Florida Summer Diving/Snorkeling Bucket List: 10 Spots You Can’t Miss

Your guide to epic local underwater adventures!
Grab your gear and let’s make this summer one to remember with 10 unforgettable local underwater sites. Whether you're into reefs, wrecks, or just want to soak up the beauty below the surface, we’ve got a site for you.

Your Summer Dive/Snorkel Checklist:

1. Blue Heron Bridge (West Palm)

One of the best shore dives in the U.S., this shallow, protected site is a true gem for underwater explorers. With calm conditions and vibrant marine life, it’s perfect for underwater photographers, macro enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates a relaxed, colorful dive. You never know what sea life might appear on your dive. Divers have seen seahorses, stingrays, and starfish.

• Why it’s a must: A shore diving paradise packed with marine life, colors, and hidden treasures.
• Best for: Macro lovers, beginner to intermediate divers, and snorkelers looking for easy access and unforgettable encounters.
• Pro tip: Plan your dive around high tide and arrive early for parking is limited.

2. The Epcot DiveQuest Experience (Orlando)

Disney magic meets underwater adventure in one of the most unique dives out there—inside a giant saltwater aquarium! Swim alongside rays, sharks, sea turtles, and hundreds of tropical fish in a calm, current-free environment right in the heart of EPCOT. No boat rides, no waves—just crystal-clear water and an unforgettable experience.

The best part? Your friends and family can watch you dive from the Coral Reef Restaurant, cheering you on from dry land as you explore the 5.7-million-gallon aquarium.

• Why it’s a must: A one-of-a-kind dive inside a massive saltwater tank …at Disney!
• Best for: Certified divers looking for a fun, family-friendly experience with a magical twist.
• Pro tip: Spaces fill up fast, so book early! Open Water Certification is required to participate.

3. Shark Diving (Jupiter)

Dive into open water for the ultimate adrenaline rush—swimming alongside lemon, bull, and reef sharks in their natural environment. Guided by seasoned professionals who know the area and understand shark behavior. It’s an unforgettable experience that combines awe, respect, and excitement as these powerful predators glide just feet away. If you're looking to add something truly epic to your dive log, this is it.

• Why it’s a must: Unmatched, up-close encounters with different types of sharks in the wild.
• Best for: Advanced divers, thrill-seekers, and anyone who’s always dreamed of swimming with sharks.
• Pro tip: Summer brings the clearest water and the most shark activity—perfect conditions for a heart-pounding adventure.

4. Molasses Reef (Key Largo)

If you can only dive in one place this summer, make it the Florida Keys. This vibrant reef is alive with colorful corals, schools of tropical fish, and friendly sea turtles that often glide by to say hello. With crystal-clear visibility and calm conditions, it’s a dream for both snorkelers and divers of all experience levels. Whether you're exploring the shallows or hovering above coral towers, the beauty here is unmatched.

• Why it’s a must: Bright coral gardens, excellent visibility, and frequent sea turtle encounters.
• Best for: Divers and snorkelers of all skill levels—great for families, first-timers, and seasoned explorers.
• Pro tip: Head out early for the calmest seas, the best light, and fewer crowds.
  

5. Spiegel Grove Wreck (Key Largo)

One of the world’s largest and most impressive wreck dives, this 510-foot ship sits upright on the ocean floor—an underwater giant turned artificial reef. Intentionally sunk to create a haven for marine life, it now teems with schools of fish, circling barracuda, and the occasional eagle ray gliding by. With towering structures, open swim-throughs, and a sense of scale that’s hard to match, it’s a must-do for wreck diving enthusiasts.

• Why it’s a must: Massive wreck with stunning swim-throughs and thriving marine life.
• Best for: Advanced divers ready for deep dives and unforgettable underwater exploration.
• Pro tip: Currents can be strong—book with a local guide, especially on your first visit.

