Puerto del Carmen: Try Scuba Diving from the beach

If you’re dreaming of tasting what it’s like to breathe underwater and explore an enchanting world filled with colorful fish and coral, the Try Scuba Diving in Puerto del Carmen might just be the adventure you’re seeking. This two-hour experience, offered by Scuba Legends, invites first-timers to step into the Atlantic Ocean’s calm waters at Playa Chica, Lanzarote’s most popular shallow dive site. Whether you’re curious about what it’s like to float weightlessly among marine creatures or just looking for a memorable activity while on holiday, this tour offers a safe and accessible introduction to scuba diving.

One of the things we love about this experience is how personalized it is. With small groups limited to just four participants, each diver gets plenty of attention from their experienced instructor. Plus, the underwater scenery is genuinely breathtaking — from schools of tiny fish to larger species like groupers and barracudas, the marine life is vibrant and varied. However, a few considerations include the fact that the activity is not suited for children under 10 or those with certain medical conditions. So, it’s best suited for those in good health looking for a beginner-friendly, guided introduction to underwater exploration.

If you’re a traveler who appreciates professional guidance, stunning aquatic visuals, and a relaxed pace, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s ideal for those who want a taste of scuba without the commitment of certification or lengthy training, and who value safety and individual attention.

Key Points

• Personalized experience: Small groups ensure individual attention and safety.
• Accessible for beginners: No previous experience needed; suitable for first-timers.
• Vibrant marine life: Expect to see a variety of tropical fish, rays, octopuses, and more.
• Expert instruction: Guided by certified PADI instructors in multiple languages.
• Flexible and transparent pricing: Reserve now, pay later, with full cancellation options.
• Ideal for non-certified divers: No dive license required, perfect for trying out scuba for the first time.

Discovering Puerto del Carmen’s Underwater World

The highlight of this experience is undoubtedly the opportunity to see Lanzarote’s marine life up close without the need for a certification. Playa Chica, often called the “little aquarium,” offers crystal-clear visibility—ranging from 15 to 40 meters—which makes it perfect for beginners. The waters are shallow, with dives peaking at about 12 meters, providing a safe environment to learn new skills and enjoy the scenery.

What does a typical session look like? After a brief safety talk and gear fitting, your instructor—who speaks English, Spanish, or French—guides you through the basics in shallow water. You’ll practice essential skills like breathing and equalizing, feel comfortable with your equipment, and then, when ready, glide out into the open water for your first underwater adventure. As one reviewer noted, the process is very relaxed, with guides making safety instructions engaging and approachable, even for younger participants.

Once out in the open water, the experience becomes all about taking in the underwater spectacle. Expect to encounter schools of small fish darting among the coral, along with larger species such as groupers, barracudas, rays, and even octopuses. Visibility can vary but often exceeds 15 meters, so you’ll have plenty of room to enjoy the swirling, vibrant marine life.

What Makes It Special?

The Guided Experience

The team at Scuba Legends is dedicated to creating a safe, enjoyable environment for all. According to reviews, guides like Luis and others are praised for their patience and professionalism. One reviewer mentioned how the safety briefing was made fun, especially for kids, which helps reduce any nerves. The small group size means you get personalized coaching and the chance to ask lots of questions, making it less intimidating for first-timers.

The Marine Environment

The waters around Playa Chica act as a natural aquarium, hosting diverse species. From tiny, darting fish to more imposing groupers and barracudas, it’s a rewarding chance to see marine life in a natural setting. The experience is also flexible: if you’re feeling comfortable, your instructor may let you explore more freely, always under close supervision.

The Equipment & Safety

All necessary gear—including masks, fins, wetsuits, and regulators—is provided. The focus on safety is clear; every participant undergoes a thorough briefing, and the instructors monitor your comfort level throughout. Because the activity insurance is included, you can relax knowing that you’re covered in case of minor mishaps.

The Price & Value

At $113 per person, this experience offers good value for an introductory scuba activity. It includes all equipment, a guided dive, a safety briefing, insurance, water, and cookies—fuel for your underwater adventure. For those wanting a taste of scuba in a safe, controlled environment, this is an affordable option compared to more advanced courses or multiple dives.

