Baixa do Sul

A submerged volcanic bank off Terceira's south coast, Baixa do Sul tops out at 18 metres and falls away into open Atlantic water beyond 50 metres. The plateau draws mobula rays in summer — sometimes in squadrons of 30 or more — and blue sharks appear around the edges of the bank with regularity from June onward. The hard substrate is carpeted in encrusting sponges and lace coral, and common dolphins occasionally dive down to investigate divers at shallower depths. The site demands a live boat due to surface swells and current.