When I first moved here to Florida, I looked up: What are the top places to scuba dive? Devil's Den was on every list I saw. So for my birthday, I decided I would check that adventure off the bucket list.
I called ahead to make sure they had gear for rent and if they had any tours. At that point in time, I didn't have any gear, whatsoever. They don't have any tours. But they said if I went first thing in the morning, the guide would go with me as my dive buddy. Normally, you don't need a guide if you have a dive buddy with you. The space is enclosed, and they have a map for you. The guide was also an instructor. You can get your scuba dive certification with NAUI at this location.
My dive time was at 9 a.m. There is no question I was in the right place at the entrance. And one of the local kitties came to greet me and wish me "Happy Birthday!"
I headed to the shop to pick up my equipment and check-in. They also have snorkeling equipment for rent for those who want to stay on top of the water. My guide, Don, was there to check me in and help get me suited up. He was so nice! He even grabbed his GoPro to take pictures and videos for me. We put our gear on while on the porch, then waddled over to the entrance.
Though it feels like you are entering a cave, Devil's Den is not a cave dive. You cautiously make your way down the steps, as they tend to sway, to the platform. With it being so early, there weren't many other divers or snorkelers, so getting into the water easier. Once we got settled in the water, we descended.
There are few sights to look for, one being the Grim Reaper sign. For real, beware, don't get yourself stuck in the dark tunnel.
There is also a little devil statue that divers will hide and move around. Unfortunately, the last person who hid it did too good of a job.
Devil's Den has lots of great swim-throughs.
One of the many cool things about Devil's Den is that the spring is prehistoric. So you can find fossils in the walls.
The way the light comes in from the opening up top, and shines down through the water, makes me feel like I'm in The Little Mermaid.
Fun fact! So Devil's Den is a freshwater spring, so it remains that consistent 72 degrees year-round. When it gets cold, steam is created because the water being warmer than the outside air temperature. Steam rising through the opening contributed to the name Devil's Den.
We came across a turtle!
Even though the dive was over, I wasn't ready to leave yet. I kept the mask and swam around for a bit with the snorkelers. There are a few fish in the water, but not many.
I was told, in the summer, during peak season, they will have food trucks come. There are picnic tables to set up a meal or snack after exploring.
On my way driving in, I had seen a sign for Cedar Lake's Woods and Garden. Why have one adventure when you can have two! Check out the post under the Florida Parks and Gardens tab to learn more about that botanical garden.
Overall my dive at Devil's Den Prehistoric Spring was incredible! My guide was fun and kind! It was my first time diving in a while, and he was patient as I got comfortable with the equipment again. It was so kind of him to take photos and videos for me to have. A pretty, great birthday! Definitely put this dive on your list!
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