FAQs
Do I have to be cave certified?
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While north central Florida is one of the cave diving capitals of the world, you do not have to be cave certified to enjoy the springs! Many of the springs offer shallow open water basins suitable for even brand new divers; other more advanced sites offer areas suitable for both open water and cave diving. These sites have a designated cave zone that’s off limits to open water divers, usually marked by a sign. Please respect the signs and do not venture into overhead environments without proper training or equipment.
Most of the sites described in our guide are appropriate for open water divers; a few (clearly marked) are open to certified cavern and cave divers only. Beginner sites are appropriate for newly certified or infrequent divers, or divers re-familiarizing themselves with new equipment. Intermediate sites are appropriate for divers comfortable in their gear and in the water, with good buoyancy skills, and 10-20+ dives under their belt. These sites may be darker or deeper, or involve significant overhead. Advanced sites are appropriate for divers with AOW/Rescue certs, or with more than 50 lifetime dives. Please respect the limitations of your training and experience.
While cavern/cave training is not required to enjoy the springs, if you’re a frequent local diver, you should consider taking a cavern course. You only need your AOW, and it doesn’t require any special gear. It’s is a great way to open access to new dive sites (like Jug Hole at Itchetucknee), and lets you (legally!) carry dive lights in all the state parks.
Do I need a buddy? How do I find one?
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Unlike boat dives, it’s difficult to show up alone to the springs. Solo diving is not allowed in any of the state parks, and most private sites require you to check in with a buddy. That means, you’ll need to arrange to bring a buddy with you. If you’re just visiting for a few days, you can book guided dives of the most popular springs (Blue Grotto, Devil’s Den, Rainbow River) with us or with many of the local shops. Alternatively, check out the many local Facebook groups and let folks know when you’ll be in the area, where you want to dive, and that you’re looking for a buddy.
If you’re new to the area and looking for regular dive buddies, post an intro on one of the local Facebook groups and get involved with one or more local dive clubs. Chatting with staff at the local dive shops and letting them know that you’re new and looking for buddies can also help them point you in the direction of other divers. Much of the local dive community is organized around Facebook; even if you otherwise do not use social media, consider creating a dive-specific account to follow local shops, sign up for events, and message local divers. Still no luck? Drop us a note.
Do I need a light?
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Many of the open water spring basins do not require lights. In fact, open water divers are prohibited from carrying lights in all Florida state parks, and in Devil’s Run at Ginnie. All divers are welcome to (and should) carry a primary and backup light at Devil’s Den, Blue Grotto, Ginnie Ballroom, Buford, Royal, and Paradise Springs. Cavern/cave divers typically carry three lights at all times. If you are in need of a light, we like the DGX 600 as a solid and affordable option or the Dive Rite CX3, if you have a little more budget.
I’m only here a couple days. Where should I go?
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Ask five divers and get five answers! We’ve put together lists of our recommended dive sites here. The most popular sites for guided dives are Devil’s Den, Blue Grotto, Rainbow River, and Paradise. If you are looking for places to stay or eat while you are in town, check out our short guide to visiting north central Florida.