ocean safari diving adventures miami fl

Best Places to Scuba Dive in Miami

Last Updated: February 14, 2023

There’s always something going on in South Florida, and Miami has quickly become one of the most popular cities to visit in the world – especially by visitors that love to spend a little time offshore and underwater.

A true world-class scuba destination (and a pretty hot spot for snorkelers, too), the secret about just how good scuba diving in Miami has been out for a while.

Home to a large array of natural reef systems, including one of the largest barrier reefs in the world, Miami also has historical shipwrecks to explore and artificial reef systems built by intentionally sinking ships, too.

If you’ve been thinking about doing a bit of diving in and around Miami you’ll want to check out all the great spots I list below.

Best Scuba Diving in Miami – Top 10 Sites

1. biscayne national park.

The absolute complete opposite of the José Cuervo artificial reef, the Biscayne National Park gives you an opportunity to dive 25 miles of coral reef, all kinds of barrier islands and underwater landmarks you won’t see anywhere else. Moreover, the Maritime Heritage Trail also offers an opportunity to see many of the park’s shipwrecks.

The best part about diving Biscayne National Park, though?

You’ll never be deeper than 12 feet – and that means this is open to absolutely anyone with even the slightest bit of scuba experience.

2. Jose Cuervo Artificial Reef

The José Cuervo artificial reef system is one of the most unique in the world, and not just because it was built (in part) with funding from the legendary tequila brand, either.

The artificial reef system was built on the backbone of a 10,000 pound concrete bar that was dropped into the ocean just 150 yards off the shore of Second Street in Miami.

Originally intended to be a bit of a tourist hotspot where visitors could dive down and get a drink at the “ José Cuervo Underwater Bar ”, the concrete bar has grown and blossomed into a full-blown artificial reef and is added to all the time.

3. Neptune Memorial Reef

Situated about 3.2 miles to the east of Key Biscayne is the Neptune Memorial Reef – the largest artificial reef on the planet.

Intentionally designed to give the impression of the long lost city of Atlantis, this 16 acre underwater artificial reef system makes you feel like you have been transported to another planet.

The waters here are incredibly calm all year round, with 35 feet of visibility on average (and sometimes more). The water is also warm (between 75°F and 85°F year round), making this a hotspot for divers that want to get their feet wet, when they are relatively new to scuba.

4. Half Moon Shipwreck

The Half Moon Shipwreck, known in the past as Germania, was originally a beautiful ship designed in Germany around the turn of the last century.

At the end of World War I, though, the British decided to capture the Half Moon and take it to England following their victory. The ship sailed all over Europe before it ended up in the United States, finding itself just off the coast of Miami in the 1930s.

Unfortunately, the ship was hit by a hurricane and dropped to the bottom of the ocean just off the coast of Key Biscayne.

5. Emerald Reef

Emerald Reef, just east of Key Biscayne, may not be the most popular amongst locals, but it’s hugely popular with folks from outside the area.

This reef isn’t just loaded top to bottom with beautiful coral structures, but is also home to lobsters, damselfish, and all kinds of tropical fish that move in schools, too.

6. 1000 Mermaid Artificial Reef

Found just barely off the coast of Fort Lauderdale beach, the 1000 Mermaid artificial reef is as unique an art gallery as you are going to find anywhere.

While the underwater gallery has not yet been completed (one day it will in fact feature 1000 Mermaid sculptures), it’s already well underway – with dozens of sculptures that have been dropped into place permanently.

7. Belzona Barge

Intentionally dropped to the bottom of the ocean in 1991, this barge originally sat in 72 feet of water. However, Hurricane Andrew decided to relocate it in 1992 – moving it quite a bit, so much so that it currently sits in 40 feet of water (though it remains upside down).

The structure has almost entirely deteriorated, making it unsafe for even the most experienced divers to explore – but the reef that has established in this wreckage is going strong.

8. Sheri Lyn Wreck

Easily one of the most popular dive sites in all of Miami, bringing folks from around the world here just to see the 230 foot freighter lying on the bottom of the ocean.

