Dive Sites
Browsing as a guest. Create a free account to save trips and plan dives.

Ocean Reef Park

Reef · West Palm Beach

26° 47.300' N 80° 01.870' W

Open Water Open Water Max 20 ft Avg 15 ft Beach Access, 500 ft from shore Today PMPoor

Details

Open Water
Minimum recommended certification
Max depth
20 ft
Average depth
15 ft
Access
Beach Access (500 ft from shore)
Sea state today
AMPoor PMPoor

Video

🎥 Sin, Florida, Sink!

Pictures 3

Where it is

26° 47.300' N 80° 01.870' W

Next boats to this site 0

No confirmed trips to this site are listed yet.

Best Gas

atm
atm
Overlay Image
Gas prices
Aluminum 80 $10
Steel HP 100 $10
Steel LP 85 $10

Site description

The Southern Flame: Imagine a flame-shaped fringing reef, its coral formations resembling flickering tongues of fire. Here, vibrant marine life thrives—banded butterflyfish flit among the corals, while chub fish patrol above. The shallow waters allow sunlight to penetrate, nurturing the hardiest of reef organisms. 🦋🔥 The Fan-Shaped Middle: Between the two lifeguard towers lies a fan-shaped section of reef. It’s as if nature herself unfurled a delicate fan, revealing intricate patterns of coral. Snorkelers float above this living tapestry, glimpsing spotted drums and schools of grey snapper. 🐠🎨 The Northern Edge: As we move northward, the reef transitions into a patchwork of small reefs and rubble. Here, juvenile reef species find refuge—a nursery for their growth. Keep your eyes peeled for cryptic scorpionfish, masters of camouflage, hiding amidst the sandy nooks. And don’t be surprised if you spot stingrays gliding gracefully through the deeper waters. 🦐🔍 Remember, the Ocean Park Reef isn’t just a rocky limestone formation; it’s a thriving ecosystem—a symphony of life, color, and survival. So next time you snorkel here, marvel at the resilience of these underwater inhabitants, and perhaps offer a silent nod to the encrusting fire corals—they endure the waves’ relentless embrace

Route & typical conditions

Route

Begin by wading into the water from the sandy area nestled between the southern and middle sections of the reef. The gentle lapping waves invite you to explore the underwater wonders that await. Once you’re in the water, turn southward. Here, a ledge encircles the fringing reef to the south. Imagine it as a natural pathway—a coral-rimmed trail that beckons snorkelers. Take your time to explore this ledge. Peer into crevices and observe the marine life that calls this place home. Perhaps you’ll spot colorful fish darting among the corals or catch a glimpse of a curious sea turtle. Now, let’s change direction. Head northward, pausing along the way. The fan-shaped reef awaits—an intricate mosaic of coral formations. Swim above it, marveling at the delicate patterns and the dance of sunlight filtering through the water. As you continue north, you’ll encounter the patch reef. Picture scattered patches of coral rising from the sandy seabed. Juvenile reef species find shelter here, seeking refuge amidst the nooks and crannies. Keep an eye out for cryptic scorpionfish—they blend seamlessly with the surroundings. To complete your journey, consider circling back through slightly deeper waters. Here, larger fish roam—a chance encounter with stingrays gliding gracefully or perhaps a glimpse of a majestic barracuda. Remember, every twist and turn of this underwater route reveals a hidden story—a symphony of life, color, and survival. So, embrace the adventure, and let the Ocean Park Reef unfold its secrets before your snorkel-masked eyes! 

Typical conditions

Conditions will depend highly on the surface. This dive can be impossible if you don't have a flat or near perfect ocean that day. Visibility can be compromised by the surge, but marine life present in htis site will pay it back!

Divers' uploaded pictures

No diver pictures yet.

Divers' reviews

Be the first to add a review