Fort Lauderdale's to-do Magazine, July/August 2023

JULY/AUGUST 2023

10 26 34

Seafood Restaurants

A comprehensive list of fish joints — from fancy-shamncy to laid back

22

Review

Small bites, a lively vibe and inventive cocktails at American Tapas Bar Go Splash

South Florida water attractions to beat the heat

44 48

Family Fun

Events the kids will love On Course

Local golf courses Dive In

A Colorado girl learns to scuba.

Seafood

Aplenty

Fort Lauderdale boasts a vibrant seafood scene that caters to all tastes. From upscale waterfront establishments to casual beachside eateries, seafood restaurants in Fort Lauderdale offer a diverse array of flavors. Fresh catches, like succulent shrimp, delectable Florida lobster, and mouthwatering grouper, ensure a delightful culinary experience for seafood enthusiasts in this coastal city.

BILLY’S STONE CRAB

400 N Ocean Drive, Hollywood

954-923-2300 crabs.com

First things first: Stone Crab season kicks off October 15th, so you won’t be able to check out Billy’s signature dish until then. Is that any reason to stay away from this Hollywood hot spot? Nah. You’ll find some of the best seafood in the area here at this Intracoastal destination. OnionCrusted Hogfish, Dang-Bang Shrimp, Florida Lobster Tail and the Shore Platter (Cod Fillet, Scallops, Gulf Shrimp) will take care of you quite nicely.

CRAFTY CRAB

2861 N Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale

954-533-4836 craftycrabrestaurant.com

Seafood Boil leads the parade at Crafty. Creating it is a totally interactive process. You pick your Seasoning, the level of spiciness and, of course, exactly what will be the basis of your Boil (among your choices: Snow Carb Legs, Lobster Tail, Clams, Crawfish or Mussels.) You can also choose a Fried Basket (Calamari, Shrimp, Catfish) or Steamed Oysters

G&B OYSTER BAR

429 Seabreeze Blvd, Fort Lauderdale

954-525-2421 gandboysterbar.com

A sweet place to duck into when the urge for seafood strikes. Add some Bacon to your New England-style Lobster Roll. The Crab Cake Entrée is a well-endowed meal, as well. When 5 PM rolls around, you can begin ordering from the actual Oyster Bar menu, which includes Crab Empanadas, Grilled Oysters and Salted Shrimp.

JWB PRIME STEAK & SEAFOOD

Margarita Hollywood Beach Resort, 1111 N Ocean Drive, Hollywood

954-874-4462 jwbrestaurant.com

You’ll be tastin’ away again at the jewel of Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort. The Rhode Island Calamari, Red King Crab Legs and Fried Oysters are all appetizing Appetizers. The South African Twin Lobster Tails, Surf & Turf and the Daily chef-inspired Fresh Catch can’t be beat. If you don’t check this place out, it’s your own damn fault.

KALUZ

330 E Commercial Blvd., Fort Lauderdale

954-772-2209 kaluzrestaurant.com

A definite go-to dining destination all year long for locals and visitors alike. One of the best vantage points to take in the singular impressiveness of the Intracoastal Waterway. A feast for the eyes should be combined with a feast for the tastebuds and that’s what you’ll find at Kaluz. Begin with Shrimp Cargot, Tuna Tartare or Key Lime Crab Salad. Move on to the Chilean Seabass, Cedar Plank Salmon or Scallops Pomegranate. Do leave room for the Salted Caramel Brownie or the Bread Pudding.

LOBSTER BAR SEA GRILLE

450 E Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale

954-772-2675 buckheadsrestaurant.com

Make it a meal to remember on the Boulevard. Lobster Bar’s menu showcases a wide variety of offerings. Start off with some Caviar or the

Shellfish Tower. Then settle into a Wood-Grilled Whole Fish (Arctic Char, Branzino or Dover Sole Meuniere) or maybe one of their six Lobster dishes. You’ll come out of your shell in this eatery, for sure.

