Snorkeling & Scuba Diving

Snorkeling in the national seashore.

NPS Photo/Weaver

Snorkeling and scuba diving are execellent ways to experience the marine resources of Gulf Islands National Seashore. For the safety of visitor and park wildlife the following regulations are in place. Please visit the Laws & Policies page for more information.

1. Businesses are required to get a permit for training classes within park waters.
2. Use the "buddy system" and "diver down" flag when in the water. Each diver will carry a knife as monofilament line is often found in the area and can be a hazard.
3. Salvage activities are not allowed without the written permission of the Superintendent.
4. It is your responsibility to know existing park and state fishing regulations inlcuding minimum legal sizes, limits, harvesting methods and seasons on crab and fish.
5. Spear gun and bow fishing is prohibited in all waters.
6. Spear fishing is not permitted from 200 feet east of the Fort Pickens fishing pier to 300 feet west of the last rock jetty in Pensacola Pass, in the Perdido Key jetties, or in the vicinity of swimming beaches. Explosive or power heads are prohibited.
7. No diving or swimming is permitted within 100 feet of the Fort Pickens fishing pier.
8. Harassment of marine mammals, sea turtles, and manta rays is unlawful. Respect all creatures you encounter.
9. Before departing, swimmers, snorkelers and divers should leave an itinerary and/or float plan with someone who is on shore and can be easily reached.

 

Diving Locations

Explore some of the underwater resources of the national seashore.

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