Ilhéu da Vila (natural park)
A small islet about 200 m off the south-west coast, inside the island's natural park, and only a few minutes from the marina. Pelagic schools of almaco jack, barracuda and white trevally are seen more often on the north side, where a 12 m cave holds nudibranchs and crustaceans such as narwal shrimp. 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: 12–18 m
- Level: beginner
- Current: low
- Type: reef, cave
- Coordinates: 36.9365, -25.1575 (approximate)
- Highlights: 12 m cave on the north side, pelagic schools, nudibranchs and narwal shrimp
- Tips: About 5 minutes from Vila do Porto marina; good for night dives and introductory dives.