Located in the serene north of Ibiza, Puerto de San Miguel (also known as Port de Sant Miquel) is one of the most sheltered and captivating bays on the island for underwater exploration. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and lush meadows of Posidonia oceanica seagrass, this sheltered cove acts as a natural aquarium for snorkelers of all experience levels.

In this guide, we reveal the marine species you can encounter beneath the surface and why you shouldn’t miss the outdoor photo exhibition located right along the beachfront promenade.

Marine Species You Can Spot Snorkeling in San Miguel

Diving into the bay of San Miguel means immersing yourself in a vibrant marine ecosystem. With just a mask and snorkel, you can spot a rich variety of wildlife close to the shore:

  1. Salema Porgies and Saddled Seabream over Posidonia

As you snorkel along the edges of the bay above the “underwater forest” of Posidonia seagrass, you will frequently encounter schools of Salema porgies (Sarpa salpa) grazing on the leaves, alongside curious Saddled seabream (Oblada melanura) swimming near the surface.

  1. Camouflaged Octopuses and Cuttlefish

Look closely into the crevices of the rocky walls and where the reef meets the sandy seabed. You may spot a Common octopus (Octopus vulgaris) or a cuttlefish using their incredible camouflage. Pro tip: Look for small piles of shells or pebbles at the base of rocks—they often mark the entrance to an octopus den!

  1. Damselfish, Rainbow Wrasse, and Ornate Wrasse

The rocky outcrops are bursting with color. It’s easy to spot groups of Damselfish (Chromis chromis)—bright electric blue in their juvenile stage—swimming alongside colorful Rainbow wrasse (Coris julis) and Ornate wrasse (Thalassoma pavo).

  1. Starfish, Sea Urchins, and Nudibranchs

For attentive observers, San Miguel’s seabed hosts vibrant Red starfish (Echinaster sepositus), sea urchins tucked into rock crevices, and tiny, colorful nudibranchs (sea slugs) clinging to the marine flora.

  1. Rays and Sea Cucumbers on the Sandy Bottom

In the central sandy areas of the bay, you’ll often find sea cucumbers (Holothuria) filtering the sand, and occasionally small stingrays or eagle rays partially buried if you swim early in the morning.

The Promenade Exhibition: “Sant Miquel, un Port de Vida”

To learn more about the species you see underwater, take a stroll along the beach promenade before or after your swim.

Puerto de San Miguel features the open-air exhibition “Sant Miquel, un Port de Vida” (San Miguel, a Port of Life), driven by local conservation groups and the marine initiative Salvem Sa Badia.

What Will You See at the Exhibition?
  • Large-Format Underwater Photography: Striking photo panels taken right in the bay and around Ibiza’s waters, helping you identify the exact species you just spotted in the sea.
  • Awareness and Conservation: Each panel offers insights into local biodiversity, protected habitats, and guidelines on how to minimize your footprint while visiting.
  • Environmental Education: Designed for both locals and tourists, this is an essential stop to understand the delicate ecosystem of northern Ibiza.

Responsible Snorkeling Tips in Port de Sant Miquel

  1. Protect the Posidonia: Avoid stepping on or pulling at the Posidonia seagrass; it serves as a crucial nursery and habitat for most marine life in the bay.
  2. Look, Don’t Touch: Keep a respectful distance and avoid touching or disturbing marine animals (such as sea urchins, starfish, or octopuses).
  3. Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Choose eco-friendly, oxybenzone-free sunscreens to protect water quality and marine plants.
  4. Wear Water Shoes: Consider wearing booties or water shoes if you enter the water from the rocky sides of the bay.

Have You Explored the Waters of San Miguel?

Drop a comment below and share your favorite snorkeling sightings in Ibiza, or let us know what you thought of the photo exhibition along the promenade!