Forte de São João Baptista

LusitanianSouth European Atlantic Shelf
Type:
Snorkeling
Entry:🏖️Shore Entry
Tags:
Chill HangoutShallow FreediveSnorkel Spot
About This Dive Spot

Located near the iconic Fort of São João Baptista in Berlengas, this spot offers incredible snorkeling and casual freediving conditions. With depths ranging from 1 meter to deeper areas ideal for freedivers, the water is cold but exceptionally clear. The marine life is abundant and diverse, making it a great place to explore underwater. Perfect not only for diving, but also for relaxing with friends or family in a stunning natural setting.

Where is this?
Map location of Forte de São João Baptista
This spotNearby spots
Community sourced coordinates.
Dive Statistics
Average conditions based on logged dives
Conditions
Avg. Visibility
10m
Avg. Max Depth
7m
Activity
Total Logs
2
Unique Divers
2
Dive with These Shops
Local dive shops offering trips to this spot
Recent Logged VisitsRecent Dive Logs
2 dive logs shared by the community
J

6/21/2025 at 11:31 PM (Europe/Lisbon)

FreedivingHangout SeshSnorkeling
4/5 Overall
Max Depth:7m
Water Temp:16°C
Visibility:10m
Conditions
CurrentNo current
SurgeLight surge
Detailed Ratings
AccessModerate entry effort
CrowdedModerate
Dive Review

This is a solid spot to hop in the water, if you’re headed to Berlengas you might as well come here as well, it’s right next to the Forte de São João Baptista. The water is clear and cold and you have the beautiful backdrop of the fort and cliffside of Berlengas.

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G

6/21/2025 at 12:34 PM (Europe/Lisbon)

Snorkeling
5/5 Overall
Conditions
CurrentNo current
SurgeFlat calm
Detailed Ratings
AccessEasy entry
Marine LifeGreat variety
FacilitiesLimited facilities
CrowdedFew visitors
Dive Review

I went snorkeling and did some casual freediving up to 6 meters near Fort São João Baptista, and it was amazing! The water is super clear with great visibility, making it perfect for snorkeling. I saw everything from sea cucumbers to schools of local fish. There are deeper areas for those who want to go further, but even at shallow depths, the marine life and beauty of the place really stand out.

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Quick Facts

  • Best season: Check recent logs for current conditions
  • Typical visibility: 10m average
  • Entry types: shore
  • Highlights: snorkel diving

Spots Near Forte de São João Baptista

Baía do Forte dive spot
📍 0.1 km

Baía do Forte

Entry:

🏖️Shore Entry

Type:

Scuba DivingFreedivingHangout Sesh
Parede do Relaxe dive spot
📍 0.3 km

Parede do Relaxe

Entry:

🏖️Shore Entry

Type:

Scuba Diving
Baía da Flandres dive spot
📍 0.4 km

Baía da Flandres

Entry:

🏖️Shore Entry

Type:

Scuba DivingSnorkelingFreediving
Primavera (Wreck) dive spot
📍 0.4 km

Primavera (Wreck)

Entry:

🏖️Shore Entry

Type:

Scuba Diving
Berlengas dive spot
📍 0.6 km

Berlengas

Entry:

Boat Entry

Type:

Scuba Diving
Rinchão - Gomes VIII dive spot
📍 1.7 km

Rinchão - Gomes VIII

Entry:

🏖️Shore Entry

Type:

Scuba Diving

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best entry point at Forte de São João Baptista?
Entry at Forte de São João Baptista is detailed in the spot description above. Look for specific landmarks, access paths, and any tide or condition requirements. Local divers often share updated entry tips in their dive logs.
What conditions are best for diving Forte de São João Baptista?
Optimal conditions at Forte de São João Baptista depend on several factors including tide, wind, and season. Check recent dive logs for current condition reports and patterns. Generally, calmer seas and high tide provide better visibility and easier entry.
What is the maximum depth and typical visibility at Forte de São João Baptista?
Depth and visibility information for Forte de São João Baptista can be found in the spot details and recent dive logs. Conditions can vary significantly based on weather, tide, and season. Always plan your dive according to current conditions and your certification level.
Are there any safety considerations or local etiquette at Forte de São João Baptista?
When diving Forte de São João Baptista, respect local regulations, marine life, and other water users. Be aware of any specific hazards like currents or boat traffic mentioned in the spot description. Follow Leave No Trace principles and local diving etiquette.