Arraial do Cabo dive sites
Brazil · Browse dive locations by depth, type and conditions.
Best Season
November-March
Skill Levels
advanced
Nearby Cities
Arraial do Cabo
All dive sites
Diving in Arraial do Cabo
Arraial do Cabo offers cave dive sites across 1 location. Browse dive locations by depth, type and conditions before planning your dive.
FAQ
Why is Arraial do Cabo called the diving capital of Brazil?
Arraial do Cabo sits at the confluence of warm tropical currents from the north and cold, nutrient-rich upwelling from the Falklands Current. This unique oceanographic phenomenon creates exceptional visibility often exceeding 15 metres and attracts a remarkable diversity of marine life. The town offers over 20 dive sites ranging from grottos and caves to shipwrecks, all within short boat rides.
What certification do I need for the Blue Grotto dive?
The Blue Grotto (Gruta Azul) requires Advanced Open Water certification due to the overhead environment and depths reaching 25 metres. The dive involves navigating through tunnels and confined spaces, so experience with buoyancy control is essential. Some operators also require a minimum number of logged dives before taking divers to this site.
How cold does the water get at Arraial do Cabo?
Water temperatures at Arraial do Cabo can drop to 16 degrees Celsius due to cold-water upwelling from the Falklands Current, even in summer. The upwelling is unpredictable and temperatures can swing several degrees in a single day. A 5mm wetsuit or semi-dry suit is recommended year-round, and many local divers use dry suits during the coldest upwelling events.