The Itinerary: Step-by-Step Breakdown

Meeting Point & Preparations

The adventure begins at Playa Chica, where the activity provider’s team will contact you 1-2 days prior to confirm your details and equipment sizing. On the day, you’ll find the team near the last bench, close to the ocean, identifiable by their blue IKEA bags. It’s a straightforward setup, with most participants arriving by taxi or local transport, as there’s no hotel pickup included.

Safety Briefing (30 Minutes)

Before getting wet, you’ll sit down with your instructor to go over safety rules, basic hand signals, and what to expect during the dive. This session also covers how to breathe underwater comfortably and what to do if you experience any discomfort—crucial for first-time divers. Reviewers have appreciated how this briefing is made engaging and clear, helping reduce nerves.

Confined Water Practice (Approx. 15-20 Minutes)

Next, you’ll practice essential skills in shallow water—such as regulator recovery and mask clearing—to build confidence. This phase is where you’ll really get comfortable with your gear and learn how to move underwater.

The Open Water Dive (Approx. 75 Minutes)

Once ready, you’ll set out into the open water, usually accompanied by your instructor. Expect to explore a reef environment teeming with life, with plenty to see even at a shallow depth of around 12 meters. The dive is relaxed, allowing you to enjoy the views, take photos, and marvel at the diverse marine creatures.

Return & Refreshments

After surfacing, you’ll return to shore, where the team provides water and cookies to help you rehydrate and share your experience. Many reviews mention how guided, smooth, and enjoyable the whole process is.

Practical Details & Tips

Duration & Group Size

The entire activity lasts around 2 hours, but the actual diving time is approximately 75 minutes. Limited to four participants, the small group size guarantees plenty of instructor attention and a calm pace.

Meeting & Location

The meeting point is near Playa Chica, accessible by taxi or walking from the nearby restaurants and beach area. Precise times and details are shared 1-2 days beforehand, and it’s wise to confirm your booking via WhatsApp if you haven’t heard from the organizer.

What to Bring

Pack swimwear, a towel, change of clothes, and beachwear. Since towels and swimwear are not included, bringing your own ensures comfort after the activity. Remember, alcohol and feeding animals are prohibited.

Medical & Safety Considerations

Participants must be medically fit, with some pre-existing conditions potentially disqualifying you. A health questionnaire is required, and a medical statement may be necessary. If in doubt about your health, it’s best to consult the activity provider beforehand.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Book This?

This experience is perfect for first-time divers eager to see underwater life without the commitment of certification. It suits travelers who value personalized guidance from experienced instructors and want to enjoy Lanzarote’s marine environment in a safe, relaxed setting. The low cost combined with high-quality instruction makes it an excellent value, especially for those looking to tick scuba off their bucket list.

However, it’s not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or anyone with significant medical conditions. If you’re looking for a more intense or certification-based experience, you might want to explore other options.

This tour offers a fun, safe, and visually stunning introduction to scuba diving that can serve as a memorable highlight of your Lanzarote trip.

FAQ

Is this activity suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. No previous experience is necessary, and the instructors focus on making the first-time experience relaxed and enjoyable.

How deep do we go during the dive?
The maximum depth is around 12 meters, enough to see a variety of marine life without feeling overwhelmed.

Are all dive equipment included?
Yes, all necessary gear—including masks, fins, wetsuits, and regulators—is provided.

Do I need to have any medical qualifications?
You should be medically fit for diving. A health questionnaire is required, and some pre-existing conditions might prevent participation unless cleared by a doctor.

Can I book this activity last-minute?
Yes, with the option to reserve now and pay later, you can secure your spot as long as you confirm your details 1-2 days in advance.

What languages are available for guidance?
The guides speak English, Spanish, and French, catering to a diverse range of travelers.

Is this activity family-friendly?
It’s suitable for ages 10 and above, but not for children under 10. Always check with the provider if you’re bringing young teens.

What should I bring?
Swimwear, a towel, change of clothes, and beachwear. Towel and swimwear are not provided.

Are there any activities not included?
Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so plan your transport accordingly.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

This beginner scuba tour in Puerto del Carmen offers an excellent blend of professional guidance, vibrant marine scenery, and flexibility, making it a fantastic introduction to underwater adventures for travelers of all backgrounds.