Catherine - Florida Keys

Catherine isn't the kind of place that screams for attention, not like some of the Keys' flashier wrecks. It's more of a quiet charmer, a site we consistently find ourselves drawn back to for its subtle delights. You'll find it shallower, making for longer bottom times and a more relaxed dive. The real draw here is the sheer variety of smaller, often overlooked species. We love drifting over the sandy patches, keeping an eye out for the perfectly camouflaged Southern Stargazer, often partially buried, just its eyes peeking out. Then there are the Chain Pipefish, masters of disguise, swaying gently with the seagrass. It's a fantastic spot for macro enthusiasts and anyone who enjoys slowing down and truly observing. Our favourite time to dive Catherine is late morning, after the initial boat traffic has died down but before the afternoon chop can pick up. Look closely in the nooks and crannies for American eels and the surprisingly bold Clown Goby. You might even spot a juvenile Horse-eye Jack cruising by. It’s not about big pelagics here, but about the intricate ballet of the reef's smaller residents, a truly rewarding dive if you take the time.

Location
Florida Keys, United States, North America
Coordinates
30.318111, -87.283134

Marine Protected Area: Fort Pickens State Park Aquati State Park

Best Time to Dive in Florida Keys

The warmest water temperatures in Florida Keys occur in July, averaging 31.5°C (up to 34.8°C). The coolest conditions are in January at 19.3°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 19.3°C (air: 18.5°C)
  • February: 20.5°C (air: 21.6°C)
  • March: 23.1°C (air: 22.4°C)
  • April: 25.5°C (air: 24.3°C)
  • May: 27.8°C (air: 25.9°C)
  • June: 30.2°C (air: 27.5°C)
  • July: 31.5°C (air: 28.3°C)
  • August: 31.5°C (air: 28.3°C)
  • September: 30.2°C (air: 27.3°C)
  • October: 27.3°C (air: 26.0°C)
  • November: 24.1°C (air: 22.3°C)
  • December: 20.9°C (air: 19.8°C)

Nearby Dive Sites in Florida Keys

Nearest Dive Centres to Catherine

Marine Life in Florida Keys

Home to 91 recorded species including 69 reef fish, 6 sharks & rays, 3 other, 3 hard corals, 2 sea snails & nudibranchs, 2 sea urchins.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Catherine

Based on average water temperature of 26.0°C, currents 1 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 26°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories