Baixa dos Badejos
A reef about one mile offshore in front of Vila da Maia on the east coast. A large platform at about 16 m sits on top of a vertical wall of roughly 35 m. The main attraction is the island grouper, with barred hogfish, dusky grouper, barracuda and almaco jack; the exposed position means moderate to strong current. 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: 16–35 m
- Level: intermediate
- Current: strong
- Type: reef, wall
- Coordinates: 36.955, -24.9945 (approximate)
- Highlights: island grouper, barred hogfish, 16 m platform above a 35 m wall
- Tips: Advanced Open Water level recommended; about 40 minutes from Vila do Porto marina.