Diving atLos Arcos (Spain)
Los Arcos provides a diverse depth experience, with the primary dive area off Puerto del Carmen extending to approximately 30 m / 100 ft. Specific sub-sites range from shallow, sheltered areas suitable for entry-level divers, down to dramatic canyons reaching beyond 45 m / 130 ft for advanced certifications. This varied profile ensures options for different skill levels to explore its unique underwater topography.
Evening condition tracking at Los Arcos features an air temperature of 20°C. We have recorded wave heights measuring 0.7 m during this period. These figures outline the environmental parameters currently present.
Dive Site Location & Key Facts
Everything you need to know about this dive site.
Dive Site Overview
Los Arcos features a striking underwater rockscape, characterized by natural arches and dramatic wall formations. Geological structures create an engaging environment for exploration, encompassing reef and sandy-bottom areas, providing diverse routes for divers.
Within this site, the "Aquarium" section offers a shallower dive, reaching a maximum depth of about 12 meters (40 feet), making it an excellent spot for observing a wide variety of tropical fish and eels in a vibrant setting. This area also serves as a starting point for more extensive explorations. For those seeking deeper excursions, "Devil's Canyon" presents a challenging yet rewarding dive.
It descends from roughly 18 meters (60 feet), leading through "The Devil's Mouth" to the edge of the Banderas Trench, where depths can extend significantly, potentially beyond 45 meters (130 feet) for appropriately certified divers. Exploring this canyon evokes a profound sense of the ocean's scale, with over a mile drop beneath.
Underwater topography itself acts as a natural shelter and habitat, shaping the experience, particularly in advanced dive areas off Puerto del Carmen, Lanzarote, where the wall structure reaches down to about 30 meters (100 feet).
Los Arcos
Conditions are Excellent
Best Dive Window
07:00 - 14:00
Optimal conditions expected
Current conditions near Los Arcos show 20° air, 24° sea temperature, 0.3 m waves, and 21 km/h wind. Forecast data is refreshed regularly to ensure accuracy.
Best Time to Dive
Diving at Los Arcos is consistently rated "Good" throughout the year, although conditions shift seasonally. Warmest air temperatures typically occur from June to September, with averages hovering around 24-27°C / 75-81°F, making surface intervals comfortable. Cooler periods are noted from December to March, when air temperatures average between 13-15°C / 55-59°F. Rainfall remains relatively low and consistent across all months, generally below 2 mm, suggesting a dry climate for most of the year. Wave heights are generally moderate, ranging from 0.6 to 0.9 meters (2-3 feet), though slight variations occur. Wind speeds are also fairly consistent, averaging around 18-22 km/h (11-14 mph). Diver comfort at the surface will vary most significantly with air temperature, while underwater conditions like current potential remain a constant consideration regardless of season.
PEAK SEASON SCORE
Scores combine air & water temps, waves, wind & rainfall for overall conditions.
BEST MONTHS TO DIVE
Monthly records compiled from satellite and marine observation nodes over the last 3 years. Data provided by Open-Meteo and MET Norway.
Dive Experience & Conditions
Upon entering the water at Los Arcos, divers will encounter a range of experiences tailored to different skill levels. "Aquarium" site is often recommended for new divers or those refreshing their skills, offering a gentler introduction to the underwater environment. However, the site overall is considered suitable for advanced divers due to potential strong currents, particularly in areas like Devil's Canyon. Divers should anticipate that conditions can vary, making careful planning essential. Visibility tends to be favorable, although specific data isn't consistently reported. Diverse morphology of rock formations and swim-throughs makes for engaging navigation, requiring good buoyancy control, especially when currents are present. Planning for these varied conditions ensures a more enjoyable and safer dive.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Strong currents are a significant consideration when diving Los Arcos; divers should be prepared for varying flow conditions, which can sometimes be robust. It's crucial to plan dives meticulously, always aligning with your current certification level and prevailing site conditions. Some sections of Los Arcos, particularly deeper routes like Devil's Canyon, are specifically suitable for advanced divers due to greater depths and increased potential for encountering strong current exposure. Always consult with local dive operators for the most up-to-date information regarding specific site conditions, recommended entry/exit points, and any temporary advisories. Adherence to established dive plans and maintaining situational awareness, especially when navigating near canyon edges or through arches, is vital for safety. Divers should ensure they are proficient in buoyancy control and consider relevant training for managing currents.
Recommended Equipment
- Dive Computer
- DSMB
This gear list is based on verified equipment signals for Los Arcos, Spain. Always confirm final gear choices with your dive operator, guide, or liveaboard.
