Ilha Rasa - Guincho - Arraial do Cabo

Mandy’s Eel Garden, just off West Bay Beach, often gets overshadowed by its deeper neighbours, but we think that’s a mistake. It’s got a lovely, gentle wall that starts shallow, around 5-6 metres, and slopes gradually down to its maximum of 17 metres. We love it for its quiet charm, especially if you get there before the afternoon boat rush. The real draw here, as the name suggests, are the garden eels swaying in the sand patches, but keep your eyes peeled for other bottom dwellers. We’ve had great luck spotting Saddle Stargazers peeking out, and on one dive, we watched a Banded Jawfish diligently tending its eggs in its burrow. The reef itself is healthy, full of crevices hiding Apricot and Peppermint Bass, and we always spot a few Snapper cruising by. Visibility averages 20 metres, so you’ve got plenty of time to really look close. This site is perfect for photographers who like to take their time and anyone who appreciates the smaller, often overlooked creatures of the reef.

Location
Arraial do Cabo, Brazil, South America
Coordinates
-23.062100, -43.145400
Type
reef

Marine Protected Area: Monumento Natural Das Ilhas Cagarras

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 Rasa - Guincho

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 Rasa - Guincho

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 maximum depth for diving at Ilha Rasa - Guincho?
The maximum depth for diving at Ilha Rasa - Guincho is 18 meters. While the general description notes depths can reach up to 20 meters between shore and sand, the specified maximum depth for diving is 18m. This makes it a suitable site for various certification levels.
What kind of marine life can divers expect to see at Ilha Rasa - Guincho?
Divers at Ilha Rasa - Guincho can expect to encounter a vibrant array of marine life. Common sightings include shoals of cocoroca, dog-eye, surgeons, and salemas, along with butterfly fish and friars. Additionally, divers may spot barracudas, turtles, and various rays, making for a rich underwater experience. For more information on marine species, visit our wildlife database.
Is Ilha Rasa - Guincho a good dive site for beginner divers, or is it more challenging?
Ilha Rasa - Guincho is described as ideal for less experienced divers, offering classic coastal diving in Arraial do Cabo. However, it is officially rated with an intermediate difficulty, meaning attention is important. Depths can reach up to 20 meters between shore and sand, so divers should be comfortable with these conditions.
When is the best time of year to dive at Ilha Rasa - Guincho for calmest conditions and good visibility?
Information regarding the best time of year for calmest conditions and optimal visibility at Ilha Rasa - Guincho is not provided in the current data. We recommend checking our When to Dive section for general guidance on seasonal conditions. The average annual water temperature is 18 degrees Celsius, with an average visibility of 7 meters, though it can sometimes be as low as 3 meters.
What diving certifications are typically required to dive at Ilha Rasa - Guincho?
The provided data does not explicitly state the typical diving certifications required for Ilha Rasa - Guincho. However, given its classification as "ideal for less experienced divers" and a maximum depth of 18 meters, an Open Water Diver certification or equivalent would generally be sufficient. Always consult with a local dive operator to confirm specific requirements before planning your dive.
What are the typical water conditions, currents, and visibility like at Ilha Rasa - Guincho?
At Ilha Rasa - Guincho, divers can expect an average annual water temperature of 18 degrees Celsius. Visibility typically averages 7 meters, though it can sometimes be as low as 3 meters. While the site offers classic coastal diving and is ideal for less experienced divers, its intermediate difficulty suggests that some currents or other conditions may be present, requiring attention.