Costa Sul

Covering 2,160 hectares, this protected area stretches from Ponta do Castelete to Figueiral, encompassing an extensive coastal and marine strip characterised by alternating rocky seabeds and sedimentary areas.

Along the coast there are several bays and submerged and semi-submerged caves, with entrances between 2 and 10 metres wide and around 5 to 10 metres long, which serve as important natural refuges, promoting the protection and ecological success of the species that inhabit them.

The area is a prime corridor for migratory species, with frequent sightings of Whale Sharks (Rhincodon typus) and Loggerhead Turtles (Caretta caretta). Occasional records also indicate the presence of Sperm Whales (Physeter macrocephalus) and Humpback Whales (Megaptera novaeangliae), which use these waters during their oceanic journeys.

On the seabed, dominated by seaweed beds that provide food for species such as the Island Grouper (Mycteroperca fusca) and the Rainbow Wrasse (Coris julis), a wide variety of gastropods can be observed, including the colourful nudibranchs.

The area is also important for various seabirds, such as the Cory's Shearwater (Calonectris borealis), the Common Tern (Sterna hirundo) and the Roseate Tern (Sterna dougallii), which use this stretch of coastline for feeding and nesting.