Alcala

Alcala is a shore dive on the west coast of Tenerife, entered from the small harbour by ladder or giant stride depending on the tide. The site consists of two volcanic reefs set in a shallow bay, with sandy passages linking them and volcanic formations running through caverns, overhangs and narrow passages. Depths range from 3 to 18 metres, making the terrain accessible and varied, with several possible routes between 5 and 14 metres. On the longer route it is also possible to reach the remains of a car and the crow's nest of an old vessel.

The site is particularly noted for the Leopard Eel, described as extremely rare and found nowhere else on the island. These animals are not afraid of divers and are known to put on a show. A resident family of turtles is also regularly encountered, along with rays, snake eels, octopus, cuttlefish, small barracuda, nudibranchs, crabs and large shoals of Roncadores. Sandy areas and the spaces around rocks and moorings are the most productive spots for spotting these animals.

Entry is from shore at the harbour, with the choice of ladder or giant stride. The water is calm and clear, current is light, and visibility is great. With its shallow profile and relaxed conditions, Alcala suits beginner divers as well as more experienced divers looking to explore different routes at their own pace.