Discover four unique artificial reefs along South Walton's coast, including Grouper Reef and Sea Turtle Reef. Learn how to explore them responsibly and make the most of your snorkeling adventure.
Are you the adventurous type? Then, a good thrill is probably part of your vacation plans. From snowy adventures in the mountains to underwater exploration along the shores of North Carolina and Florida's Emerald Coast, the U.S. is packed with exciting ways to turn a getaway into something epic.
Heading to South Walton soon? Just off the coast, you'll find something pretty special: around 700 artificial reef structures placed in the water since 2015. These reefs are like underwater hangouts for all kinds of marine life, offering shelter, food, and a great excuse for you to grab a snorkel and dive in. With so many fish and creatures calling these reefs home, it's one of the coolest ways to explore the Gulf.
Here's what's waiting for you:
- Grouper Reef: A large fish-shaped reef near Inlet Beach, just 970 feet offshore. A great spot for spotting colorful marine life and snorkeling close to shore.
- Sea Turtle Reef: Designed in the shape of a sea turtle and located off Grayton Beach. This reef is a favorite for families and ideal for calm-weather snorkeling.
- Seahorse Reef: Shaped like a seahorse and located near Topsail Hill Preserve State Park. Known for excellent visibility and easy access for paddleboarders.
- Cobia Reef: Found offshore of Miramar Beach in a cobia shape. Popular with divers and snorkelers looking to explore vibrant marine habitats.
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Below, I'll share four incredible artificial reefs in South Walton you won't want to miss if you're looking to experience the dazzling and colorful marine life that calls the Gulf home.
Let's dive in!
About SWARA ARTIFICIAL REEF SYSTEM
The South Walton Artificial Reef Association (SWARA) has created a vibrant underwater world right off South Walton's coast. Since 2015, they've deployed around 700 reef structures across 16 sites, from mirrored marine habitats to beachfront snorkel spots, making it easy and exciting to explore the Gulf's underwater life sustainably.
marine life you're likely to spot
Fish Galore
- Red Snapper: A local favorite with vibrant red coloring, often seen around the deeper reefs.
- Grouper: Large, slow-moving fish that love to hang out near reef bases and inside open structures.
- Spadefish: Often spotted in schools, these flat, disc-shaped fish are social and curious.
- Sheepshead: Recognizable by their vertical stripes and human-like teeth, commonly found near shallow reefs.
- Triggerfish and Angelfish: Flashy reef dwellers with bold patterns, seen flitting around the snorkel reefs.
Sea Turtles
- Green Sea Turtles and Loggerheads are occasionally spotted cruising along the reefs or resting on the sandy seafloor. You're most likely to see them in the early morning or late afternoon when the waters are quieter.
Crustaceans & Invertebrates
- Blue Crabs, Stone Crabs, and Shrimp love hiding in crevices.
- Octopuses and Sea Urchins are also seen, especially at dusk or in shady parts of the reef.
- Anemones and sponges often cling to the surfaces of the reef structures, creating colorful underwater gardens.
Occasional Visitors
- Reef Sharks and Cownose Rays glide through the deeper reef zones. They're harmless to humans but exciting to see.
- Barracudas: Sleek and silvery, often seen hovering still in the water, sometimes curious but mostly keeping their distance.
Bonus Sights
- Starfish, Sand Dollars, and Sea Cucumbers dot the sandy bottoms near the reefs.
- Schools of baitfish often surround the reef, creating mesmerizing silvery clouds of movement.
1. Dolphin Reef - Miramar Regional Public Beach Access
Just off the coast of Miramar Beach, Dolphin Reef brings adventure a little closer to shore. Shaped like the lovely marine mammal it's named after, this artificial reef is a great spot for snorkelers looking to spot vibrant sea life just a short swim from the sand.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Sits about 685 feet offshore from Miramar Regional Public Beach access near Pompano Joe's.
- Shaped like a dolphin and teeming with marine life.
- Deployed in 2017 and already a favorite among local snorkelers.
- Depth ranges from 12 to 20 feet, perfect for intermediate snorkelers.
- Great chance to see fish and other Gulf creatures up close without going too far out.
2. Sea Turtle Reef - Grayton Beach State Park Access
Turtle Reef isn't just a cool name; it's shaped like a turtle and teeming with marine life. Set just off the coast of Grayton Beach State Park, this reef was built to last and built to impress. Made from sturdy materials and placed with care, it's a top snorkeling spot in South Walton for those looking to explore the Gulf's underwater world.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Reef shaped like a turtle, just off Grayton Beach State Park.
- Located about 783 feet from shore.
- Depth ranges from 12 to 19 feet, great for snorkelers.
- Built with steel, concrete, and Florida limestone.
- Anchored with fiberglass pilings, so it stays in place.
3. Seahorse Reef - Topsail Hill Preserve State Park Access
Just a short swim from shore, Seahorse Reef offers one of the most unique snorkeling experiences in South Walton. Deployed in 2017, this reef sits in shallow waters and is shaped exactly like its namesake, making it as photogenic as it is full of marine life. It's a perfect spot for beginner snorkelers and curious explorers alike.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Located about 715 feet from the beach at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park.
- Depth ranges from 13 to 18 feet, ideal for snorkeling and free diving.
- The reef is shaped like a seahorse, making it easy to spot and fun to explore.
- Expect to see colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine critters.
- Water clarity can vary, so check conditions at the park's ranger station before heading out.
- Access to the reef is via the state park, which also has restrooms, parking, and shaded picnic areas.
- Great add-on to a beach day or nature walk through the park's trails and dune lakes.
4. Grouper Reef - Inlet Beach Access
Snorkeling near Inlet Beach? Make sure Grouper Reef is on your list. Just 970 feet from shore, this massive fish-shaped structure is more than just a fun design; it's an underwater hotspot teeming with life. Over time, the reef has become home to a growing variety of marine creatures and vibrant plant life.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Located just 970 feet off Inlet Beach, easy swim for most snorkelers.
- Shaped like a giant grouper, fun to spot from above and below the surface.
- Covered in colorful marine growth, creating a vibrant underwater ecosystem.
- Frequent sightings include small reef fish, crabs, and even the occasional ray.
- Calm Gulf waters make it ideal for snorkeling on a clear day.
- Great spot for GoPro footage or underwater photography.
Bonus: Pro Tips for Reef Fun
Make the most of your time at the SWARA Artificial Reefs, with safety, ease, and respect for marine life in mind.
Get There Smoothly
- Paddle Out: Use a kayak or paddleboard for easy access to snorkel-friendly reefs. It's a fun workout and keeps the environment cleaner than motorized boats.
- Safety First: Always wear a PFD (personal flotation device), and keep an eye on shifting currents, especially during tide changes.
Flag It Right
- Diver-Down Flag Required: Florida law mandates a diver-down flag when you're snorkeling or diving. It alerts nearby boats to steer clear. Don't skip it—it's as essential as your mask and fins.
Look, Don't Touch
- Hands Off, Camera On: The reefs are home to living creatures and delicate structures. Snap your best shots, but avoid touching, standing on, or collecting anything. Your photos will last longer—and so will the reef.
Visit the Underwater Museum of Art
- Add Some Culture to Your Dive: SWARA's UMA (Underwater Museum of Art) is a unique blend of sculpture and marine sanctuary. It's located offshore of Grayton Beach State Park and makes for an unforgettable dive.
Time It Right
- Plan Around Weather and Tide: Shore-access reefs are best explored on calm, sunny days with gentle surf. Check the marine forecast before you go, and avoid diving during rough conditions.
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