The waters around Lampedusa are among the clearest in the Mediterranean, with visibility routinely exceeding 30 metres. The combination of African geology and Mediterranean biodiversity gives the underwater environment here a character distinct from Italian waters further north: you encounter species more typical of North Africa, including sightings of sea turtles, barracuda, and grouper in sizes rarely seen elsewhere in Italian waters.
Several dive centres in the harbour town offer guided dives for all levels, from shallow reef dives accessible to beginners to wall dives and wreck dives for more experienced divers. The wrecks offshore include fishing boats and, more memorably, vessels connected to the migrant crossing — an eerie and sobering experience. Boat snorkelling trips to the sea caves and the waters around Rabbit Beach are the most popular offering for non-divers. Visibility and conditions are best in July through September; spring and autumn are excellent for experienced divers.