Originally built in 1952, the Dutch ship was eventually acquired by the US Department of Environmental Resource Management with the express purpose of sinking it just off the coast of Miami and turning it into a key part of a new artificial reef system.

9. Army Tanks

It’s no secret that a lot of decommissioned military equipment, usually boats and ships, end up as cornerstone ingredients of artificial reefs, but it’s not all that often that you find a bunch of Vietnam era army tanks thrown into the mix.

You will in Miami, though.

Tucked away just off the coast of Miami Beach, you’ll find multiple M 60 army tanks from the Vietnam War sunk amongst more than 1000 tons of limestone rock.

10. Belcher Barge

Sitting upside down in about 60 feet of water, the Belcher barge was a 195 foot steel behemoth that sunk about 5 miles off the coast of Miami.

Intentionally dropped to the bottom of the ocean in November 1985, the wreckage was later visited by U.S. Navy divers so that access holes could be cut into the wreckage – making it easier for explorers to investigate.

Diving Conditions and Best Time to Dive

Miami enjoys subtropical weather all year round which has helped their scuba community to blossom like few other spots in the United States .

The Gulfstream current helps to bring warm waters from the Caribbean, and while trade winds can blow throughout the winter months that cause ocean swells to make diving in Miami a little more challenging, it can still be done. However, the rest of the year offers almost picturesque conditions.

All year round you can expect water temperatures of between 70°F and 86°F. The best time of year to dive is in late spring and early summer, when the water is warmest, the water is clearest, and the visibility is exceptional.

Top Dive Shops in Miami

– grove scuba.

A top reviewed and frequently recommended dive shop in Miami, Grove Scuba not only offers fantastic charter opportunities to some of the best dive locations in Miami but also offers full gear rentals, new and used gear purchases, gas top ups, and more.

– Tarpoon Lagoon Dive Center

Those that are looking to get certified as a scuba diver will want to make this dive operation their number one destination. They have a reputation for very affordable courses, affordable gear rental options, and a wide array of charter opportunities that will not break the bank, either.

On top of all of that, Tarpoon Lagoon also offers more advanced training and certifications for those that want to expand their skills and increase the type of underwater adventures they can have safely.

– Ocean Safari

Ocean Safari has been a cornerstone diving shop in the Miami scuba community for more than 30+ years. It’s tough to stay in business – let alone earn the kind of reputation that this dive shop has – without delivering fantastic service, exceptional training and charter opportunities, as well as some of the best prices in the Miami area.

– H2O Dive Center

H2O Dive Center (located on Harding Ave. in Surfside, FL – just outside of Miami) is a great place for new divers to get established and to get their PADI certifications, too.

Charter opportunities are diverse, taking divers all over Miami to check out the best hotspots and some hidden gems that you might not be able to see anywhere else.

This scuba shop also has a reputation for being the only one in Miami you can get your tank topped up and filled on a Sunday, with Tomas doing absolutely everything he can to make sure that his customers are taking care of.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is miami a good place for diving.

Miami is a fantastic place to do a bit of scuba diving, with its incredible range of natural and artificial underwater adventures that attract divers from all over the world every year. It doesn’t hurt that Miami is such a beautiful and bustling city to spend time in when you’re not underwater, either.

Is scuba diving in Miami safe for first-timers?

Some dives in and around Miami are little more advanced than what most newbies would be comfortable with, but that doesn’t mean that Miami is unsafe for first time divers.

Go out with a reputable group (any of the dive shops I mentioned above are fantastic) and you won’t have a whole lot to worry about.

Does Miami have coral reefs?

Miami is home to one of the largest coral reef ecosystems in the world, part of the Florida Reef Tract that stretches out over 220 miles. If you want to see and take part in a bunch of diverse coral reef dives, Miami has you covered.

How much is scuba diving in Miami?

Miami isn’t much more expensive than scuba diving anywhere else in Florida , especially in South Florida.

My unbounded love for the oceans and everything it has to offer motivated me to pursue my passion and become a professional scuba diving instructor.

I keep reading, exploring, and learning more about scuba diving and the underwater world all the time, so I’m excited to share my knowledge with fellow scuba enthusiasts and hopefully contribute a little to your development as a diver. I want people to fall in love with the oceans with as much passion as I have. Read more about me here .

Sharing is caring!

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Contact Info

From the North:

Take I-95 south to SW 7th Street (Brickell exit), turn right at light on SW 7th street. Go west to SW 8th avenue and turn right. Go north on SW 8th avenue to SW 1st street. Make a right, go east until SW 7th avenue. Make a left, you will see the building on the corner of SW 1st street and 7th avenue.

From Miami Airport and West:

Take 836 east to NW 27th avenue, south exit.continue south on 27th ave to flagler left on flager, head east towards downtown until sw 7th avenue. You will see the building on the corner of SW 1st street and 7th avenue.

From the South via US-1:

From US-1, take SW 17th avenue north to SW 1st street, make a right heading east to SW 7th ave. You will see the building on the corner of SW 1st street and 7th avenue.

Ocean Safari

Dive sites near this dive center, ordered by distance, within a range of 25km.

Miami, Florida

Virginia Key, Miami

Riviera Beach, Miami

Diving Destinations

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Ocean Safari Diving Adventures

677 SW 1st St, Miami , Florida 33130 USA

• Independent
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Learn more about this business on Yelp .

Ocean Safari Diving Adventures -Scubapro Platinum Dealer

Reviewed by Michael G.

Very established business. Ethical, and treats you like a friend. I have done business at that location for over 50 years. The owners are fantastic people. Marlen and Robert are terrific. Read more

Reviewed by Felix M.

I had my 12 years old son take his first open water class today at Ocean Safari and it went perfect. This has always been my 'To go place' for any diving related needs in Miami, and now I can add... Read more

Reviewed by Henry L.

My instructor Gary R. is one of the most patient and flexible instructors. A retired veteran, he just teaches and dives for fun. I admire him a lot and he is a great instructor. On a short work... Read more

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• 8 Enthralling Safaris In Miami To Soak In The Wildness Of Florida!

Miami is a place which has so much to offer to the tourists and which is why it is the second biggest tourist hub in the USA. The natural green trees and forests, the blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the beautiful sunny beaches with palm trees are some major attractions of Miami which leaves you spellbound. Once you leave the place, you would want to come back again and again to enhance your experiences and to explore the unexplored. There are some of the best Safaris in Miami which takes you to unexplored and remote places to give you some exquisite memories to cherish all your life.

Top 8 Safaris In Miami

Here is the perfect list of 8 best safaris to visit in Miami when you are in a mood to do something adventurous on your trip. Keep scrolling down to know more!

1. Lion Country Safari

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Located 78 miles from Miami, this beautiful Lion Safari invites you to spend the day on this amazing safari with more than 1000 animals. It is a Safari and an amusement park as well where you can enjoy the whole day like a picnic amidst the natural habitat of the animals. You will get some amazing experiences in the Safari which includes animal feeding, 5 rides, water sprayground, shopping and food. This is the best Lion Safari in Miami.

Timings: Mon to Friday – 10 AM- 4 PM Sat & Sun – 9:30 AM- 4:30 PM Admission charges: $37 per person Website

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2. Everglades Safari Park

Everglades Safari park is famous for its large-sized airboats large enough to accommodate singles, couples and even big families. The airboat takes you to nature’s river of grass on an unforgettable tour to give you the time of your life. All tours include walking trail filled with crocodiles, alligator wildlife show and the world-famous airboat rides. You will be provided with the best guides who will describe the wonders of the unique ecosystem with every small detail they have to give you the best Safari experience.

Address- 26700 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33194, USA Timings: Mon to Friday – 9 AM- 6 PM. Sat & Sun – 10 AM- 5 PM Admission charges: $49 per person Website

3. Miami Photo Safari

Miami Photo Safari is a place which gives you a unique tour where sightseeing meets photography. The tours are designed to teach you the mechanics of digital photography while understanding the beautiful and cherished history of Miami. If you are a photography enthusiast and want to learn some of the basics with the practical safari experience, Miami Photo Safari is the one stop destination for it. No matter if you are a professional photographer or an amateur one, you have a high-end camera or an ordinary one, Miami Photo Safari is surely for you. Come and explore the unexplored now. Address: 3250 NE 1st Ave, Suite 305, Miami, FL 33137-4191

Timings: 10 AM- 2 PM Admission charges: $69 per person Website

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4. Safari Edventure

Safari Edventure is the best place in Miami to be with the wild animals in their natural habitat amidst forest and greenery. Safari Edventure ensures a beautiful and memorable experience for you that you can cherish whole life. Watching the wild animals in their natural environment is something which remains in your memory for a long time. Not only you can watch the animals, you can even touch and feed them which is a different experience altogether. You can even hug a Kangaroo and hold an Alligator. Safari Edventure which is spread over 5 acres of land is filled with 100 mature exotic trees and animals that is so beautiful.

Address- 23700 SW 142nd Ave, Miami, FL 33032-2201 Timings: Wed-Sun 10 AM- 5 PM. Closed on Mon and Tues. Admission charges- $18 per person (Adults) Website

5. Ocean Safari Diving Adventures

Ocean Safari diving adventures give you an ultimate experience of the ocean safari. As you visit a jungle safari and experience the wildlife in the same way you visit the Ocean Safari and experience the aquatic and marine life. The scuba diving and snorkelling boat trips take you closer to the marine life and you can actually swim with the beautiful and colourful tropical fishes which is totally a different experience.

Address- Ocean Safari Diving, 677 SW 1st street, Miami, FL 33130 Timings: Boat departs at 8 AM everyday Admission charges- $85 per person Website

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6. J. N. Ding Darling

The J.N Darling National wildlife refuge is located on the subtropical barrier island of Sanibel in the Gulf of Mexico. It is the home for the hundreds of beautiful migratory birds and it is an amazing sight to watch those birds in their natural environment. You can visit this Safari either as a pedestrian, by a vehicle or in a bicycle. Walking or driving inside gives you an exceptional feeling of being in the nature with beautiful birds around chirping in their natural habitat.

Address- 1 Wildlife Dr, Sanibel, FL 33957, USA Timings: 7:30 AM to 5:30 every day except Friday (closed) Admission charges- $5 per vehicle, $1 per pedestrian/Bicycle

Suggested Read: Top 10 Swankiest Hotels In Miami That Takes Classy On A Next Level

7. Merritt Island

The beautiful Safari in Merritt Island is located in USA and is a home for some of the most beautiful migratory birds in the world. The island is spread over huge 140,000 acres of land and it is impossible for you to see the whole island in just one day. Merritt Island was established in the year 1963 as an overlay of NASA’s space centre for the protection of Migratory Birds. The island has more than 1500 species of plants and animals which is worth watching.

Address- Merritt Island NWR PO Box 2683 Titusville FL 32781 Timings: Opens daily from sunrise to sunset. Admission charges- $10 per vehicle.

Suggested Read: 10 Things To Do In Miami To Add A Hint Of Excitement To Your Vacation

8. St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge

This unique and beautiful safari was established in the year 1931 and is also a natural and wintering for the migratory birds. It is spread over huge 68,000 acres and is a home for wild animals and trees of different species. It is situated along the Gulf Coast of Northwest Florida. This refuge includes islands, tidal creeks, estuaries of seven north Florida rivers and tidal creeks. This beautiful place is also a home to a diverse species of plants and animals. Visiting this amazing safari will surely give you an amazing experience and special moments that you will cherish all your life.

Address- 1255 Lighthouse Rd St. Marks, FL 32355 Timings: It is open year round, daylight hours Admission charges- $2 per person.

Further Read: 8 Nightclubs That Make Miami Nightlife Hip & Happening

There are various beautiful Safaris in and around Miami and visiting them would definitely enhance your traveling experience to the core if you are in Miami. Exploring the beaches is not the only way to enjoy your vacations but visiting the above safaris is a major source of recreation and fun too. So, book your trip to Miami with TravelTriangle and get ready to have an amazing trip as these wildlife and marine safaris will give you a great experience without a doubt.

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Exploring new places and trying out new food cuisines are two things that bring Seema all the happiness. Travel freak and a die-hard foodie are the synonyms that define her the best. Popular on social media by the name of ‘PandaReviewz’, lazing around the beaches, exploiting the sunset points, visiting the farthermost villages, exploring the renowned cities, trying out new food cuisines, and blogging about them are few things that keep Seema occupied, and happy!

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Unveiling Miami’s Underwater Paradise: The Ultimate Guide to Snorkeling in Miami

Miami is well-known for its kilometers of sandy beaches, which attract visitors from all over the world in quest of seaside bliss.

The third-largest barrier reef in the world, and the only one in North America, is located offshore, beneath the aquamarine Atlantic Ocean.

The Florida Reef Tract extends over a total distance of 220 miles from Miami through the Florida Keys and farther west past Key West to the Dry Tortugas.

The National Florida Keys Marine Sanctuary programme of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration safeguards the significant and distinctive ecology that surrounds the reef.

Discovering the beauties of the reef and mangrove islands by snorkeling is simple, inexpensive, and enjoyable. You merely need to be a confident swimmer—that’s all.

So prepare to experience a whole new world in the waters of Greater Miami & Miami Beach by grabbing your fins, mask, and snorkel.

We’ve compiled a list of the top places for snorkeling in Miami. These places, whether in the city or close by, are all deserving of your attention and will help you have a trip you won’t soon forget.

Table of Contents

Safety Tips for Snorkeling

A snorkel, mask and fins are essential for any aspiring snorkeler, and a buoyancy compensator vest may also be useful for safety and floating.

Austin’s Dive Centre on U.S. 1 in Pinecrest provides all the gear you’ll need for a leisurely snorkeling session if you’re seeking to buy it while you’re in town. The cost of equipment might range from roughly $80 to $150.

Renting equipment is a fantastic choice if you’re not ready to make that kind of investment and perhaps just want to “test the waters.” Along with retail sales, South Beach Dive and Surf Centre also provide rentals.

Spend some time becoming comfortable with your equipment. To stop water from dripping in, make sure your mask has a tight seal around your eyes and nose.

Place the strap around the crown of your head after taking one deep breath through your nose to create a seal. The mask can be held in place with a loose strap.

While snorkeling, you will only breathe through your mouth. Make sure your lips are properly sealed by biting down on the snorkel’s bite tabs.

Keep in mind that the snorkel only functions if one end is above the water. Hold your breath if you intend to dive below! Your legs serve as your propellers, and your fins perform at their peak when your legs kick steadily and slowly underwater.

The undersea universe that is being shown to you makes it simple to lose focus. Make sure to pause sometimes so you may inspect your surroundings by sticking your head above the water.

Biscayne National Park

One of the most well-liked spots for snorkeling in Miami is Biscayne National Park . You cannot afford to miss this if you intend to participate in the sport.

These are a few of the snorkeling excursions that Biscayne National Park arranges. 

On a boat with just six passengers, snorkel along the Maritime Heritage Trail and take in the magnificent coral reefs, mangrove forests, shipwrecks, dolphins, and sea turtles.

For $10, you can rent snorkels, fins, and masks, or you can buy your gear. Enjoy the clean water while swimming among the bright and colourful marine life.

The adventure begins on a boat with 12 or fewer passengers, and passengers are then transported to one of two locations, one in the open ocean and the other on an island, depending on the weather and water conditions.

