SCUBA Diving the Dania Erojacks

Location:
The Dania Erojacks, Dania Beach, Florida, United States

Coordinates:
Lat 26°06.333’ N, Long 80°11.115’W

Just a few hundred yards off the sandy shoreline of Dania Beach lies one of South Florida’s most accessible and beloved underwater attractions—the Dania Erojacks. This artificial reef, a long line of massive interlocking concrete blocks shaped like giant jacks from a child’s game, stretches in parallel rows beneath the waves. Originally placed in the 1950s as a coastal erosion control measure, the Erojacks have since transformed into a thriving marine ecosystem, attracting divers, snorkelers, and marine life enthusiasts alike.
As you swim out from the beach, the water deepens to about 15 to 20 feet, revealing the pale, angular forms of the jacks resting on the sandy seabed. Over the decades, their rough concrete surfaces have become encrusted with corals, sponges, and algae, turning the once-industrial structures into a living reef. Schools of grunts, sergeant majors, and yellowtail snapper weave in and out of the crevices, while curious parrotfish graze on algae clinging to the jacks. In the shadows of the concrete formations, shy lobsters, moray eels, and the occasional octopus find shelter.
For divers, the Erojacks offer an easy yet fascinating experience—perfect for beginners and underwater photographers. The gentle depth and usually calm waters make it a favorite training ground for new divers, but the site’s vibrant biodiversity keeps seasoned explorers coming back. On sunny days, the play of light on the sand and the soft sway of sea fans growing along the jacks create an almost ethereal underwater scene.
The Erojacks also serve as a reminder of how human efforts to manage the coastline can unexpectedly give rise to habitats that support marine life. Over time, nature claimed the concrete as its own, transforming a utilitarian structure into a haven for sea creatures. For snorkelers, the swim out is an adventure in itself, offering the thrill of entering a living underwater city just a short distance from shore.
Whether you are wading in for your first snorkeling trip or descending with scuba gear to capture the play of light among the structures, the Dania Erojacks offer a glimpse into the resilience and adaptability of Florida’s coastal ecosystems—a testament to the ocean’s ability to turn the ordinary into the extraordinary.