A beautiful destination where beaches and ruins beckon those interested in exploring history's mysteries or just relaxing, Naxos is also an outstanding place to dive, with amazing wrecks, outstanding marine life, and much more. Here are just five of the best dive sites Naxos has to offer.
Greek Temple
Located in the center of Naxos Bay, and situated on a white, clean sandy bottom, the Greek Temple features more than fifty massive columns and other pieces of pure white marble stone which were lost when a ship carrying the marble sank eons ago. Though the wreck has never been found, the stones seem eternal. Offering an abundance of marine life including swirling clouds of bright orange Anthia, lots of starfish and anemones, and many nudibranchs including Spanish dancers, the site features maximum depth at 25 meters and is a favorite with photographers.
Golfo di Patti
After suffering a collision in the Harbor of Naxos in September of 1984, the 48 meter long Golfo di Patti is the perfect wreck for all divers to explore. Resting beneath 18 meters of water and rising up to break the surface, she is in excellent condition with her propeller, rudder, winches, and engine all easily identifiable. Only accessible when conditions are calm and at her best in the afternoon, the Golfo di Patti Wreck is covered in brilliant orange-red encrusting coral and is home to a rainbow of marine life. Be careful as there are scorpionfish hiding around the wreck!
Villagonia
Beginning in a small, sandy lagoon and continuing over a stretch of seagrass that gives way to a reef plateau with pinnacles where red and black anthias, rainbow runners, and lots of other small fish species school in abundance, Villagonia is located right alongside Capo Taormina. Maximum depth is just 20 meters, with most features being located in much shallower water. If you're lucky, you'll encounter schooling barracuda in search of an easy lunch. There is quite a bit of current toward the outside of the reef; depending on when you come, this could be an exciting drift dive rather than a peaceful sightseeing trip.
Capo Schiso
Located a few kilometers south of Capo Taormina, Capo Schiso emerged when Mount Etna last erupted, and features magnificent black lava and stunning pinnacles as well as a rocky plateau where white gorgonians provide an amazing contrast. Home to schooling anthia as well as moray eels, groupers, stingrays, octopus, and more, the area's topography includes quite a few small caves and crevices filled with colorful life. A photographer's dream come true, Capo Schiso is suitable for all experience levels and features maximum depth at 30 meters, though there is plenty to see in much shallower water.
Black Coral Garden
Located at the southern tip of Naxos Bay, Black Coral Garden is washed by strong underwater currents that provide plenty of nutrients for all the life you'll find there. With groupers and moray eels, along with stingrays and schooling anthia, plus many other fish, crustaceans, and invertebrates everywhere you look, the site is named for the abundant black coral that covers its dramatic walls and rock formations. With maximum depth at 30 meters, along with some challenging currents, the site is reserved for experienced divers only.
In addition to these sites, Naxos and nearby Taormina offer plenty of other sites as well as lots to see and do topside. For beaches, beautiful clear water, and great food and lodging that add up to an amazing experience you'll never forget, this part of Italy is a wonderful place to relax and get away from the cares of everyday life.