Paradise Spring
Paradise Spring is located on the opposite side of Ocala from Williston. It is a small sinkhole in a beautiful natural setting. The sinkhole widens as you descend, reaching a depth of around 30 feet in most places.
The exception is on the southeast side of the sinkhole, where a large passage descends at a 45-degree angle to depths of 100 feet. There is a thick guideline that leads to this point. As long as you remain close to the guideline, you will be able to see the entrance clearly.
Here are some things to be aware of:
- The half-mile drive from US-301/441 can seem like a bit of an adventure. The dirt track leading from the highway looks like it might require four-wheel drive. It doesn’t; it only looks that way.
- Keep an eye out for the Paradise Spring sign as you approach; It marks the entrance.
- The only way you can pay the $30 admission fee is in cash. Paradise Spring does not take credit cards.
- Paradise Spring does not offer gear rental or tank fills.
- You must have at least 15 logged dives to get in the water here. Advanced certification or equivalent is required for dives past 60 feet. See the Paradise Spring website for a complete list of rules.
Paradise Spring is open from 8:00 until 5:00. Given its compact size, you are likely to make just a single dive. Therefore, you will most likely want to dive Paradise in the morning and Blue Grotto or Devil’s Den in the afternoon.