I did a search and the most recent posts date from 2001. We are new divers, and would like to spend a few days, probably around Key Largo after Christmas. I would love suggestions regarding dive ops - small boats, personal service - places to stay, and places to eat. Also, how cold is the water in late Dec, early Jan, and what thickness wetsuit should I consider? I get cold, my husband does not.

I'm interested in this topic too. What is the typical water temperature in late Nov / early December? Thanks.

Surf Temperatures in Palm Beach hover between 79 - 83 degrees in November/December. Surf temperatures seldom drop below 73 degrees in the Palm Beach area during the coldest months. The Gulf Stream, which is coming from the carribbean up through the straights of Florida, comes closest to the Florida Coast between Palm Beach and Boca Raton....that's the main reason why the water here is so clear and warm year round...surf temp today is 85. In comparison, the water temperatures on the Soutwest coast of Florida, like Naples, are considerably cooler in the Winter because the Gulf Stream is coming from the North on the West Coast.

hmmm - Rick that's interesting, and appealing. I will have to research more. What is funny is in my researches Cozumel is actually cheaper when everything is added together. Airfare is a little more, but lodging and diving are much less. I'm guessing that the diving is equally good, although the drift diving in Coz may be a bit much for us as new divers.

Any thoughts, anyone, on the merits of diving Fla and/or Coz?

I have heard a lot of great things about the diving off Coz...the reefs are probably more extensive than off Key Largo or Palm Beach. On the other hand, I think the quality of what the destination has to offer in terms of accommodations, night life, restaurants, attractions, etc., is more extensive and upscale in Florida...at least in Palm Beach. Good luck and let me know if you have any questions about this area...sounds like you've got a wonderful Holiday ahead!

That's strange...it appears that my original reply has been deleted....not sure if you saw that before you replied...anyway, I had given you some information about diving packages with links to local dive shops and charters here in Palm Beach....also included a link to the Grandview Gardens Bed & Breakfast and Vacation Homes as well (I own and run Grandview Gardens). We're offering a special package...here it is again: www.grandview-gardens.com. Good luck!

I did see it, and checked out the links - thanks!

If you're going for diving, Cozumel wins hands-down. While Palm Beach is definitely much more upscale, Cozumel is not without nightlife. Nothing like Southbeach, etc but that is not a bad thing in my opinion.