Volcanic drop-offs, clear Atlantic water, and small-boat diving from La Restinga
Updated Apr 20, 2026 • 22 sources
Top species linked to approved dive spots in El Hierro.
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Quick shortlist before you jump into the full planning page.
El Hierro volcanic wall dive with steep lava and clear water.
Volcanic El Hierro boat dive with lava tubes, caverns, and calm shallows.
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Last updated: April 20, 2026 • 22 sources
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Overview
El Hierro is the Canary Islands destination for divers who want a compact island, high-relief volcanic sites, and a serious conservation framework rather than resort sprawl. Most scuba trips run from La Restinga into the Mar de Las Calmas, a protected southern seascape known for El Bajon, black volcanic walls, schooling barracuda, big groupers, rays, turtles, and occasional pelagic surprises. Visibility commonly reaches 30 m or more, the climate is mild year-round, and boat runs are short enough to build trips around two morning dives, natural pools, hiking, and slow seafood dinners. Freedivers get quick access to deep water and calm leeward coves, while snorkelers can focus on Tacoron, Charco Azul, La Maceta, and guided shallow reef sessions. The planning style is simple: stay near La Restinga for diving, rent a car for the island, and let local operators manage marine reserve access.
The Punta de La Restinga-Mar de Las Calmas Marine Reserve has regulated diving, marked points, and restricted areas that protect one of El Hierro's richest marine zones.
Expect pinnacles, arches, caverns, black-sand slopes, and drop-offs rather than coral-garden sameness. El Bajon alone rises to shallow peaks near 6 m and 9 m before falling toward deep water.
Most diving is staged from La Restinga, so surface intervals, tank swaps, lunches, and sunset swims stay simple.
The Canary climate keeps El Hierro practical in every season, with mild air, diveable water, and calmer planning windows in spring and autumn.
6 linked spots
Best time to go
April to June and September to November
Warm water, excellent visibility, calmer southcoast planning, and strong pelagic potential around La Restinga.
Main caution: Surface chop can add a little more texture on exposed entries.
