medes Islands are Spain's classic land-based Mediterranean dive trip: short boat rides from L'Estartit, protected islets, red gorgonian walls, groupers, caves, shallow snorkel routes, and village-heavy topside days. The core experience centers on the Montgri, Medes Islands and Baix Ter Natural Park, where access is managed and responsible diving rules matter. Scuba divers get signature sites such as La Vaca, Dofi Nord, Carall Bernat, Pedra de Deu, and the Reggio Messina wreck. Freedivers and snorkelers can join authorized boat outings when sea state and certification fit the plan. Non-divers are not stranded: glass-bottom boats, kayaking, Castell del Montgri hikes, wetlands birding, Pals, Peratallada, and Empuries make the destination work well for mixed groups.
Divers can do two-tank mornings while non-divers choose beaches, boat tours, medieval villages, wetlands, kayaking, or Girona day trips.
The Medes Islands concentrate groupers, barracuda, seabream, coralligenous walls, gorgonians, sponges, caves, and Posidonia meadows inside a managed marine reserve.
L'Estartit harbor is close to the islands, so most outings are straightforward day-boat dives rather than long exposed transfers.
Beginner-friendly sheltered itineraries sit close to advanced walls, deeper wreck fragments, currents, and cavern-like swim-throughs.
74 linked spots
Best time to go
May to October
Warm enough for most water activities, active operators, fewer peak crowds, and sea temperatures often around 20°C to 23°C.
Main caution: Cold water around 13°C to 15°C, winter wind, and reduced operator schedules.
