Baixa da Maia (marine reserve)
Marine reserve (fishing prohibited within a 150 m radius). A small islet reef less than 500 m off the coast in front of the village of Maia, offering some shelter from currents and waves. Large schools of yellowmouth barracuda, almaco jack and white trevally patrol the reef; ideal for photography. The position is approximate (the official guide publishes no coordinates) and is for orientation only.
Facts
- Region: Azores – East (São Miguel, Santa Maria, Formigas)
- Area: Santa Maria
- Depth: 15–24 m
- Level: beginner
- Current: moderate
- Type: reef
- Coordinates: 36.9535, -25.0095 (approximate)
- Highlights: barracuda, jack and trevally schools, islet reef, photography
- Tips: Moderate to strong current; about 25 minutes from Vila do Porto marina.