Snorkeling at El Xarco

Below the Xarco watchtower, on both sides, we find a picturesque coastline that curves to form beaches and small coves.

One of the best spots for snorkeling is undoubtedly the one to the right of the tower, and we reach it via a short trail that crosses a small hill. Immediately, you’ll be treated to wonderful bird’s-eye views of the cove and its colorful seabed, where the rocky coastline juts out into the sea like tongues of stone.

We get geared up and enter the water, which is very shallow here because of a platform covered in brown algae. After just a few meters, we can begin the dive that will take us to the transition zone between the rock and the lush Posidonia meadow, which is in excellent condition and teeming with fish and marine animals that find shelter and food in this jungle-like environment. Wrasse are a common sight and always seem to be bustling about, darting back and forth.

Other creatures remain almost motionless, like the colorful starfish, or permanently attached to the seabed, like the pearl oyster, a species of giant mussel embedded in the sand at its base.

The depth is very shallow throughout the entire route, and only in the sandy areas does it reach -3 meters; it is even shallower in the Posidonia and rocky areas.

After surveying the outer contours of the reefs, as we round the last one we’ll reverse course and move closer to the rock, where the countless crevices and nooks are home to numerous fish and small crustaceans, and where, with a little luck, we might spot an elusive octopus hiding behind its elaborate stone barrier. This beach is a quiet, secluded spot where, even in the height of summer, we can be almost alone.

Further information:

We recommend respecting the marine environment, refraining from removing any flora or fauna, and exercising extreme caution while snorkeling and when accessing rocky areas. Always check sea conditions and the flag system before beginning the activity.

 

Special thanks to Rafa Martos.

Image gallery

Snorkeling at El Xarco in images

Practical Information

ADDRESS
Charco 1 Industrial Park, Pp 30, 43, 03570 Villajoyosa, Alicante
SCHEDULE
OPEN ALL YEAR
TELEPHONE
966851371
EMAIL
turismo@villajoyosa.es
CONTACT PERSON
La Vila Joiosa Tourist Information
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