Hollywood Beach Welcomes New Artificial Reef for Coral Restoration and Eco-Tourism

Hollywood Beach now hosts a new artificial reef system, a project by the Ocean Rescue Alliance (ORA) in partnership with the Hollywood Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA). This initiative deployed 20 ocean-friendly artificial reef modules off the coast, marking Broward County's first 1000 Mermaids Artificial Reef Project site.

The new Hollywood reef is the second for the Ocean Rescue Alliance. It contributes to a total of 100 artificial reef structures deployed in South Florida since the 1000 Mermaids project began five years ago. This project creates an underwater destination for coral restoration, eco-tourism, and research.

Five of the 20 deployed structures feature artistic sculptures. These include mermaids, a swim-up selfie mermaid tail, and an industrial diver suit. The reef is situated approximately 1 mile offshore in 35-40 feet of water. Certified, skilled divers can access it via vessel.

Each artificial reef sculpture weighs between 2200-3300 lbs and includes the patented "Coral Lok" system. This system allows for direct coral out-planting. Reef Cells in Boynton Beach built these structures. They have biological bases specifically engineered to support fish habitat and provide coral restoration opportunities. The structures will be placed just a few miles southeast of the Port Everglades Inlet and will be capable of being a recipient site for transplanted corals.

Plans are underway for a future reef installation. This future installation will be specifically designed to be accessible to snorkelers from shore.