Blue Heron Bridge Tide & Dive Planning
Tide and current are central to planning a Blue Heron Bridge dive. Conditions and water movement can change through the day, so use a current forecast as a starting point and make the final decision with your buddy at the site.
Use tide information carefully
Palm Beach County's snorkel-trail guidance recommends snorkeling within two hours before slack tide. That is snorkeling advice, not a guarantee of safe or mild current for scuba. The county site map also identifies different entry and exit areas for incoming and outgoing tides and warns that strong currents occur in the area.
The Stuart Scuba branded map is a simplified orientation graphic; it does not show live tide, current, or tide-specific entry directions. Use the current county map and posted park instructions when choosing a route.
Before leaving for the park
- Check the tide forecast for the Blue Heron Bridge area and the latest local weather.
- Confirm park access and any posted advisories before traveling.
- Set a conservative dive plan with your buddy: intended route, depth, maximum time, gas reserve, entry/exit and a turn-around point.
- Make sure your training, equipment and experience fit the current plan.
Assess conditions before entry
At the water, look for current direction and strength, visibility, boat activity and any hazards or closures. Choose only an entry and exit that match current conditions and your ability. If you cannot make a safe plan, postpone the dive. Never try to swim or fin against a current that is beyond your training or comfort.
Plan the return, too
Agree on the return route, lost-buddy procedure and what to do if current or visibility changes. Carry appropriate navigation and surface-signaling equipment, keep clear of marked channels and follow current diver-flag requirements.
Back to the Dive Blue Heron Bridge guide | View the map and dive zones
