This dive site is Praia do Pintadinho, a beautiful and accessible beach located approximately 10 minutes west of Carvoeiro in Portugal. It is renowned as an excellent location for introductory diving courses or for divers looking to refresh their skills, owing to its shallow maximum depth and generally calm conditions. Underwater, divers will navigate a gently sloping sandy bottom interspersed with rocky patches, where two old anchors and a cannon are found, offering points of interest and a touch of historical intrigue.
The diverse habitat of sand and rocks at Pintadinho supports a variety of marine life. Divers can regularly observe numerous species of breams and wrasses, alongside fascinating scorpion fish, vibrant anemones, and unique sea cucumbers. Starfish are also common, and occasionally, lucky divers may spot more elusive creatures like sea needles and various types of rays.
The best time to visit Praia do Pintadinho for diving or freediving is generally during the warmer months when water temperatures are more comfortable and conditions are typically calmer. Its sheltered nature makes it suitable for year-round diving, weather permitting. For both freedivers and scuba divers, the site offers a relaxed experience, perfect for practicing skills or simply enjoying the abundant small marine life in a tranquil environment. Its shallow depths also make it an ideal spot for extended bottom times and underwater photography focusing on macro subjects.