NAKED CRAB

B Ocean Resort, 1140 Seabreeze Blvd, Fort Lauderdale

954-564-1000 bhotelsandresorts.com

Shellfish served on ice from the Raw Bar won’t be the only thing “chill” at the Crab. You’ll find a soothing, relaxed, elegant atmosphere here, along with some outstanding dishes. Kick off the proceedings with one (or more) of the three choices of Caviar. The Fritto Misto and the Rock Octopus aren’t bad beginners, either. Follow that up with the Dungeness Crab Risotto, Maine Lobster or the Bouillabaisse Pot Pie and one of their specialty Cocktails and you’ve got it made.

PIRATE REPUBLIC

400 SW Third Ave, Fort Lauderdale

954-761-3500 piraterepublicseafood.com

Attention, all ye seafood lovers. We recommend you drop anchor at Pirate Republic for a meal to remember. You’ll get a full-on experience in terms of dishes prepared with a Brazilian touch. Seafood Moqueca and the Pirate Bowl are two of the Signature Meals here. There are also eight Shrimp Specialties that are guaranteed to rock your world.

RIVERTAIL

4 W Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale

954-306-2665 rivertailftl.com

Esoteric and discerning, Rivertail

upped the game for all seafood restaurants in the area. You’ll really treat yourself when you dine here. The inventive menu includes Crab Donuts (not a Dessert,) King Crab Roll, Clams Carbonara Bucatini, Shrimp Spaghetti Fra Diavolo and the very special Bahia-Style Brazilian Stew, a combination of White Fish, Shrimp, Mussels, Scallops, Clams, Dende Oil and Coconut Milk.

SEAWATCH

6002 N Ocean Blvd., Fort Lauderdale

954-781-2200 seawatchontheocean.com

Seawatch is that old-timey restaurant you’ve been looking for. And this

one comes with ocean views. Yes, it’s a bit touristy, but you’d be hard-pressed to find a local who hasn’t celebrated something at Seawatch. It’s a far cry from the more happening spots on Las Olas or downtown, but it does have old Florida charm that’s not so easy to find these days. The restaurant is also open for Sunday brunch. Who doesn’t love brunch?

SHOOTER’S WATERFRONT

3033 NE 32nd Ave, Fort Lauderdale

954-566-2855 shooterswaterfront.com

OFF THE BEATEN PATH Cap’s

Place

2765 NE 28th Court, Lighthouse Point

954-941-0418 caps place.com

Cap’s Place in Lighthouse Point, Florida, is a historic gem that has been serving up delicious seafood since 1928. Situated on a private island accessible only by boat — the restaurant has it’s own boat to take you over to the restaurant. This iconic restaurant offers a unique dining experience. Patrons can savor fresh catches like snapper, grouper, and oysters while the rustic charm. Don’t skip the hearts of palm salad because they make it from fresh hearts of palm — as in from a palm tree.

There are few, if any, experiences more “Fort Lauderdal-ean” (I think we just invented a word) than dining at Shooters Waterfront. This is where you come to kick back with a cool Cocktail and take in the parade of passing yachts on the Intracoastal. You’ll get so lost in the visual backdrop, we hope you don’t forget to enjoy you Sushi Roll or your Grilled Cobia or your Cajun Shrimp Fettucine or your Seared Brown Butter Scallops & Shrimp.

SOUTHPORT RAW BAR

1536 Cordova Road, Fort Lauderdale

954-525-2526 southportrawbar.com

They lay claim to being the “oldest raw bar in Fort Lauderdale” here at Southport and in a town that prides itself on the quality of its seafood, that’s really saying something. The name of this legendary joint tells you most – but not all – of what you need to know. It’s a given that the Clams, Mussels, Shrimp and Oysters are to die for. Go for the Mahi Mahi Tacos, Beer-Battered Fish & Chips or Cowboy’s Shrimp & Grits and you’re on the fast track to Tasty Town.

