Ultimate Guide to the Best Cave Diving in Florida

Florida shines as a hub for natural wonders, with cave diving being one of the most exhilarating adventures available in the Sunshine State. The state boasts hundreds of freshwater springs and spectacular cave systems that beckon both seasoned divers and newcomers. With unique ecosystems found below the surface, Florida’s underwater caves promise exciting explorations. Let’s dive into 25 extraordinary cave diving spots that guarantee unforgettable experiences.

1. Wekiva Springs State Park

Low angle view of Wekiva Springs showcasing crystal clear water — Wekiva Springs’ sparkling waters invite divers and nature lovers alike.

Wekiva Springs features crystal-clear waters and stunning landscapes. As you dive in, you’ll encounter varied aquatic life, including vibrant fish, and turtles gliding through the water. The expansive cave system is ideal for exploration, making it suitable for both novice divers and those with more experience.

2. Ginnie Springs

Eye-level view of divers exploring the underwater world at Ginnie Springs — Ginnie Springs offers fantastic visibility and thrilling underwater caves.

Ginnie Springs is among Florida’s most popular dive sites, celebrated for its exceptional visibility—often exceeding 100 feet. The limestone formations create a beautiful backdrop for divers. Notably, the spring’s underwater caves teem with a variety of fish including sunfish and bass. Both cave diving and river diving options provide wonderful experiences for all skill levels.

3. Blue Spring State Park

High angle view of the calm waters at Blue Spring, surrounded by lush nature — Blue Spring’s serene waters are a haven for divers and wildlife alike.

Blue Spring, located in Orange City, is well-known for its resident manatee population, particularly during the colder months when they seek warmer waters. Divers can find impressive underwater caverns here. With consistent water flow, visibility remains high, allowing divers to enjoy the breathtaking formations beneath.

4. Devil’s Den

Wide angle view of the breathtaking cave entrance at Devil's Den — Devil’s Den features a unique underground pool framed by picturesque rock formations.

Devil’s Den is a prehistoric spring with a captivating limestone cave. The surrounding rock formations create stunning underwater light displays. Divers can encounter fascinating geological formations, including ancient fossil beds. This location is perfect for underwater photography enthusiasts due to its unique landscapes and light conditions.

5. Angel’s Spring

Close-up view of crystal-clear waters inside Angel's Spring — Angel’s Spring is known for its stunning clarity and breathtaking surroundings.

Angel’s Spring offers a tranquil diving experience and is less crowded than other locations. The clarity of the water allows divers to enjoy undisturbed views as they navigate through intricate cave systems. This makes it a great choice for those seeking serene dives amidst captivating underwater beauty.

6. Peacock Springs State Park

Wide angle view of the lush surroundings at Peacock Springs, with divers entering the water — Peacock Springs offers an extensive cave system for exploration.

Peacock Springs is one of Florida’s largest cave systems, featuring over 30,000 feet of passages. The park is home to an array of wildlife such as turtles, and the vibrant colors of the underwater plants will have divers mesmerized. It’s well-maintained, providing an excellent experience tailored to divers of all levels.

7. Silver Glen Springs

Eye-level view of the scenic entrance to Silver Glen Springs — Silver Glen Springs captivates divers with its pristine waters.

Silver Glen Springs is famed for its striking visibility, often approaching 80 feet. The area is rich in aquatic life, including colorful fish and unusual plant species. With a more laid-back atmosphere, it’s ideal for those seeking to enjoy nature without the crowds often found at larger dive sites.

8. Troy Springs State Park

High angle view of the enchanting waters at Troy Springs — Troy Springs is a tranquil diving location surrounded by nature.

Troy Springs offers a picturesque setting featuring the remnants of an old homestead above water. Underneath, divers can explore fascinating underwater wonders like ancient cypress trees and diverse fish. This lesser-known diving spot provides a peaceful adventure away from the hustle and bustle.

9. Little River Spring

Close-up view of the clear water entering the cave at Little River Spring — Little River Spring features clear water flowing into captivating underwater caves.

Just an hour from Gainesville, Little River Spring is a hidden gem where crystal-clear waters flow dramatically into inviting caves. Adventurers looking for excitement will enjoy exploring the underwater tunnels and discovering unique aquatic inhabitants that thrive in these secluded waters.

10. Manatee Springs State Park

Wide angle view of the scenic underwater environment at Manatee Springs — Manatee Springs offers divers the chance to encounter friendly wildlife.

At Manatee Springs, divers can have the chance to swim alongside both fish and gentle manatees. The spring is one of the largest in Florida, covering nearly 8,000 acres. It’s an ideal setting to witness the state’s unique aquatic ecosystems up close.

11. Middle Fork of the Black River Cave

Close-up view of the vibrant underwater formations at the Black River Cave — The Black River Cave features colorful aquatic life and formations.

The Middle Fork of the Black River Cave is a spectacular dive site offering intricate passageways adorned with stunning coral-like formations. The underwater caves are well-preserved, showcasing a diverse range of aquatic life. The unique scenery makes for an unforgettable diving experience.

12. Fanning Springs State Park

Eye-level view of Fanning Springs' beautiful pool and surrounding nature — Fanning Springs is a beautiful spot for both divers and nature enthusiasts.

Fanning Springs features clear waters and a variety of fish species. The surrounding wilderness enhances the underwater experience, inviting divers to connect with the vibrant ecosystem. This spot is cherished for allowing peaceful encounters with underwater life.

