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Why is the Costa Calida so popular among diving enthusiasts?
The Costa Cálida is one of the best diving spots in Spain
Are you looking for a new spot to practice your diving skills? Have you visited every beach along the Spanish coast? Now it’s time to check Murcia out and its hidden gem, the Costa Cálida (warm coast in Spanish).
Sitting between two seas, the Mar Menor and the Mediterranean Sea, the Costa Cálida is the perfect destination for tourists looking to spend a few days in the sun, laying on the beach and a daily trip to the sea to practice diving.
Winter is almost upon us, but taking a trip to the Costa Cálida, experiencing its micro climate and diving into the crystal-clear, warm waters will get you in that summery mood. If you’re already dreaming of visiting Costa Cálida, don’t forget to book a flight and check out the best Black Friday hotel deals. Keep reading and find out more about the best places for you to visit in the area.
Where is the Costa Cálida?
Costa Cálida, whose name literally translates to ‘warm coast’, is located in the Iberian Peninsula, to the Southeast of Spain. It is part of the Region of Murcia which sits between Andalusia, Castilla-La Mancha and Valencia. And why is it Murcia’s hidden gem? Because it is the area located by the Mediterranean Sea and, as its name indicates, its main characteristic is the temperature of the water which is warmer compared to other beaches along the Spanish coastline. Besides, it’s the perfect place to dive into the sea and get a close look at the diversity of underwater life. Diving is just one option, but visitors usually practice all kinds of water sports such as snorkelling, kite surfing and paddle boarding.
Scuba-diving on the Costa Cálida
The Costa Cálida is a protected area and, as such, diving is by far the best and most adventurous activity to do here. Going underwater, you’ll see tuna, eagle rays, octopuses, sea turtles and all kinds of Mediterranean species. The place is prepared for amateour tourists and those who are taking their first dives and most spots are great options for pros too.
Diving for beginners
If you’re part of the first group, you should consider visiting a diving club to ensure a positive and safe experience. When doing this, don’t forget to check that your chosen club is PADI certified!
Among the most popular beaches, you can visit La Llana, Las Salinas, El Mojón beach and Punto de Algas, all located along the Mar Menor, which is, in general, a better option for beginners. Cala Cerrada is another great spot for first-time divers.
In general, the beaches along the Mar Menor are a great option if you are on a family trip as the waters are quite shallow, making it safer for kids and even a more pleasant experience for families. Nobody wants to spoil their holidays with a bad-tempered wave.
And for pros
On the other hand, if you are an experienced diver or even a certified one, the diving clubs on the Mediterranean are the best option for you. One of the most popular ones, and challenging too, is Cabo de Palos, another protected area with coral reefs to swim through. In this same location, you can also find some beauty treatments and mud baths. If you go to Cabo de Palos, make sure you pay a visit to the protected marine reserve in Islas Hormigas.
Another rather touristic area is Cartagena, also facing the Mediterranean Sea. This historical centre also offers a great deal of museums, monuments and architectural beauties. You can visit all the museums and get a look at the architecture of the city which was a fortified port for thousands of years.
Only diving? Of course not!
Together with the many diving clubs, on the Costa Cálida you’ll find fishing boats for rent (although, as this is a highly protected area, only sport fishing is allowed). Moreover, most resorts offer amazing leisure facilities and, if you’re feeling sporty, you’ll have the possibility to rent a tennis or paddle court, and there are also riding tours and golf courses. If nothing else, your trip to Costa Cálida will keep you fit and busy!
Mediterranean cuisine
Together with the pristine beaches, the amazing diving clubs and the endless sport possibilities, the Costa Cálida, as well as the rest of Spain, offers a Mediterranean menu: the area has not only great seafood – a classic – but also fresh vegetables and a wide variety of veggie options. Whether you try the vegetarian or the classic seafood one, you can’t miss a traditional paella (or a garlic-based dish, for that matter). And don’t forget to try the local wine!
Enjoy the Mediterranean climate, some warm beaches, sandy coasts and the natural beauty of Murcia’s best kept secret! Come visit the Costa Cálida – you’ll love it!
