The Azores offer some of the best scuba diving in the Atlantic, thanks to their dramatic volcanic seafloor and diverse marine life. The unique underwater topography—featuring arches, canyons, and reefs—creates perfect conditions for encounters with everything from colorful invertebrates to large pelagic fish and even marine mammals. Our prime location provides easy access to incredible dive sites suitable for all experience levels. Just five minutes from the marina lies the islet of Vila Franca, home to a variety of dive spots with different depth ranges. Along the south coast, divers can explore volcanic formations, thriving reefs, and crystal-clear waters that make scuba diving in the Azores truly unforgettable.
Seasons in the Azores greatly influence scuba diving conditions and marine life encounters. During winter, water temperatures dip to around 58°F (14°C), offering unique cold-water dives. Spring marks the start of the diving season, with incredible night dives featuring tope sharks, squid, thornback rays, and mesmerizing clouds of krill. From July to October, scuba diving in the Azores reaches its peak as manta ray season draws divers to Pico, Faial, and Santa Maria Islands. Visibility varies between 15–120 ft (5–40 m) due to upwellings and thermoclines, while offshore dives consistently boast up to 105 ft (35 m) clarity over deep waters exceeding 7,000 ft (2,000 m). Each season reveals a different side of the Azores’ spectacular underwater world.
Getting to the Azores is simple and rewarding, with regular flights connecting the islands to major European and North American cities. Most international visitors fly into João Paulo II Airport (PDL) on São Miguel, the main island and central hub for scuba diving in the Azores. Direct flights operate year-round from Lisbon and Porto, and seasonally from London, Paris, Boston, and Toronto. Inter-island travel is easy with local flights on SATA Air Açores or scenic ferry routes linking Pico, Faial, and São Jorge. Once you arrive, car rentals and local transfers make exploring dive sites effortless. Whether you’re heading to São Miguel’s coastal reefs or Pico’s manta ray hotspots, reaching the Azores is straightforward and well-connected for diving enthusiasts.
This page wouldn't be possible without contributions from the following PADI members: Azores Sub Dive Center, Scubazores Divers. Disclaimer
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