Diving in Central Portugal

Although a small country, Portugal’s mainland is vastly different from the north to the south. The central region of Portugal (otherwise known as Centro) is a mountainous landscape covered in pine and chestnut tree forests. Historic villages dot these mountains, dating back almost 1000 years, where religious festivals and ancient rituals still thrive today. Enjoy touring hundreds of years old stone castles, most of which are now national monuments, sampling savory traditions foods, visiting thermal springs, and hiking the beautiful Serra da Estrela mountains.

Numerous opportunities for adventure also exist along Centro Portugal’s coast. Watch big wave surfers from around the world flock to the famous wave at Nazaré, a spectacular sight to see, especially when this wave is pumping. The beautiful town of Peniche also has great wave formation, drawing surfers of all levels here throughout the year. Peniche is also the launching point for diving the Berlengas Islets. The Berlengas UNESCO Biosphere Reserve has some of the best diving in Portugal, where crystal clear waters are home to a wide variety of fish. The best diving in the Berlengas UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is in the summer months when sunfish, or mola mola, congregate here by the hundreds, a spectacular sight to see.

The descriptions provided here are intended as general information and personal experiences related to specific dive sites and locations and should not be construed as definitive advice or recommendations. Before diving, please confirm that diving is permitted at your chosen location, and comply with all relevant local laws, regulations, and posted signage. The responsibility for verifying the legality of the dive and assessing any associated risks rests entirely with you.