Girona, with its stunning coastline along the Costa Brava, offers some of the best scuba diving experiences in Spain. While it might not be as famous as nearby Barcelona or the Balearic Islands, Girona’s underwater spots are surprisingly accessible and rewarding. We especially like the Tossa de Mar Scuba Diving PADI experience, which combines professional instruction with beautiful marine life. It’s ideal for first-timers eager to explore underwater without needing previous experience. Plus, the inclusion of souvenir photos and videos makes it a memorable keepsake. If you’re serious about diving, the Diving Course with PADI Certification in Tossa de Mar** offers a full certification course, perfect for those wanting to continue diving long after their trip.
What makes Girona stand out are its clear waters, varied marine habitats, and a variety of options catering to both beginners and seasoned divers. Whether you want a quick introduction or a comprehensive certification, Girona’s diving options deliver authentic experiences — all with the convenience of being close to charming towns, good food, and scenic coastlines.
1. Tossa de Mar Scuba Diving PADI
At number 1 on our list is the Tossa de Mar Scuba Diving PADI experience, a perfect introduction for those who’ve never been underwater before. For around $70, you get approximately three hours of guided exploration with a certified dive instructor. The program begins with a thorough introductory lesson covering safety protocols, hand signals, and equipment use, which is ideal for first-timers. After that, you’ll set out for your first dive off the coast of Girona, where colorful marine life, such as fish and coral, await you.
What sets this experience apart is the quality of instruction and safety monitoring, with reviews praising how relaxed and well-managed the dives are. Many visitors mention how instructors like Hector and Imma made them feel comfortable and confident in the water, emphasizing their professionalism. The inclusion of photos and videos ensures you have keepsakes of your underwater adventure. The tour’s short duration makes it a good choice for travelers with limited time or those who want a taste of diving without a big commitment.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a great balance of professionalism, fun, and safety, making it one of the best options for beginners who want to try scuba diving in Girona without breaking the bank.
2. Small Group Diving Baptism in Tossa de Mar
At number 2, the Small Group Diving Baptism in Tossa de Mar provides a more personalized, hands-on experience. For about $85, you’ll spend roughly three hours, with an instructor guiding you through equipment operation, breathing techniques, and communication signals before heading into the water. This tour is particularly appealing because it limits the group size to 12 people, ensuring personalized attention.
The highlight is the “dive baptism” at a maximum depth of 12 meters, lasting about 40-45 minutes, offering a real taste of what diving feels like. The professional supervision and straightforward approach make it perfect for first-timers or those who want a structured, yet relaxed introduction. The only review available is glowing, with one caller remarking it was a “beautiful first experience with warm, friendly instructors and lots of fish to see.”
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a small-group experience with clear instructions and a safe environment, this dive baptism offers a memorable first-time dive in Girona’s waters.
3. Discover Scuba Diving in Palamos
Coming in at number 3 is the Discover Scuba Diving in Palamos. This experience typically runs around three hours and costs about $128. It begins with a simple theoretical session to introduce diving basics, followed by a practical sea dive up to 8 meters deep. The dive is personalized, with no more than two participants per instructor, ensuring attention to detail and safety.
What makes this tour stand out is the support and professionalism described by reviewers, including guides who took videos and provided thorough guidance. Visitors appreciated the friendly and caring atmosphere, making it ideal for families or first-timers. The ability to continue diving after the experience, possibly with additional courses, adds value for those wanting to pursue diving further.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for those seeking a relaxed, well-supported first underwater experience in Girona, especially if you’re considering pursuing diving more seriously.
4. Diving baptism in the Montgrí Natural Park
At number 4 is the Diving baptism in the Montgrí Natural Park, a unique chance to explore underwater in a protected marine area. For approximately $87, you will spend around 2.5 hours immersed with a professional guide to a maximum depth of 7-10 meters. The natural park setting provides a scenic backdrop, with marine life and rocky formations to admire.
This experience is well-suited for beginners, but it does require a medical certificate if you have certain health conditions like asthma or heart problems. The activity’s small scale and scenic location make it stand out from other options. Reviewers mention how calm and attentive the instructors are, making the experience very smooth.
Bottom Line: For travelers wanting a scenic, tranquil introduction to diving in a protected natural setting, this baptism in Montgrí offers a memorable, safe experience.
5. Diving Course with PADI Certification in Costa Brava
Topping our list at number 5 is the Diving Course with PADI Certification in Costa Brava. This comprehensive 8-hour course, priced at around $337, is designed for those serious about diving. You’ll learn all the skills needed to obtain the Scuba Diver certification, which allows you to dive up to 12 meters worldwide.
The course is run by an experienced team of instructors with more than 20 years of expertise, and it takes place in Tossa de Mar’s beautiful waters. The program includes theory lessons, pool work, and open water dives, culminating in a certification that’s valid internationally. It’s ideal for travelers who want to pursue diving beyond just trying it out.
While this experience requires a bigger time commitment and investment, many reviewers agree it offers excellent value for anyone looking to start a diving hobby. It’s perfect if you’re planning a longer stay or want to gain a qualification.
Bottom Line: If you’re ready to commit to diving, this PADI certification course provides a thorough, professional training experience with lasting benefits.
$337.31 per person
How to Choose the Right Scuba Diving Experience in Girona
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time availability, and diving goals. For a quick introduction, the Tossa de Mar Scuba Diving PADI offers a balance of quality and affordability. Want a more personalized experience? The small group baptism is your best bet. If you’re thinking long-term, the PADI certification course is unmatched in value, giving you the ability to dive anywhere in the world.
Think about your health and comfort level as well. The Montgrí baptism offers a scenic, tranquil setting but requires a medical certificate if you have specific health issues. For families or first-timers, support and safety are key, as shown in reviews highlighting attentive guides.
Booking early, especially in peak season (spring through early fall), ensures you get your preferred date and time. Girona’s diving spots are popular, so plan ahead.
Final Thoughts
Girona’s underwater experiences range from brief, beginner-friendly dives to full certification courses. For those wanting a simple, safe introduction, the Tossa de Mar Scuba Diving PADI is a top choice. If you’re eager to dive deeper into the underwater world and earn a qualification, the PADI Course will serve you well. Meanwhile, scenic baptisms in Montgrí provide a peaceful, beautiful setting for your first splash.
No matter which option fits your style, Girona offers authentic, well-reviewed diving experiences. Be sure to book early and prepare to enjoy the vibrant marine life of Spain’s Costa Brava. With these choices, you’re set for a memorable underwater adventure.