Observe the diverse marine life and mangroves that add to the experience’s enchantment. However, this is appropriate for both adults and kids who can swim well.

You may rent all the essential gear, including masks, snorkels, and fins, for $10, or you can bring your gear.

South Beach Dive and Surf

Since 1995, the full-day snorkeling tour has been offered at a 5-star facility in South Beach, the centre of Miami, from whence you must go to Key Biscayne, where the boat departs.

The location is ideal for diving training as well as snorkeling. Investigate the coral reefs at John Pennekamp State Park while diving in Miami’s crystal-clear seas. Although it is recommended that you bring your diving gear, there are places where you may rent it if you forget.

As a result of their proximity to several lodging options and dining establishments with rates ranging from $20 to more than $500 per night, they appeal to both locals and visitors.

Tarpoon Lagoon Dive Center

One of the first places for snorkeling in Miami was Tarpoon Lagoon Dive Centre, which opened its doors in 1952. Visit the Tarpoon Lagoon Dive Shop if you want to acquire some incredible equipment and get some expert assistance.

They are well-known throughout the world and provide you with one of the best pieces of guidance that will make your snorkeling adventure exceptional.

They provide courses including Scuba Diver, Open Water Diver, Advanced Diver, Deep Diver, Wreck Diver, Drift Diver, Night Diver, Buoyancy Diver, and many more in addition to snorkeling.

Ocean Safari Diving Adventures

Ocean Safari provides the most thrilling snorkeling in Miami. On this half-day environmental trip, you can go to two distinct snorkelling locations, each of which boasts a wide variety of marine life and coral species.

You can locate two awesome places at Mackay and Undine Reef after travelling for 25 minutes. While snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef, you may view rainforests most of the time along the mainland shore.

Both hard and soft corals live there, along with other marine species. For individuals to enjoy the benefits of a small group and experience the tropical splendour, the Ocean Safari only accommodates a maximum of 25 passengers. The best snorkelling trips in Miami are available there.

Dry Tortugas National Park

The Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the ideal locations for skin diving and snorkeling because of its shallow seas. You don’t need to worry about your snorkeling gear because the park’s $15 per person entrance fee includes free fins, masks, and snorkels.

Regardless of your level of experience, once you leave the white sand beach and enter the water, you will be able to see a wide variety of vibrant fishes, sharks, parrotfish, angelfish, moray eels, etc. because the park has 67000 acres of undamaged and unharmed coral reefs and thus has more marine life than what is typically seen.

They also arrange night dives when you may witness animals like octopuses and basket starfish that may change how you view marine life. 

Pompano Beach Drop Off

Pompano Beach Drop Off, located north of Miami, is a one-of-a-kind experience that is well worth snorkeling in Miami. It is located about half a mile south of the Pompano Pier and is teeming with marine life.

The Drop Off is renowned for its world-class reef dives and wrecks, which feature a variety of coral types, sea whips, sponges, and more.

Because there are so many wreck dives in the Hillsboro Inlet, the locals refer to this notorious location as the “Wreck Capital” of Florida. This Drop Off spans 25 mooring buoys, including Copenhagen and the Nursery, and is more than one mile long.

The Copenhagen Archaeological Preserve can be found on one end of the reef, probably around the fourth buoy, while ledges and undercut holes can be found on the opposite end. The Pompano Beach Drop-Off is approximately 350 yards from the shoreline and has a depth of 15 to 26 feet.

Devil’s Den

Devil’s Den Spring is the spot to go if you want an unusual snorkeling experience when visiting Southern Florida.

This privately owned snorkeling and scuba diving operation has been a key draw for visitors looking for the ultimate snorkeling trip because it is a pre-historic location with fossil beds over thirty-three million years old.

Devil’s Den Spring has crystal clear water in a blue spring that is preserved at 72 degrees year-round, as well as ancient rock formations coated with stalactites.

This institution does not require prior snorkeling experience, although all snorkeling sessions last longer than 90 minutes, and all visits must be scheduled in advance. Devil’s Den Spring requests that you bring your equipment or rent it from the place for a fee.

