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With North America’s only living coral barrier reef stretching alongside the length of The Florida Keys (located just five miles offshore) diving and snorkeling is some of the most diverse in the world, attracting novice and expert divers from across the globe. The Florida Keys boast the first undersea park in history – John Pennekamp State Park in Key Largo, a location also known as the “Diving Capital of the World.”
Key Largo
Islamorada
Key West
Marathon
Lower Keys
Key Largo
Key Largo has been protected from spear fishing and coral collection for four decades and is an integral portion of the 2,800-square-nautical-mile Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary six miles offshore. Key Largo also features six unique Sanctuary Preservation Areas (SPA's) where even hook and line fishing is prohibited.
- Snorkel/dive sites include: Spiegel Grove (wreck dive), Statue of Christ of the Abyss, Molasses Reef, Benwood Wreck, The Elbow, Bibb and Duane
Islamorada
Islamorada offers a wide variety of shallow coral reefs, mini walls, shipwrecks, and even an underwater habitat for scientific research, the Aquarius.
- Snorkel/dive sites include: The Eagle (wreck dive), Davis Reef, Alligator Reef (marked by a 136-foot-tall lighthouse), Conch Wall, Crocker Wall and Pickles Reef
Marathon
Marathon's reefs offer great variety in coral formations and fish life. The crystalline waters of the Atlantic Ocean reveal a marine wilderness comprised of an extensive spur-and-groove coral complex and numerous well-developed patch reefs. Each reef is populated by a vast array of Caribbean tropical fish and invertebrates, with the fascinating addition of both modern and historical shipwrecks to complete the tremendous sport dive appeal of the region.
- Snorkel/dive sites include: Adelaide Baker, Sombrero Reef, Coffin's Patch, Delta Shoals and The Thunderbolt
Lower Keys
The Lower Keys are the least developed of the Florida Keys and in many ways the most natural. The most notable location for diving and snorkeling is the Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary. In 1981, Looe Key reef was designated a national Marine Sanctuary, prohibiting all spear fishing, coral collection, and lobstering. As a result, large schools of friendly fish and a complete reef ecosystem remain preserved.
- Snorkel/dive sites include: Adolphus Busch Sr. (wreck dive)
Key West
Key West's largest and most pristine reefs are located several miles off shore and are best visited with the help of professional dive and snorkel charter services.
- Snorkel/dive sites include: Sand Key (marked by a large iron lighthouse and more than 10 miles of coral reefs of varying depths), Joe's Tug, Ten-Fathom Ledge, The Cayman Salvor, Nine Foot Stake, Kedge Ledge and The Atocha
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Dive Trip - Captain's Corner
Two tank, two location dive. Make two dive stops along North America's only
living coral reef. Must be a licensed diver. PADI Gold 5-star facility.
Location: 631 Greene Street
Cost: $70 - with rental equipment; $40 - without rental equipment
Times Offered: 9:30AM & 2PM
Duration: 4 hours
Activity Level: High
Request Reservation or more information
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PADI Scuba Dive Certification - Captain's Corner
The course includes five academic modules, five skill development pool sessions
and four open water dives. Includes instruction, equipment rental, boat fees and
certification card. Does not include the logbook, course text book or student
photograph (all of which are required). Must be at least 16 years old.
Location: 631 Greene Street
Cost: $375 per person
Times Offered: Reservations required
Duration: 3 days
Activity Level: High
Request Reservation or more information
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Reef Snorkeling - Fury Water Sports
Get up close and personal with vibrant marine life as you discover North
America's only living coral reef system. Includes complimentary beer, wine
and soda.
Location: Westin Marina
Cost: $40 & $45 per person
Times Offered: 9:30AM & 1PM
Duration: 3 hours
Activity Level: Medium
Request Reservation or more information
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Snorkel & Kayak Tour - Lazy Dog Charters
Explore the backcountry and hundreds of mangrove islands. Experience friendly
encounters with rare wildlife that call the Florida Keys home including birds,
mammals and tropical fish. Guided.
Location: Hurricane Hole Marina
Cost: $60 per person
Times Offered: Reservations required
Duration: 4 hours
Activity Level: High
Request Reservation or more information
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