WILD SEA LAS OLAS

620 W Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale

954-467-2555 wildsealasolas.com

You don’t often think of a seafood place being open for breakfast but Wild Sea is. They also came to be a seafood place that won’t break the bank. Entree’s range from $22 for a shrimp and pasta dish to $32 for pecan-crusted snapper. They also have raw bar offerings, including a sampler platter. The modern ambiance of the restaurant reflects the upscale energy of Las Olas Boulevard. Guests may also dine on the sidewalk terrace that offers a great spot for people-watching. Located in the historic Riverside Hotel, Wild Sea Las Olas is a fun gathering place for visitors and Fort Lauderdale locals alike.

WILD THYME OCEANSIDE EATERY

Atlantic Hotel & Spa

601 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd., Fort Lauderdale

954-567-8070 wildthymeoceanside.com

Rub elbows with the Atlantic Ocean at this beachside beauty. No need to put on any airs, it’s casual and cool at this Eatery. The Shrimp Cocktail is huge, the Coconut Conch Fritters w/Caribbean Sauce and Spicy Mayo are paradise for your palate and the Daily Catch (including Atlantic Salmon, Mahi Mahi, Snapper or Shrimp) is so fresh, it’ll make you blush.

Morsels of America

AMERICAN TAPAS BAR SERVES UP A DELICIOUS MODERN MEDLEY OF OUR COUNTRY’S CLASSICS

Photos courtesy American Tapas Bar

LEFT TO RIGHT barbecue ribs, grilled octopus, espresso martini, chipotle fried chicken

The calendar read “American Tapas, Saturday, 8:00” — that was all I knew about my pending culinary adventure. Now, I can share with you that I know a whole lot more, and it’s a cool place with a hip vibe with tasty food and drinks. And the “American” in the name is perfect. If I were a tourist visiting the USA, their menu truly samples our melting pot of tastes.

American Tapas Bar

2724 E Commercial Blvd.

Fort Lauderdale, 954-765-6352

americantapasbar.com

It doesn’t get much more American than a fried chicken sandwich or short ribs with cole slaw, corn, and the cob — totally American. The shrimp and grits were the start of our evening. I dare sayt their version is one of the best I’ve ever had,. And I order this Southern classic often as I feel it is an opportunity for a chef to shine. I was pleasantly surprised at the creamy, smoked gouda taste that amplified this well-prepared dish. Well, at least we all guessed smoked gouda was the cheese behind the faintly smokey flavor. We also shared the grilled octopus and we probably should have ordered two — it was a hit with our table. The octopus was perfectly cooked, and the lemony white bean salad on the side served as the perfect accompaniment.

A guitarist/singer kept the room at the right level of revelry. The robust cocktail menu was entertaining on its own. Key lime pie martini, smoked old fashion, a moonshine apple pie (moonshine, apple juice, lime and maple syrup ). This place plays our country’s greatest culinary hits for music, food and beverages.

But back to the food. The pot roast was true comfort food. Overall, the restaurant knows how to please.

To finish, we had to get the mini-camp-fire, American summer classic, s’mores. There’s nothing like toasting a marshmallow in a happening Fort Lauderdale restaurant. The perfect close to a super fun evening.

OPPOSITE TOP pot roast

BOTTOM shrimp and grits

Go

Splash

BEAT THE HEAT AT THESE SOUTH FLORIDA WATER ATTRACTIONS

Rapids Water Park

Rapids Water Park in West Palm Beach, Florida, is a thrilling aquatic paradise that offers a refreshing escape from the tropical heat. Spanning over 30 acres, this water park provides an exhilarating experience for visitors of all ages. With a wide array of water attractions and rides, Rapids Water Park guarantees an unforgettable day of fun and excitement.

From towering water slides like the “Big Thunder” and the “Black Thunder” to the exhilarating “Brain Drain” with its heartpounding drops, there’s an adrenaline-pumping adventure for everyone. For those seeking a more laid-back experience, the lazy river, wave pool, and family-friendly play areas offer relaxation and enjoyment.

Rapids Water Park also caters to the younger crowd with dedicated kiddie pools and miniature slides, ensuring a safe and enjoyable time for the little ones. With attentive lifeguards and a commitment to safety, visitors can fully immerse themselves in the water park’s thrills with peace of mind.

In addition to the thrilling attractions, Rapids Water Park offers amenities such as cabanas, food vendors, and picnic areas, allowing guests to refuel and recharge throughout the day. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or simply looking to beat the heat, Rapids Water Park promises an action-packed and refreshing experience in the heart of West Palm Beach. 6566 N Military Trail, West Palm Beach http://www.rapidswaterpark.com

Tidal Cove

Tidal Cove at the JW Marriott Miami Turnberry is a premier water park destination located in Aventura, Florida. Nestled within the luxurious JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort, Tidal Cove offers a captivating and indulgent experience for guests of all ages.

Spanning over five acres, this world-class water park boasts a variety of thrilling attractions and relaxing amenities. The park features a thrilling water slide tower with slides like the “Constrictor” and “Boomerango,” guaranteeing an adrenaline rush for adventure-seekers. The lazy river offers a serene and leisurely float experience, while the expansive pool area provides ample space for swimming and lounging.

Tidal Cove also includes a FlowRider® surfing simulator, offering guests the chance to ride the waves and test their surfing skills. The park’s luxurious cabanas, attentive poolside service, and private oasis areas provide a touch of exclusivity and comfort.

With meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to guest satisfaction, Tidal Cove ensures a memorable and unforgettable water park experience. Whether you’re looking for exhilaration or relaxation, Tidal Cove at the JW Marriott Miami Turnberry delivers a true tropical paradise for water enthusiasts. 19999 West Country Club Drive, Aventura Tidalcovemiami.com

FLAMINGO GARDENS

May 27 through

September 4, 2023

www.flamingogardens.org

3750 S Flamingo Rd, Davie, FL 33330 | 954-473-2955

$21.95 ages 12+, $15.95 ages 3-11, free ages 0-2/members

Major support for Flamingo Gardens provided by Broward County Cultural Division, the Cultural Council, and the Broward County Board of County Commissioners.

Sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Arts & Culture, and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture.

The Venetian Pool

The Venetian Pool in Coral Gables, Florida, is a historic and enchanting aquatic retreat. Built in 1923, this unique swimming destination is a true gem that combines Old World charm with modern-day luxury.

The Venetian Pool is a picturesque oasis with its crystalclear freshwater lagoon and stunning Mediterranean-inspired architecture. The pool is carved out of a coral rock quarry, giving it a natural and scenic ambiance. Visitors can swim in the expansive pool, dive off the stone bridge, or relax on the sandy beach areas.

One of the most notable features of the Venetian Pool is its cascading waterfalls, which add a touch of serenity and beauty to the surroundings. The pool is also fed by a natural spring, ensuring a refreshing and invigorating swimming experience.

The Venetian Pool is not just a place to swim; it’s a destination for relaxation and leisure. It offers amenities such as cabanas, picnic areas, and a café, providing a comfortable and enjoyable atmosphere for visitors.

With its historic significance, architectural splendor, and natural beauty, the Venetian Pool stands as a timeless treasure, inviting locals and tourists alike to experience its unique charm and serenity. 2701 De Soto Blvd, Coral Gables coralgables.com/departments/CommunityRecreation/venetianpool

Family

Family Fun

Dream Car Classic Car Show

Sunday, July 2

Calling all car lovers. This car show features dozens of classic cars, trucks and other vehicles. Free. 10am-2pm, Downtown Hollywood, www.hollywoodfl.org

Sea Turtle Walks

July 5-6, 11-13, 18, 20, 25 & 27

An informative hands-on session about sea turtles is followed by a trip to the beach with expert guides to watch for turtles that have come to lay eggs. Be prepared to walk up to two miles. Ages 9 and up. $40/ person. Pre-registration required. 8pm-1am, Museum of Discovery and Science, 401 SW Second St., Fort Lauderdale, www.mods.org

Food Truck Frenzy

Thursday, July 6

Skip the cooking and bring the family for some outdoor dining at the park. 6-9pm, Tree Tops Park, 3900 SW 100 Ave., Davie, 954-357-5130 www.broward.org/parks

