Diving Destin

Explore diving Destin

Diving in Emerald Coast offers a thrilling underwater experience with clear turquoise waters, ample marine life, and fascinating shipwrecks, including the USS Oriskany, the world's largest artificial reef. The Gulf's warm waters and great visibility make it a perfect spot for divers of all levels, providing encounters with colourful reefs, schools of fish, and occasional sightings of rays and turtles. Whether you're exploring natural reefs or historical wrecks, diving the Emerald Coast promises to be an unforgettable adventure.

When to dive Destin

The best time to dive in Florida's Emerald Coast is from late spring to early Fall (April to September). During these months, the water is warm (70-85 degrees), visibility is good and marine life is abundant. Keep in mind, other months, particularly late Fall and Winter, bring cooler water temperatures and rough seas can limit diving opportunities.

Book your diving Destin

Common marine life sightings for Destin

More Information

To reach Florida's Emerald Coast for diving, there are several options depending on where you are traveling from. The two main airports are Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS) and Pensacola International Airport (PNS). If you're in driving distance, or prefer a road trip, the Emerald Coast is easily accessible from all major highways. Once there, renting a car is recommended to travel between dive sites, hotels and restaurants. The dive opportunities are spread out and some require a bit of driving to reach the best locations.

Time Zone

UTC-05:00

Phone

Currency

USD

Voltage

120 V

Pressure

Pounds/square inch (psi)

Plug

A, B

Languages

English

1st Stage

INT / Yoke / K

Thanks, from PADI.

This page wouldn't be possible without contributions from the following PADI members: Emerald Coast Scuba, ScubaTech of Destin. Disclaimer

^* By accessing this page, you acknowledge and agree that the information displayed has been provided by one or multiple third parties. The provision of this content is for general informational purposes and does not constitute a recommendation or solicitation to make any type of purchase or decision. PADI does not warrant or guarantee the accuracy or completeness of such information nor can PADI guarantee such content will be free of material you may find objectionable or otherwise. PADI reminds you to adhere to the PADI Standard Safe Diving Practices and recommends that you consult a dive professional familiar with the site and its present conditions before diving. PADI does not and cannot review all content on this platform and therefore disclaims any responsibility or liability related to your access or use of this third party content, and under no circumstances will PADI be liable for any loss or direct, indirect, incidental, special or consequential damages caused by reliance on this information.