Activities · Destination Guide
Atlantic volcanic walls, blue-water pelagics and crater-lake adventures from one easy island hub
Updated Nov 21, 2025 • 10 sources
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Ponta Delgada puts more than 30 coastal sites plus legendary offshore seamounts within day-trip range. You can warm up on the Dori wreck and lava arches near Caloura, then head out to Formigas or Banco Dollabarat for blue-water drifts with pelagics. Local PADI and SSI centers like Best Spot Azores and Season Challenge run daily double dives, nitrox and full gear rental, making Sao Miguel a high-impact but logistically simple Atlantic destination.
Lava slopes and four canyons on the protected islet of Vila Franca do Campo, descending to about {{ 22 | distance:m }} with octopus, rays, barracuda and seasonal pelagics.
Remote natural reserve around tiny rock outcrops, offering ginclear water, steep walls and regular sightings of jacks, barracuda, groupers and occasionally devil rays and sharks.
Dramatic lava structures on the seaward side of the Mosteiros islets, with walls, ridges and the chance to see both macro life and larger Atlantic species, especially when swell and current align.
World War II Liberty ship lying just outside Ponta Delgada, with intact hull sections, abundant schooling fish and a profile that suits both intermediate and advanced divers.
Shallow plateau starting around {{ 5 | distance:m }} that quickly drops to {{ 20 | distance:m }} plus, located near Formigas and sharing its marine reserve status and pelagic life.
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