Ocala

The most famous dive site near Ocala is Devil's Den. It's a privately-owned prehistoric spring inside a dry cave. Divers descend a staircase into an underground cavern to access the water. Its popularity stems from this unique 'reverse-sump' entrance and the stunning blue water illuminated by a hole in the cave ceiling. It offers a truly memorable cavern diving experience for open water certified divers.

Blue Grotto is another very popular and well-known site, featuring a large, clear water cavern suitable for all levels. For a different experience, Rainbow River offers a crystal-clear drift dive, which is less of a cavern site and more of a relaxing float over grassy beds teeming with fish and turtles. While very popular with locals, it is sometimes overlooked by international divers focused solely on the caverns.

The water temperature in the freshwater springs around Ocala, United States, is remarkably consistent. Due to being fed by the underground aquifer, the water remains at a constant 72°F (22°C) throughout the entire year, regardless of the season or the outside air temperature. This makes it a reliable destination for diving any time of year without worrying about temperature fluctuations.

Diving is possible year-round due to the constant water temperature. However, the best time to visit Ocala, United States, is during the spring (March-May) and fall (September-November). During these months, the surface weather is pleasant, and the sites are typically less crowded than during the peak summer season. Winter can be chilly when you exit the water, but the diving itself remains excellent.

Visibility in the Florida springs near Ocala, United States, is typically outstanding, often exceeding 100-200 feet (30-60 meters). The water is spring-fed and naturally filtered through limestone, resulting in gin-clear conditions. Visibility can be temporarily reduced if divers without proper buoyancy control kick up silt from the bottom, but it generally settles quickly. It is consistently excellent throughout the year.

As a freshwater diving destination, Ocala, United States, does not have the large-scale marine migrations like manta rays or whale sharks found in the ocean. The ecosystem is very stable. However, in connected river systems like the Rainbow or Crystal River (a short drive away), you may encounter West Indian Manatees, especially during the cooler winter months when they seek refuge in the warmer spring waters.

While not 'marine' life, the freshwater ecosystems in Ocala, United States, are full of life. Divers can expect to see various species of turtles (cooters, sliders), largemouth bass, sunfish, bluegills, and gar. In the cavern systems like Devil's Den, you may also see small crustaceans and ancient fossils embedded in the rock walls. The connected Rainbow River offers a particularly vibrant and fish-filled drift dive.

For the constant 72°F (22°C) water in Ocala, United States, a 5mm or 7mm full wetsuit is recommended for most divers to stay comfortable, especially for multiple dives. While some may find a 3mm sufficient for a single short dive, you will likely get cold. Many local and technical divers opt for a drysuit for maximum thermal comfort during longer bottom times.

To get to Ocala, United States, most visitors fly into Orlando International Airport (MCO) or Gainesville Regional Airport (GNV). From either airport, you will need to rent a car. The dive sites are located in rural areas, often a 30-60 minute drive from Ocala itself, making a personal vehicle essential for transportation and exploring the different springs in the region.

Liveaboards are not an option for diving in Ocala, United States. All diving is shore-based from the various privately-owned springs. Divers stay in hotels in nearby towns like Ocala or Williston, or at on-site accommodations where available (some springs have cabins or campgrounds). You then drive to each dive site for the day. A rental car is essential for this type of trip.