Question 1

When is the best time to visit Sesimbra for scuba diving?

Accepted Answer

For most divers, **May to October** is the easiest planning window because the sea is calmer more often and water temperatures trend toward {{ 18 | temperature }} to {{ 20 | temperature }}. July and August bring the busiest boats and beaches, so book ahead. April and November can be excellent shoulder months with fewer crowds, but you need flexibility for swell. Winter diving is possible with the right exposure protection, yet Atlantic storms and larger swell can cancel boats or make shore entries unsafe. Plan at least one spare day in your itinerary.

Question 2

What water temperatures should I expect when diving Sesimbra, and what wetsuit do I need?

Accepted Answer

Expect cool-water Atlantic ranges. Many Sesimbra sites sit around {{ 13 | temperature }} in winter and can reach about {{ 20 | temperature }} in late summer, with thermoclines on deeper dives. A common setup is a **5mm** wetsuit for July to September and a **7mm** suit with hood and gloves for colder months. If you dive frequently from November to March, a drysuit can be a comfort upgrade. Always dress for the coldest part of the dive, not the air temperature at the harbor.

Question 3

How do I check swell, currents, and sea conditions for Sesimbra before a dive or snorkel?

Accepted Answer

Use the Portuguese weather and marine service (IPMA) for Sesimbra coastal forecasts, focusing on **significant wave height**, **peak period**, and any current guidance. As a rule, several calm days improve visibility, while a single swell event can reduce it quickly. For shore entries, watch the actual shoreline: if waves are breaking on the rocks, treat it as a no-go. Dive centers in Sesimbra adjust sites daily based on the cape exposure, so their local call is often the most practical decision tool.

Question 4

Do I need a permit to dive in Parque Marinho Professor Luiz Saldanha?

Accepted Answer

The marine park is zoned, and its published rules note that recreational activities like diving are allowed in **Partial** and **Complementary** protection areas, while **Total** protection areas restrict activities. Those same rules state that **organized groups require authorization**, which is typically handled by licensed operators running guided dives and boat trips. If you plan independent shore dives, check the current zoning guidance and confirm whether your plan counts as an organized group activity. When in doubt, dive with a local center and follow their briefings.

Question 5

Where are the best beginner dive sites in Sesimbra?

Accepted Answer

Two reliable beginner-friendly options are **Batelao** and **Pedra Do Leao**. Batelao is a small wreck around {{ 11 | distance:m }}, often used for training because currents are typically low and navigation is simple. Pedra Do Leao runs roughly {{ 4 | distance:m }} to {{ 13 | distance:m }} and can deliver very good visibility on calm days, making it great for skill refreshers and buoyancy practice. Your operator may also choose sheltered reefs like Baleeira or Jardim das Gorgonias as an easy second dive.

Question 6

How do I plan a wreck-diving day on River Gurara or other Cabo Espichel wrecks?

Accepted Answer

Start by matching the plan to conditions. Cabo Espichel sites are more exposed, so operators typically target them on low-swell days in the May to October window. Book early if you want River Gurara, and confirm whether you will dive the full wreck or a section like River Gurara Proa (around {{ 28 | distance:m }}). For deeper wrecks like Barco das Telhas ({{ 55 | distance:m }} to {{ 65 | distance:m }}), you need appropriate training, redundancy, and gas planning, and many teams treat it as a technical dive. Ask about currents and ascent procedures before splashing.

Question 7

What are the best snorkeling spots near Sesimbra for families?

Accepted Answer

Look for shallow structure on calm days, and prioritize easy exits. **Pedra Do Leao** is a top choice because it stays shallow ({{ 4 | distance:m }} to {{ 13 | distance:m }}) and can have excellent visibility in summer. Baleeira and Arcanzil can also work if you snorkel the shallow edges and the surface is calm. Families should consider a snorkel vest for kids and less confident swimmers, and avoid rocky coves when there is any breaking swell. If you want maximum ease, pick a guarded beach and stay inside marked swimming zones.

Question 8

Is Sesimbra good for freediving training, and what safety setup is recommended?

Accepted Answer

Yes, especially in summer and early autumn when the sea is calmer and water is warmer. Sites like **3 Milhas** offer structure and depth in the {{ 15 | distance:m }} to {{ 18 | distance:m }} range, and sheltered areas can support line practice. Treat surface safety as non-negotiable: use a float with flag, stay with a buddy, and avoid high-traffic boat times. Because conditions can shift quickly, many freedivers book boat support or coached sessions to access the best protected cove for the day and to simplify safety cover.

Question 9

How do I get from Lisbon Airport to Sesimbra, and do I need a car?

Accepted Answer

Lisbon Airport (LIS) is about {{ 45 | distance:km }} from Sesimbra by road. A rental car is the most flexible option because it lets you reach Arrabida beaches, Cabo Espichel viewpoints, and different shore entries on your schedule. If you prefer not to drive, you can combine public transport in Lisbon with a bus connection to Sesimbra, then rely on walking and taxis locally. For a dive-heavy plan that includes early boat departures, staying in Sesimbra and having your own car usually saves time and reduces stress.

Question 10

What should I do in Sesimbra on a no-dive day?

Accepted Answer

A no-dive day is perfect for a topside loop: start with a relaxed morning at **Castelo de Sesimbra**, then drive the Arrabida coastline for viewpoints and a beach swim. In the late afternoon, finish at **Cabo Espichel** for sunset and big Atlantic scenery. If you want a full city culture day, Lisbon is close enough for museums and a late dinner, then back to Sesimbra for a quieter night. Keep the day gentle if you are off-gassing after multiple dives, and save strenuous hikes for later.

Sesimbra

0 in the area now · 0 planning trips

Arrabida marine park reefs and Atlantic wrecks, minutes from Lisbon

Quick orientation

The underwater scene

Reefs, walls, and caverns

Wrecks

Marine park rules that matter to divers

Conditions and expectations

A simple 3 day plan

Day 1: Warm-up reefs and skills

Day 2: Wreck day

Day 3: Walls and scenery

Activity highlights

About these guides