Ilha do Arvoredo - Arraial do Cabo

Ilha do Arvoredo, in Arraial do Cabo, is one of our top picks in this part of Brazil. We love its distinct personality, a real step up from some of the more inshore sites. As you drop in, that classic cold-water upwelling clarity hits you straight away; you really notice the difference. The reef structure itself is varied, with some interesting rocky outcrops and small caves that you can peek into. You’ll often find banded pipefish tucked away here, and the black margates seem to hang around the deeper ledges. We’ve had some cracking encounters with permit and mutton snapper here, cruising past in the blue. Keep an eye out for the smaller stuff too, like the seaweed blennies doing their thing on the rocks. While the currents can be moderate, they're rarely overwhelming, and it’s that flow that brings in the bigger fish. We’d suggest going early in the morning to beat the boat traffic and catch the light streaming through the water. It’s a consistently rewarding dive, perfect for anyone who appreciates a vibrant, healthy ecosystem.

Location
Arraial do Cabo, Brazil, South America
Coordinates
-27.296814, -48.361880

Marine Protected Area: Reserva Biológica Marinha Do Arvoredo

Best Time to Dive in Arraial do Cabo

The warmest water temperatures in Arraial do Cabo occur in January, averaging 26.6°C. The coolest conditions are in August at 21.6°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 26.6°C
  • February: 26.4°C
  • March: 26.5°C
  • April: 25.0°C
  • May: 24.0°C
  • June: 22.9°C
  • July: 21.9°C
  • August: 21.6°C
  • September: 22.2°C
  • October: 23.0°C
  • November: 23.4°C
  • December: 24.8°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Arraial do Cabo

Nearest Dive Centres to Ilha do Arvoredo

Marine Life in Arraial do Cabo

Home to 62 recorded species including 44 reef fish, 3 other, 3 crabs & lobsters, 3 sea urchins, 2 whales & dolphins, 2 seagrass & algae.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Ilha do Arvoredo

Based on average water temperature of 24.0°C, currents 7 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 24°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories