With over 800 kilometers of coastline between the Adriatic and Ionian Seas, Puglia is a paradise for divers. Its crystal-clear waters, hidden caves, colorful marine life, and fascinating wrecks make it one of the most captivating diving destinations in Italy.
Whether you’re a beginner looking for calm, shallow dives or an expert eager to explore dramatic underwater landscapes, Puglia offers something truly extraordinary beneath the surface.
Why Dive in Puglia
Diving in Puglia is more than an activity — it’s an immersion into the region’s natural beauty and maritime history. With marine parks, underwater caves, and historic shipwrecks, every dive tells a story.
Thanks to the mild climate and excellent visibility, dives are possible for most of the year, and local dive centers along the coast provide equipment, courses, and expert guides to ensure a safe and unforgettable experience.
The 10 Best Diving Spots in Puglia
1. Otranto – Grotta del Serpente & Secche di Torre Sant’Andrea (Adriatic Sea)
Otranto’s underwater world is a mosaic of light and limestone. The Grotta del Serpente reveals a mysterious network of caves, while the Secche di Torre Sant’Andrea features shallow reefs filled with colorful marine life. A must for divers seeking both adventure and serenity.
2. Torre Ovo – Ionian Coast
Ideal for beginners and seasoned divers alike, Torre Ovo offers a combination of clear waters, coral-covered walls, and diverse marine species. Expect encounters with groupers, moray eels, and octopuses in one of the Ionian’s most pristine areas.
3. Brindisi Coast – Historic Shipwrecks
Between Brindisi and Torre Guaceto, several cargo shipwrecks rest on the seabed. These easily accessible wrecks create artificial reefs teeming with marine biodiversity, perfect for divers at intermediate levels.
4. Torre Canne – The Gulten Islamoglu Wreck
Off the coast of Torre Canne, lies one of Puglia’s most famous dive sites: the Gulten Islamoglu, a Turkish cargo ship that ran aground in 1975.
Now resting at about 30 meters deep, it has become a thriving marine habitat. Excellent visibility makes this site a favorite among photographers and experienced divers.
5. Porto Cesareo – Marine Protected Area
In the Porto Cesareo Marine Reserve, you’ll find dive sites for every level, from Rabbit Island and Horse Rock to the wreck of the Haven. Expect crystal waters, gorgonian corals, and schools of sea bream. This is one of Puglia’s top spots for sustainable diving.
6. Santa Maria di Leuca – Where the Seas Meet
At Puglia’s southern tip, where the Adriatic and Ionian seas merge, Santa Maria di Leuca offers an awe-inspiring underwater world. Explore the Grotta del Diavolo (Devil’s Cave) and the Secche di Santa Maria, both rich in marine fauna and dramatic rock formations.
7. Porto Badisco – The Crib Cave
A quiet Adriatic bay famous for its prehistoric cave art on land and Grotta del Presepe beneath the surface. This cave, named for its resemblance to a nativity scene, is a magical site filled with sponges, corals, and soft light effects — perfect for underwater photography.
8. Nardò – The Springs of Santa Caterina
Near Santa Caterina di Nardò, a series of underwater freshwater springs create a fascinating environment where salt and fresh water blend. The shimmering light effects and biodiversity make this a unique and unforgettable dive.
9. Isole Tremiti – The Diving Crown of Puglia
Located off the Gargano coast, the Tremiti Islands are a diver’s dream: crystalline waters, coral gardens, sea caves, and wrecks like the Lombardo. Protected as a marine park, the Tremiti are ideal for multi-day diving holidays in Puglia.
10. San Pietro in Bevagna – Marine Life Haven
On the Ionian side, San Pietro in Bevagna offers easy dives among meadows of Posidonia oceanica, colorful fish, and occasional dolphin sightings. It’s a serene spot for beginners and nature enthusiasts.
Tips for Diving in Puglia
Best time to dive: April to October, when sea temperatures are ideal.
Water temperature: 18–26°C.
Visibility: Up to 30 meters in calm conditions.
Experience level: Suitable for beginners and advanced divers.
Equipment & support: Available through certified diving centers across the coast.
Stay Near the Sea with Puglia Paradise
For divers who want comfort and privacy after a day at sea, Puglia Paradise’s luxury villas offer the perfect retreat.
Relax by your private pool, enjoy sunset aperitifs on panoramic terraces, and rely on your personal Guest Angel for dive bookings, restaurant reservations, and local insider tips.
