Devil’s Den

When I first saw Devil’s Den on Tik Tok, I knew I had to add it to my “List of Things to Do in Florida Before I Leave” (which I actually had as a note in my phone but I can’t find the proof now). It looked almost unreal in the video.

In person, it was pretty incredible to see but I can see how it would have been a bigger surprise to whoever first found it. I would say the best part was the novelty of swimming in an underground cave…it was a first for me!

We brought snorkel gear and a waterproof phone case, but really only ended up using the snorkel masks to swim around. The water was deep but we didn’t need fins. And honestly, it was pretty chilly even in late September in Florida, so we didn’t swim long.

Unfortunately, the lighting in there was pretty bad for pictures and I only had my phone. In my opinion, the pictures turned out significantly less spectacular than how Devil’s Den looks in real life, but it was a good reminder that not everything has to be Instagram-perfect to be beautiful or a fun time!

Due to COVID, we had to schedule our visit (and leave Tampa at like 7 am to get there in time). There is an entry fee, but with social distancing, they limited the number of people that could be there at one time. I think that part made it worth the trip. Had it been more crowded, I think it would have been a little frustrating. I would recommend Devil’s Den as a half-day trip or a stop on a day trip. I know there are also campgrounds nearby, and I think that would have been fun as well.

Like I said before, the water was really cold. So, if you plan to visit, bring a towel and a change of clothes. For me, the fins and the waterproof phone bag were overkill. The snorkel masks were fun but the water was also dark, so without lights, it was hard to see. Personally, I was just fine with that because the dark, deep, cold water freaked me out a little, but in a good way.

I’m glad I was able to visit Devil’s Den. I don’t think it’s something that I would make a trip to Florida to see again, but it was cool to say I did it. Like the rest of Florida’s Springs, Devil’s Den offers beautiful blue water and a refreshing break from the heat!

XOXO,

Natasha