Banco João Lopes is an offshore reef located off the northern coast of Santa Maria, Azores. The site features a complex topography of walls, steep slopes, and plateaus at 20 metres. Divers can explore depths ranging from 14 to 40 metres. Due to the potential for strong currents and the significant depth, this site is intended for advanced divers only. Access is strictly by boat, as the reef lies approximately 1852 metres from the shore. Visibility at the site is variable, ranging from 15 to 50 metres, and night diving is permitted.

Calçada do Gigante is a reef site located off Santa Maria, Azores, accessible only by boat. The topography features a reef structure that descends from 15 metres to an average depth of 20 metres, with the seabed extending to 30 metres. Conditions at this site are variable, with currents that can become strong. Divers should be prepared for shifting visibility and are advised to carry a surface marker buoy to assist with boat pick-up. Due to the nature of the currents and depth, this site is suited for intermediate divers. Water temperatures fluctuate between 17C and 24C throughout the year.

Figueiral is a reef and cave dive site located in Santa Maria, Azores, offering a manageable environment for beginner divers. The site features depths between 9 and 12 metres, with an average of 10 metres. Divers can access the site via shore or boat, experiencing mild currents and visibility ranging from 10 to 30 metres. The underwater terrain includes reef structures and caves, which are also suitable for night diving. Water temperatures fluctuate between 17C and 25C throughout the year. Divers should exercise caution at the entry point due to potential surf and shore break, and be mindful of sharp coral edges while navigating the reef.

Baia do Pocâo is a reef site located 2000 metres offshore from Santa Maria in the Azores. The reef structure extends from 8 metres down to 21 metres, with an average depth of 15 metres. Conditions are generally relaxed, featuring mild currents and visibility ranging from 15 to 40 metres. The site is suitable for beginners and supports night diving. Water temperatures fluctuate between 17C and 24C throughout the year. Divers should remain aware of boat traffic during ascents and exercise caution around sharp coral and rocks on the reef. Boat access is required to reach this location.

Pedras is a reef dive site located off Santa Maria in the Azores. This site is suitable for beginners, featuring a shallow average depth of 8 metres. Access to the site is strictly by boat. Divers should be aware that conditions can vary, with potential hazards including low visibility and strong currents. The habitat supports a variety of regional reef fish and invertebrates typical of the Azores marine environment. Water temperatures fluctuate throughout the year, ranging from 17C in the late winter months to 25C during the peak of summer.

Tartaruga is a reef dive located in Santa Maria, Azores, featuring depths between 12 and 18 metres with an average of 15 metres. This site is accessible by boat only and is suited for intermediate divers due to moderate currents and the presence of overhead sections. Visibility at the reef ranges from 15 to 30 metres. Water temperatures fluctuate between 17C and 24C throughout the year. Divers should be prepared for currents that can strengthen with little warning and manage bottom time carefully near the overhead structures. The habitat supports a variety of regional reef fish and invertebrates.

Baixa do Ambrosio is an offshore reef located 4828 metres from the coast of Santa Maria in the Azores. This site is suitable for intermediate divers and requires boat access. The topography features a depth range of 5 to 50 metres, with an average depth of 21 metres. Divers should be prepared for moderate currents, which can occasionally become strong. Visibility is consistently recorded at 30 metres. Typical dives at this location last approximately 50 minutes. Facilities available for visitors include air fills, equipment rental, and guided tours.

Ilhéu da Vila is a marine site located 200 metres off the coast of Santa Maria, Azores. This location features a combination of reef and cave topography, with depths ranging from the surface to 19 metres and an average depth of 13 metres. The site is suitable for beginners and supports both diving and snorkelling activities, including night diving. Access is strictly by boat. Divers should be prepared for moderate currents and variable visibility. Hazards include boat traffic and the presence of sea urchins. Always maintain awareness when navigating the cave and swim-through structures.