6. The Vandenberg Wreck (Key West)

This 522-foot retired military ship has found a second life as one of the most impressive artificial reefs in the world. Now resting on the ocean floor, it's home to a thriving underwater ecosystem and offers an unforgettable experience for advanced divers. Swim past towering radar dishes, explore narrow passageways, and keep an eye out for massive goliath groupers lurking in the shadows. Every dive reveals new details on this awe-inspiring wreck.

• Why it’s a must: A massive, world-famous wreck that’s both historic and teeming with marine life.
• Best for: Advanced divers seeking depth, adventure, and unforgettable underwater scenery.
• Pro tip: Don’t forget your underwater camera and a good dive light—you’ll want to capture every eerie, incredible detail.

7. Dry Tortugas National Park

Remote, pristine, and absolutely unforgettable—diving or snorkeling in the Dry Tortugas feels like stepping into another world. With vibrant coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and minimal crowds, it’s one of Florida’s best-kept underwater secrets. The marine life is abundant, the visibility is stunning, and the setting is truly one-of-a-kind.

Top it off with a visit to the historic Fort Jefferson, and you’ve got the perfect mix of adventure, history, and natural beauty—all in one unforgettable day trip.

• Why it’s a must: Stunning reefs, great visibility, and a peaceful, uncrowded experience.
• Best for: Snorkelers, beginner divers, and underwater photographers.
• Pro tip: Access is limited and trips fill up fast—book early to secure your spot!

8. Devils Den (Williston)

Dive into another world at this ancient underground spring, where time seems to stand still. Crystal-clear water, fossil-lined cavern walls, and dramatic beams of sunlight create a surreal, almost otherworldly experience. It’s a peaceful dive with a prehistoric feel—perfect for slowing down and soaking in the beauty beneath the surface.

With a consistent water temperature of 72°F year-round, it’s refreshing no matter the season—but don’t forget your wetsuit!

• Why it’s a must: Explore a prehistoric spring with stunning light and atmosphere.
• Best for: Divers of all levels and snorkelers looking for a unique freshwater adventure.
• Pro tip: A full wetsuit is a must—even in the heat of summer, the spring stays chilly!

9. Ginnie Springs (High Springs)

Freshwater fun with flawless visibility—Ginnie Springs is a summertime favorite for divers and families alike. Known for its crystal-clear spring water, it’s perfect for open water training, relaxed drift dives, and capturing stunning underwater photos. With calm currents and cool temps, it’s an ideal escape from the heat.

After your dive, float down the Santa Fe River or enjoy a picnic onshore—Ginnie is more than a dive spot, it’s a full-day adventure waiting to happen.

• Why it’s a must: A spring-fed paradise with clear water and laid-back vibes.
• Best for: Dive training, photography, families, and easy summer getaways.
• Pro tip: Visit on a weekday to enjoy the spring’s peaceful side and fewer crowds.

 10. Night Dive at Lauderdale-by-the-Sea

When the sun goes down, the reef comes alive. Grab your dive light and slip beneath the surface to witness the ocean's night shift in action. Octopuses on the hunt, lobsters on the move, and shimmering bioluminescence make this one of the most exciting—and accessible—shore night dives around. With easy beach entry, it’s great for intermediate divers looking to experience a whole new side of the reef.

• Why it’s a must: An easy-access beach dive with unforgettable after-dark marine life.
• Best for: Intermediate divers ready to explore the reef at night.
• Pro tip: Always bring a backup light, dive with a buddy, and keep your eyes peeled for eels and octopuses!

Ready to Dive In?

Check off as many as you can this summer and share your photos with us! Need gear? Stop by any of our four Divers Direct stores, we’ll help you get adventure-ready.

If you're looking to explore even more incredible underwater destinations, be sure to visit DiveSpots.com. Whether you're into snorkeling or scuba diving, the site offers detailed information on dive sites all around the world. From beginner-friendly reefs to advanced wreck dives, you'll find maps, reviews, and facts to help you on your next underwater adventure. DiveSpots.com is a great resource for discovering new locations and making the most out of your time in the water.