Diving in Gulf of Mexico
Quick Facts
- • Entry types: Mostly shore entries
- • Expect: Varies by conditions visibility
- • Highlights: Discover Gulf of Mexico's dive spots
Explore the underwater wonders of Gulf of Mexico, sea. This region features 59 documented dive spots, each offering unique underwater experiences. Whether you're seeking calm snorkeling bays, challenging freediving depths, or exciting scuba adventures, Gulf of Mexico has something for every underwater explorer. Browse detailed spot information, check current conditions from recent dive logs, and connect with the local diving community to make the most of your visit.
Regional Context
🏛️ Marine Hierarchy
🌍 Associated Countries
Countries in Gulf of Mexico (3)
Popular Spots in Gulf of Mexico (59)
116 ft Barge St Petersburg
The 116 ft Barge in St. Petersburg is a submerged wreck that features various marine growth and has openings suitable for penetration. Divers may encounter Goliath Grouper, Gag Grouper, snapper, and Jacks around the structure. Additionally, sightings of nurse sharks and mantis shrimp can occur in the sandy areas adjacent to the wreck. This site is accessible via shore entry.
12 Foot Ledge
The 12 Foot Ledge is an artificial reef that rises 12 feet along a ridge extending for approximately 1 mile. Located at GPS coordinates 27.625700, -83.048500, the site has a maximum depth of 60 feet. Divers can easily navigate the area by following the wall, which is home to a variety of corals and a rich diversity of marine life. This site is suitable for beginner divers, although visibility can vary.
Avocet Dredge (Wreck)
The Avocet Dredge is a 250-foot (75 meters) long wreck that was intentionally sunk in 1991 to create an artificial reef, located approximately 21 miles southeast of Pensacola Pass. The wreck lies at depths ranging from 27 to 39 meters. Over time, hurricanes have caused significant damage, resulting in the upper structure being torn off and scattered around the site. The proximity of the Avocet to the Edge attracts various large pelagic fish species, including wahoo, dolphin, and tuna, making it a notable dive site for observing these marine animals.
Betty Rose
Betty Rose, also known as Mecco’s Barge, is a 75-foot barge located at a depth of 45 feet. The site is positioned approximately 11 miles from John’s Pass on a heading of 250 degrees, with coordinates at 27.710100, -82.971100. This dive site is accessible from the shore and is suitable for beginner divers. Visibility can often be limited, but the dive itself is straightforward and does not require a lengthy trip.
Blackthorn (Wreck)
The Blackthorn is a 180-foot seagoing buoy tender that is part of the Pinellas County Artificial Reef Program, designated as Pinellas #2 Reef. In 1980, it was involved in a collision with the Capricorn near the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, resulting in the loss of 23 crew members. Following an investigation, the vessel was scuttled. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of Caribbean reef fish species, including triggerfish, angelfish, snapper, pufferfish, damselfish, and moray eels while exploring the wreck.
Bridge Span 1
Bridge Span 1 is part of the Hathaway Bridge, which was constructed in 1929. This site features one of the 14 spans that were submerged in April-May 1988, with Span #1 being placed on April 29, 1988. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life typical of the Gulf of Mexico, including species such as stingrays, snapper, triggerfish, and hogfish. Additionally, there is a possibility of sighting sandbar, blacknose, and bonnethead sharks. The entry to this dive site is from the shore.
Bridge Span 12
Bridge Span 12 is part of the Hathaway Bridge, which was constructed in 1929. The spans, originally connecting Panama City to Panama City Beach, were intentionally sunk in 1988 to create an artificial reef. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of Gulf of Mexico fish species, including stingrays, snapper, triggerfish, and hogfish. Additionally, sightings of sandbar, blacknose, and bonnethead sharks are possible. The site is accessible from the shore, providing a convenient entry point for divers.
Bridge Span 14
Bridge Span 14 is part of the Hathaway Bridge, originally constructed in 1929, with spans that connected Panama City to Panama City Beach. In 1988, the 14 spans were submerged, creating an artificial reef. This site is the most frequently dived location in the area. Divers can expect to encounter various species typical of the Gulf of Mexico, including stingrays, snapper, triggerfish, and hogfish. Additionally, sightings of sandbar, blacknose, and bonnethead sharks are possible.
