La Palma

Use a DSMB, dive computer, and conservative gas planning on every guided dive. Lava entries can be slippery, surge can trap divers near rocks, and some sites have boat traffic or current. Torre de Malpique is a deep advanced dive, while Las Cruces de Malpique can have current despite its accessible shore entry. Do not enter overhead environments unless trained. Avoid high-altitude drives after diving, especially Roque de los Muchachos above 2.4 km. If a local operator cancels for sea state, respect the call.

For any life-threatening emergency in Spain, call 112. Hospital Universitario General de La Palma in Brena Alta is the island's main public hospital, but divers should verify current hyperbaric arrangements before the trip. Public discussions about implementing a La Palma chamber indicate that chamber logistics may involve other Canary Islands, so treat DAN Europe, emergency medical evacuation coverage, and operator emergency plans as essential for deep or repetitive diving.

The La Palma Marine Reserve was created to protect fisheries, habitats, and biodiversity on the south-west coast. Follow reserve rules, carry authorizations when required, do not collect marine life, do not feed fish, and keep fins, gauges, and cameras off black coral, algae forests, sponges, and lava surfaces. Use reef-safe sun protection, control buoyancy before entering arches or swim-throughs, and avoid trampling tide-pool life at snorkel and shore-entry sites.