Sunny Days and Starry Nights

Thursday, July 6

Participate in free museum exploration the first Thursday of every month. 11am-7pm, NSU Art Museum Fort Lauderdale, One East Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, www.nsuartmuseum.org

Starlight Musicals

Fridays, July 7, 14, 21 & 28

A true summer tradition, this event is the perfect way to wrap up the week. Bring the family, a picnic and some chairs or blankets to enjoy a concert under the stars. Weather permitting. 7-10pm, Holiday Park, 1150 G. Harold Martin Dr., Fort Lauderdale, www.fortlauderdale.gov

Family Fun

Origami Workshop

Friday, July 14

Learn how to fold paper into a creative paper sculpture. Ages 8 and up. Pre-registration required. Noon-1pm, Tyrone Bryant Branch Library, 2230 NW 21 Ave., Fort Lauderdale, www.broward.org/library

Bluey’s Big Play

Saturday-Sunday, July 22-23

Dad’s up for a restful Sunday afternoon, but Bluey and Bingo have more adventurous plans in mind in this brand-new, theatrical performance. $25 and up. Showtimes vary. Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale, 954-462-0222 www.browardcenter.org

Heathers the Musical: Teen Edition

Saturday & Sunday, July 29 & 30

A heartfelt and comical new show based on the hit comedy. Geared toward ages 14-18. $20. Saturday 7pm and Sunday 2pm. Sunrise Civic Center Theatre, 10610 W. Oakland Park Blvd., Sunrise, www.sunrisefl.gov

PAW Patrol Live! Heroes Unite

Saturday-Sunday, August 19-20

Calling all good citizens! The PAW Patrol is yelping for help as they face their greatest challenge yet. Mayor Humdinger has dognapped Robo Dog and cloned him, causing chaos all over the world. It’s up to the pups to catch those clones, rescue Robo Dog and show that when the going gets “ruff,” lending a paw makes you the ultimate TOP HERO! Broward enter for the Performing Arts, 201 SW Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale, 954-462-0222 www.browardcenter.org

Family Fun

Expedition Dinosaur

Through September 4

Experience lifelike, interactive animatronic dinosaurs and learn how the prehistoric creatures adapted to survive. Museum of Discovery and Science, 401 SW Second St., Fort Lauderdale, www.mods.org

Miami-Dade county

Florida SuperCon

Friday-Sunday, June 30-July 2

A gathering of celebrities, unique exhibitors, comic creators, anime voice actors and more. Miami Beach Convention Center, 1901 Convention Center Dr., Miami Beach, www.floridasupercon.com

Gold Coast Free First Saturday

Saturday, July 1

Explore the museum for free the first Saturday of every month. Gold Coast Railroad Museum, 12450 SW 152 St., Miami, 305-253-0063 www.goldcoastrailroadmuseum.org

Beach Skate

Tuesday, July 4

Show off your smooth roller skating moves as a DJ spins skate classics. Bring your own skates or use a courtesy pair. All ages and skill levels. Free. 4pm, North Shore Bandshell, 7275 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, www.miamibeachbandshell.com

Family Day on Aragon

Saturday, July 8

Enjoy a day of family fun activities, arts and crafts, live performances and more every second Saturday of the month. 10am-5pm, Coral Gables Museum, 285 Aragon Ave., Coral Gables, www.coralgablesmuseum.org

PAMM Free Second Saturdays

Saturday, July 8

Participate in hands-on activities, tours, performances and more.

