Illes Medes / Reserva Marina de les Illes Medes · 스페인 카탈루냐 코스타브라바(에스타르티트)
Location
Overview
Just offshore from L'Estartit, the Medes Islands are one of the western Mediterranean's flagship marine reserves, fully protected from fishing since 1983 and now part of the Montgrí, Medes Islands and Baix Ter Natural Park. Decades of protection have brought large dusky groupers (mero), red coral and gorgonian fans, and dense schools of sargo and sea bream close to the surface, making it a magnet for Costa Brava snorkelers and divers. Snorkeling happens mostly over shallow rock and sand at about 2–5 m, with summer visibility typically 10–15 m and up to roughly 25 m on calm, clear days. As of 2026 you still cannot land on the islands, so access is by boat from L'Estartit port.
One of the Med's best spots for large dusky groupers (mero), often curious and close to snorkelers
Rock walls draped in red coral and gorgonian fans, with caves and arches to explore
Schools of sargo, sea bream and dentex, with the occasional barracuda passing through
Posidonia seagrass meadows below the rocks, alive with wrasse and damselfish
A long May–October season with glass-bottom and guided snorkel tours suitable for beginners
Good to know
SafetyChannels between the islands can run with current, and tour boats and glass-bottom boats pass frequently. Carry a buoy or surface float and never snorkel alone where boats operate.
SafetyThere are no lifeguards and it gets crowded in peak season. If your mask fogs or chop makes you anxious, don't push on — head straight back to the boat or your guide.
SafetySea urchins line the rock crevices and shallow reef edges scrape hands and feet easily. Stay buoyant rather than standing on or grabbing the rock, and wear a wetsuit or rashguard, as long sessions can chill you.
RulesThis is a strict marine reserve: touching or collecting red coral, gorgonians or other marine life is prohibited. Diving requires a permit and snorkeling is normally done through licensed guided trips, so follow the reserve rules.
MannersLanding on the islands is not allowed. Keep your distance from wild fish such as groupers and barracuda, never feed or chase them, and use reef-safe sunscreen.
SeasonThe season runs May–October, peaking July–September when the water is warmest and fish are abundant. Summer water sits around 22–25°C (up to about 26°C in July); jellyfish can appear in late summer, so a rashguard or wetsuit helps.
SeasonThe nearby mouth of the Ter River can cloud visibility after rain, so pick a calm, clear day for the best conditions.
Practical info
Reach L'Estartit by car from Barcelona or Girona, then it's a 15–20 minute boat ride to the islands; most dive shops run guided snorkel and glass-bottom tours with gear included, usually 2–3 hours. Diving needs a separate permit, and the marine reserve fee is often bundled into snorkel trips. Prices, sailing times and booking requirements shift by season, so confirm the latest details with the operator before you go.
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