Fact is there is there are no bad places to Scuba dive and snorkel in Florida. Florida not only represents the largest recreational diving in the United States, but it also provides a great, well rounded Florida vacation.
Florida Seasons and How They Affect Scuba Diving and Snorkeling
The four seasons of the year are distinct for divers of all types in Florida. The cooling and warming of Florida waters triggers seasonal fish migrations, manatee gatherings, and other natural sights of value to divers. In some northern areas (particularly in the Panhandle), winter almost closes down the business while elsewhere diving is unaffected.
Talk to dive shops and dive charter captains in the areas you are interested in diving for how seasonal weather might influence your dive trip.
Spring in Florida is March and April:
This is the time of the year when the water is warming in most of the state.
The winter winds are finally coming to a hault and the days are easier.
Summer in Florida is May through August:
The surface water temperatures are stable at their summer high, and the daily cycle of calm with a brief afternoon shower is what you should expect. To give you an example you could be out on a boat going at a good speed wacth yourself go in and out of a rain storm. To tell you the truth it is something you have got to see for yourself. Spring and Summer are nature’s gift to divers. The weather is almost always the way you just need it to be.
Fall in Florida is from September through November :
In these months, the water is cooling and fish are migrating. Hurricanes and tropical storms require divers to make their plans flexible, and to have alternative schedules in the event of bad weather. In some areas, the cooling of the water diminishes algae and coral spawning which in turn leads to clearer water.
Winter in Florida is December through March:
These are chilly months but the diving is outstanding when the weather is fair. The fish seem to be more active. During the winter months, you should consider diving in a fresh water spring, a manatee tour, or even snorkeling with a manatee.
Every season has it’s own virtues and vices, but these generalizations will be helpful for making plans if you are unfamiliar with the state.
Diving With Dolphins In Florida
Dolphin diving is in full swing year around in Florida. Frequently these dives are lomg trips and venture towards the Bahamas, but some are local half day trips,
such as those in the Keys. There are some facilities which house sick and debilitated dolphins and offer limited human contact in cement pools at a high price, but the real
dolphin encounters happen in the open water where you can interact with healthy animals and observe their true behavior. These wild dolphin encounters often take place over world class coral reefs, providing a splendid back drop to one of the most memorable dives you will ever experience.
