Tampa/St. Pete's area diving - Best Places?

[Greg_Manko]

I'm going to be in Florida for a week some time in January/February and would love to get some warm water diving in - Here in Ontario, the water is a little hard at that time of year. I've never dove in FLA and would welcome any suggestions - what should I "not miss"?
Thanks,
Greg

 

[Maya]

Warm water diving in Jan/Feb means spring diving, in our area. Water temp is 72 degrees.

Weekiwachee Springs is located north of Tampa/St. Pete in Hernando County. It is a large freshwater 1st mag. spring with a good sized open water basin. Also an underwater mermaid show performed there...good vis.

Crystal River is a good place to swim (snorkle, no scuba) with the manatees..if you've never done that you should.

PM me if you want more info or phone number of lds...

Gulf diving that time of year is too cold for me...but maybe not for you...temp could be in the low 60's or so...depends on how mild our winter is...