13. Morrison Springs

Wide angle view of Morrison Springs showcasing its stunning clear waters — Morrison Springs captivates divers with its clear blue water and vibrant ecosystem.

Ideal for those seeking simplicity and beauty, Morrison Springs features a variety of aquatic life. The clear waters allow for easy navigation and exploration of remote underwater caves. The calm environment ensures it’s suitable for both beginners and experienced divers alike.

14. Cypress Springs

Close-up view of Cypress Springs' tranquil waters teeming with life — Cypress Springs is a serene diving location, rich in aquatic life.

Cypress Springs is known for its serene atmosphere and vibrant life beneath the surface. The water clarity enables straightforward navigation, revealing the hidden gems of the underwater world. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy a tranquil diving experience.

15. Tate’s Hell State Forest

High angle view of Tate's Hell's lush landscapes surrounding the springs — Tate’s Hell State Forest offers extraordinary natural beauty and adventure.

Tate’s Hell State Forest hosts hidden springs and intriguing cave systems. This area is rich in biodiversity, making it a treasure for diving enthusiasts who appreciate ecological variety. The serene surroundings make it an appealing adventure for nature lovers.

16. Salt Springs

Wide angle view of the pristine waters of Salt Springs — Salt Springs is an inviting diving location surrounded by lush greenery.

Located in the Ocala National Forest, Salt Springs is renowned for warm, clear waters. This environment offers divers a glimpse of an underwater paradise. The rustic setting allows for a peaceful escape from more crowded destinations, enhancing the diving experience.

17. Inglis River

Eye-level view of divers exploring the depths of the Inglis River — The Inglis River features fascinating underwater caves and abundant aquatic life.

Inglis River boasts inviting underwater caves filled with biodiversity and intriguing geological formations. The caves are not too challenging to navigate, which is great for less experienced divers. It’s a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation.

18. Chassahowitzka Springs

Close-up view of the enchanting waters of Chassahowitzka Springs surrounded by greenery — Chassahowitzka Springs is a serene diving location with captivating natural beauty.

Chassahowitzka Springs provides a peaceful atmosphere with crystal-clear waters perfect for exploration. Nearby springs and formations enhance the diving experience, making it suitable for relaxation or adventure. The captivating surroundings make for memorable diving trips.

19. Crystal River

Wide angle view of the stunning Crystal River with nearby lush forests — Crystal River is known for its inviting waters and diverse ecosystem.

Crystal River is famous for its manatee sightings, but it also serves as an exceptional diving destination. The inviting waters and rich underwater ecosystem create a breathtaking environment for divers. It’s a great place to appreciate the blend of natural beauty and aquatic life.

20. Juniper Springs

Eye-level view of the tranquil waters at Juniper Springs gleaming in the sunlight — Juniper Springs features inviting waters perfect for both leisure and diving.

Juniper Springs offers a serene experience with its pristine pools and enchanting caves. The lush environment makes for an ideal day trip, allowing visitors to combine relaxation with underwater adventures. This spot highlights Florida’s natural beauty.

21. Three Sisters Springs

Close-up view of the tranquil waters at Three Sisters Springs, teeming with wildlife — Three Sisters Springs is a wildlife haven for divers and nature lovers.

Three Sisters Springs is especially vibrant and bustling during manatee season. The diverse aquatic life offers a captivating experience for divers. Thanks to excellent visibility, this spot allows exploration of beautiful springs alongside friendly marine beings.

22. Mason Creek

Wide angle view of Mason Creek's clear waters, perfect for diving adventures — Mason Creek offers divers a chance to explore its serene aquatic landscapes.

Mason Creek is a favorite among local divers. Its clear waters provide a unique perspective of underwater life, covering an extensive area ideal for exploration. The blend of adventure and relaxation here makes it a perfect diving location.

23. Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park

High angle view of the tranquil waters of Homosassa Springs — Homosassa Springs is a calm and inviting diving destination with stunning scenery.

Homosassa Springs combines cave diving with Florida’s natural beauty. The clear waters and diverse wildlife attract both divers and lovers of nature. This park offers adventure and education, making it a memorable location for diving enthusiasts.

24. Suwannee River State Park

Wide angle view of the calm waters along the Suwannee River rich in nature — Suwannee River State Park offers a relaxed setting for cave diving.

Suwannee River State Park provides a tranquil diving setting with opportunities to explore scenic underwater caves. The surrounding natural beauty enhances the diving experience, allowing divers to connect with Florida’s quieter side amidst picturesque views.

25. Shangri-La Springs

Close-up view of the pristine water at Shangri-La Springs with natural formations — Shangri-La Springs captivates with its enchanting cave systems and vibrant life.

Shangri-La Springs is a treasure among Florida’s diving spots. Offering unique underwater formations, it invites exploration in a tranquil setting. This spring is notable for its bright natural colors and rich ecosystems.

Dive into Adventure

Cave diving in Florida presents a remarkable chance to explore vibrant underwater ecosystems, ancient formations, and stunning natural beauty. Each of the 25 locations highlighted above offers a unique experience, from the lively atmosphere of Ginnie Springs to the calm waters of Silver Glen. Whether you’re an experienced diver or just starting your journey, Florida’s springs are full of adventures waiting for you.

So, grab your dive gear, gather some friends, and set out on the adventure of a lifetime exploring the beautiful underwater caves of Florida! With so much to discover, you may find your next favorite diving spot among these incredible locations. Happy diving!

KW Adventure Explorer