Horseshoe
Reef · Boynton Beach also known as big brain reef
26° 34.879' N 80° 01.531' W
Open Water Max 75 ft Avg 40 ft Hot Drop
Today PMPoor
Details
Open Water
Minimum recommended certification
- Max depth
- 75 ft
- Average depth
- 40 ft
- Access
- Hot Drop
- Sea state today
- AMPoor PMPoor
Video
🎥 Didier Follain-Grisell
Pictures 1
Where it is
26° 34.879' N 80° 01.531' W
Next boats to this site 0
No confirmed trips to this site are listed yet.
Operators that dive here
Best Gas
Gas prices
| Diluent tank | $35.50 |
| O2 tank | $10.00 |
atm
atm
Gas prices
| Aluminum 80 | $10 |
| Steel HP 100 | $10 |
| Steel LP 85 | $10 |
NDL at is
24 hr min surface interval
Always use a dive computer
Site description
The Horseshoe reef stands out for its shallower depth compared to most of the outer reefs in Boynton. Its top lies at 40 to 45 feet, while the sand on the western side reaches 50 to 55 feet. Unlike a straight line, the main ledge meanders in and out, with a notable hook at the north end that leads it back southward. Amidst the usual marine life found in Florida waters, schools of spadefish are a common sight here.
Boynton Beach is a hotspot for sea turtle activity. Loggerhead, green, and leatherback turtles frequent these waters. You might spot them gracefully gliding through the ocean or nesting on nearby shores.
While not as common as other marine life, Boynton Beach occasionally hosts shark sightings. Nurse sharks and reef sharks are among the species encountered by divers.
Route & typical conditions
Route
Dives here are always conducted as drift dives - the lead diver will be carrying a dive flag while underwater. Depending on the current dive operators will start the dive:
North Current: Begin at the reef section that forms a “V” and heads back east. This strategy helps you navigate effectively against the current.
South Current: If the current flows south, drop down near the “Horseshoe” feature on the reef’s north end. Take your time exploring this area before following the main ledge southward.
Typical conditions
Along this coastal stretch, currents can be quite robust. While a swift current allows divers to explore more territory, it can hinder the ability to linger over specific spots on the reef and fully appreciate the vibrant marine life. Thankfully, the deep grooves provide a refuge, allowing divers to observe the reef up close without battling the current. Visibility is often good given the strong currents - divers shall expect 50 to 80 feet of visibility.
Divers' uploaded pictures
No diver pictures yet.