C-50 Rivapalacios (Wreck)
The C-50 Rivapalacios is a decommissioned naval vessel from World War II, located off the coast of Isla Verde. It was intentionally sunk in 2000 to serve as an artificial reef. The wreck, measuring 180 feet in length, is positioned upright at a depth of approximately 90 feet. This site is designated for advanced divers due to its depth and potential conditions. The wreck is inhabited by a diverse array of reef fish, including longnose batfish, and features a variety of colorful corals and sponges.
Casperson Beach
Caspersen Beach in Venice, FL — the “Shark Tooth Capital of the World” — is a fossil hunter’s paradise. Its shell-rich, natural shoreline hides millions of ancient shark teeth, from tiny black gems to rare Megalodon finds. Search along the surf with a sifter, or take it up a notch by diving just offshore, where even bigger treasures await in the sandy bottom.
Catedrales
Catedrales is located near Isla Verde in the Veracruz region of Mexico. This dive site features sub-tropical waters that host a variety of colorful fish species. Divers can explore unique rock formations and observe a diverse marine ecosystem. Commonly seen species include stingrays, snapper, triggerfish, and hogfish, along with the possibility of encountering sandbar, blacknose, and bonnethead sharks. This site is accessible only by boat.
Chevron Oil Rig
The Chevron Oil Rig is an artificial reef created from two platform jackets that were deployed in 1993 as part of the 'Rigs to Reefs' initiative. The dive site has depths ranging from 80 to 137 feet. Located at GPS coordinates 30.046000, -87.251900, it is accessible by boat. The open structure of the rig attracts a diverse array of marine life, making it a favored location for spearfishing and lobster gathering.
Circle of Heroes at Veteran’s Reef
The Circle of Heroes at Veteran’s Reef is an underwater memorial dedicated to U.S. service members, featuring a formation of twelve concrete figures positioned at a depth of 40 feet. This unique dive site allows divers to observe various species typical of the Gulf of Mexico, including stingrays, snapper, triggerfish, hogfish, and potentially sandbar, blacknose, and bonnethead sharks. The site is accessible via shore entry, making it convenient for divers to explore this significant artificial reef.
Circle of Heroes Memorial
The Circle of Heroes Memorial is an underwater military veterans memorial located 10 miles from Dunedin Beach, Florida, in the Gulf of Mexico. This site features 12 statues, each standing 6 feet tall, positioned at a depth of 40 feet. It was dedicated on August 5, 2019, and serves as the first underwater veterans memorial. Divers can expect to encounter various species typical of the Gulf of Mexico, including stingrays, snapper, triggerfish, hogfish, and potentially sandbar, blacknose, and bonnethead sharks.
Dedos
Dedos is an ocean dive site located off the eastern coast of Mexico, near Isla de Lobos. It accommodates both beginner and advanced divers, with most dives occurring at depths not exceeding 60 feet (18 meters). Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life typical of the Gulf of Mexico, including species such as stingrays, snapper, triggerfish, hogfish, and potentially sandbar, blacknose, and bonnethead sharks.
Destin East Jetty
Destin East Jetty is a shore dive located at the coordinates 30.383400, -86.515700. This site features jetties on both the east and west sides of the pass, with the east side being the primary area for diving activities. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life typical of the Caribbean, including species such as damsels, grunts, and snapper. It is important to note that jellyfish can be prevalent in this area, so wearing appropriate exposure protection is recommended.
Dolphin Reef
is a purpose-built artificial snorkel reef sculpted into the shape of a dolphin. It’s part of a series of marine-shaped snorkel reefs installed along Florida’s scenic 30A corridor.
Dry Tortugas
The Dry Tortugas dive site is accessible exclusively by boat, requiring a journey of over two hours. The depths at this location range from 10 feet to 65 feet, featuring both reef and wreck areas. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including tropical fish, game fish, turtles, sharks, rays, and colorful reef fish.
