Ilheu das Formigas is an islet reef located in the Azores, offering depths between 20 and 35 metres. This boat-entry site features variable currents that require continuous monitoring throughout the dive. Visibility typically ranges from 10 to 30 metres, and water temperatures fluctuate between 17 and 23 degrees Celsius. The site supports a variety of regional marine life, including various shark species, rays, and sea turtles. Divers should note that no facilities are available at the location, so all equipment and supplies must be prepared on the boat before departure. Careful planning of the ascent path is essential due to the offshore nature of the reef.

Banco Dollabarat is an open-ocean seamount featuring a shallow pinnacle top at 3 metres that descends into dramatic walls and deep drop-offs reaching 70 metres. This site is strictly for advanced divers due to consistently strong currents, surge, and significant depths. Visibility ranges from 10 to 40 metres, though conditions vary. Access is by boat only, located 76 kilometres from shore. Divers must manage buoyancy and current exposure carefully, as the site is exposed to open-ocean conditions. Water temperatures fluctuate between 16 and 20 degrees Celsius, requiring appropriate thermal protection. A surface marker buoy and dive knife are recommended for all descents.

Gruta Azul is a submerged cave system located off Santa Maria, Azores, accessible only by boat. The site features depths ranging from 13 to 18 metres, with an average of 15 metres. Visibility typically spans 15 to 30 metres, allowing for light effects within the cave passages. Currents are generally mild, though the environment requires advanced buoyancy control to navigate around sharp rock formations. The site is suitable for advanced divers comfortable with overhead environments and is also available for night diving. Divers should carry at least one backup torch and verify that their cavern or cave diving certifications meet local operator requirements before arranging transport.

Baixa da Maia is a reef site located 500 metres off the coast of Santa Maria in the Azores. The reef structure rises from a maximum depth of 24 metres to a shallow plateau at 3 metres. Divers typically experience an average depth of 15 metres. Access is by boat, and the site is suitable for intermediate divers due to moderate currents that can intensify without warning. Visibility is variable, reaching up to 30 metres. The water temperature fluctuates between 17C and 24C throughout the year. Night diving is permitted at this location, providing an alternative perspective of the reef topography.

Ambrósio is a pinnacle and reef system located off Santa Maria, Azores, offering a varied depth range between 5 and 40 metres. This site is suited for intermediate divers and requires boat access due to its distance from the shore. Divers can expect moderate currents and visibility ranging from 15 to 30 metres. The topography features a shallow reef top transitioning into a deeper pinnacle structure, making it ideal for drift diving. Water temperatures fluctuate between 17 and 22 degrees Celsius throughout the year. Divers should remain aware of potential hazards, including boat traffic, sharks, and strong currents that can accelerate around the pinnacle structure.

Baixa do Ilheu do Frade in Santa Maria, Azores, is a diverse site featuring a reef, drop-off, and cave sections. The site ranges in depth from 7 to 28 metres, with an average depth of 15 metres. Conditions are generally manageable with mild currents and visibility between 10 and 30 metres. Water temperatures fluctuate between 17 and 23 degrees Celsius throughout the year. Access is strictly by boat, and the site is suitable for beginners, though the cave sections require specific cave diving certification. Divers should remain prepared for variable visibility and potential surge during their descent.

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.

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.