

Best for beginner divers, 4-9m, boat entry.
Ball Buoys Reef in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park offers a shallow dive experience combining natural reef formations with artificial structures. The site reaches depths between 4 and 9 metres, with an average depth of 6 metres, making it suitable for beginner divers. Water temperatures remain warm year-round, ranging from 25 to 29 degrees Celsius. Access is exclusively by boat, requiring prior arrangement with a charter operator. As visibility can vary, it is recommended to contact your boat operator on the morning of your dive for current conditions. Divers should bring all necessary supplies, including water and sun protection, as facilities are not guaranteed at the launch point.
25.31557, -80.18762
The mooring buoys are available on a first-come, first-served basis at no cost to boaters.
The site is accessible via mooring buoys which allow for safe anchoring.
Recorded at this site
Depth
4-9m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
25-29°C
Best Time
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Yes, the site is suitable for beginners due to its shallow depth range of 4 to 9 metres.
Access to this site is by boat only, so you must arrange a charter in advance.
The average depth at Ball Buoys Reef is 6 metres.
Since facilities are not guaranteed at the launch point, you should bring all necessary items, including water and sun protection.
The best months to visit Ball Buoys Reef in Miami are May, June, July, August, and September. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Divers at Ball Buoys Reef in Miami should be aware of sharks. These encounters are generally rare and avoidable with proper awareness. Follow local safety guidance and maintain a respectful distance from all marine life.