The Underwater Museum of Art (UMA) is North America's first permanent underwater sculpture park, blending art with marine conservation. Located off Grayton Beach State Park in South Walton, Florida, it features sculptures 58–60 feet below the Gulf of Mexico's surface. These installations serve as artificial reefs, transforming barren sand flats into thriving habitats for marine life like groupers, sea turtles, and dolphins. By summer 2025, UMA will host 53 sculptures.
Key Highlights:
- Location: 0.8 miles offshore from Grayton Beach State Park, Florida.
- Access: Boat trips from operators like Dive30A or Emerald Coast Scuba.
- Cost: Free admission; factor in state park fees, dive charters (~$200), and gear rentals.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall for warm waters and clear visibility.
- Visitor Options: Diving (Open Water Certification required), snorkeling, or virtual tours.
UMA's sculptures evolve into living reefs, supporting marine ecosystems while offering an unforgettable underwater experience for divers and snorkelers.
UMA Visitor Options Comparison: Diving vs Snorkeling vs Virtual Tours
Planning Your Visit to UMA
Best Time to Visit UMA
The ideal time to visit UMA is between late spring and early fall. During this period, the waters are warmer, visibility is better, and the seas are calmer - perfect conditions for diving at depths of 58–60 feet. Warmer water temperatures make the experience more comfortable, while clearer visibility lets you fully enjoy the sculptures and the marine life that surrounds them. Once you've picked the right time, the next step is to plan your route.
How to Get to UMA
UMA is located about 0.93 miles offshore from Grayton Beach State Park, and you'll need a boat to reach it. Several licensed operators run trips to the site. Dive30A departs directly from Grayton Beach, while Emerald Coast Scuba offers trips from Destin. If you have your own boat, you can navigate to the coordinates N 30°18.754'/W 086°09.521'. Grayton Beach State Park provides convenient amenities like parking, restrooms, and beach access. However, the park can fill up quickly on weekends, so it's a good idea to call ahead and check availability.
Budgeting for Your Trip
Once you've sorted out the logistics, it's time to think about costs. Admission to UMA is completely free, but you should factor in state park entrance fees, dive charter costs from operators like Dive30A or Emerald Coast Scuba, and any gear rental fees. If you're not a certified diver, you'll need to budget for an Open Water Diver certification course. Emerald Coast Scuba offers a three-step certification program that includes e-learning and four days of in-person training. For a more budget-friendly option, consider snorkeling instead of diving. Whichever route you choose, your visit not only provides a memorable experience but also supports marine conservation efforts and a one-of-a-kind underwater art exhibit.
Visiting UMA as a Diver
Diver Requirements and Skills
To dive at the Underwater Museum of Art (UMA), located at a depth of 60 feet, you’ll need an Open Water Diver certification (or higher) and must be at least 12 years old. The Gulf’s conditions can be unpredictable, so it’s important to be comfortable navigating them. When you check in, bring your certification card and dive log. If it’s been over a year since your last dive or you’re unfamiliar with local conditions at this depth, hiring a Divemaster as your buddy is a smart move. For about $45, they can guide you through navigation and ensure safety stops are properly handled. Once you’ve confirmed your dive booking, you’re ready to take the plunge.
Booking a Dive Trip
To secure your dive at UMA, book ahead with a licensed operator like Dive30A or Emerald Coast Scuba. These trips are typically structured as two-tank dives and last between 6 to 8 hours. It’s a good idea to bring a small snack or drink for the trip. Be sure to arrive an hour early to handle paperwork, finalize rental equipment, and get everything ready. Dive charters in the area generally cost around $200. Once you’ve reserved your spot, double-check your gear and ensure everything is in order for a safe and enjoyable dive.
Dive Gear Checklist
Make sure you have all the essentials: mask, fins, snorkel, BCD, and regulator. A dive computer is a must to keep track of your bottom time and safety stops. Air tanks, which you’ll need two of, can be rented for about $16 each. Alternatively, you can rent a complete gear package for roughly $85. Since water temperatures can dip to around 67°F, a wetsuit is worth considering. If you want to capture the beauty of UMA’s sculptures and marine life - like groupers and sea turtles - bring along an underwater camera or GoPro. For those traveling light, many full-service dive operators in the area offer rental equipment to cover all your needs.
Visiting UMA as a Non-Diver
Snorkeling at UMA
If you're an experienced snorkeler, you can catch a glimpse of UMA's sculptures from the surface, though the depth might make them seem a bit distant. This option is ideal when the water is clear, and you're comfortable swimming in open Gulf waters. Since reaching the site requires a guided swim from Grayton Beach State Park, you'll need to be confident in your open-water swimming skills. Local operators like Dive30A offer guided snorkel tours, providing all the gear you’ll need, making it easier for non-divers to experience the underwater wonders.
For a more accessible snorkeling experience, consider the nearshore snorkel reefs created by the South Walton Artificial Reef Association (SWARA). One standout is the turtle-shaped reef near Grayton Beach, which you can reach using a kayak or paddleboard. These reefs offer a closer look at marine life and are a fantastic option for those who want to enjoy the water without venturing too far from shore.
Virtual and Shore-Based Options
Not a fan of getting wet? UMA has you covered. Their website features an interactive map and "Beyond the Surface" video series, allowing you to explore the sculptures virtually from the comfort of your home. This is a great way to preview the gallery before your visit.
On land, Grayton Beach State Park serves as the starting point for UMA visitors. The park offers convenient amenities like parking, restrooms, changing facilities, and a beach walkover for those who prefer to stay onshore. These options make it easy to enjoy a relaxing beach day while learning about UMA’s art and conservation efforts.
