Pedra da Oura

This dive site, famously known as ‘Spider Reef’, is located off the coast of Portugal, offering a unique natural reef structure. The site is characterized by a significant slab of rock, approximately 2 meters high, forming an interesting underwater topography. While no specific history or navigation details beyond the reef structure are provided, its shallow depth makes it straightforward to explore, being an ideal place to perform specialties such as nitrox and introductory deep diving.
This shallow reef boasts an impressive array of marine life, particularly notable for its abundance of spider crabs, which give the site its popular nickname. Divers can also discover a wide variety of colorful gorgonians, some reaching considerable size, and vibrant sponges. European spiny lobsters and common lobsters are occasionally sighted sheltering within the stone slabs of the reef, adding to the site's biodiversity.
This calm and accessible dive site is excellent for beginners and those looking to practice skills due to its maximum depth of 12 meters and average depth of 6 meters. It's also well-suited for freediving and snorkeling enthusiasts. The site offers great macro photography opportunities with its small, abundant life. Specific best time to visit isn't provided, but generally, late spring to early autumn offers the most favorable conditions for diving in Portugal.