The coastal areas of Florida, surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico and the Straits of Florida, provide tremendous diving experiences. Coral reefs, wrecks and freshwater springs happen to be the different ecosystems in this destination that cater to divers of all levels. They can dive year-round over here, thanks to the warm water and good visibility.

1. Florida Keys (Upper, Middle, Lower)

The Florida Keys are famous for their coral reefs, part of the Florida Reef Tract.

  • Upper Keys: Beginner? This one’s for you! Sites like John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park sure will give you reefs full of life.
  • Middle Keys: Not a beginner? There’s something for you at the Sombrero Reef, where you’ll have a blast with the vibrant coral gardens and waters that run just a little deep.
  • Lower Keys: Ahead of the pack? You most definitely won’t fall back! Take a look at the Looe Key Reef, and get super stunned by the steep walls and marine life that’s simply magical.

2. South Florida (Boca Raton to Miami)

South Florida isn’t far behind with nice spots for wrecks and reefs.

  • Boca Raton: Visit here if you are a beginner. The reefs are shallow like what you’ll see at the Boca Raton Inlet. And a surprise? Sea turtles and colorful tropical fish.
  • Miami: Here, you’ll get to see wrecks like the Spiegel Grove Wreck. Now this lies deeper — so only dare to venture if you are a pro!

3. Central Florida (Orlando Area)

In Central Florida, you’ll find freshwater springs and cave diving.

  • Blue Grotto: This freshwater cavern in this crystal-clear spring is suitable for beginners. It has beautiful underwater rock formations.
  • Devil’s Den: An exciting spring in Williston, in which more experienced thrill-seekers can experience a dive in a prehistoric environment.

4. Panhandle (Pensacola and Destin)

The Panhandle region is known for wreck diving and marine life.

  • Pensacola: Listen up advanced divers! The Oriskany, one of the largest artificial reefs, is waiting for you for an amazing wreck dive!
  • Destin: Pros, mid-pros and almost mid-pros — there’s something for you! The Destin Reef, with shallow reefs and wrecks.

5. Gulf Coast (Tampa Bay and Clearwater)

It has accessible dive sites and lots and lots of wildlife.

  • Tampa Bay: If you are just starting up in the diving world, visit sites like Egmont Key and take in the shallow reefs and just imagine spotting one or two manatees!
  • Clearwater: This is where The Anclote Key Wreck resides. A well-known place for divers to savor the oh-so-magical marine life.

Conclusion

Buy scuba gear and visit Florida in Spring and Fall — the best times to explore the Florida diving scene!