Diving in Jacksonville offers a range of underwater experiences, from beginner-friendly reefs to advanced deep wrecks. The warm Gulf Stream currents bring clear water and diverse marine life, including sea turtles, rays and vibrant fish species. Most reefs near Jacksonville are artificial, featuring man-made structures like sunken ships, concrete and bridge rubble. These reefs attract a rich variety of marine life, creating thriving ecosystems for divers to explore.
One of the most popular sites is the Anna Cecilia, a 185 foot wreck that sits in 70-90 feet of water. The wreck attracts rich marine life including barracuda, grouper and amberjack tuna and offers great opportunities for underwater photography and exploration.
The best time to dive in Jacksonville is during the warmer months from May to September. During this period, water temperatures range from 75 to 85 degrees and visibility is typically better due to calmer seas and favorable Gulf Stream currents. Summer months also bring an abundance of marine life, making it ideal for underwater sightings.
Hurricane season (June to November) can affect dive conditions so it is important to monitor the weather.
To dive in Jacksonville, you can fly into Jacksonville International Airport (JAX), which is about 20-30 minutes from the city center. From there, dive charters operate out of several marinas, such as Mayport or St. Augustine, which are accessible by car. Rental cars are widely available at the airport for convenient travel to dive shops and charter locations. Many dive operators offer full-day or half-day trips, often launching from Jacksonville Beach or nearby areas. For offshore dives, boats typically take 1-2 hours to reach popular sites.
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