Florida is a top destination for diving. Blue Heron Bridge is the best place in Florida to dive. The state also has the largest artificial reef on the planet. If you really want to get the most out of your Florida diving trip, the USS Spiegel Grove or the USS Oriskany are the best places. You can also go diving around the Blue Heron Bridge. It is one of the most iconic bridges in the world.
Blue Heron Bridge, the most popular spot in Florida for scubadiving, is located
There are many great places to scuba dive in Florida. But the Blue Heron Bridge stands out as one of the best. If you own a boat, or feel comfortable with taking a boat, you can dive from the bridge. The bridge features a boat ramp on one side and a sandy beach on the other. The southwestern side of the bridge is where you can access the water the easiest. You can park free of charge, but parking is limited and best reserved for first-come, top-served. Be aware that weekends and holidays are crowded.
The USS Spiegel Grove is an absolute must-dive.
The USS Spiegel Grove was used as a Navy supply boat during the Gulf War. It sank off Key Largo (Florida) in September 1991. Today, it is a famous Florida dive spot. The ship once weighed over nine thousand tons, but the sinking event caused it to flip over and become an artificial reef. Fortunately, Hurricane Dennis helped to right it.
The USS Oriskany is the largest artificial reef in the world
The USS Oriskany has the distinction of being the world's largest artificial coral reef and one of the most popular attractions for divers in Florida. The ship was damaged in Hurricane Gustav 2008 and is now located on Florida’s Gulf Coast. After being salvaged, it was made into a reef. The USS Oriskany measures 900 feet in length and 145 feet in width, making it the largest artificial reef for scuba divers. Although the reef has yet to be inhabited, it's becoming a popular destination among scuba divers. Mola molas frequent the ship’s bow. Whale sharks and manta rays have been seen, while octopus can be found hiding in its crevices.
The number of wrecks that can be found in this area is staggering
Divers from around the world are flocking to the state to experience the varied marine life at these wrecks, including a variety of tropical species. The wrecks are frequented by schools of baitfish, as well as a resident Jewfish named Elvis. They are also surrounded by sponges, soft coral, and hard coral. All these elements contribute to diverse marine life on these wrecks. This information can be used by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles as a guide for policy and education.
How to get to a dive spot
Florida scuba diving can be described as a world-class sport. The state has a rich history and a growing tourism industry. You don't need to be from Florida to reach a dive spot. A car is necessary if you are planning to visit the state. Cars are the best way to travel from Tampa, St. Petersburg to Sarasota and Venice.