LA HERRADURA (PROTECTED BAY + MARINE LIFE)
Scuba diving in La Herradura, located on the Costa Tropical east of Malaga, is widely regarded as some of the best diving in southern Spain. The bay sits beside the protected Cerro Gordo Natural Area, where the clear Mediterranean water and dramatic underwater terrain create excellent diving conditions.
The underwater landscape includes rocky reefs, large boulders, caves and drop-offs that provide habitats for a wide variety of marine life. Divers exploring the area commonly encounter octopus, moray eels, nudibranchs, scorpionfish, groupers and large schools of Mediterranean fish.
The dive sites feature rocky reefs, walls and small swim-throughs. In addition, the area is ideal for relaxed diving.
This makes it perfect for:
- Marine life observation
- Underwater photography
- Training dives
👉 Divers can improve skills with the
Advanced Open Water Course
Horseshoe (La Herradura Bay)
The Horseshoe, also known as La Herradura Bay, gives the area its name and is one of the most scenic diving locations on the Costa Tropical. In particular, the bay offers a mix of rocky reef formations and sandy seabed where marine life thrives.
Divers often encounter octopus, cuttlefish, moray eels and schools of bream while exploring the reef structures. In addition, the varied terrain makes each dive slightly different.
Depths vary depending on the exact location. However, they typically range between 10 and 25 metres. As a result, the site is suitable for many certified divers.
El Chambao
El Chambao is a well-known dive site featuring impressive rock formations shaped by volcanic activity. As a result, the underwater terrain is both varied and visually striking.
The site includes large boulders and reef structures. Because of this, it creates crevices and hiding places for marine species such as scorpionfish, octopus and nudibranchs. At the same time, schools of fish often move through the area, adding to the activity.
Overall, El Chambao is particularly enjoyable for divers interested in marine life observation and underwater photography.
Tres Picos
Tres Picos, meaning “Three Peaks”, takes its name from the distinctive underwater rock formations that rise from the seabed. As a result, the site offers a dramatic and memorable dive.
These rocky structures provide excellent habitats for Mediterranean marine life. Divers frequently encounter moray eels, octopus, nudibranchs and schools of fish moving around the reef peaks. In addition, the clear water enhances visibility around the formations.
Therefore, Tres Picos is one of the most visually impressive dives when scuba diving in La Herradura.
Cala del Perro
Cala del Perro is another beautiful dive site in the La Herradura area. In particular, it is known for its rocky reefs and natural underwater landscape.
The site offers many small crevices and rock formations. As a result, marine species use these areas for shelter. Divers commonly see octopus, scorpionfish, nudibranchs and schools of Mediterranean fish while exploring the reef.
Depths are moderate. Therefore, Cala del Perro provides a relaxing yet rewarding dive experience.
Diving in La Herradura is widely considered some of the best on the Costa del Sol. This is because the bay is protected by the cliffs of Cerro Gordo Natural Area, which help create calm waters and excellent visibility throughout much of the year.
The reefs, walls and rocky seabed support a wide variety of marine life. As a result, divers can encounter moray eels, octopus, groupers, nudibranchs and scorpionfish.
Wahoo Divers Malaga regularly organises dives in this area. Therefore, divers can explore some of the most beautiful and diverse dive sites along the Costa del Sol.
