Freediver’s Guide: Broward County
Freediver’s Guide: Broward County
Broward County, home to Fort Lauderdale, Deerfield Beach, Pompano Beach, and Dania Beach, offers some of the best freediving experiences in Florida. Whether you’re seeking offshore dives, vibrant reefs, shipwrecks, or shore adventures, this region provides it all. From natural wonders to artificial reefs, the opportunities here are endless.
Offshore Adventures: Wrecks, Reefs, and the Gulf Stream
Broward County boasts two major inlets—Hillsboro Inlet and Port Everglades—offering quick access to world-class offshore sites. Just minutes from these inlets, freedivers can explore a variety of natural and artificial reefs, shipwrecks, and the open waters of the Gulf Stream. With charters available year-round, there’s always something to discover. Offshore dive sites include:
- Copenhagen Shipwreck: 15-30’
- Nursery Reef: 15-30’
- Okinawa Shipwreck: 35-70’
- Lady Luck Shipwreck: 60-130’
- Ancient Mariner Shipwreck: 50-70’
- Crab Cove Reef: 45-65’
- Grouper Bend Reef: 45-75’
With depths ranging from 10 feet to over 100 feet, Broward County accommodates freedivers of all skill levels. The Gulf Stream’s proximity provides unmatched depth opportunities and helps maintain clear visibility, often exceeding 60 feet on calm days.
Dixie Divers Freedive Friday and Custom Trips
Local dive shops, such as Dixie Divers, offer specialized trips for freedivers, including Freedive Friday line diving sessions. Additionally, they run custom freediving trips on request. If you have at least two certified freedivers, along with a float and line, you can explore some of the area’s top sites with their experienced guides.
Prices for charters vary between $60-$200, depending on the destination and trip length. These trips are perfect for freedivers looking to explore deeper waters or train with other enthusiasts.
Marine Life and Conditions
Broward County’s underwater world is teeming with turtles, reef fish, lobster, sharks, Goliath Grouper, and more. With both hard and soft coral formations scattered across the reefs, the area is ideal for photography and marine life observation.
While spearfishing is permitted, heavy boat traffic and fishing pressure can make hunting more challenging. It’s essential to respect the marine ecosystem and follow local regulations.
The Bahamas lying east of Broward County help reduce wave heights, making conditions calmer compared to other areas. However, currents can be strong due to the Gulf Stream, so plan your dives accordingly. Summer typically offers the most favorable conditions.
Accessibility and Safety Tips
While some sites like Lauderdale-by-the-Sea offer great shore dives, many of Broward’s best freediving spots are boat-accessible. With two major inlets and plenty of dive operators, finding a charter is easy.
Keep in mind that weekends often bring heavy boat traffic, so a highly visible dive flag is a must. Parking can also be a challenge at some launch points, so plan ahead.
Conclusion
With its diverse marine life, shore and offshore options, and world-class dive sites, Broward County offers something for every freediver. From Wahoo Bay’s new eco-park to world-famous Shipwreck Park in Pompano Beach, there’s always a new adventure waiting just beneath the surface.
Broward County is perfect for depth training, underwater photography, and spearfishing—as long as you plan your dives carefully to avoid traffic and unfavorable conditions. For the best experience, book a charter or join a trip like Freedive Friday with Dixie Divers!
Pro Tip
Before diving, always check for local updates on hazards, water quality, and closures. Respect the environment, and leave the ocean better than you found it. Shipwreck Park!
***We strongly advise that before diving any location, you check for the most recent updates on potential hazards, security, water quality, and closures. If you do plan to visit, respect the environment.