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The best diving sites in Paros

22 Jan 2025

20 must-visit spots for an exceptional dive experience

Get ready for an unforgettable underwater adventure with Cycladic Diving! Dive into about 20 unique dive sites along the stunning southwest coast of Paros, plus the strait between Paros and Antiparos. These spots are perfect for escaping the northern winds or soaking up the summer vibes in July and August, when the Meltemi winds are blowing. With exceptional visibility year-round, Paros is a true underwater paradise, whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced diver looking for your next adventure!.

Tripiti

The dive site is located on the most beautiful and preserved coast of the southern part of the island. The boat stops in front of a spectacular arch formed by the collapse of an ancient land cave. At the bottom, we can see large rocks, a lush seagrass meadow (Posidonia oceanica), and cliffs rich in colorful cracks. Small lobsters and octopuses live in the large monoliths, and many small fish swim around. In the main crack, between 18 and 6 meters, various species of sponges and coralline algae can be observed, and you can often spot the Red Sea squirrelfish (Sargocentron rubrum). Breathtaking light effects at the arch, and a very interesting key stop along the cliff with its freshwater springs and numerous Dalmatian dorids (Peltodoris atromaculata).

Boat ride: 10′ | Levels: All | Maximum depth: 20m

Poseidon Eye

Our southernmost dive site, one of the most geologically interesting. The lunar-like atmosphere created by large limestone blocks and white cliffs, with a beautiful meadow of posidonia (Posidonia oceanica). Large spirographs (Sabella spallanzanii), fireworms (Hermodice carunculata), and schools of damselfish (Chromis chromis) in the deep blue. For advanced divers, at 23 meters, you’ll discover classical-era amphorae from a wreck.

Boat ride: 10′ | Levels: All | Maximum depth: 30m

Preza

A small islet in the strait between Paros and Antiparos, where during spring, seagulls and cormorants come to nest. The seabed is characterized by a beautiful meadow of posidonia (Posidonia oceanica), sand, and rocks covered with bryozoans, bath sponges (Spongia officinalis), and hydroids. You can observe stunning nudibranchs like the purple flabellina (Flabellina affinis) and the pilgrim hervia (Cratena peregrina). Octopuses and small red scorpionfish (Scorpaena notata) can also be found, along with schools of sea bream (Diplodus vulgaris), bogues (Oblada melanura), and often barracudas (Sphyraena viridensis). In the shallow water at 7/9 meters, there are beautiful light displays, yellow solitary corals (Leptopsammia pruvoti), cardinalfish (Apogon imberbis), and parrotfish (Sparisoma cretense).

Boat ride: 10′ | Levels: All | Maximum depth: 15m

Panderonissi Cavern

The island of Panderonissi is a testament to the geological history of the Aegean Sea. The limestone has been carved by freshwater for thousands of years, when the Cyclades were once a single “mega-island,” which is why we can find many cavities on the seafloor. The cave is one of our dives at Panderonissi; on the other side of the island is the Amphitritis cave, first explored by the Cycladic Diving team (to dive there, a Full Cave technical certification is required), and also the “Amphitheaters,” an easy and relaxing dive with very interesting features (suitable for all certification levels). The Panderonissi cave is a relatively simple dive in terms of passages and interior space, but we ask divers to have good buoyancy control to avoid damaging the cave. There are three entries: The main one is very large and located between 12 meters (the cave’s maximum depth) and 4 meters. The second is smaller but still easily accessible. The third is more technical. The bottom is made up of sand and rocks, creating the perfect environment for large sea anemones (Pachycerianthus solitarius).

The walls are vividly colored in red and purple from various sponge species, pink from coralline algae, and yellow from the stunning solitary corals (Leptopsammia pruvoti). It is possible to reach the water’s surface inside the cave, allowing you to observe the ongoing process of stalactite formation and enjoy the breathtaking blue light coming from the depth. Outside the cave, we guide various dives to observe grouper (Epinephelus marginatus) and dusky grouper (Epinephelus costae) at 25/30 meters.

Boat distance: 10’ | Levels: Advanced | Maximum depth: 40m

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Jacquarium

A reef with a stunning drop-off in the middle of the sea, next to the Turquoise Waters. A platform at 10 meters with a vertical descent to greater depths. Different species of groupers, sars, and dentex (Dentex dentex), with possible encounters of amberjacks (Seriola dumerili) and barracudas (Sphyraena viridensis).

Boat distance: 15’ | Levels: Advanced | Maximum depth: 40m

Labyrinth

One of our favorite dive sites on the coast of Antiparos. An open reef at the far southern tip of the island, where canyons and gorges create an unforgettable landscape. Rich in nudibranchs (Cratena peregrina, Flabellina affinis, Flabellina ischitana) feeding and laying eggs on hydroids. Large schools of sars (Diplodus vulgaris), saupes (Sarpa salpa), and picarels (Spicara smaris) in a beautiful blue. Spider crabs (Maja squinado) and moray eels (Muraena helena) in the crevices.

Boat distance: 25’ | Levels: All | Maximum depth: 25m

Minoan Reef

A beautiful reef in the open sea south of Alyki. The seafloor morphology is different from other dives, featuring a mountainous profile covered with algae (Cystoseira sp.). Diadem sea urchins (Centrostephanus longispinus) are often seen. Hundreds of chromis (Chromis chromis) dance from the surface to the bottom. An interesting classical-era amphora can also be found.

Boat distance: 10’ | Levels: All | Maximum depth: 20m

Conclusion

Paros is a dream destination for diving enthusiasts, with a variety of dive sites perfect for all levels. Whether you’re craving mysterious caves, vibrant reefs, Wreck or incredible marine life, every location featured in this guide will leave you with unforgettable memories. To make the most of your trip, plan your dives based on the weather and your personal preferences. Gear up and get ready to be amazed by the underwater treasures of this unique island. Dive with Cycladic Diving for an unforgettable, safe adventure!

Have questions or want to enhance your dive experience? Don’t hesitate to reach out. See you soon in the crystal-clear waters of Paros!