Garajau
Encountering Dusky groupers and rays is virtually guaranteed here, making it an enticing prospect for divers of all skill levels. However, it is important to remain cautious of the currents when diving from the shore.
Interestingly, Dusky groupers have been known to approach divers in search of some affectionate interaction. Although this behavior is not actively encouraged, it does occur and can be quite irresistible. In addition to these charismatic groupers, divers will have the opportunity to witness schools of various species such as bogues, trumpet fish, and sea breams. The summer months also attract massive stingrays to this site for their reproductive purposes. Grunts, salemas, and barracuda further enrich the diverse marine life that can be recorded in your logbook.
With a visibility of 16 meters and a maximum depth of 23 meters, this dive site offers optimal conditions for both beginner and advanced divers. So, whether you're just starting your underwater exploration or seeking new adventures, this location has something remarkable to offer.
For those planning their visit, the dive site is conveniently located at 054, Estrada do Cristo Rei, Garajau, Caniço, Santa Cruz, Madeira, 9125-058, Portugal. Prepare for an unforgettable diving experience amidst the wonders of the deep blue sea.
Diving Conditions Score for Garajau
Good diving conditions!
The score is based on a calculation of the current weather and sea conditions.
Dive Site Overview for Garajau
Depth
23m
Visibility
16m
Experience Level
Weather Conditions for Garajau
Wave Height
0.74m
Wind Speed
3.3 m/s
Water Temp
22.2°C
Visibility
37.16km
Cloud Cover
23%
Wave Period
7.25s
Air Temperature
19.8°C
Precipitation
0 mm
Dive Score Chart for Garajau
Best time to dive: 8:00 with score 9.08496936936937/10. Water conditions: Waves 0.7m, Wind 1.3 m/s.Best night dive time: 22:00 with score 8.513677777777778/10.
Chart showing hourly dive conditions including wave height, wind speed, water temperature, and visibility throughout the day.
Optimal diving conditions at Garajau are affected by daylight hours. Sunrise occurs at 06:00 and sunset at 18:00, which impacts visibility and water temperature for scuba diving and snorkeling.
Score: 9.1/10
Waves: 0.7m (7.4s), Wind: 1.3 m/s
Score: 8.5/10
Waves: 0.7m, Wind: 1.8 m/s
Seasonal Analysis for GarajauAlpha
Historical patterns and best seasons for diving at Garajau
The dive score combines all factors to rate overall diving conditions throughout the year. Higher scores indicate better diving conditions.
Monthly Dive Score Analysis - Seasonal Diving Conditions
Higher values indicate better diving conditions
Seasonal DiveScore Chart
This chart displays monthly diveScore data throughout the year, showing seasonal patterns. The data is presented as a bar chart with an overlaid line graph.Dive scores range from 1 to 10, with 10 being optimal conditions.
Higher values indicate better diving conditions
Best Season for Garajau
Winter
Winter offers the best overall diving conditions with calmer seas and better visibility, despite cooler temperatures.
Best Months for Garajau
Ideal Conditions for Garajau
Water Temp
22.2°C / 72.0°F
July
Visibility
18.0m / 59.1ft
November
Wave Height
0.7m / 2.3ft
November
Wave Period
8.0s
January
Seasonal Insights for Garajau
Garajau shows typical northern hemisphere patterns with July being the warmest month (22.2°C) and January the coldest (13.0°C). The calmest conditions typically occur in November with average wave heights of 0.7m and wave periods of 8.0s. The most comfortable wave conditions are in November with a low wave steepness ratio, creating gentler swells. January offers the longest wave periods (8.0s), creating more comfortable and predictable conditions for boat entries and exits. Ocean currents are slowest in January (0.5m/s) and strongest in January (0.5m/s). July is usually the driest month with 0.0mm of precipitation. For beginners, the best time to visit would be during November to January, when ocean conditions are calmer with long-period waves and currents are typically weaker. Experienced divers might enjoy the challenges and potentially better visibility during the shoulder seasons, with moderate currents that can improve marine life encounters.
Last updated: 1 min. ago - Jun 23, 2026