Florida Keys, United States
    Half Moon Underwater Archaeological Preserve

    Miami Terrace Reef

    Best months: Apr–Jun

    Protected Area

    Half Moon Underwater Archaeological Preserve

    Why dive here

    With 87+ marine species recorded in the area - including bull sharks, dolphins, hammerhead sharks, seahorses and sea turtles - Miami Terrace Reef offers some of Florida Keys's richest reef 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
    CharacterReef dive
    StandoutRich in charismatic marine life

    Forget what you think you know about Florida Keys diving. The Miami Terrace Reef isn't your typical shallow patch reef; this is deep, dark, and utterly compelling. We love the sheer thrill of dropping down into the abyss, knowing you’re in true pelagic territory. It's for experienced divers with a comfort level in open water and excellent buoyancy control. The wall here plunges well beyond recreational limits, an endless blue that feels miles away from shore. We’ve seen kingfish and tuna cruising the edges, sleek silver torpedoes appearing from the gloom. Our favourite moments are those unexpected encounters: a bull shark ghosting by, or the glint of a lanternfish in your beam. Keep an eye out for swordfish in the deeper water, though they’re a rare prize. The reef itself is a tapestry of deepwater corals, more subtle than the shallow stuff, but fascinating in its own right. Dive this one on a calm day; the ride out can be choppy, and you’ll want to conserve energy for the descent. Bring good lights and prepare to be amazed by the unexpected scale of this place.

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    Conditions

    Ocean conditions, forecast and tides for Miami Terrace Reef

    Miami Terrace Reef Ocean Conditions

    Monthly averages for Miami Terrace Reef, 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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