Admission is free all day with art-making from noon-4pm. Pérez

Art Museum Miami, 1103 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, www.pamm.org

Mango Festival

Saturday-Sunday, July 8-9

It’s all about mangos during this family festival featuring cooking demonstrations and tastings, vendors, lawn games, music and more. 10am-5pm, Fairchild

Tropical Botanic Garden, 10901 Old Cutler Rd., Miami, www.fairchildgarden.org

Laser Evenings

Friday, July 14

Get ready to rock under Frost Planetarium’s 67-foot dome. 7-11pm, Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science, 1101 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, 305-434-9600 www.frostscience.org

Hansel and Gretel

Friday-Sunday, July 21-23

Created with children and young audiences in mind, this magical Miami Beach Classical Music Festival performance is an immersive opera experience for all ages. Showtimes vary. Faena Forum, 3300-3398 Collins Ave., Miami Beach, www.miamimusicfestival.com

Magically Together

Saturday, July 22

Join magician Brent Gregory for an interactive show that combines mind-bending magic and comedy. 2-3pm, Virrick Park Branch Library, 3255 Plaza St., Miami, www.mdpls.org

Family Fun

Curious George: Let’s Get Curious

Through September 3

Based on the fun-loving storybook character, this exhibit invites kids on an interactive journey to explore math, science and engineeringbased themes. Miami Children’s Museum, 980 MacArthur Causeway, Miami, 305-373-5437 www.miamichildrensmuseum.org

Mummies of the World

Through September 4

The largest touring collection of mummies ever assembled, this exhibit features the mummified remains of 40 real humans and animals and an additional 80 rare artifacts. Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science, 1101 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, 305-434-9600 www.frostscience.org

Rumpelstiltskin

Sunday, July 9

Based on the classic story, Atlantic Coast Theatre for Youth presents a stage performance with comedic characters and audience participation. Recommended for grades K-5. $9/adult, $7/child. Willow Theatre at Sugar Sand Park, 300 S. Military Trail, Boca Raton, 561-347-3900 www.sugarsandpark.org

Golf Options

Arguably, there is nowhere more hospitable to the wild golfer than the Sunshine State. Many would say it is their natural habitat. Florida boasts the most golf courses of any state in the union for a good reason – the leisure time is plenty when you don’t have to worry about silly things like shoveling snow and the sun going down before you leave the office. What follows is a list of some of our favorite golf courses available to the public.

City of Lauderhill Golf Course

4141 NW 16th St., Lauderhill, FL 33313

954-730-2990 • Lauderhill-fl.gov

Hours: Daily: 7:00am – 5:00pm | Last Tee Time: 3:30pm

Not far from downtown Fort Lauderdale lays the City of Lauderhill Golf Course. This 9-hole course is perfect for those golfers in a hurry. Opened in 1975, this little slice of South Florida has been one of the locals’ go-tos for decades.

Jacaranda Golf Club

9200 W Broward Blvd., Plantation, FL 33324 954-472-5836 • Jacarandagolfclub.com

Hours: 6:30am – 6:00pm

A skip and a jump from the airport, Jacaranda Golf Club sports 38 holes of championship golf. This course is manicured and a perfect gateway into the game; they offer club rentals for your companions who might not yet see the point in purchasing a complete set. The East and West courses present a challenge for experienced golfers and those who might be renting clubs for a while to come.

Deer Creek Golf Club

2801 Deer Creek Country Club Blvd., Deerfield Beach, FL 33442

954-429-0006 • deercreekflorida.com

Hours: Monday - Sunday 6am – Dark

Driving Range Closes 5:15pm

Nestled between Boca Raton and Fort Lauderdale, this course is in a perfect location for many snowbirds and locals. Recently renovated to the tune of 2 million dollars, the course and practice facilities are in top-tier condition – the club has played host to the USGA Amateur Championship and the USGA Senior Open Championship. The course offers a challenge for seasoned players and an inviting test for newcomers.

City of Lauderhill Golf Course

4141 NW 16th St., Lauderhill, FL 33313 954-730-2990 • Lauderhill-fl.gov

Hours: Daily: 7:00am – 5:00pm | Last Tee Time: 3:30pm

Not far from downtown Fort Lauderdale lays the City of Lauderhill Golf Course. This 9-hole course is perfect for those golfers in a hurry. Opened in 1975, this little slice of South Florida has been one of the locals’ go-tos for decades.

