South Governorate dive sites

Sidon (Saida) is located about 40 kilometres south of Beirut along the coastal highway. The Sea Castle sits on a small island connected to the mainland by a narrow stone causeway. Dive entry is from the rocky shore on either side of the causeway. Several dive centres in Sidon and Beirut offer guided dives with historical briefings. No boat is needed as the site begins directly from shore.

Yes, all underwater archaeological remains in Lebanon are protected by national antiquities law. It is strictly prohibited to remove, touch, or disturb any artifacts including amphora fragments, stone blocks, or pottery sherds. The Directorate General of Antiquities monitors known underwater heritage sites. Divers should maintain neutral buoyancy to avoid contact with the seabed near archaeological features.

The Sidon Sea Castle dive is shallower, calmer, and focused on archaeological interest rather than geological formations. Raouche offers dramatic cave and cliff diving with deeper options and larger marine life. Sidon is better suited for beginners and history enthusiasts, while Raouche appeals to more experienced divers seeking adventure. The two sites complement each other well on a Lebanese diving itinerary.