Baixa da Maia
Description
Access
Boat
25 min from the Vila do Porto Marina
Depth
Average Depth
15m
Maximum Depth
24m
Currents
Moderate
Strong
Dive Types
Coastal Reef
Ideal place for
Underwater photography
Diving Experience
Open Water
Baixa da Maia
The Baixa da Maia (Maia Reef) is actually a small islet located less than 500 metres from the coast in front of the village of Maia. The area around it (150-metre radius) is classified as a marine reserve where fishing is forbidden.
Although the islet offers some protection against currents and waves, this area often features moderate to strong flows. The conditions are perfect for schools of pelagic fish, which patrol the waters around the reef, and large schools of yellowmouth barracudas (Sphyraena viridensis), Almaco jacks (Seriola spp.) and white trevallies (Pseudocaranx dentex).