Mermaid training beats a costume-only photo op. In Spain’s Playa Abades, you’ll get instructor-led monofin training plus waterproof makeup, then get guided for photos in the sea.

I like that it’s a small group (max 5), so Natalie and Andres can coach you closely, and you’re taught breathing techniques before the camera moments.

One drawback: it’s not for kids under 5 or non-swimmers, and glasses must come off underwater.

Key Highlights Worth Your Attention

• Small-group coaching (up to 5) so you get hands-on help and calmer nerves in the water
• Monofin training first, with practice for breathing, staying underwater, and coming back up safely
• Water-resistant makeup designed to look good for real photos, not just on land
• Underwater photo session with gear included, focused on fish, reefs, and sunken-ship scenery
• Photo option on land if you’re nervous about the water
• 70+ high-format photos/videos delivered via transfer the same day, or by mail the next day

Mermaid Training in Playa Abades: What You’re Really Buying

This is a 2-hour, small-group mermaid (or man) experience built around one idea: you don’t just wear a tail and hope for the best. You’ll get real instruction on how to breathe and move comfortably with a monofin, so the photos look magical and the session feels manageable.

The value isn’t only the costume. The training and pacing matter—especially if you’re a beginner. You also get waterproof makeup, which helps your face stay camera-ready for the full underwater time, not just the first few minutes.

And yes, the results are the main event: you’ll be out by coral areas and marine life, with a focus on posing around reefs and even heading toward sunken ships for cinematic-looking shots.

Meeting Up at the Mini Supermarket in Playa Abades

You’ll meet in front of the mini supermarket at Playa Abades. Plan to arrive 10 minutes early so you can check in, get sized for your costume, and start your training without feeling rushed.

This is also where you’ll get your first dose of reassurance. The instructors keep the flow simple: meet, fit, explain, then practice. That structure helps if you’re nervous, especially when your “mermaid body” is new to you.

One practical note: the experience may operate around nearby spots such as Radazul and Abades. If you’re building travel time around it, keep an eye out for the exact local meeting point so you don’t end up scrambling.

Choosing Your Mermaid/Man Costume (and Why Fit Affects Photos)

Right away, you’ll try on your monofin costume and match up your look. The group stays small, so you get personal attention while you choose a tail and matching style.

This matters more than you might think. When the monofin fits well and your swimwear sits correctly under the costume, you can focus on breathing and body position instead of constant adjusting. Several people also recommended planning your swimsuit base carefully—low waist swimwear without busy patterns helps reduce what shows up under the tail.

If you’re hoping for the most flattering photos, treat costume choice like part of the photo planning. Simple, secure swimwear gives your instructor an easier time coaching you, and it gives you a cleaner look for the camera.

The Monofin Lesson: Breathing, Surfacing, and Staying Calm

The center of the experience is training. Before any long underwater time, you’ll learn what to do with your breathing and how to manage your comfort level as you go under and come back up.

You’ll practice the basics: descending to where you can still feel guided, staying underwater longer in a controlled way, and getting comfortable surfacing. If you’ve never used a monofin before, this is the part that turns a fantasy into something you can actually do.

I especially like that the coaching isn’t just technical. The instructors explain what to watch out for underwater and keep you supported as you get confident. That’s the difference between a rushed “photo event” and a real experience where you leave feeling proud, not overwhelmed.

Also remember: contact lenses are welcome, but glasses must be removed underwater. If you wear glasses, plan on contacts for this activity, or consider an on-land photo option if that feels too risky.

Underwater Time: Fish, Reefs, Starfish, and Sunken Ships

Once you’re ready, your instructor guides your time in the water. The focus is on exploring marine life while still having a camera-friendly plan: swim with fish, pause for poses around coral areas, and capture those “mythical creature” moments.

You’ll also see details like starfish and colorful reefs. And later, you head toward the area with sunken ships—one of the most memorable visual settings for mermaid photos because it adds structure and depth behind you.

What you’ll appreciate most is the safety rhythm. You’re not left alone out there. You’ll be followed by your instructor, and that supervision helps beginners relax into the session instead of tensing up.

You should also expect that water temperature can vary. In March, people reported the Atlantic water can feel quite cold, so if you’re booking in cooler months, mentally plan for chilly hands and a slower warm-up once you’re in.

Waterproof Makeup for a Mermaid (or Siren) Look That Holds Up

Makeup is included, and it’s treated as part of the performance. You’ll get a water-resistant makeover designed for the mermaid/man look, so your face stays camera-ready even as you go underwater.

From a photo standpoint, that’s a big deal. A costume can look great on land and fall apart once moisture hits. Here, you’re getting the kind of makeup meant to survive the session—so your expressions still read clearly in the final images.

The instructors also guide you on the look and help you get positioned for photos. If you wear any jewelry or add-on makeup of your own, the guidance is clear: make sure anything you bring is 100% waterproof.

If you’re doing this with kids, this part often becomes a highlight. People described the makeover as part of the magic the moment you arrive.

Snorkeling Gear Included: Less Stuff to Carry, More Time to Enjoy

You won’t have to hunt for equipment. Snorkeling gear is included, which makes the whole setup simpler—especially if you’re already packing for the rest of your trip.

Bring what you’re told to bring, though, because it’s on you:

• swimwear
• towel
• sandals

Towels are not included, so don’t show up dry and optimistic. A towel is also useful afterward when you’re changing out of the costume gear.

If you’re planning outfits for photos, consider bringing simple extras like additional swimwear choices. Some people recommended having more than one option so you can pick the best tail/top combination before you start.

Photo Delivery: What 70+ Images Means for Real Memory-Making

You’re not just getting a few snapshots. The package includes underwater photos and the expectation is 70 or more photos/videos delivered in high format.

Delivery timing is also well explained: you’ll receive them via transfer the same day, or by mail the next day. That’s a practical benefit because you don’t have to wait weeks to remember what you looked like when you were a mermaid.

You’ll also get a quick sense of how it’s going as the session progresses. Instructors and the underwater photographer team help with tips for getting better results, so you’re not left guessing while the camera is working.

And here’s an underrated point: people reported feeling genuinely happy with the photos even if they were worried about body type or age. The combination of coaching, pose guidance, and the fantasy framing seems to do the work of reducing self-consciousness.

Price and Value: Is $77 Worth It?

At $77 per person for 2 hours, this isn’t a “cheap costume” activity. You’re paying for several things at once: instructor-led training, monofin costume use, waterproof makeup, snorkeling gear, and a substantial underwater photo output.

The biggest value driver is the coaching. Without that instruction, most beginners would struggle with the monofin and would get fewer usable photos. Here, the structure is designed so you can actually participate and get shots you’ll want to keep.

Also, the photo volume helps justify the cost. If you get 70+ high-quality images (and videos) that arrive quickly, it turns into a memory package—not a one-minute gimmick.

Small-group size (max 5) also supports value. You’re not one of dozens. The instructors can adjust the pace and give you individualized help, especially around breathing, underwater awareness, and posing.

Who This Mermaid Experience Fits Best (and Who Should Skip)

This is ideal for beginners who want guidance. It’s also a good fit for families and friends because the experience is built around clear instruction and supervision in the water.

That said, it has limits:

• It’s not suitable for children under 5.
• It’s not suitable for non-swimmers.

If you’re afraid of water, there’s a helpful option: you can do a photo shoot on land. That’s a smart workaround if your nerves are the main issue, while you still want the mermaid look and photos.

If you want an experience where you feel safe and supported, this is the right kind of activity. People described the instructors communicating constantly during the session and helping when support was needed—especially with kids.

Practical Packing List for a Smooth 2 Hours

Here’s what to bring so you aren’t hunting for basics mid-session:

• Swimwear (since bikini isn’t included)
• Towel (not included)
• Sandals for getting around before and after
• Contact lenses if you use them (glasses must come off underwater)

If you have your own jewelry or makeup, the rule is strict: anything you bring must be 100% waterproof. If you’re unsure, keep it simple and stick to what the team provides.

A simple swimsuit choice also makes life easier under the tail. Several people recommended low waist suits without strong designs so it doesn’t show beneath the costume.

And yes, the water can be chilly depending on season. Plan to warm up after. A towel helps. Warm clothes afterward help more.

Location Notes: Playa Abades Timing and the Radazul Connection

The stated meeting point is Playa Abades, and the calm beachfront setting is part of why photos work so well. People also noted that the overall area tends to be friendly for picture-making, not chaotic.

However, one real-world consideration is that the location may shift from Radazul to Abades. If your hotel is closer to Radazul and you’re counting on it, double-check the meeting location so you can adjust your travel plans early.

If you’re booking in cooler months, water temperature can add a layer of challenge. That’s not a deal-breaker, but it can affect how fast you warm up once you’re in the sea.

Should You Book This Mermaid Experience?

Book it if you want a mermaid fantasy with real instruction behind it. The combination of monofin training, water-resistant makeup, and a photo package with 70+ images makes it feel like a true experience, not a quick gimmick.

Skip it if you’re a non-swimmer, going with very young kids (under 5), or you know you won’t manage the basic water requirements. In those cases, the land photo option might still be worth considering, depending on what you’re comfortable with.

If you’re excited to do something playful but structured, this is an easy yes. Arrive early, follow the guidance, and treat the training as part of the fun—because once you’re moving smoothly, the photos look like pure fantasy.

FAQ

How long is the Mermaid Experience and Photo Shooting?

It lasts 2 hours.

Where do we meet for the activity?

You meet in front of the mini supermarket at Playa Abades.

What is included in the price?

An instructor, mermaid/man costume, water-resistant makeup, underwater photos, and snorkeling gear are included.

About how many photos and videos do you get?

You’ll receive 70 or more photos/videos in high format, sent via transfer the same day or by mail the next day.

What languages are offered?

The instructor speaks German, Spanish, and English.

What should I bring?

Bring swimwear, a towel, and sandals.

Are towels or a bikini included?

No—towels are not included, and bikini swimwear is not included either.

Can I wear glasses underwater?

No. Glasses must be removed when you are underwater. Contact lenses are welcome.

Is this suitable for kids and non-swimmers?

It’s not suitable for children under 5 or non-swimmers.

What if I’m afraid of the water?

If you’re afraid of water, the provider can offer the photo shooting on land.

Is cancellation free?

Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.