Lanzarote: Playa Chica Scuba Dive for Beginners & SSI Guide

Summary

First time scuba diving in Lanzarote’s clear waters with a local guide

You’ll suit up at a local dive center near Playa Chica, get hands-on guidance from an SSI instructor, and practice breathing underwater before exploring Lanzarote’s marine life together. Expect small groups, all gear provided, and souvenir photos emailed after — plus that rush when you realize you’re really doing this.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what it feels like to breathe underwater? I didn’t think I’d actually go through with it, but there I was in Lanzarote, signing some forms at the dive center while my hands felt a bit shaky. Our instructor, Marta, had this calm way about her — she explained everything without making it sound scary. The wetsuit was tighter than I expected (note to self: don’t try to look cool putting one on), and the boots were still a bit damp from the last group. The air smelled faintly of salt and neoprene. We walked down to Playa Chica, which is just a few minutes from the center — you can hear kids laughing and see locals fishing off the rocks nearby.

Standing waist-deep in the Atlantic, I could feel tiny grains of sand swirling around my ankles. Marta showed us how to use the regulator — “just remember to breathe slowly,” she kept saying. My friend tried to say “thank you” in Spanish and totally butchered it; Marta laughed and said we’d be fine as long as we listened more underwater than on land. When we finally went under, everything went quiet except for that Darth Vader breathing sound in my ears. The water was cooler than I expected but not uncomfortable — more like a wake-up call.

We practiced a few skills first (clearing your mask is trickier than YouTube makes it look), then drifted out into deeper blue. Parrotfish flashed by, their colors kind of unreal up close, and these tiny damselfish darted between rocks like they owned the place. At one point Marta pointed out an ornate wrasse — honestly I wouldn’t have noticed it otherwise — and signaled something that probably meant “look closer.” It’s strange how peaceful five meters down can feel when you’re usually so busy above water.

I still think about that moment when we surfaced and sunlight hit our faces again. My hair stuck flat against my head and my heart was racing but in a good way, you know? They took some photos during the dive (I looked ridiculous but happy). If you’ve ever thought about trying scuba diving in Lanzarote, just do it once — even if you’re nervous or awkward or whatever. You’ll remember how it felt long after.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Introductory scuba diving experience

• Complete paperwork and medical history
• Receive scuba diving briefing
• Get fitted with wetsuit and gear
• Walk to Playa Chica beach
• Practice breathing in waist-deep water
• Practice three scuba skills underwater
• Dive to 6 metres for 30-35 minutes
• Observe marine life during dive

Top questions

How deep do you go on this Lanzarote scuba diving experience?

The dive goes to a maximum depth of 5-6 meters (about 16-20 feet).

Is previous scuba diving experience required?

No experience is needed; this is designed for beginners with full instruction.

How long is the actual dive at Playa Chica?

The underwater portion lasts about 30-35 minutes.

Are instructors certified?

Yes, all instructors are SSI certified professionals.

What marine life might I see during the dive?

You may spot parrotfish, ornate wrasse, damselfish, sea bream, flounders and more.

Is equipment rental included?

Yes, wetsuit, mask, fins and boots are provided as part of your booking.

Are souvenir photos included?

Yes, 10-20 photos will be taken during your dive and emailed afterward.

What should I bring with me?

Please bring swimwear, towel and a change of clothes.

Is pickup included for this tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transport options are nearby.

What’s included

Your day includes all rental equipment (wetsuit, mask, fins and boots), guidance from an SSI professional instructor throughout the entire experience at Playa Chica Bay in Lanzarote, a two-hour session with about 30-35 minutes spent diving to five or six meters deep among local marine life in small groups (never more than two students per instructor), plus 10-20 souvenir photos sent to your email after the dive.