Ilha Mae / Ponta Sul - Arraial do Cabo

Mandarin Point, a short hop from Naya Gawana, is precisely what it says on the tin. We’re here for the mandarinfish, and honestly, they rarely disappoint. The reef itself is a pretty standard shallow hard coral patch, lots of staghorn, and we’ve seen a few yellowstripe monocle bream scooting about during the day. But come dusk, that’s when the magic happens. We always time our dive just as the sun dips below the horizon, right when the light turns that soft, bruised purple. Descend into the gloom and keep your eyes peeled for those tiny flashes of electric orange, blue, and green peeking from the coral rubble. The visibility here isn’t always stellar, often around 7 meters, so you need to get close, hover patiently, and be prepared for a bit of a chilly wait as the light fades. We’ve spotted crabs and the occasional scorpionfish tucked into crevices while waiting. It's an intimate dive, best for photographers or anyone who appreciates the subtle dance of nature's showstoppers. Forget the big pelagics here; this is all about the delicate details.

Location
Arraial do Cabo, Brazil, South America
Coordinates
-22.984100, -43.068900
Type
reef

Marine Protected Area: Reserva Extrativista Marinha De Itaipu

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 Mae / Ponta Sul

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 Mae / Ponta Sul

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical depth range for diving at Ilha Mae / Ponta Sul?
The dive site Ilha Mae / Ponta Sul is known for its shallow depths. Divers can expect a maximum depth of 10 meters, making it an ideal profile for various experience levels. This allows for extended bottom time and relaxed exploration of the marine environment.
What kind of marine life can divers expect to see at Ilha Mae / Ponta Sul?
Divers at Ilha Mae / Ponta Sul can anticipate encountering a rich variety of marine life. Specifically, you might spot beautiful butterfly rays and nail rays along the well-marked boundary between the shore and the sandy bottom. With a bit of luck, you could also witness the majestic eagle rays in this vibrant underwater environment. For more information on marine species, visit our wildlife database.
Is Ilha Mae / Ponta Sul considered a difficult dive site, or is it suitable for beginners?
Ilha Mae / Ponta Sul is highly suitable for beginner divers, offering a great profile for those new to the sport. It also provides a quieter dive experience for more experienced divers who prefer shallower depths and abundant marine life. Its maximum depth of 10m contributes to its accessibility for various skill levels.
What is the best time of year to dive at Ilha Mae / Ponta Sul for optimal conditions and marine life sightings?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive at Ilha Mae / Ponta Sul for optimal conditions or marine life sightings. We recommend checking local dive reports or our when to dive section for general guidance on the Arraial do Cabo region. Local dive operators can provide the most current information.
What scuba diving certifications are required or recommended to dive at Ilha Mae / Ponta Sul?
The provided information does not specify any particular scuba diving certifications required or recommended for Ilha Mae / Ponta Sul. Given its suitability for beginner divers and a maximum depth of 10m, an Open Water Diver certification is generally sufficient for similar sites. Always consult with a local dive operator in Arraial do Cabo for specific requirements before planning your dive.
What are the typical current and water conditions like for diving at Ilha Mae / Ponta Sul?
At Ilha Mae / Ponta Sul, divers can expect an average visibility of 5 meters. The data does not provide specific details regarding typical current or water temperature conditions for this site. For up-to-date conditions and any potential currents, it's always best to consult with local dive centers in Arraial do Cabo before your dive.