Fort Lauderdale, Lauderdale by the sea reef
by Carl
(Fort Lauderdale Florida)
Take Commercial Blvd east to the beach.
You will see a fishing pier there, just south of the pier about 200 yards off shore is a beautiful coral reef.
There are rays, parrot fish, sea turtles, and nurse sharks. You will also see several species of eels. You should be a good swimmer becuase it's a fair distance and the currents and surf can pick up fast.
From November to April you will need a wetsuit. There are a lot of nice restaurants right on the beach there as well.
Because of occasional boat traffic, to snorkel on this reef you need a dive flag. The Marine Patrol strictly enforces this for the safety of the divers.
All and all a nice place to snorkel.