A COLORADO GIRL LEARNS TO

BY DANIELLE CHARBONNEAU

I’ve been known to keep a pretty exhaustive bucket list. Two activities on this uber-long, idealistic list of mine include scuba diving and setting a world record for anything. A few years ago, I had the opportunity to complete both of these simultaneously. DX Divers in Deerfield Beach hosted an underwater pier cleanup day during which they attempted to set a Guinness Book of World Records for longest underwater human chain. Hundreds of divers from near and far gathered at Deerfield Beach pier in order to form a giant chain of flipper-wearing, fun-seekers underwater.

DX Divers set the record the previous year with 241 divers, breaking the previous world record of 182 divers that had been set in Thailand in 1976. I heard that attempt and was struck with raw envy that, at the time, I was not scuba certified. I promised myself then that if the event were to happen in 2018, I would be a part of it.

So when I confirmed DX Divers would indeed be attempting to break their last record, I set out to get scuba certified. I was a bit nervous at first — imagining disastrous drowning scenarios and bloody scenes from Jaws — but I also remembered the bright tales of my grandfather who started scuba diving in his 70s and fell so madly in love with the water that

he dove into his late 80s. He traveled the world to visit the most exotic reefs — from Bonaire, to the Blue Hole in Belize, a WWII wreck near Bali and the Great Barrier Reef. I remember as a little girl, playing with his flippers and wetsuit which he stored in a dusty basement closet, and sitting on his lap as he flipped through his photo albums of underwater photography — tropical fish, fantastical coral and seemingly deserted islands. His eyes brightened as he told me of the wonders under the sea. He described scuba diving as I would imagine an astronaut explaining space — of unseen universes and colorful foreign creatures. So while I was slightly apprehensive about scuba at first, I reminded myself of such potential treasure. A friend of mine also reminded me that living in South Florida and not learning to scuba dive is like living in Colorado and not learning to ski. As a native Coloradan, I know that’s plain sacrilege. Thus I quieted my reservations and pushed myself through the doors of DX Divers where I signed up for the PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) Open Water diving course. The DX Divers staff helped me pick out a mask, snorkel,

fins, booties and course materials.

I participated in two classroom sessions (each about three hours long), two three-hour pool dives and two days of open water dives, consisting of four ocean dives total (each about 40 minutes long).

In the classroom sessions we watched videos about air density, pressure and the effect of ocean depth on both. We learned about compressed air — its makeup of nitrogen and oxygen — and the potential for decompression sickness. We learned about buoyancy control and planning dives, accounting for different variables. We learned about equalizing our ears and preventing lung over-expansion. The classroom sessions and cheesy DVDs took me right back to high school science class (as did the practice quizzes and 50-question final exam).

The pool dives were rather fun. I felt like a kid playing tea-party on the bottom of the pool. Chad, my instructor, would play rock-paper-scissors with us underwater between our exercises. The pool exercises ranged from easy to hard, including things like removing and clearing our masks, sharing air with our fellow divers, removing and putting back our weight belts, practicing buoyancy control and emergency

ascents. Two different exercises tested our physical fitness, including swimming 19 laps continuously and treading water for ten minutes. While in the pool I felt safe and confident, knowing that the surface was never more than ten feet above and easily accessible.

to the bottom of the ocean at a depth of 35 feet (which is nothing for a diver),

My first ocean dive, however, was another story. I had told myself the ocean would be just like the pool, only a bit deeper. I tried to psyche myself up and keep a positive mental chatter, but when the time came to descend to the bottom of the ocean at a depth of 35 feet (which is nothing for a diver), I panicked. I got about six feet underwater before my head got the best of me. My heart started to race and my breath got short and fast. I suddenly felt completely out of control. Breathing underwater felt terrifying. I quickly bolted back to the surface where my instructor Chad joined me smiling. “You’re fine, you’re fine,” he said. “Just breathe. In and out. In and out.”