Dunedin Reef
Dunedin Reef features a diverse underwater landscape with concrete culverts and pilings located in the northern section. The southern area is characterized by concrete pyramids that contain openings. The dive site reaches a depth of approximately 30 feet. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of smaller fish throughout the reef. A dive light is advisable for exploring the interiors of the culverts.
Grouper Reef
Grouper Reef—also known as the Cobia Reef—is a purpose-built artificial snorkel reef sculpted into the shape of a popular sport fish. It’s part of a series of marine-shaped snorkel reefs installed along Florida’s scenic 30A corridor.
Joe Patti Memorial Reef (Wreck)
The Joe Patti Memorial Reef is a 175-foot long, 40-foot wide, and 10-foot deep barge that was intentionally sunk in July 2013. It features various steel structures welded to its deck, creating an artificial reef environment. This site is located at coordinates 30.288900, -87.229200 and is accessible via shore entry. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life typical of the Gulf of Mexico, including species such as stingrays, snapper, triggerfish, and hogfish. Additionally, there is a possibility of spotting sandbar, blacknose, and bonnethead sharks in the area.
Kraken Wreck
The Kraken Wreck is situated 58 nautical miles from Galveston, Texas, in the Gulf of Mexico. This 371-foot cargo vessel was intentionally sunk on January 20, 2017, as part of the Ship-to-Reef program by Texas Parks and Wildlife. The designated reef site, known as HI-A-424, spans an area of 80 acres, providing ample space for exploration around the wreck. The Kraken contributes to the existing network of artificial reefs in the Gulf and is located near NOAA's Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary. Divers can expect to encounter various marine life typical of artificial reefs in this region.
LSM Barge 1
LSM Barge 1 is a WWII Navy Landing Ship Module located at GPS coordinates 27.857400, -83.030600. This wreck, also referred to as LSM 1 or the Cable Wreck, was deployed in 1976 and rests at a depth of 235 feet. It is situated off the southern end of the Indian Shores Artificial Reef. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including King and Spanish mackerel, goliath groupers, barracuda, and blacktip sharks. The site is accessible via shore entry.
Mac’s Reef Oil Platform
Mac's Reef Oil Platform is an artificial reef structure located at depths ranging from 70 to 100 feet. The platform consists of three levels, providing a habitat for a variety of marine life. The site experiences mild currents, which, combined with its depth, makes it suitable for advanced divers. Entry to the site is by boat.
Nestle Ledge
Nestle Ledge is a shallow dive site located just offshore from the Tampa area, characterized by minimal current and a healthy Gulf reef ecosystem. This site is suitable for divers of all experience levels. Marine life commonly observed includes various species typical of the Gulf of Mexico, such as stingrays, snapper, triggerfish, hogfish, and occasionally sandbar, blacknose, and bonnethead sharks.
New Venture
New Venture is a 250-foot surveying vessel situated approximately 20 miles south of Orange Beach, resting in 120 feet of water. The wreck's upper structure is located between 55 and 60 feet below the surface, making it an accessible dive for those interested in exploring a large, intact wreck. The vessel features large cutouts on its sides, facilitating easy exits for divers. Marine life commonly observed at this site includes blacktip sharks, tuna, amberjack, Gulf flounder, red and black drum, bluefish, red snapper, grouper, and spadefish, along with various crustaceans. Whale sharks may also be spotted on rare occasions.
Ocean Wind Tug (Wreck)
The Ocean Wind Tug is a wreck dive located at a depth ranging from 55 to 82 feet. This 87-foot long tugboat was intentionally sunk in January 2016 and is positioned just east of the Russian Freighter within Escambia County's artificial reef zone. The wreck remains upright and fully intact, providing a unique dive experience. Divers can explore the structure and observe the marine life that has begun to inhabit the site. Entry to the dive site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers looking to explore this relatively new addition to the local dive scene.
Pete Tide II (Wreck)
The Pete Tide II is a 180-foot oil field supply vessel that was intentionally sunk in 1993 to serve as an artificial reef. The wreck is located at a GPS coordinate of 30.146000° N latitude and 87.233700° W longitude. The pilot house is situated at a depth of approximately 60 feet, while the maximum depth reaches around 100 feet. This well-preserved wreck is often surrounded by a diverse range of marine life, making it an interesting dive site for underwater exploration.