Other South Walton Attractions
Round out your visit to UMA with some of South Walton’s other gems. The area's rare coastal dune lakes are a must-see. For art enthusiasts, the Monarch Art Trail in Watersound features sculptures like "Roost and Puddle" by Anthony Heinz May, continuing the artistic theme above water.
If you're in the mood for food and drinks, Santa Rosa Beach is home to craft breweries and a variety of dining spots. And don’t miss Seaside’s iconic Bud and Alley's rooftop bar, a favorite for locals and visitors alike. For insider tips on hidden beaches, local eats, and events along the 30A corridor, check out sowal.co for curated travel guides.
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Conservation and Visitor Guidelines at UMA
How UMA Supports Marine Life
At UMA, art meets conservation by transforming 95% of the barren Walton County Gulf waters into flourishing reefs. Each sculpture is carefully crafted to benefit marine life. For instance, Nathan Hoffman's The Neptunian Oak features a hollow trunk and textured bark, perfect for algae to cling to and marine creatures to shelter in. Ashley Rivers' Sunken Spores mimics land mushrooms, creating nurseries, feeding areas, and spawning grounds for over a million aquatic species. Meanwhile, Denna Ameen's Lost Kingdom of Artemis includes an open ceiling, designed specifically to allow sea turtles to swim freely in and out.
The impact of these designs is already visible. Artist and diver Vince Tatum shared his experience:
"Incredibly, last time I dove UMA, I spotted two French angelfish. I have only ever seen those while diving in the Caymans".
By summer 2025, UMA is set to feature 53 sculptures. Over time, these works will evolve into living reefs as coral and algae grow over them, further enriching the marine ecosystem. To ensure this delicate transformation continues, visitors are encouraged to follow strict guidelines.
Visitor Etiquette and Rules
To protect the marine growth, avoid touching the sculptures. Boaters should anchor only at the designated "Super Reef Anchor Point" (N 30°18.754 / W 86°09.521) to prevent damage to the artwork and the marine life it supports. Anchors and chains can cause significant harm if they come into contact with these underwater installations.
Visitors are also encouraged to use reef-safe sunscreen to minimize harm to the developing ecosystem. Local groups, such as Emerald Coast Scuba, actively maintain the area by clearing debris and discarded fishing lines. As part of your visit, embrace the Leave No Trace principles - take only photos and leave behind nothing but bubbles.
UMA's Role in South Walton
UMA's influence extends beyond marine conservation. As a key part of the Cultural Arts Alliance's Art In Public Spaces Program, it bridges South Walton's vibrant art scene with Gulf conservation efforts. This collaboration between the Cultural Arts Alliance and the South Walton Artificial Reef Association combines creativity with environmental care. Additionally, UMA serves as a hub for research, drawing marine scientists, ecologists, and students to study the effects of artificial reefs on the Gulf's ecosystem.
Diving Florida's FIRST UNDERWATER MUSEUM!!! | Grayton Beach Scuba
Conclusion
The Underwater Museum of Art (UMA) is a one-of-a-kind destination where art and marine conservation come together beneath the ocean's surface. With 53 sculptures transforming barren sand flats into thriving marine ecosystems, UMA offers an underwater gallery that evolves with each passing season, becoming more dynamic and colorful over time.
Whether you're a certified diver exploring the sculptures 60 feet below or a snorkeler admiring them from above, this experience connects you to a deeper understanding of art, nature, and conservation. It’s an adventure that blends creativity with purpose.
Visiting UMA is straightforward and budget-friendly. There’s no admission fee for the museum itself - just the entry fee for Grayton Beach State Park if you’re accessing it from the shore. This makes it an accessible and enriching experience for anyone intrigued by the fusion of art and environmental care.
With new installations added annually, every visit to UMA offers something fresh and exciting. To plan your South Walton adventure and explore other attractions in the area, head over to sowal.co for travel tips and local insights. UMA not only nurtures marine life but also highlights South Walton’s dedication to creativity and conservation.
FAQs
How do the sculptures at the Underwater Museum of Art support marine life?
The sculptures at the Underwater Museum of Art serve a dual purpose: they’re not just art, but also artificial reefs. Over time, these installations transform barren sand flats into bustling underwater communities, attracting everything from fish to vibrant coral. By providing shelter and a foundation for marine life, they help boost local fish populations and enrich biodiversity, all while supporting the surrounding marine environment.
What do I need to dive at the Underwater Museum of Art?
To explore the Underwater Museum of Art (UMA), you'll need a current Open Water Diver certification or higher. Make sure to bring your certification card with you at check-in. Divers must be at least 12 years old and comfortable swimming in open water. If you're just starting out, it’s a good idea to complete a Discover Scuba or Open Water course locally before planning your dive.
You'll also need to fill out a medical questionnaire before your dive to ensure you're fit for the 58-foot depth. If the questionnaire flags any health concerns, you might need to get clearance from a doctor. Be sure to arrive at the dive shop at least one hour before departure. This gives you time to show your certification, complete any required paperwork, and sort out rental gear like tanks, weights, or a BCD.
If you're coming from South Walton, sowal.co provides helpful tips on transportation, parking at Grayton Beach State Park, and other local insights to make your UMA experience smooth and enjoyable.
Can I visit the Underwater Museum of Art without diving?
The Underwater Museum of Art is nestled beneath the Gulf of Mexico, and the only way to experience it is by getting into the water. To view the sculptures, you'll need to be a certified diver or join a guided dive or snorkeling tour. Not a diver? No problem - there are plenty of other attractions to enjoy along the scenic 30A coastline!
