Diving at Ullastres (Spain)
Ullastres stands as a prominent dive location off the Costa Brava, where visibility consistently allows for expansive views of its dramatic underwater topography. Divers navigating these three submerged mountains can anticipate clear perspectives, often exceeding 15 meters / 49 feet, revealing vibrant gorgonian walls and diverse marine activity. This clarity enhances the experience, making navigation straightforward and marine observations frequent across all depth ranges.
Evening condition tracking at Ullastres features an air temperature of 31°C. We have recorded wave heights measuring 0.4 m during this period. These figures outline the environmental parameters currently present.
Dive Site Location & Key Facts
Dive Site Overview
Embarking on a dive to Ullastres feels like entering a hidden world beneath the waves of the Costa Brava. Roughly 20 minutes by boat northeast of Palamós, near Llafranc, this site comprises three distinct underwater mountains, known as Ullastres I, II, and III, each presenting unique features for divers.
Ullastres I, the shallowest, descends to 30 m / 98 ft, making it suitable for newer divers to explore its wide base at approximately 12 meters. Ullastres II, the middle pinnacle, offers a gentle descent along its walls down to 53 meters, its top visible around 8 meters from the surface.
The outermost and deepest, Ullastres III, plunges to 54 meters, with its highest points reaching within 7 meters of the surface. All three mountains boast walls adorned with colorful gorgonians and a variety of sea life, particularly on their north faces.
Navigation is simplified by mooring buoys typically positioned at the highest point of each mountain.
Conditions are Excellent
07:00 - 14:00
Optimal conditions expected
Current conditions near Ullastres show 31° air, 27° sea temperature, 0.4 m waves, and 21 km/h wind. Forecast data is refreshed regularly to ensure accuracy.
Best Time to Dive
Planning a trip to Ullastres is best centered around the warmer months, as conditions generally align for optimal diving experiences. From May through October, the region experiences its highest dive scores, indicating more favorable weather. During this period, air temperatures range from 17.5°C / 64°F in May to a pleasant 25.5°C / 78°F in August, gradually cooling to 19°C / 66°F by October. Rainfall is minimal, with July seeing an average of less than 1 mm, significantly reducing run-off and maintaining clearer waters. Conversely, winter months, such as January and March, present lower air temperatures (around 10.5-12.5°C / 51-54°F) and increased rainfall, coupled with higher wave activity, which can lead to more challenging boat access and reduced comfort.
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
These three underwater mountains offer a varied depth profile suitable for different certification levels. Ullastres I accommodates introductory levels with a maximum depth reaching 30 meters, where its wide base at 12 meters provides ample opportunity for exploration. Ullastres II presents a gradually sloping wall that extends down to 53 meters, making it versatile for both intermediate and advanced divers. Its top lies at 8 meters, creating a substantial vertical range. The deepest, Ullastres III, descends to 54 meters, with its upper pinnacles starting around 7 meters from the surface. Water temperatures vary, reaching around 19-21°C / 66-70°F during the summer months. Generally, currents are mild, and visibility averages 15+ meters, allowing for clear views of the vibrant gorgonian-covered walls.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Approaching Ullastres requires adherence to standard dive safety practices, particularly due to the varied depths and potential for boat traffic around Ullastre 2. Divers should always verify their gas management and no-decompression limits, especially when exploring the deeper sections of Ullastres II and III. Given the significant depth potential, appropriate certification is necessary for certain areas, and a dive computer is essential.
While navigation is generally simplified by surface buoys marking the pinnacles, maintaining buddy contact is crucial. Always bring a diving lamp; even with good visibility, the crevices and deeper walls benefit from focused illumination to reveal details.
Recommended Equipment
- Dive Computer
- DSMB
This gear list is based on verified equipment signals for Ullastres, Spain. Always confirm final gear choices with your dive operator, guide, or liveaboard.
Recommended Dive Suit
In these water temperatures, 2-3mm shorty or light wetsuit is a common choice for recreational diving. A hood or vest is suggested for sensitive divers due to surface winds. Longer dive profiles can make thermal protection more important than short exploratory dives.
At the moment, divers exploring Ullastres will likely experience water temperatures near 27°C (80°F). Surface air temperatures are resting at 31°C (88°F).
Environmental conditions appear stable for the near future.
Emergency & Medical Support
Essential information to help you plan your dive trip to Ullastres.
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.
Unitat de Medicina Hiperbà rica (UMH)
24/7 ListedPalamos (Girona), Spain•Approx. 7 km straight-line
Unitat de Medicina Hiperbà rica (UMH)
24/7 ListedInformation 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.
UTH-CSI
24/7 ListedICU CapableSant Joan DespÃ, Spain•Approx. 111 km straight-line
UTH-CSI
24/7 ListedICU CapableInformation 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 Ullastres
The marine environment at Ullastres is characterized by prolific invertebrate and fish life inhabiting its rocky structures. Divers frequently encounter vibrant nudibranchs, octopuses, and groupers sheltering in the numerous crevices.
Large moray eels are often spotted, along with rays resting on the sandy bottom. Schools of barracudas are a common sight in the blue, sometimes seen hunting alongside sardines.
Seasonal visitors like sunfish may make appearances, while St. Peterfish are more prevalent in winter, adding diversity to the local ecosystem.
Dive Sites Near Ullastres
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Dive Centers Near Ullastres
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Nearest Airports
Nearest airports to help plan travel to this dive area.
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Search Flights on ExpediaFrequently Asked Questions
What are the Ullastres?
The Ullastres are three distinct underwater mountains or pinnacles found off the coast of Llafranc, near Palamós, on Spain's Costa Brava. Each pinnacle offers unique diving profiles and marine life.
How many dive sites are there at Ullastres?
There are three primary dive sites within Ullastres: Ullastres I, Ullastres II, and Ullastres III, each corresponding to one of the underwater mountains.
What are the typical depths at Ullastres?
Depths vary significantly across the three sites. Ullastres I is the shallowest, reaching 30 meters. Ullastres II has a top at 8 meters and descends to 53 meters, while the deepest, Ullastres III, extends to 54 meters.
Is Ullastres suitable for beginner divers?
Ullastres I is generally suitable for initial level divers and trainees, reaching a maximum of 30 meters. Ullastres II can be enjoyed by all levels, but the deeper sections of Ullastres II and Ullastres III require more advanced certifications due to their depth profiles.
What kind of marine life can I expect to see?
Divers often observe nudibranchs, octopuses, groupers, moray eels, and rays. Schools of barracudas are common in the blue, and seasonal sightings might include sunfish or St. Peterfish in winter.
How long does it take to reach Ullastres by boat?
The boat journey to Ullastres typically takes about 20 minutes from dive centers in Palamós. The ride offers scenic views of the Costa Brava coastline.
What are the water temperatures like?
During the summer months, water temperatures generally range between 19-21°C / 66-70°F. Temperatures will be cooler outside of the summer season.
Are there any specific hazards to be aware of?
Divers should be mindful of potential boat traffic, particularly around Ullastre 2. Always carry a diving lamp for exploring crevices and deeper walls, and manage gas consumption carefully due to the varying depths.
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Conditions are Excellent
07:00 - 14:00
Optimal conditions expected
Current conditions near Ullastres show 31° air, 27° sea temperature, 0.4 m waves, and 21 km/h wind. Forecast data is refreshed regularly to ensure accuracy.