Port Aransas Jetty South
Port Aransas Jetty South offers a shore entry over large boulders. Divers should take into account the incoming and outgoing tides, as they can affect conditions. The visibility at this site can vary significantly due to tides and weather, often ranging from fair to poor. The sandy bottom is typically found around a depth of 20 feet, though this can fluctuate with tidal changes. Marine life includes occasional sightings of sea turtles and small fish that inhabit the rocky areas. Additionally, dolphins may be observed in the nearby boat channel.
Rube Allyn Reef
Rube Allyn Reef consists of a 35-foot barge constructed from 600 tons of concrete sourced from the demolition of the Old Clearwater Pass Bridge, along with culverts and light poles. The site features several tall pyramid structures, notably 'Twin Peaks,' which reaches depths of approximately 80 feet. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life typical of the Gulf of Mexico, including species such as stingrays, snapper, triggerfish, hogfish, and potentially sandbar, blacknose, and bonnethead sharks.
Saint Andrew’s State Park
Saint Andrew’s State Park offers a convenient shore diving experience with direct access from the parking area. A $5 fee is required for park entry, and divers can utilize available facilities. The site is known for its diverse marine life, including common sightings of parrotfish, barracuda, and sergeant majors. Occasionally, divers may encounter manatees. It is advisable to arrive early on weekends due to potential crowds.
San Pablo Russian Freighter (Wreck)
The San Pablo Russian Freighter wreck lies at a depth of 60 to 80 feet. This site, often referred to as 'The Russian Freighter,' has an intriguing history, as the vessel was actually a fruit transport ship rather than a freighter from Russia. It was sunk in August 1944 by the US Military using a classified experimental weapon system, which was deployed via a radio-controlled explosive device. Divers can explore the remains of the ship, which provide a unique opportunity to observe marine life that has made the wreck its home. Entry to the site is by boat.
Sand dollar Reef
is a purpose-built artificial snorkel reef sculpted into the shape of a sand Dollar. It’s part of a series of marine-shaped snorkel reefs installed along Florida’s scenic 30A corridor.
Sea Turtle Reef
is a purpose-built artificial snorkel reef sculpted into the shape of a sea turtle. It’s part of a series of marine-shaped snorkel reefs installed along Florida’s scenic 30A corridor.
Seahorse Reef
is a purpose-built artificial snorkel reef sculpted into the shape of a seahorse. It’s part of a series of marine-shaped snorkel reefs installed along Florida’s scenic 30A corridor.
SeaTurtle Reef
is a purpose-built artificial snorkel reef sculpted into the shape of a sea turtle. It’s part of a series of marine-shaped snorkel reefs installed along Florida’s scenic 30A corridor.
Sheridan (Wreck)
The Sheridan is a 180-foot ocean-going tug located at a depth of 85 feet, part of the Pinellas County Artificial Reef Program. The wreck is positioned upright, with the wheelhouse rising to approximately 50 feet. Divers can expect to encounter various marine life, including Goliath grouper, barracuda, snapper, and other Gulf fish species.
Shirley Brown (Wreck)
The Capt. Shirley Brown Memorial Reef is located at coordinates 30.233000, -87.623700, approximately 13 nautical miles south of Perdido Pass. The wreck lies at a depth of 85 feet (25 meters), with its top deck situated around 75 feet (22 meters) from the surface. This site was the second vessel deployed by the Alabama Gulf Coast Reef & Restoration Foundation, which has plans for further reef deployments in the future.
South Padre Island
South Padre Island features shore diving at the Jetties, accessible via Isla Blanca Park, which is managed by Cameron County Parks. Visitors should note that there is an entry fee for parking. Diving conditions can vary significantly, so it is advisable to check local tides and weather prior to diving. Visibility at this site typically averages 5 feet or less. Marine life commonly observed includes sheepshead, mangrove snapper, sergeant majors, damsels, octopi, sea urchins, stingrays, dolphins, and sea turtles.
Spanish Anchor
The Spanish Anchor is located at the southern end of Molasses Reef at a depth of 8 meters (25 feet). The site features a large coral-encrusted anchor from the 17th or 18th century, along with resident marine life such as sea turtles, southern stingrays, and nurse sharks. It is accessible for divers of all levels.
