Breathing Underwater: Discovering the Submerged History of Side

For the vast majority of tourists, the Mediterranean is something to look at or swim on top of. But for a select few, the real magic happens beneath the surface. The waters around Side are warm, clear, and teeming with life, making it an excellent spot for scuba diving. You might think, “I’m not a diver, I don’t have a license,” but that shouldn’t stop you. The Side diving industry caters heavily to beginners, offering “discovery dives” that allow anyone in good health to experience the sensation of weightlessness under the strict supervision of professional instructors.

The underwater geography here differs from other parts of the world. While you might not find the colorful coral reefs of the Red Sea, you will find something else: history. Turkey has a rich maritime past, and the sea floor is scattered with stories. Recently, the creation of the Side Underwater Museum has put the region on the map for divers. This is the first of its kind in Europe. Imagine diving down to see huge statues representing the War of Independence, the Temple of Apollo, and even whirling dervishes, all resting silently on the sandy bottom. It creates a surreal, dream-like atmosphere that is fantastic for underwater photography.

A typical Side scuba diving tour involves a full day out on a specialized dive boat. You usually get two dives: one in the morning and one in the afternoon. Between dives, you can sunbathe on the deck, eat a freshly cooked lunch, and chat with other divers from around the world. For beginners, the instructors are incredibly patient. They explain the equipment, teach you the basic hand signals, and hold your hand (literally) underwater until you feel comfortable.

Aside from the statues, the marine life is fascinating. It is very common to spot Loggerhead Sea Turtles (Caretta Caretta), which nest on the nearby beaches. Swimming alongside a giant turtle as it glides effortlessly through the water is a memory that sticks with you forever. You might also see octopus, moray eels, schools of colorful fish, and maybe even a stingray hiding in the sand.

If you are tired of the same old beach routine and want to challenge yourself with something new, adding a dive to your list of Side excursions is a brilliant idea. It opens up a whole new world—the “Blue World”—that 90% of tourists never get to see. Whether you are a seasoned pro or a nervous first-timer, the calm waters of Side are the perfect place to take the plunge.