Puerto Espíndola

Puerto Espíndola is one of La Palma's most atmospheric fishing ports: a small harbour cut into the rugged northeast coast, accessible by road through the dramatic volcanic landscape, where the boats of local fishermen have operated for generations against a backdrop of towering basalt cliffs. The dive site sharing its name carries this dramatic character underwater, combining the northeast coast's exposed conditions with the volcanic geology that makes La Palma's diving distinctive. The northeast coast faces the open Atlantic with fewer natural protections than the south, and the advanced rating reflects this reality. Swell arrives from the northeast in the island's prevailing wind conditions, surface entries require timing and experience, and the terrain descends quickly from the shallows into depth. Understanding these conditions and planning accordingly is the prerequisite for enjoying what Puerto Espíndola offers. The basalt formations around the port descend from the shallows in the steep, textured walls typical of La Palma's volcanic coast. The rock here is deeply weathered by its years of exposure to Atlantic action, its surface providing excellent substrate for the encrusting community that builds over decades: dense sponge colonies, anemone aggregations in multiple species, and the calcareous tube structures of serpulid worms that colonise every available surface. Feather stars extend their arms from crevices in rocky corners where current delivers nutrients, and the moray eels that inhabit every substantial Canarian rocky dive site are well represented in the port's basalt formations. The productive waters off this exposed northeast point attract large pelagic visitors: amberjack schools make fast, decisive passes through the site, and Atlantic tuna have been sighted in open water beyond the reef edge. The harbour itself provides a useful navigation landmark and sheltered return point after exploring the more exposed outer formations. A characterful site that rewards divers who engage with the realities of northeast La Palma's exposed conditions.