Octopus Encounters in Moonlit Waters

The Blue Heron Bridge isn’t just a dive site—it’s a magical, slightly quirky underwater neighborhood where just about every sea creature imaginable lives, especially the smaller, stranger ones that look like they were dreamed up by a cartoonist. Throw in a glowing full moon overhead, and you’ve got the recipe for an unforgettable night.

^{Photo by Rudy Lopez}

Six adventurous Active Divers decided to answer the moon’s call, and the bridge did not disappoint. The evening began in the parking lot, with everyone suiting up, buzzing with anticipation for the short stroll over to the East side—prime territory for spotting the bridge’s eight-armed residents. A warm South Florida night greeted us, with just a teasing cool breeze to keep things comfortable. The water welcomed us with cozy, seasonal warmth, a gentle current, and visibility that stretched a good 20 feet ahead. As we glided among the bridge pilings and scattered rubble, the locals began making cameo appearances in our dive lights—shimmering shrimp, sneaky crabs, curious eels, and even the occasional fireworm. Each would dash for cover in the sand or vanish into a crevice the moment our beams found them.

^{Photo by Rudy Lopez}

Bill, one of our newest Active Diver members but already a seasoned visitor to this site, scored the first octopus sighting of the night. This one was shy, peeking out just enough from its hole to remind us it was there. But the real magic struck near the end of the dive—a bold octopus out for a moonlit stroll along the piling. We followed in awe as it glided with effortless grace, photographers jockeying for the perfect shot. Feeling the attention, the little showman decided he’d had enough paparazzi, puffed a cloud of ink, and zipped to a new perch where he kept watch on us with those hypnotic eyes.

^{Photo by Bill Jordan}

With the 10 p.m. curfew ticking closer, we reluctantly turned toward shore—but not before bumping into the night’s grand finale: the batfish, a creature whose “beauty” is best appreciated with a sense of humor. It was the perfect closing act for a dive that delivered all the weird, wonderful charm that makes Blue Heron Bridge the beloved home of so many oddball ocean residents.

^{Photo by Hilda Balbi}

^{Photo by Bill Jordan}