Scuba diving in Setúbal is not what most people travel to this region of Portugal for, but the Atlantic waters of this charming area offer many diving opportunities. Since Setúbal sits in a protected bay, diving conditions are usually calm throughout the year. 

There are a couple Setúbal dive centers to choose from; however, most dive centers are located in the neighboring town of Sesimbra.

Although Setúbal dive centers are open year-round, the best time to go scuba diving in Setúbal is from April to October, when the water and air temperatures are warmest. Although air temperatures can reach 27C/81F in the summer, the water does not exceed 22C/71F, so you will still want to bring a wetsuit.

Diving in Setúbal is best known for the famous Arrábida National Park, which sits just offshore. This protected area offers divers a glimpse at some of the largest biodiversity in Europe and is home to fascinating, ancient shipwrecks.

Setúbal diving also offers great reef dives with interesting rock formations.

Diving in Setúbal is great for macro lovers. You will enjoy the many nudibranch species found here as well as the opportunity to see seahorses. Amongst the colorful gorgonian and anemone-filled reefs, you can see many fish species like snapper, pigfish, sunfish (mola mola), cuttlefish, sea bream, blennies, lobsters, crabs, and triggerfish. 

Arrábida National Park - Arrábida National Park is the first marine park established in continental Portugal and one of the most popular dive areas in this region. Come explore the beautiful sheer underwater cliffs that make this site famous.

Zimbral - This dive site consists of rocky formations sitting on a sandy bottom and a great place to see reef-dwelling species like lobster, octopuses, blennies, and much soft coral.

Portinho da Arrábida - Macro lovers will enjoy this Setúbal diving site filled with colorful nudibranchs, soft coral species, gorgonians, and blennies.