Alternatives to reef/ledge shore dives?

[Likes2Cruise]

I an still a novice diver, so therefore not so jaded by all the wonderous sights of the pristine reefs and wrecks as not to appreciate the small things. As a matter of fact, I just want to get under the water and have a little something to look at besides sand.

A number of years ago, I used to snorkle over some grass beds at Howard Park beach and saw quite a bit of life. Unfortunately, from what I can remember, those grass beds never got too deep, so would not be sensible for a dive.

I was wondering if there are any other areas that migh have some extensive grass beds at depths of 15+ fsw? Just something to go swiming about it.

Thanks for any info

 

[GulfCoastdiver]

I would go to Spanish Rocks.
http://www.scubaboard.com/forums/3373863-post28.html

 

[DiveBandit]

The only way I know of to get into 15 feet of water worth snorkeling north of St. Pete/Clearwater is to be on a boat about 1/2 mile off shore. The further North you go the worse it gets. For example, at the end of the Hudson channel - a mile and a half or so off shore, your only in 6 to 8 feet of water.

If your looking for shallow beach dives you want to go south of the Skyway into Git-R-Done & Moteman's territory, those guys love the shore dive stuff. I'd PM them or wait till they see this thread.

 

[Likes2Cruise]

Been to Spanish Rocks - loved it, but was just looking for something closer and/or different.

Never realised that the depth change was that shallow north of St Pete.

Thanks for the input.

 

[K Mejean]

Narc is right. The only good shore dives are south. I know there is some snorkling off of Honeymoon island in Clearwater but I have never done it to give you info.

 

[jldodd]

I'm from the Fort Myers Area, is there any good shore diving (other than Venice Beach) between here and Bradenton?

 

[ScubaSnack]

LOL...I just dove howard park two days ago...I live 5 minutes from there....It's a great place if you like diving in 3 feet of water....LOL...........Today I snorkeled honeymoon Island trying to find deeper water.....8-12 feet....visibility about 8 inches....Over by the dog beach