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15 Must-See Underwater Attractions in America

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Across America, there are incredible aquatic attractions waiting to be discovered. These destinations provide unforgettable experiences for adventure seekers and those curious about the wonders beneath the surface. Here is a list of 15 most spectacular underwater sights.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

Matt Kieffer from London, United Kingdom/Wikimedia Commons

Located inside the Florida Keys, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is considered the first underwater park in the US. Established in 1963, it protects approximately 70 nautical square miles of reefs and marine life. Notably, the park is home to the famous “Christ of the Abyss” statue, a 9-foot-tall bronze statue submerged in 25 feet of water.

Lake Tahoe

Photograph by Don Ramey Logan/Wikimedia Commons

Lake Tahoe is known for its views and crystal-clear waters, which allow for exceptional visibility underwater. The lake is a haven for divers, featuring submerged trees, rocky formations, and wildlife, such as the Lahontan cutthroat trout. With depths reaching over 1,600 feet, Lake Tahoe offers a distinctive experience for divers.

Vandenberg Shipwreck

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The Vandenberg, a decommissioned army ship, was sunk in 2009 to create an artificial reef. It sits 140 feet below the surface in the Florida Keys, now home to vibrant coral formations and a variety of marine creatures. This underwater destination allows divers to explore old radar dishes and remnants of the vessel.

Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary

Matt Kieffer from London, United Kingdom/Wikimedia Commons

Spanning over 2,900 square nautical miles, the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary protects a diverse range of ecosystems, including coral reefs and seagrass beds. Snorkelers and divers can explore famous sites like the Florida Reef, the only living coral barrier reef in the continental United States.

The USS Oriskany

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Billed as the largest artificial reef in the world, the USS Oriskany is a former aircraft carrier that was intentionally sunk off the coast of Pensacola in 2006. Now resting on the ocean floor, this 911-foot behemoth is a diver’s paradise that attracts marine life while offering an eerie glimpse into naval history.

Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary

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This sanctuary is prominent for its well-preserved shipwrecks, with over 100 wrecks documented in the area. Divers can explore these historic sites, which include schooners and other vessels that sank in the Great Lakes. The sanctuary also offers educational programs about maritime heritage and conservation efforts.

Hanauma Bay

Cristo Vlahos/ Wikimedia Commons

Hanauma Bay is a protected marine embayment on the island of Oahu. It is known for its coral reefs and diverse marine life and is an excellent snorkeling destination. Visitors are encouraged to engage in conservation efforts, including educational programs about the importance of protecting Hawaii’s marine ecosystems.

Underwater Museum of Art

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Located near the coast of Grayton Beach, the Underwater Museum of Art (UMA) features submerged sculptures designed to encourage coral growth and marine life. This museum shows the work of various artists and aims to enhance the marine environment while providing a unique diving and snorkeling experience. 

Crystal River

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Crystal River is known for its natural springs and as a habitat for manatees. The clear waters offer excellent visibility for snorkeling and diving, allowing visitors to swim alongside these gentle giants. The best time to visit is during the winter months when manatees migrate to the springs to escape colder waters.

The Dry Tortugas

Dry Tortugas NPS/ Wikimedia Commons

Accessible only by boat or seaplane, Dry Tortugas National Park is a remote heaven known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. It features historical sites, such as Fort Jefferson, and offers excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. Moreover, the underwater ecosystems are home to various marine life.

Catalina Island

Aquaimages at English Wikipedia/ Wikimedia Commons

Catalina Island is known for its diverse underwater experiences and features marine life surrounding the island, including kelp forests and vibrant reefs, particularly at the popular dive site Casino Point. The island’s commitment to conservation helps protect its ecosystems and provides visitors with a chance to appreciate its underwater beauty.

Bahia Honda State Park

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Situated in the Florida Keys, Bahia Honda State Park is known for its beautiful beaches and excellent snorkeling spots. Plus, its underwater environment features coral reefs, seagrass beds, and a variety of marine life. Visitors can also explore the waters of the park’s beaches, which makes it a popular destination for snorkeling and diving.

Gulf of Mexico Shipwrecks

Gareth Richards/ Wikimedia Commons

The Gulf of Mexico is dotted with shipwrecks that have become artificial reefs, attracting numerous marine life. Popular diving sites include the USS Oriskany, one of the largest artificial reefs in the world, and the Texas Clipper, both of which offer exciting opportunities to explore underwater history while observing the ecosystems.

The Great Lakes

Indian Space Research Organisation, GODL-India/Wikimedia Commons

These lakes offer underwater attractions, including shipwrecks and diverse ecosystems. Sites like the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore feature submerged historic vessels and stunning underwater scenery. The clear waters allow divers to explore these wrecks while observing the flora and fauna of the Great Lakes.

USS Arizona Memorial

DoD photo by: PH3(AW/SW) JAYME PASTORIC, USN/ Wikimedia Commons

This memorial is located at Pearl Harbor and is a poignant underwater attraction that commemorates the sailors who lost their lives during the attack on December 7, 1941. The sunken battleship remains visible beneath the water and acts as a grave for many crew members. Visitors can take a fun boat tour to the memorial.

Written by Gabriel Rickles

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