

Best for beginner divers, 7-18m, shore entry, mild current.
Cíes Islands in the Rias Baixas, Spain, features a reef structure suitable for beginner divers. The site offers depths between 7 and 18 metres, with an average of 12 metres. Divers experience mild currents and water temperatures ranging from 14 to 17C. Entry is via the shore, where surf and shore break conditions require careful timing. Visibility is variable, typically ranging from 3 to 10 metres. Species recorded around this area include European Common Cuttlefish, Common Octopus, Conger Eel, wrasses, sea stars, bream, soft coral, crabs, and snails. Divers should monitor surf conditions closely before entry, as the shore break can be challenging depending on the swell.
42.25067, -8.69973
Check the surf conditions before gearing up, as the shore break at entry can range from easy to genuinely awkward depending on swell, and entering at low energy between sets will make the whole dive start more smoothly. Visibility can drop with poor weather, so a settled period of a few calm days beforehand usually gives you the better end of that 3 to 10 metre range.
Access is by boat.
Recorded at this site
Depth
7-18m
Visibility
3-10m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Shore
Water Temp
14-17°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
40 min
Best Time
Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Species recorded around this area include European Common Cuttlefish, Common Octopus, Conger Eel, wrasses, sea stars, bream, soft coral, crabs, and snails.
Yes, the site is suitable for beginner divers due to the moderate depths and mild currents.
The reef ranges from 7 to 18 metres deep, with an average depth of 12 metres.
This is a shore dive. Divers should exercise caution during entry due to potential surf and shore break.
While the site is primarily used for diving, the shallow sections of the reef may be accessible for snorkelling depending on surf conditions.
Diving at Cíes Islands in Vigo requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 7mm wetsuit or semi-dry is recommended for diving at Cíes Islands in Vigo. Water temperatures range from 14°C to 17°C.
The best months to visit Cíes Islands in Vigo are June, July, August, and September. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Cíes Islands in Vigo typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Cíes Islands in Vigo typically ranges from 3 metres to 10 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.