Diving atClearwater C Site (United States)
Clearwater, Florida, invites divers to explore a varied underwater landscape just off its coastline, providing accessible opportunities for underwater discovery. This region serves as a gateway to numerous dive sites, offering everything from vibrant artificial reefs to intriguing wrecks. Its proximity ensures that a significant portion of the diving is within an hour or so from shore, making it convenient for day trips. Expect engaging encounters beneath the surface here.
Evening condition tracking at Clearwater C Site features an air temperature of 23.3°C. We have recorded wave heights measuring 0.4m during this period. These figures outline the environmental parameters currently present.
Dive Site Coordinates
28.0143, -82.8928
Dive Site Overview
Exploring Clearwater's dive sites often reveals a combination of natural and artificial structures that attract diverse marine life. Most sites are located within an hour offshore, presenting varying depths suitable for all experience levels.
Veteran's Reef, for instance, reaches a maximum depth of about 13 meters (44 feet) where three sunken barges have become home to goliath grouper, rays, and other species. The site is conveniently marked by a yellow buoy. Another prominent artificial reef, The Sheridan, stands out as one of Florida's prime wreck dives.
This captivating site provides complex structures for exploration, drawing in a wide array of aquatic inhabitants. Further inland, Kings Spring reaches depths of 16 meters (55 feet), featuring caverns at 15 meters (50 feet) and attracting freshwater species like manatees and large tarpon. These diverse underwater environments underscore the dynamic nature of diving in the area.
Best Time to Dive
While diving in Clearwater is possible throughout the year, July often presents the most favorable conditions, boasting an excellent dive score and the lowest average wave heights, around 0.41 meters (1.3 feet). In contrast, January typically sees cooler air temperatures averaging 14.4°C (57.9°F) and higher waves, though still offering good dive conditions. Water surface temperatures generally range between 22-29°C (73-85°F) year-round. Divers seeking the warmest conditions might prefer August, when air temperatures average 28.2°C (82.8°F), though this month also experiences the highest average rainfall at 6.88 mm (0.27 inches). Conversely, November is notably drier, with average rainfall at just 0.71 mm (0.03 inches). Wind speeds are generally calmer in summer, with July averaging 14.76 km/h (9.17 mph), compared to stronger winds around 20.92 km/h (13.0 mph) in October, influencing surface conditions.
Climate Historical Averages
Monthly records compiled from satellite and marine observation nodes over the last 3 years. Data provided by Open-Meteo and MET Norway.
Dive Experience & Conditions
Beginning a dive in Clearwater, you'll find visibility that often ranges between 7 and 27 meters (25 and 90 feet), offering clear views of the underwater environment. As you descend, water temperatures typically hold steady between 22-29°C (73-85°F), creating comfortable conditions for extended bottom times. The seas are generally calm, and currents are usually minimal, allowing for relaxed exploration of the sites. You might notice the transition from open water to the structures of an artificial reef or the intricate details of a wreck, where marine life tends to congregate. Shallower sections often feel warmer and brighter, while deeper areas may require a light to fully appreciate the details. This generally tranquil environment enhances the overall diving experience.
Dive Difficulty & Safety Guidelines
Approaching any dive in Clearwater requires adherence to fundamental safety practices. It's crucial to always dive within your certification and experience limits. Before entering the water, consult with local Clearwater dive centers; they provide essential safety information, site-specific details, and guidance on required skill levels. Never enter the water without checking current conditions. For unfamiliar sites or complex environments like wrecks and caverns, being accompanied by a professional dive guide is highly recommended. When encountering marine life, especially manatees, maintain a respectful distance and avoid any actions that might disturb them. Your pre-dive planning should always prioritize safety and local expertise.
Recommended Equipment
No verified equipment items yet.
Verified equipment recommendations for this dive site are being reviewed and may be added as additional source checks are completed.
Recommended Dive Suit
Environmental conditions are expected to remain consistent in the short-term outlook.
Even in warm destinations, extended dives can gradually draw heat away from the body.
Exposure protection such as 3-5mm wetsuit is commonly used when diving in waters of this temperature. Divers preparing to enter the water at Clearwater C Site will likely find temperatures around 24°C (74°F) today. Surface air temperatures are resting at 23°C (74°F).
Conditions last reviewed: 18:00 using the latest environmental data.
Dive Logistics & Preparation
Hyperbaric Chamber
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Entry Requirements
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Currency
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Nearest Airports
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Marine Life at Clearwater C Site
The vibrant underwater ecosystems of Clearwater immediately capture attention with a diverse array of fish and invertebrates. You're likely to first spot colorful reef dwellers such as angelfish and curious triggerfish navigating the corals and structures. Larger invertebrates like spiny lobsters and sizeable nudibranchs often appear in crevices. Further exploration can reveal hogfish, flounder, and the occasional amberjack, particularly around artificial reefs. Goliath grouper and rays are common inhabitants of the sunken barges at Veteran's Reef. In spring-fed areas like Kings Spring, expect to see manatees, large tarpon, blue crabs, catfish, and mangrove snapper.
Ray
Tarpon
Crab
Amberjack
Spiny Lobster
Mangrove Snapper
Goliath Grouper
Manatee
Catfish
Triggerfish
Angelfish
Nudibranch
Dive Centers Near Clearwater C Site
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of dive sites are available in Clearwater?
Clearwater offers a variety of dive sites, including artificial reefs like Veteran's Reef, the impressive Sheridan wreck, and freshwater springs such as Kings Spring. These sites cater to different interests and skill levels, providing diverse underwater experiences.
What is the typical visibility in Clearwater?
Visibility in Clearwater typically ranges between 7 to 27 meters (25 to 90 feet). Conditions can vary based on weather, season, and specific dive site, but generally offer good clarity for observation.
What marine life can divers expect to see?
Divers can expect to see a wide array of marine life, including angelfish, triggerfish, spiny lobsters, nudibranchs, hogfish, flounder, and amberjacks. Larger species such as goliath grouper, rays, and occasional sharks are also reported. Freshwater sites feature manatees, tarpon, blue crabs, and catfish.
Is Clearwater suitable for all diver skill levels?
Yes, Clearwater's dive sites vary in depth and complexity, making them suitable for all levels of expertise. There are shallower reefs ideal for less experienced divers, and deeper wrecks or caverns for those with advanced training.
What are the general water temperatures?
Water surface temperatures in Clearwater typically range between 22°C and 29°C (73°F and 85°F) throughout the year. This generally comfortable temperature range means that a full wetsuit may not always be necessary, depending on individual preference.
Are manatees commonly seen when diving here?
Manatees are indeed observed in the Clearwater area, especially in sites like Kings Spring. Divers may have opportunities to encounter these gentle creatures in their natural habitat, particularly during cooler months when they seek warmer spring waters.
When is the best time of year to dive Clearwater?
July often stands out as the best time to dive due to excellent conditions, including minimal wave activity. However, Clearwater offers good diving opportunities year-round, with generally calm seas and warm water temperatures, though conditions vary with seasons.
Are there any wreck dives in Clearwater?
Yes, Clearwater is home to several wreck dive sites. The Sheridan is a notable artificial reef and considered one of Florida's premier wreck dives, offering an attractive site for exploring structures and observing marine life.
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