Shallow dives in Central Florida?

[bluebanded goby]

I know you all have had various threads here on diving recommendations in central Florida, but I wanted to put a particular spin on it and ask for ideas for the best shallow dives (about 33 ft and less).

The reason I ask is that I freedive much more than dive on scuba, and when traveling definitely prefer to keep off the heavy gear. I'm comfortable doing breath-hold diving in the 25-30-foot range. My work usually takes me to the Cocoa Beach area (flying in via Orlando). In the past I've taken time off to hit the Keys, and last week I tried Blue Spring State Park northeast of Orlando.

Given my particular slant, are other springs (Ginnie etc) worth trying? Or are there some near-shore shallow reefs in any sort of reasonable driving distance? Thanks in advance for any ideas.

 

[Dr. Jay]

Ginnie Springs would definately be a nice freediving spot. Be careful, as freedivers have died there in the past. You might want to check out Alexander Springs as well. It's only like 26 ft.

I don't know of any shallow reefs in the Central Florida area. So far, the best shallow reef I've seen (as of recent) is Looe Key in the Lower Keys. I'm sure there are more closer, but the only reefs other than Looe I've done are in West Palm and Boynton, all with a depth of 60+. I think there are some shallower in WPB but I can't remember the name.

 

[jviehe]

Theres some stuff within 30 ft around the sides and center. Troy springs is pretty deep, but you could possibly freedive some there.