Arch of San Andrés (Isla de San Andrés)
One of the best dives at San Andrés island off Carboneras, where the northern part of the Cabo de Gata park begins. The dive starts over rock at 5-6 m, descends along colourful vertical walls to a sandy bottom at 16 m, then passes through a large natural rock arch and reaches 31 m, where large gorgonians, congers, moray eels, octopuses, groupers and Atlantic pollack live. Recommended level medium to high. Position estimated from the nearest coast or landmark, for orientation only.
Facts
- Region: Spain – Andalusian Mediterranean coast (Almería, Granada, Málaga)
- Area: Carboneras & San Andrés
- Depth: 5–31 m
- Level: advanced
- Current: moderate
- Type: wall, reef
- Coordinates: 36.9917, -1.8846 (approximate)
- Highlights: natural rock arch at about 16-31 m, large gorgonians, congers, moray eels and groupers
- Tips: The island is a Natural Monument (declared 2003); dives must respect its protection regime.