Underwater Museum of Art, Grayton Beach State Park

Discover the First Underwater Sculpture Garden in the U.S. at Grayton Beach!

Did you know that Grayton Beach State Park is home to the first permanent underwater sculpture garden in the United States? The Underwater Museum of Art lies beneath the surface of the Gulf, about one nautical mile offshore and at a depth of 58 feet. Since its launch in 2018, the UMA has become a unique blend of art, marine science, and eco-tourism—right here on the South Walton coast!

Underwater Art Gallery

Every year, a juried selection of sculptures from artists around the world is added to the underwater gallery, making each dive a new experience. Over time, these works of art transform into living reefs, attracting a variety of marine life and creating a sustainable habitat in an area where 95% of the seabed is otherwise flat sand.

This permanent installation is not only a favorite for divers and art enthusiasts—it also serves an important environmental role. The sculptures provide structure for marine ecosystems and offer researchers a chance to monitor the development of artificial reef systems. A one-acre site has been designated for this purpose, with support from the Cultural Arts Alliance of Walton County and the South Walton Artificial Reef Association.

What’s New in 2025?

The 2025 sculpture deployment marks the seventh installation of this incredible underwater exhibit. Seven new sculptures have been selected and are set to be deployed this summer, continuing UMA’s mission to inspire and protect.

The Underwater Museum of Art has received national recognition, including being featured on:

• National Geographic’s Best Trips (2019)
• TIME Magazine’s World’s Greatest Places (2018)

Plan Your Visit

Ready to dive in? Head to umafla.org to see the latest sculpture designs, learn more about the project, and view videos of past installations.

Book your underwater adventure with our friends at Dive 30A. Whether you’re a certified diver or just curious, they’ll help you explore this one-of-a-kind underwater gallery.