Snorkeling and diving in Florida
Coral reefs, springs and wrecks: where to snorkel and dive, plus dive flag rules.
Florida has the only living coral barrier reef in the continental United States, running along the Keys, plus freshwater springs with visibility over 100 feet and hundreds of wrecks. Here are the best places to snorkel and dive, and the rules every diver should know.
Where is the best snorkeling in Florida?
Top spots are John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo (the first undersea park in the U.S.), Looe Key in the Lower Keys, Dry Tortugas National Park, the Blue Heron Bridge in Riviera Beach, and springs like Ginnie Springs and Devil’s Den.
Scuba diving requires certification from an agency such as PADI or SSI; most operators offer try-dive or discover programs for beginners. Guided snorkel and dive trips with iOutdoors are coming soon.
Where to snorkel and dive
| Spot | Type | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| John Pennekamp Coral Reef SP | Coral reef | Snorkeling and diving, Christ of the Abyss statue |
| Looe Key | Coral reef | Snorkeling and diving in the Lower Keys |
| Dry Tortugas NP | Reef and fort | Snorkeling around Fort Jefferson |
| Blue Heron Bridge | Shore dive | Macro life and snorkeling at slack high tide |
| Ginnie Springs, Devil’s Den | Springs | Clear water year-round, cave and cavern dives (training required) |
Dive flag rules and safety
- Divers and snorkelers must display a divers-down flag. In Florida, stay within 300 feet of the flag in open water and within 100 feet in rivers, inlets and channels.
- Boats must stay the same distance away or slow to idle speed.
- Never touch or stand on coral.
- Watch for jellyfish in summer: jellyfish are not your friends.
Snorkel and dive trips: coming soon
We are talking with Florida Keys and South Florida dive operators. Tell us your dates, group size and certification level and we will let you know as soon as trips open.
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Florida snorkeling and diving FAQ
Does Florida have a coral reef?
Yes. The Florida Reef along the Keys is the only living coral barrier reef in the continental United States.
When is the best time to snorkel in Florida?
Late spring through summer usually has the calmest seas and warmest water.
Do I need to be certified to scuba dive in Florida?
Yes, for regular dives. Many operators offer introductory try-dive programs with an instructor.
What are the dive flag rules in Florida?
Stay within 300 feet of your flag in open water and 100 feet in rivers, inlets and channels. Boats must keep that distance or slow to idle.
Does iOutdoors offer snorkel or dive trips?
They are coming soon. Use the form above or call or text (407) 392-4593.