dont know much about florida...
but i shoredive usually. I have a 7 foot surfboard that i converted into a dive float. Removed the fins (glides over kelp), use my loop stringer that hooks right onto the leash loop, epoxied a holder for my speargun (so i can paddle and kick, very fast) and use the leash to hold onto kelp so the board cant drift away. I have taken this rig about a half mile offshore in the kelp and it worked awesome considering i traded an old roomate some shelf speakers for the board.
Ive also gone without and just had my stringer on my weight belt. Diving in high surf, like at Steamers Lane is difficult to get out with gear and board, so sometimes its good to just swim out more or less. If your in decent shape, swimming out might be a satisfactory option for you, or go super thrifty and buy a boogie board at a drug store. Just make sure it doesnt float away.
Hope my blabber was helpful.
Ben