Clear Atlantic water, extraordinary marine life (including critically endangered angel sharks), and diverse dive sites from shallow reefs to dramatic walls make Fuerteventura an outstanding scuba diving destination.
Why Dive in Fuerteventura?
The waters surrounding Fuerteventura are among the most biodiverse in the North Atlantic. The Canary Islands' position on the boundary between cold northern upwellings and warm subtropical Atlantic creates conditions where Atlantic, Mediterranean, and even tropical African species coexist — producing exceptional biodiversity for a location at this latitude.
The island is part of a designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, which means fishing restrictions have allowed fish populations to recover to impressive densities. Visibility is typically excellent — 20–30m is common, occasionally more. And the variety of dive environments is remarkable: shallow coral gardens, deep walls, volcanic tunnels, cave systems, sandy plains where angel sharks rest, and the rusting bulk of a cargo ship.
Top Dive Sites
El Cantil (Corralejo): The wall dive off Corralejo's north coast is considered one of the top dives in the Canaries. The wall drops from the surface to 30m+ and is encrusted with black coral, gorgonian fans, and sponge communities. Shoals of barracuda patrol the blue water above the wall; moray eels, octopus, and various grouper species inhabit the crevices below.
Los Lobos Island: The reefs surrounding the uninhabited island of Los Lobos (a 20-minute boat ride from Corralejo) are spectacular. Pristine conditions, abundant marine life, and consistent visibility of 25–35m make this many divers' favourite site. The eastern side of the island has gentle sloping reefs ideal for beginners; the northern tip has more exposed, more dramatic diving with stronger currents and larger species.
Angel Shark Corner: The sandy plains around various points on Fuerteventura's north coast are one of the last strongholds of the critically endangered angel shark (Squatina squatina). These flat, camouflaged sharks rest on the sandy bottom and are utterly docile if approached slowly and calmly. Seeing an angel shark on a dive is one of the genuine highlights of diving in the Canary Islands — a wildlife encounter that is increasingly rare globally but remains possible here thanks to active conservation efforts.
Metron Wreck: A cargo ship lying at 25–40m near Gran Tarajal on the east coast. The Metron sank in the 1970s and has been thoroughly colonised by marine life — enormous shoals of glassy sweeper fish swirl through the holds, while grouper, moray, and scorpion fish claim the darker corners. Good visibility on most days; suitable for experienced divers (OW+ or equivalent).
The Arch (La Catedral): A volcanic rock formation off the north coast that has been eroded by the Atlantic into a dramatic arch and series of tunnels. Diving through the tunnels — with light streaming in from both ends and the walls covered in red and orange encrusting life — is a genuinely theatrical experience. Best at high sun when the light effects are most dramatic.
El Hierro Reef (Corralejo): A shallower site (6–18m) ideal for beginner and Discover Diver programmes. Dense reef fish, sea turtles, and rays in a relaxed environment. Good for night dives — the invertebrate life comes alive after dark.
Dive Schools & Equipment
Several PADI-certified dive centres operate in Corralejo. All provide equipment hire (wetsuit, BCD, regulator, tank) and offer a full range of courses from beginner to divemaster. Boat dives to Los Lobos and the north coast sites depart most mornings. Expect to pay €40–€60 per guided dive including equipment hire; PADI Open Water courses run €350–€450 over 3–4 days.
Snorkelling for Non-Divers
Even without scuba gear, the waters around Fuerteventura are spectacular for snorkelling. The rocky headlands near Corralejo, the pools at El Cotillo, and the waters around Los Lobos island are all excellent shallow-water sites where you'll encounter parrot fish, wrasse, damselfish, octopus, and — if you're very lucky — a sea turtle surfacing for air nearby. Book your Corralejo base →