The Costa Blanca isn’t just about scenic beaches and sunny skies — beneath its turquoise waters lies a world full of vibrant, Mediterranean marine life. Whether you’re snorkeling along rocky coves, diving in marine reserves, or simply exploring shallow waters near the shore, this stretch of coastline offers a rich and diverse underwater ecosystem.
In this guide, we’ll cover the most common (and special) sea creatures you can spot on the Costa Blanca, where to find them, and why this region is so important for marine conservation.
🌊 Why the Costa Blanca Has Such Rich Marine Life
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Warm, calm Mediterranean waters
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Posidonia oceanica seagrass meadows — essential for sea life
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Natural rocky seabeds and cliffs perfect for marine biodiversity
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Protected marine zones like Isla de Tabarca
Together, these create a safe habitat for fish, crustaceans, mollusks, and even the occasional sea turtle.
🐟 Common Marine Life You Can Spot
Whether you’re snorkeling or swimming in shallow waters, here are some of the most frequently seen species along the Costa Blanca coast:
🐠 Mediterranean Rainbow Wrasse
Colorful and active, these small fish are often the first to appear when you dip underwater.
🐟 Salema (Sarpa salpa)
Recognizable by their golden stripes — commonly seen in schools around rocky coves.
🐙 Octopus
Shy and well-camouflaged, but visible in rocky areas like Cala El Racó or La Granadella.
🦀 Crabs
Small crabs scuttle between rocks and tide pools — a favorite among kids and snorkelers.
🌿 Posidonia Seagrass
Not a fish, but a plant — these underwater meadows are the lungs of the Mediterranean, providing oxygen and shelter for countless species.
🦑 Other Notable Sea Creatures
🧠 Cuttlefish
Like mini squid, cuttlefish are smart and fascinating to watch — often spotted by divers and advanced snorkelers.
🌟 Starfish
Found attached to rocks or seagrass. They’re gentle and colorful, but should never be touched or taken.
🐚 Sea Urchins
Look, don’t step! These spiny creatures are common on rocky sea floors — another reason to wear water shoes.
🐬 Dolphins
Though rare to see close to shore, dolphins occasionally pass through the deeper waters — especially near marine reserves or during boat tours.
🐢 Sea Turtles
Sightings are rare, but loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta) occasionally visit Costa Blanca waters, especially around Tabarca Island and near Denia.
Image taken by: Thomas M. Barwick
📍 Where to See Marine Life
These are some of the best natural areas to observe sea life:
🏝️ Isla de Tabarca (Near Santa Pola)
A protected marine reserve — perfect for snorkeling. No fishing allowed means the marine life is abundant and diverse.
🌊 Cala del Moraig (Benitachell)
Crystal-clear waters and underwater caves — great for seeing octopus, wrasse, and schools of fish.
🌿 Cala El Racó (Calpe)
Next to the Peñón de Ifach, this cove has a rich seabed full of crabs, fish, and plant life.
🐟 La Granadella (Javea)
Surrounded by cliffs and pine forests, this is one of the most beautiful underwater areas to explore.
⚠️ Marine Protection & Conservation
The Costa Blanca’s marine ecosystems are fragile and under pressure from pollution, overfishing, and tourism. But local governments and environmental groups are working to protect them through:
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Marine Reserves like Isla de Tabarca
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Educational programs in Blue Flag beaches
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Strict fishing regulations in protected areas
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Eco-tourism certifications for boat tours and diving schools
Want to do your part?
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Don’t feed fish
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Don’t touch or take anything
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Wear reef-safe sunscreen
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Pick up litter (even if it’s not yours)
✅ Editor’s Conclusion
The sea around the Costa Blanca is alive with color, movement, and unexpected encounters. Whether you’re floating over a quiet cove or diving into deeper waters, there’s always something to discover beneath the surface.
Respect it, protect it — and enjoy it.
❓Frequently Asked Questions
Can I see fish while snorkeling near the shore?
Yes! Even just a few meters in, you can see wrasse, salema, and more — especially near rocks or seagrass beds.
Are there jellyfish in the Costa Blanca?
Yes, but they’re not always present. Some beaches fly a warning flag when jellyfish are spotted. Most are harmless, but avoid touching them.
Do I need a boat or tour to see marine life?
Not at all. Many marine species can be seen with just a mask and snorkel at public beaches and coves.
Are there dangerous sea animals in the Costa Blanca?
No. Marine life here is generally peaceful and safe to observe.
Where is the best place for marine life spotting on the Costa Blanca?
Isla de Tabarca is a top destination, but coves like Cala Moraig, El Racó, and Granadella are excellent too.
