If you’re a scuba diving enthusiast, Pompano Beach, FL should top your diving bucket list. The area offers access to some of the best wreck dives in Florida, along with plentiful reefs rich in natural beauty and teeming with marine life. The best part is that the shipwrecks and reefs are close, so there’s less time riding and more time spent diving.
Whether you’re into deep-water adventures or prefer to stay near the surface, this coastal hotspot is packed with unforgettable diving and snorkeling experiences—let’s take a closer look at what makes it so extraordinary.
Why Pompano Beach Is a Diver’s Dream
“In the Broward County-Pompano Beach area, you’ve got 23 miles of coral reef that’s accessible within a half mile, which is unbelievable. You don’t have to travel five miles in the ocean to get to the reef; it’s right there,” explains Jeff Torode, owner of South Florida Diving Headquarters, who was instrumental in the sinking of the artificial reefs, Lady Luck and Okinawa in Shipwreck Park.
“In addition to that,” he continues, “we have around 60 shipwrecks in the Broward County area and [several others] in the Shipwreck Park area. There’s something for everyone, no matter what skill level or depth you want to dive, from 30 to 300 feet.” Shipwreck Park, in fact, features 18 wrecks, as officially promoted.
Another advantage of the reefs in Pompano Beach is that they are linear, which means they run north to south. “What we do is drop people on one end and then pick them up on the other end. You drift with the current, so there’s less swimming. We call it ‘valet diving,’” Torode mentions.
When you’re diving into a reef or a shipwreck, expect to have your mind blown by all the sea creatures and marine life. “You’re going to see everything you see in the Caribbean,” he adds. “There’s so much diversity.”
Best Wreck Dives: Shipwreck Park
Pompano Beach has earned the title “Wreck Capital of Florida” thanks to its variety of shipwrecks. Shipwreck Park is a not-for-profit organization establishing artificial reefs to take pressure off the reefs and raise awareness of reef preservation and conservation. Check out three of the most notable sites, perfect for those exploring scuba diving wrecks in Florida.
SS Copenhagen
If you want to explore one of Florida’s best scuba diving wrecks with a rich history, check out the SS Copenhagen, located on a reef south of the Hillsboro Inlet. The steamship carrying coal wrecked in 1900 while traveling from Pennsylvania to Havana when the captain got too close to the reef and ran aground. The shipwreck is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and it’s an underwater haven for divers and snorkelers.
“Since it’s broken up on the edge of the reef, you get the best of both worlds, a shipwreck, and the reef,” says Torode. “It’s shallow enough that you can snorkel it.” While most of the coal has been removed from the wreck, storms often uncover cool stuff left behind. You never know what marine life you may spot, from tropical fish to eagle rays and even huge surprises. “We saw a hammerhead the other day,” he recalls.
Lady Luck
The Lady Luck, which rests at a depth of 126 feet about one mile southeast of the Hillsboro Inlet, is one of South Florida’s largest artificial reefs, with a unique backstory and ever-changing artwork. Ironically, the tanker was part of a New York fleet that moved sludge from sewer plants. “Now its path has turned, and it’s creating environmental habitats,” Torode mentions.
Divers are treated to a sort of underwater art museum, as art is added to the ship each year. Look for an octopus casino dealer, a robot in a dive helmet, a treasure chest, seahorses, and more. Also, keep an eye out for incredible marine life like hulking goliath grouper, bull sharks, and even sailfish.
Okinawa
The Okinawa, which had a former life as a U.S. Army tugboat, was sunk by Shipwreck Park at the southern end of Pompano Reef on the west side. With depths ranging from 35 to 70 feet, it’s suitable for novice and pro divers—and because it’s so shallow, divers get more bottom time. Interestingly, a year after its sinking, a hurricane moved the wreck about 100 feet from its original location, and it’s now leaning on its side.
A highlight is the whimsical dive bar, where divers can peep at artwork by Dennis McDonald that includes sea creatures and a mermaid. You can actually swim into the engine room and through the dive bar. Keep watch for fan favorites like goliath grouper, barracuda, and loads of tropical fish.
Things to Know
Best Time of Year for Diving
The most popular time to dive in Pompano Beach is summer when the water is the calmest and the warmest—and you get the best rates at hotels. It’s also the most popular time of year to dive, especially for locals, so book your dive trip well in advance.
Another perk of diving in summer is Florida’s legendary lobster season. Divers can scoop up Florida spiny lobsters during the mini season on the last Wednesday and Thursday of July, and during the regular season from August 6 to March 31. Keep in mind that you’ll need a fishing license and a lobster permit stamp.
Don’t discount diving in winter, though, as South Florida waters are still warmer than most around the country. Westerly winds often blow the water flat, and there’s not as much algae, which lends to better water clarity.
Recommended Dive Shops & Charters
If you’re looking for a guided underwater adventure, let the experts from one of Pompano Beach’s top dive shops and charters lead you to the best spots.
Divers and snorkelers have an advantage if they choose to stay at Sands Harbor Resort & Marina. The marina is located on the property, making charters easy and convenient, as dive boats leave the marina twice daily. The resort partners with South Florida Diving Headquarters and offers special scuba packages for those newbies who wish to learn, including a certified diving program in the pool and an afternoon excursion to a reef and wreck.
“You don’t have to pack up your gear and drive over; you can get up in the morning and walk down to the boat,” says Torode, who offers two glass-bottom catamarans and a smaller dive boat for private charters.
Miss Conduct Charters also takes divers on thrilling dives; they even highlight an array of dives on their website, including their personal favorites. Their crew also enjoys taking divers to their secret spots. If you’re interested in lobster diving, their guides will show you the ropes. Not a diver? Cruz’N Chill Private Boat Tours offers tours for those interested in snorkeling, while Perfect Timing Boat Tours offers private boat tours for up to six people to snorkel on some of the best reefs.
Get ready to mark off your underwater bucket list, Pompano Beach is a must-visit diving and snorkeling destination with diverse and awe-inspiring diving that’s within easy reach.