Florida Keys, United States
    Fort Pickens State Park Aquati State Park

    Catherine

    Best months: Apr–Jun

    Protected Area

    Fort Pickens State Park Aquati State Park

    Why dive here

    With 87+ marine species recorded in the area - including bull sharks, dolphins, hammerhead sharks, seahorses and sea turtles - Catherine offers some of Florida Keys's richest diving. Water ranges 19-32°C, warmest July, August, September.

    Best timeApr–Jun
    WetsuitA 3mm shorty or thin full wetsuit
    Marine lifeBull Sharks, Dolphins, Hammerhead Sharks, Seahorses and Sea Turtles · 87+ species recorded
    Water19-32°C · warmest July, August, September
    StandoutRich in charismatic marine life

    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.

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    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Catherine

    Catherine Ocean Conditions

    Monthly averages for Catherine, sourced from NOAA NDBC + Copernicus Marine (EU) - nearest station: 8725520 - Fort Myers, FL (28km away)

    ExcellentGreatGoodFairPoor★Best monthsThis month

    October Averages

    Sea Temperature

    27°C

    81°F · Range: 20.9–31.1°C

    Air Temperature

    26°C

    79°F

    Current Speed

    0 cm/s

    Direction: S (180°)

    Salinity

    35.98 PSU

    Wind Speed

    2.7 m/s

    5.2 knots

    Atmospheric Pressure

    1014.5 hPa

    Based on 5 years of monitoring data · Data sources: NOAA NDBC + Copernicus Marine (EU)

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