Scuba Diving and Snorkeling in Miami 2025

You'll be amazed by the variety of diving sites and their unspeakable beauty

Best time: May–August

The beautiful, pristine beaches of Miami attract people from all over the globe, and the aqua-blue clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean open its treasures and wonders to all visitors. Snorkeling is an easy and affordable way to discover the underwater world. If you are a confident swimmer, grab your fins, mask, and enjoy a whole new world. Drift Diving, also called "Valet Diving" is one more activity which is getting extremely popular. Most of Miami's reefs are shallow, about 4.5 – 9 metres deep. This fact makes them perfect for beginners. The plentiful coral and sponges provide great conditions for various types of tropical fish. Larger fish, dolphins, sea turtles, lobsters, and even nurse sharks can be seen here as well. The best sites for snorkelling and diving are Half Moon and Emerald Reef, Rainbow Reef, RJ's Ledge, and Keith’s Canyon. Scuba diving and snorkeling in Pompano Beach offers great reef and wreck dive sites as well. Miami also has a wonderful collection of artificial wrecks and dive sites that usually attract visitors. Check out shallow wrecks like the Belzona and the Belcher Barge, as well as some deeper wrecks like Princess Britney, the Ophelia Brian, and the Tacoma.

Practical info

When is the best time to go scuba diving and snorkeling in Miami?

Miami offers excellent diving and snorkeling opportunities, with the best time being between May and August. During these months, the waters are warmer, visibility is better, and it's easier to spot marine life. However, it is recommended to check weather and ocean conditions before diving. Hurricanes can cause challenging conditions. It's always better to be safe than sorry when exploring the beautiful waters of Miami.

Where are the best snorkeling and diving sites in Miami?

There are several diving and snorkeling sites in Miami. Rainbow Reef, RJ's Ledge, Keith’s Canyon, and Half Moon and Emerald Reef are among the most popular. Wreck diving is famous on Pompano Beach, such as the Belzona, Belcher Barge (shallow wrecks), and Tacoma, Ophelia Brian, and Princess Britney (deeper wrecks). Every year, more sites are sinking to give guests an enhanced diving experience.

What types of fish and sea creatures can be seen when snorkeling or diving in Miami?

Miami is home to various tropical fish species, making it the perfect destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. Divers can spot angelfish, parrotfish, grunts, sailfish, and barracudas in the coral reefs. Sharks, sea turtles, dolphins, and lobsters are also common in these waters. The marine life thrives in the area, creating a vibrant underwater ecosystem that divers can explore.

Are there any artificial wrecks or dive sites worth visiting in Miami?

Miami has some of the best man-made wrecks and dive sites, attracting snorkeling and diving enthusiasts from all over the world. The Belcher Barge, Miami Beach Wreck Trek (11 wrecks), and Belzona are popular shallow wrecks. The Princess Britney, Ophelia Brian, and Tacoma are some of the deeper wrecks that attract more experienced divers. These sites provide a unique and exciting experience, allowing divers to explore Miami's magnificent marine life.

Are there any specific safety measures that need to be followed when scuba diving or snorkeling in Miami?

Visitors should always check the waves, weather patterns, and currents before diving or snorkeling in Miami. Diving should only be done under the supervision of a qualified instructor. Safety jackets and air tanks must be used when scuba diving. Additionally, it is recommended to dive in groups and avoid touching the marine life to prevent accidents. Following these guidelines can ensure a safe and memorable experience of Miami’s underwater world.