West Palm Beach

The third-largest reef system in the world, containing corals, limestone structures, shipwrecks, and other things, is located about 72.4 miles from Miami. Additionally, you will get to see and enjoy the colourful marine flora and fauna, which will make you feel tranquil and at peace.

The top snorkeling spots include Red Reef Park in Boca Raton, Coral Cove Park in Jupiter, John D. MacArthur Beach State Park, and Phil Foster Park in Rivera Beach, which has an 800-foot-long artificial reef and more than 600 boulders.

Other popular snorkelling spots include the Underwater Snorkel Trail, where you can see sea turtles and manatees.

You can also go to Peanut Island, where you can find a snorkeling lagoon that both kids and adults like to use. Coral Cove Park in Jupiter and Gulfstream Park are two nearby beaches that are a little further removed from the congested region.

Hollywood North Beach Park

Hollywood North Beach Park is located in Fort Lauderdale and is available to the public it is one of the best spots for snorkeling in Miami. It is accessible via A1A on Sheridan Street.

This area is between 13 and 20 feet deep and may be reached by swimming out from the lifeguard tower close to the beach’s entrance. It is located around 175 yards from the shore.

Tarpon, barracudas, snook, nurse sharks, and a variety of vibrant tropical fish are among the marine life that calls this location home and contribute to the stunning scenery.

The majority of this marine life is found on ledges that range in height from 2 to 4 feet and are separated by sand patches in between.

Vista Park Reef

The Vista Park Reef, which is 35.4 miles from Miami, offers you the chance to dive into the water and discover the secrets of the ocean’s bottom, which is teeming with corals, a wide variety of marine life, and many other lovely and colourful things that just might alter your perception of all marine life.

In addition to being the centre for snorkelers, there are various locations where you may go and laze on the beach for days. Additionally, snappers, lobster, angelfish, nurse sharks, and many more are likely to be there.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the country’s first underwater park, is renowned for its nearly 70 nautical miles of coral reefs and marine life.

The Upper Keys of Key Largo are home to this state park, which has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1972. John D. Pennekamp, an advocate for the preservation of the Everglades, gave it its name; it has been operational since 1963.

This park made the list because of the excellent experience it provides. You will receive instruction before you start snorkeling independently, following which you can decide whether to venture out on your own or shell out extra money for a guided snorkeling excursion.

This trip will take you about two and a half hours total, with the instruction taking about an hour and a half of that time. This gives you plenty of time to explore the reefs and take in the fascinating marine life that this sanctuary has to offer.

Snorkeling in Miami will be the best experience you’ll ever have. Scuba diving, surfing, and other activities that let you feel the tranquil waters are also available for your enjoyment.

This is something you must experience, whether you are travelling alone, with friends or family, or both. Experience something that will stick with you for the rest of your life.

TARPOON LAGOON DIVING CENTER EST 1952  

300 alton rd suite 110 miami beach florida mon-fri 10am - 6pm     sat-sun 8am-6pm 305-532-1445.

Thank you to all our amazing divers, snorkelers, and friends for your support! Here's to many more years together!

Celebrating 70 years in business.

Come explore the ocean with Miami's  most experienced PADI 5-Star dive center.  Est. 1952

We offer scuba diving for all levels - from beginner all the way to pro. never been diving before try the 1-day discover scuba diving experience. want to get dive certified our 2-day open water course is what you want. already certified and ready for the next level gain new skills through the advanced open water and various specialty courses..

"Took my Open Water class here. They were great the whole way though. Great customer service. Swapped out stuff when it misfit during use for my classmate. Made a guy from a landlocked state feel right at home on the boat and 30 ft under water. Look forward to doing more dives with this center!"

We are a full service dive shop. We offer air fills, tank, BCD, and regulator servicing in store.

In need of some new gear stop in and let one of our experienced dive staff help you get properly fitted and find all your gear needs., visit our online shop..