Chad had warned me and my classmates that there’s always one person who panics on the first dive. Well, this time it was me. I was that girl: the panicked one. After some deep breaths at the surface, I pushed through my anxiety and descended back underwater with Chad to meet my fellow classmates who all seemed cool as cucumbers, kneeling on the ocean floor. I tried to practice yoga breathing and even

I had told myself the ocean would be just like the pool, only a bit deeper. I tried to psyche myself up and keep a positive mental chatter, but when the time came to descend

I panicked.

closed my eyes to try and calm myself. Unfortunately my anxiety never quite faded, so while my classmates practiced the series of exercises we had already completed in the pool, I just focused on learning to breath and stay calm.

Unbeknownst to me, in my nervousness and tunnel vision, I started to hum while exhaling. Some part of my brain must have snapped back to the sounds you make as a child blowing bubbles in the bathtub. I was so in my own head, I didn’t even realize I was humming for almost the entire duration of the first 35-minute dive. At the end of the dive, Chad laughed and informed me of my underwater musicality. I now am fondly known by the nickname “The Hummer.” Apparently, however, humming is a great way to conserve air; I used only about 300psi for the whole dive, which was impressive to the instructors on board.

On my second ocean dive, I was a bit calmer. I was able to catch up on the exercises I had missed on the first dive and complete the day feeling I had progressed. By my third dive, I felt as if I belonged in the ocean. I began to enjoy the scenery — the purple coral swaying in the current, lobsters tucked between rocks, blow fish floating aimlessly and hundreds of diverse colorful fish. I began to float effortlessly and use my fins like a mermaid’s tail. I started to understand the allure of scuba, which, to me, felt like watching Disney’s Fantasia or taking LSD. As a sidenote, I learned that Jerry Garcia was addicted to scuba diving, which now makes a whole lot of sense. I now understand why my grandfather was so hooked on scuba and why South Florida is such a destination for divers — its abundant marine life, wreck sites and coral reefs.

I officially passed my scuba certification participated in DX Diver’s Guinness World Record attempt. The world record, however, was just icing on the cake. The real prize is my newfound ability to explore the vast magic of the ocean.

Agua Salon Studios • Al Comp Consulting

Allstate Insurance

AT&T

Cherry Blow Dry • B-Tan Tanning Salon

Agua Salon Studios•Al Comp Consulting•Allstate Insurance•AT&T•Cherry Blow Dry

Dentists of Fort Lauderdale • Five Guys Burgers and Fries

Fred Astaire Dance Studio • Game Stop

Copper Tanning•Dentists of Fort Lauderdale•Etiquette Boutique•Five Guys Burgers and Fries

Gilbert’s 17th Street Grill • Great Clips Hair Salon

Hill Robinson

International Yacht Brokers Assoc.

Fred Astaire Dance Studio•Game Stop•Gilbert’s 17th Street Grill•Great Clips Hair Salon

Hill Robinson•International Yacht Brokers Assoc.•Jaguar Therapeutics•J Balcazar

Holy Smokes Tattoo Shop

Jaguar Therapeutics

J Balcazar Home & Yacht Design • Joe’s Café

Home & Yacht Design•Joe’s Café•Koi Sushi Lounge & Hibachi•LA Fitness

Koi Sushi Lounge & Hibachi • LA Fitness

La Bamba Mexican & Spanish Restaurant

Manhattan NY Pizza

La Bamba Mexican & Spanish Restaurant•Manhattan NY Pizza•Marcella’s Boutique

Marcella’s Boutique • Massage Envy Spa

Medical Vitality•MTSI • Nail Port Salon • Nature’s Remedy Shoppe

Massage Envy Spa•Medical Vitality•MTSI•Nail Port Salon•Nature’s Remedy Shoppe

Orange Theory Fitness • Pakmail

Persist Communications

Poké Bros. • Sunny Side Medical Dispensary

Orange Theory Fitness•Pakmail•Persist Communications•Sunny Side Medical Dispensary

Tropical Smoothie Café • TVI Construction

Coming Soon: IVX Health Infusion Center

Viking Yacht Management

Coming Soon: Willie T’s Lobster Shack

Willie T’s Lobster Shack

Tropical Smoothie Café•TVI Construction•Viking Yacht Management

Scenthound Dog Grooming Services • The Treehouse