## Where to Find the Best Scuba Diving in Florida
With over 1,350 miles of coastline and a subtropical climate, Florida is a scuba diver’s paradise. From the shallow reefs of the Atlantic Ocean to the deep wrecks of the Gulf of Mexico, there are dive sites for all levels of experience.
### Atlantic Ocean
The Atlantic Ocean side of Florida offers a variety of dive sites, including:
* **Artificial Reefs:** Florida has a large number of artificial reefs, which are created by sinking old ships, barges, and other structures. These reefs provide habitat for a variety of marine life, including fish, corals, and sponges.
* **Natural Reefs:** Florida’s natural reefs are found in the Florida Keys and along the coast of Palm Beach County. These reefs are home to a variety of tropical fish, including parrotfish, angelfish, and damselfish.
* **Shipwrecks:** There are a number of shipwrecks located off the coast of Florida, including the SS Spiegel Grove, the SS Vamarie, and the USS Mohawk. These wrecks are popular dive sites for experienced divers.
### Gulf of Mexico
The Gulf of Mexico side of Florida offers a different type of diving experience than the Atlantic Ocean side. The water is generally clearer and warmer, and there are fewer artificial reefs. The main dive sites in the Gulf of Mexico are:
* **Natural Reefs:** The Gulf of Mexico has a number of natural reefs, which are located in the Florida Keys and along the coast of the Panhandle. These reefs are home to a variety of tropical fish, including snapper, grouper, and amberjack.
* **Shipwrecks:** There are a number of shipwrecks located in the Gulf of Mexico, including the USS Oriskany, the SS Tarpon, and the SS Sea Hunt. These wrecks are popular dive sites for experienced divers.
### Best Dive Sites in Florida
The best dive sites in Florida depend on your level of experience and what you are looking for in a dive. Here are a few of the most popular dive sites in the state:
* **Key Largo:** Key Largo is known for its clear water and beautiful coral reefs. The most popular dive sites in Key Largo include the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the Dry Tortugas National Park, and the Molasses Reef.
* **Fort Lauderdale:** Fort Lauderdale is another popular diving destination in Florida. The city has a number of artificial reefs, including the SS Spiegel Grove and the SS Vamarie. There are also a number of natural reefs in the area, including the Lauderdale-by-the-Sea Reef and the Blue Heron Bridge Reef.
* **Panama City Beach:** Panama City Beach is a great place to dive for shipwrecks. The most popular wrecks in the area include the USS Oriskany, the SS Tarpon, and the SS Sea Hunt.
* **Destin:** Destin is known for its clear water and beautiful beaches. The most popular dive sites in Destin include the Destin Jetties, the Noriega Point Reef, and the Crab Island Reef.
### Tips for Scuba Diving in Florida
Here are a few tips for scuba diving in Florida:
* **Get certified:** It is important to be certified before scuba diving in Florida. There are a number of dive shops that offer certification courses.
* **Choose the right dive site:** There are a variety of dive sites in Florida, so it is important to choose one that is appropriate for your level of experience.
* **Be aware of the weather:** The weather in Florida can change quickly, so it is important to be aware of the forecast before you go diving.
* **Bring the right gear:** Be sure to bring all of the necessary gear, including a wetsuit, mask, fins, and snorkel.
* **Stay hydrated:** It is important to stay hydrated while scuba diving. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after your dive.
* **Be respectful of the marine life:** Do not touch or harass the marine life.
Scuba diving in Florida is a great way to experience the state’s underwater beauty. With a variety of dive sites to choose from, there is something for everyone.
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