New Perdido Key Snorkeling Reef

Barge Lowering Reef Structures

Adding to the already beautiful, white sandy beach of Perdido Key, an artificial reef is now in place for locals and visitors to enjoy.   Last week, spectators gathered to watch as a barge lowered concrete structures into the Gulf of Mexico just south of Public Beach Access # 1 off Sandy Key Drive.

Once complete, the reef is projected to be approximately 280 feet long and between 10 and 16 feet deep.  This reef will bring in many species of marine life including turtles, octopus, and an array of tropical reef fish.   Although there are many wrecks for divers to enjoy, there are a limited number of shore locations for divers and snorkelers.  There are currently artificial reefs at Pensacola Beach and Navarre; however this is the first beach accessible underwater attraction in the Perdido Key area.

Perdido Key, Florida is the perfect destination accommodating paddle boarding, kayaking, snorkeling, and diving.   Visit your local Pointe South office for a list of enjoyable coastal activities and attractions.

Please help us maintain a healthy environment for our marine life and enjoy our beaches and all the beauty that Northwest Florida and Coastal Alabama have to offer.

 

Note:  Florida Law requires a diver-down flag for snorkeling and diving.  Please contact a local diving agency for rules, regulations, and professional guidance.

Gulf Red Snapper Season

 

Gulf Red SnapperThe time is here that Florida gulf coast residents and vacationers have been waiting for, Gulf Red Snapper season!  This season has been the talk of the area for the past few months and is awaited by many.  Local charter captains were scheduling and booking in advance and recreational divers said the reef fish were abundant.

The season started for both state and federal waters on June 1st.  The state water harvest will be open for 44 days through July 14th where the federal water harvest will only be open for 26 days through June 26th.  The Red Snapper must be a minimum of 16 inches in total length and only 2 snapper may be kept per person per day.

As the season is now mid-stream, anglers are showcasing their prize catches everywhere.  The world record for the Red Snapper is 50 lbs. 4 oz. and was caught in Belle Pass Marina, Louisiana.

For more information on fishing, boating, and licenses and permits for our Florida waters, please visit the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.

Coastal Water Conditions & Currents

 Coastal Current

Everyone loves the beach!  Some make Florida their annual vacation destination, and others make it a permanent home.  Regardless of how we get here or how long we stay, the pristine beaches, warm weather, and coastal lifestyle make Florida and the emerald shores of the gulf coast an oasis for all of us. 

What we all enjoy most is the sand between our toes while walking down the beach or on our way through the refreshing salt water for a swim or paddle.  And although we always see the coastal flags and signs, many of us walk or drive by dismissing their meanings.  When planning a day or event at the beach we all need to be aware of the tide conditions, currents, and marine life.  These conditions can change throughout the day, however, being aware will help you plan your events and keep everyone safe. 

Warning Flags Normally at the entrance of every state park, is a colored flag, accompanying the United States flag, which provides the current water hazard level.  These flags are also displayed on some public beach access areas and other coastal areas with high traffic.  This flag is your first indication of the water conditions and can be seen from a distance.  The medium hazard flags are often dismissed but just about everyone takes notice of the double red flag or the purple flag.  We associate these two with the opportunity to see massive swells or exciting marine life.

Rip currents are extremely powerful and there are not any signs to indicate their current conditions or force however signs are frequently displayed along the Florida shores to create awareness.  Rip currents are narrow channels of rapidly moving water rushing from the shore towards the open water.  There is no simulation for this type of strength and fighting a current is not an option.  In order to get a better understanding of rip currents and how to properly respond, please see the signs displayed in your area and become familiar with their normal course. 

Taking the time to recognize these signs and becoming aware of the local water conditions will only make your time spent on the beach more enjoyable and desired by everyone.  This is even more important when vacationing on the gulf coast or purchasing a waterfront home.  Check with your Realtor to receive additional information on the Gulf of Mexico and local waterways.