New to Florida

[algal bloom]

Hi everyone,

I'm new to Florida and have been doing lots of research on beaches and where great places to dive are. I live in Coconut Creek and have been visiting Pompano just south of Atlantic Blvd. on weekends. After funds get under control from an expensive move, I'll be looking forward to doing some serious diving.

I have several questions that I'm sure have been answered before, but here goes. Are there any beaches around with free parking? Is there a "season pass" for any beaches parks. State parks sometimes have a season pass that allow you to get into any state park. Are there any good spots for plain ol' freediving from a shore entry?

I'm looking forward to diving with some of you in the future, but for now I'm just trying to learn the area.

Nathan

 

[Scuba_Jenny]

Hi Nathan
Welcome to the Conch Divers! We have a pretty active bunch down here in Broward County that beach dives. A beach dive will cost ya the parking meter (25¢/15 minutes) and an air fill...unless you dive with us...then add after dive refreshemnts and goodies! LOL
You can free dive just about anyplace off the beach. Get Ned DeLoach's book on Diving Florida, and "Beach Diving and Snorkeling Locations" available in most dive shops.

As far as free parking on the beach? I haven't ever heard of anyplace.

Good luck and welcome to paradise...oh and any dive that is posted here is an invitation for anybody to join.

 

[Scubaguy62]

Hi Nathan, and yes, welcome to So. FL and to SB. Although not originally from TX, I am a former San Antonio resident, have been back in FL for 10 yrs now.

Close to Pompano there is an excellent place off 12th street (about 1/2 mile south of Atlantic on A1A). The beach entrance is next to the Fairfield condominiums and there are 4 meters at the entrance. However, off 13th street there are some places by the end of 13th street (about 100 ft west of A1A) where you can park for free if you find space. Also, right next to the shops (no beach parking allowed, and they WILL tow your car) there is a grass field where you can park. No one ever checks that lot.

The trick is to off load and set up by the meters, and either park there or drive to the areas where you can free park and walk back to the beach. It's no big deal; I've done it several times, and that spot is great for shore diving also.

Semper Safe,

Rick