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For diving in the Valencian Community, you’ll discover stunning landscapes—and what makes this area even more appealing is its suitability for adventure activities. Cabo de San Martín is a diver’s paradise, home to the dive site known as the "Virgin’s Cave".
Here’s everything you need to know about this route.
Though it’s an easy route, ideal for novice divers, you’ll need certification to dive independently (if you’re new to diving, we recommend starting with a discovery dive before enrolling in a course). The maximum depth here doesn’t exceed 20 metres. You’ll reach the dive site by boat from Xàbia, heading south.
The highlight of this route, located on the north face of Portitxol, begins the moment you descend. Anchoring at around 10 metres deep (NE direction), you’ll find a rock with a large crevice leading inside after a short swim.
Before entering, circle the rock and take your time observing the abundant marine life on its exterior. Once you’ve explored the walls, it’s time to venture into the cave.
After sliding through the crevice, you’ll discover an underwater chapel featuring a monolith dedicated to the Virgin of the Forsaken. It’s like finding treasure—one submerged in 1977, restored in 2007, and resubmerged in 2009.
Marvel at the cave’s interiors, where sunlight filters dramatically through cracks. But plan your dive for around 45 minutes, as water temperatures hover around 15°C—uncomfortable for longer dives.
We recommend proceeding carefully for two reasons:
- To spot certain species, you’ll need to move gently to avoid startling them.
- The monolith sits on sandy ground, which clouds easily. Control your buoyancy unless you want to wait for sediment to settle.
The numerous crevices, arches, monolith, and thriving marine life make this an intense dive where you might spot lobsters, conger eels, or even moray eels.
This is a great spot for underwater photography (learn more here), thanks to minimal currents—the north side of Portitxol Island shelters it from southerly winds. Wide cave entrances allow easy access with camera gear, and both the Virgin’s monument and the species we’ve mentioned await inside.
After your dive (possible day or night), the above-water scenery is equally breathtaking. The Mediterranean vegetation and cliffs of Portitxol Island are the perfect finale to your day in Xàbia.
If you’re after a high-interest, low-difficulty dive route, you’ve just found it. Now, take the plunge at the Virgin’s Cave—and don’t forget to share your experience!