SR Access 2
SR Access 2 is located approximately 300 meters offshore and features an artificial reef composed of around 30 pillars. Each pillar consists of a central pipe topped with four stacked disks, providing a unique habitat that attracts a diverse range of marine life. Common species observed in this area include triggerfish, damselfish, angelfish, as well as various small gobies and blennies. Additionally, flounders can often be found resting in the sand nearby. This site is accessible via shore entry.
Stetson Bank, Flower Gardens
Stetson Bank is situated at the westernmost point of the sanctuary and is characterized as an oblong mid-shelf bank composed of uplifted siltstone and claystone. This site was incorporated into the sanctuary following the reauthorization of the National Marine Sanctuaries Act in 1996. The reef crest here is classified as a coral community, differing from a typical coral reef due to its northern location relative to the Flower Garden Banks. Divers can access this site by boat.
Table Top Ledge - Florida
Table Top Ledge, located approximately 16 miles from Clearwater Pass at coordinates 27.902500, -83.107900, offers divers a maximum depth of 60 to 65 feet. Visibility can vary significantly, typically ranging from poor to an average of 20 to 30 feet. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life, including grouper and turtles, along with other fish species commonly found in the Gulf of Mexico.
Tex Edwards Barge (Wreck)
The Tex Edwards Barge, a wreck located approximately 7 miles east of Pensacola Pass, rests at a depth of 65 to 75 feet. This site, which was sunk in 1982, has experienced some subsidence over the years, yet many large sections of the barge remain intact. The structure features several large overhangs, providing habitat for a diverse array of marine life. This site is accessible from the shore and is suitable for divers of all experience levels.
The Black Bart (Wreck)
The Black Bart is an offshore oilfield supply vessel that was intentionally sunk in 1993 off the coast of Panama City Beach to create an artificial reef. Divers can explore the intact wheelhouse at a depth of 40 feet, the deck at 66 feet, and the open cargo holds at 80 feet. This site is suitable for newer divers due to its accessible depths. Marine life around the wreck includes nurse and reef sharks, potential sightings of eagle rays, turtles, and various fish species such as snapper, angelfish, grunts, and grouper.
The Horseshoe
The Horseshoe is located at Mile Marker 35 on Big Pine Key. This site was previously an old quarry where coral was extracted for the construction of the Overseas Highway. The central area reaches a depth of approximately 30 feet (10 meters), where divers can find an ambulance and a small boat. This location is frequently utilized by divers and snorkelers, particularly during unfavorable sea conditions. Marine life commonly observed here includes spadefish, grouper, snapper, and grunts. Additionally, various coral species can be found on the western side of the site.
The LuLu (Wreck)
The LuLu is a 271-foot steel-hulled wreck, originally named Yokamu, that was purpose-sunk on May 26, 2013. It rests upright on a sandy bottom at a depth of 115 feet, with its wheelhouse accessible to recreational divers at approximately 60 feet. This site is home to a variety of marine life, including blacktip sharks, tuna, amberjack, Gulf flounder, red and black drum, bluefish, red snapper, grouper, and spadefish, along with various crustaceans.
Three Coal Barges
Three Coal Barges consists of several barges positioned end-to-end at a depth of approximately 50 feet. This site is located about 3 miles southeast of Pensacola Pass and is surrounded by a rubble field that provides a habitat for various marine species. Divers may encounter turtles and grouper among the rubble, contributing to the site's ecological diversity.
Tug Orange (Wreck)
The Tug Orange is an 80-foot steel-hulled tugboat located upright at a depth of 45 feet. It is part of the Pinellas County Artificial Reef Program and was originally constructed in 1903 for use in New York Harbor, primarily to push railroad barges. Divers can expect to encounter a variety of marine life typical of the Gulf of Mexico, including species such as stingrays, snapper, triggerfish, and hogfish. Additionally, there is a possibility of sighting sandbar, blacknose, and bonnethead sharks in the area.
