Oakland Ridge in Fort Lauderdale—an underwater wonderland that beckons exploration. Picture this: the ridge complex, nestled near Oakland Park Boulevard, invites divers into its mysterious depths. 🌊🤿

Oakland Ridge Highlights:

• Dive Site: Oakland Ridges
• City: Fort Lauderdale, Florida
• Type of Dive: Boat Dive; Coral Reef; Mooring Site
• Depth: 20 – 30 feet
• Coordinates: 26° 09.254′ N, 80° 05.341′ W
• Total Buoys: 15

Now, let’s talk about the ridge itself. The Oakland Ridges stretch parallel to the shore, tracing a north-south axis. Imagine swimming along these ridges, encountering a mesmerizing tapestry of marine life and geological formations. 🦞🐠

What Awaits You:

1. Ledges and Caves: The ridge boasts intricate ledges—like nature’s secret staircases—leading you deeper into its heart. These ledges harbor nooks and crannies, perfect for curious divers to explore.
2. Finger-Like Structures: As you venture forth, the reef breaks into “finger-like” structures that jut out from the ridge. These underwater fingers beckon you to follow their contours, revealing hidden treasures along the way.
3. Colorful Coral Gardens: Coral formations abound, creating a vibrant underwater garden. Imagine hues of crimson, azure, and gold—the living canvas of the reef. 🌈

Marine Encounters:

• Lobster Quest: Oakland Ridge is a lobster haven. With your trusty net, you can hunt for spiny lobsters peeking out from crevices.
• Spearfishing: For those seeking adventure, spearfishing opportunities abound. Keep an eye out for schools of fish darting among the corals.
• Coral Symphony: Observe the delicate dance of coral polyps, their tentacles swaying in rhythm with the currents. Each coral species has a story etched in calcium carbonate.

Although there are mooring balls in this site, operators often choose to conduct this dive as a drift. Depending of the current, operators may put divers and the south or north end of the reef and pick divers up an hour later and the other end.

Divers may want to visit the west facing ledge - which is the most interesting part of the reef.

Visibility is usually good ranging from 40 to 70 feet. Current are often mild.