Recommended Dive Suit
Recent conditions suggest the water at Los Arcos remains near 24°C (75°F), offering typical conditions for the area. Surface air temperatures are resting at 20°C (68°F).
Forecasts suggest rising temperatures later this week. A warming trend is expected over the next few days.
Most divers would typically feel comfortable using 3-5mm wetsuit in these conditions. Surface intervals may feel cooler. Dive depth and duration can significantly affect perceived warmth.
Due to technical issues with our weather providers, live updates are temporarily delayed. The data above reflects the conditions at the time of the last successful fetch.
Emergency & Medical Support
Essential information to help you plan your dive trip to Los Arcos.
Hyperbaric chambers are a critical part of dive safety infrastructure. Availability varies significantly by region, and not all dive areas have immediate access.
Before diving, it's recommended to:
- confirm nearest medical facilities
- check emergency procedures with local dive operators
- ensure dive insurance covers evacuation if required
Divers Alert Network
Diving emergency assistance available through DAN Europe.
+39 0642115685- 24/7 emergency hotline
- Diving medical assistance
- Evacuation coordination
Emergency contacts are provided for reference. Always verify local emergency services before diving.
Closest Listed Hyperbaric Chambers
Showing listed hyperbaric chamber facilities within 200 km of this dive site.
Distances are approximate straight-line distances and may not reflect emergency travel time.
Unidad Hiperbarica Hospital de Castellon UTH-HGUCS
24/7 ListedICU CapableCastellon, Spain•Approx. 152 km straight-line
Unidad Hiperbarica Hospital de Castellon UTH-HGUCS
24/7 ListedICU CapableFacility Details
Information is provided for reference and planning purposes only. Dive Navigator does not verify operational status, staffing, availability, or quality of care at listed facilities. In an emergency, contact local emergency services, DAN, your dive operator, or the chamber directly. Do not travel to a facility without calling ahead.
Marine Life at Los Arcos
The intricate underwater landscape of Los Arcos provides a rich habitat for a variety of marine species. Within the reef and around the arches, divers frequently encounter schooling fish, crustaceans, and different types of moray eels, including zebra and jeweled morays. The shallower "Aquarium" area is particularly active with tropical fish such as king angels, balloon fish, and surgeon fish; divers also report sightings of seahorses and nudibranchs here. In deeper zones or during specific conditions, there's a possibility of encountering barracuda, mackerel, stingrays, eagle rays, and even larger pelagic life like manta rays, especially around Devil's Canyon. Occasional reports suggest sightings of sharks, whales, dolphins, and turtles, though these are less common.
Dive Sites Near Los Arcos
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Dive Centers Near Los Arcos
Working Hours
Today: 09:00 - 15:00
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Scorpora Diving
Nearest Airports
Nearest airports to help plan travel to this dive area.
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Search Flights on ExpediaFrequently Asked Questions
Is Los Arcos suitable for beginner divers?
Yes, parts of Los Arcos, like the "Aquarium" site, are ideal for beginners with depths up to about 12 meters (40 feet). These areas are calm and rich with marine life, making them perfect for initial experiences or refreshers. However, the site also offers advanced options.
What is the maximum depth at Los Arcos?
The general dive area around Los Arcos extends to about 30 meters (100 feet). Specific deep dive sites, such as sections of Devil's Canyon, can reach up to 45 meters (130 feet), suitable for appropriately certified advanced divers.
Are there strong currents at Los Arcos?
Yes, strong currents can occur at Los Arcos. Divers should be prepared for variable conditions and plan their dives accordingly, staying within their training and experience levels.
What kind of marine life can I expect to see?
You can expect to see schooling fish, crustaceans, and various moray eels. Depending on the site, there are tropical fish like king angels, surgeon fish, seahorses, nudibranchs, and occasionally larger species such as barracuda, stingrays, or manta rays.
When is the best time of year to dive Los Arcos?
Diving is rated "Good" year-round. The most comfortable surface conditions are from June to September due to warmer air temperatures (24-27°C / 75-81°F). Rainfall is consistently low throughout the year.
Are there any specific dive sites within Los Arcos?
Yes, popular sites include "Aquarium," which is shallower and vibrant with marine life, and "Devil's Canyon," which offers deeper exploration through canyons and access to the Banderas Trench.
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Los Arcos
Conditions are Excellent
Best Dive Window
07:00 - 14:00
Optimal conditions expected
Current conditions near Los Arcos show 20° air, 24° sea temperature, 0.3 m waves, and 21 km/h wind. Forecast data is refreshed regularly to ensure accuracy.