USS Chickasaw
The USS Chickasaw is a steel-hulled tugboat constructed in 1908 in Pensacola, Florida. It measures 107 feet in length and has a beam of 20 feet. The wreck is located approximately three miles east of the St. Andrews entrance, resting at a depth of 70 feet near the SAB buoy, which is recognized by charter boats. The vessel's inner structure has deteriorated, leaving behind a skeletal framework that divers can explore. The engine compartment is accessible to trained divers, and the site is often populated by schools of baitfish, providing an interesting experience for underwater exploration.
USS Massachussets
The USS Massachusetts is a notable wreck dive located approximately 1.5 nautical miles south-southwest of Pensacola Pass. The wreck lies in a depth range of 26 to 30 feet (8 to 9 meters) within the Fort Pickens State Aquatic Preserve, which is managed by the Florida Department of Natural Resources. This site is accessible from the shore, making it convenient for divers. The wreck itself has a history of design flaws and was retired multiple times before being used for target practice in Pensacola Bay.
Uss Oriskany
The USS Oriskany is an artificial reef and one of the largest diveable aircraft carriers in the world. The wreck lies at a depth of 65 meters (212 feet) with the top of the carrier at 26 meters (84 feet). Expect to see a variety of marine life, including fish and corals, as well as the ship’s structure.
USS Oriskany Wreck, Pensacola, Florida
The USS Oriskany wreck is positioned upright on the seafloor, oriented from north to south with the bow directed towards the south. The wreck's highest point is located at approximately 30° 2.555' N latitude and 87° 0.397' W longitude. Divers should be aware that the site is situated at a considerable depth and is located a significant distance from shore, which may result in varying currents. It is essential for divers to possess the necessary training, equipment, fitness, and experience before attempting to dive at this location.
USS Strength (Wreck)
The USS Strength is a World War II-era minesweeper that participated in significant battles at Iwo Jima and Okinawa, enduring both a midget submarine attack and a kamikaze strike. The wreck is located at a depth of less than 80 feet, allowing divers to navigate between the two sections of the hull, where the bow has separated from the main body of the ship. This site serves as a training hulk for Navy salvage divers, previously used in Washington, D.C., and now in Panama City. The entry to the site is from the shore, making it accessible for divers looking to explore its historical significance and structural features.
USTS Texas Clipper TPWD Wreck, Texas
The USTS Texas Clipper is a 473-foot-long wreck that serves as an artificial reef, located approximately 17 miles from the coast of South Padre Island in about 136 feet of water. The wreck is positioned on its port side, with the top of the structure reaching around 70 feet below the surface. Divers can encounter various marine life, including barracuda, sharks, and lionfish, as well as the possibility of seeing dolphins during the boat trip to and from the site.
Wave Reef
is a purpose-built artificial snorkel reef sculpted into the shape of a wave. It’s part of a series of marine-shaped snorkel reefs installed along Florida’s scenic 30A corridor.
Whiskey (Wreck)
The Whiskey Wreck is situated approximately 150 yards offshore, directly south of the eastern end of a small beach house near the parking area. This 200-foot (60 meters) rum runner rests in depths ranging from 15 to 25 feet (4.5 to 7.5 meters) and spans an area of about 300 square yards. Night dives at this site can reveal marine life and features that are often overlooked during the day, providing a unique diving experience.
Windjammer Wreck
The Windjammer Wreck, located within the Dry Tortugas National Park, is the remains of the Norwegian iron-hulled three-masted ship, the Avanti. This wreck lies in approximately 5.5 meters (18 feet) of water off Loggerhead Key. The Avanti sank in 1907 after striking Loggerhead Reef. Divers can observe a variety of marine life around the wreck, including goliath groupers, reef sharks, nurse sharks, hammerhead sharks, and loggerhead turtles, along with a diverse array of fish species.
YDT-15 (Navy Dive Tender Wreck)
The YDT-15 is a US Navy dive tender wreck located at a depth of 75 to 100 feet. It was intentionally sunk in April 2000 to serve as an artificial reef and is positioned approximately 500 feet from its sister ship, YDT-14. Over time, the wreck has experienced significant subsidence, resulting in the loss of much of its roof and pilot house. However, substantial structural remnants and debris remain, providing habitat for a diverse array of marine life.