

Best for intermediate divers, 16-18m, boat entry, mild current.
Pedra Rica is a reef site located in the Santa Eulália Area of Portugal. Reached exclusively by boat, the site features a reef structure at depths between 16 and 18 metres. Divers can expect mild currents, though surge and swell can develop rapidly, requiring careful monitoring of conditions. Visibility typically ranges from 5 to 10 metres, with water temperatures fluctuating between 16 and 20 degrees Celsius throughout the year. Species recorded around this area include various crabs, wrasses, blennies, and molluscs. This site is suited for intermediate divers, with a typical dive duration of 45 minutes.
36.99722, -8.09722
Begin the dive on the eastern gully when currents are running to maximise time amongst the gorgonian forests.
Boat access required.
Recorded at this site
Depth
16-18m
Visibility
5-10m
Skill Level
Intermediate
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
16-20°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
45 min
Best Time
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Species recorded around this area include European Common Cuttlefish, Common Octopus, Giant Doris, wrasses, various crabs, Tompot Blenny, sea stars, sea hares, grunts, snails, sea cucumbers, and rockpool prawns.
Pedra Rica is rated for intermediate divers due to the potential for rapidly changing surge and swell conditions.
The reef sits at a depth of 16 to 18 metres, with an average depth of 17 metres.
This is a boat-only dive site; you must arrange boat transport with a local operator in Faro.
The site is primarily a dive location at depths of 16 to 18 metres, making it unsuitable for snorkelling.
Diving at Pedra Rica in Faro requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
A 7mm wetsuit or semi-dry is recommended for diving at Pedra Rica in Faro. Water temperatures range from 16°C to 20°C.
The best months to visit Pedra Rica in Faro are May, June, July, August, September, and October. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Pedra Rica in Faro typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Pedra Rica in Faro typically ranges from 5 metres to 10 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.