Are there coral reefs in Key Largo?
The waters off Key Largo are known for stands of elkhorn and large mounds of star and brain corals. These reefs have served as an example of marine protected areas for decades. Answer: Key West has the best snorkeling of the Florida Keys. While all of the Florida Keys offer incredible underwater adventures, Key West stands out as the ultimate snorkeling destination thanks to its easy access to the Florida Keys Reef Tract, the third-largest living coral barrier reef in the world.Key Largo is known for its marine life and is often referred to as the ‘Diving Capital of the World.Florida Keys Snorkeling Dry Tortugas National Park is the best available from Key West, and it is pretty darn good! It is actually an entire day of fun, and well worth the trip and expense.As home to the only living coral barrier reef in the continental United States, Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary is an ideal destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. From shallow coral reefs to historical shipwrecks, there’s something for every diver, from beginner to technical level.While Key Largo and Key West are the most popular spots, by far the best snorkeling is to be found between these two keys. There are a bunch of lesser known snorkel locations that are wonderful. They are located in the waters off Islamorada (Matecumbe Key), Marathon (Vaca Key), and Big Pine Key.
What is the prettiest beach in Key Largo?
Far Beach – perfect for a quiet meditation. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park has a $5 entrance fee but once you’re in, you can enjoy two of Key Largo’s best and most well-protected beaches. It also offers kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling excursions to nearby reefs. Bahia Honda rivals John Pennekamp as the Keys’ most outstanding state park. Granted, the 524-acre park, which includes the entire Bahia Honda Key, can’t match John Pennekamp’s coral reefs, but its beaches are without challenge, the overwhelming choice as the best in the Keys.
Is there good snorkeling in Key Largo?
A perfect place to snorkel in the Keys is off the coast of Key Largo at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the first underwater park in the United States. Located at the park is Christ of the Deep, a nine-foot-tall, 4,000 pound statue that’s submerged in 25 feet of water. High surf, high winds, heavy shorebreak and strong currents are bad conditions for snorkeling. Take a few minutes to assess the water, and check with lifeguards before you go in. If conditions appear to be dangerous, do not go snorkeling.As an activity in an environment that is not our natural element, it requires following classic safety rules: Do not go snorkeling if you have any ongoing respiratory or cardiovascular issues including but not limited to chest infection, asthma, high/raised blood pressure (hypertension), heart disease or angina etc.Is it safe to snorkel in the Florida Keys? Yes, it is. Our boats are equipped with everything possible to keep our customers safe, from life preservers, to rafts, to water and more. Our crew are all trained in CPR and the ocean life is typically more afraid of you than vice versa!
What key has the best snorkeling?
Answer: Key West has the best snorkeling of the Florida Keys. While all of the Florida Keys offer incredible underwater adventures, Key West stands out as the ultimate snorkeling destination thanks to its easy access to the Florida Keys Reef Tract, the third-largest living coral barrier reef in the world. Key Largo beaches provide access to great offshore snorkeling. Key West beaches provide more facilities and beachside bars. You may be surprised to know that the Florida Keys is not actually known for its beaches! In fact, it is a common misconception that the area is full of stretches of white sand beaches.Key Largo is renowned for its stunning snorkeling opportunities, attracting snorkelers from around the world. The main reason why Key Largo stands out as a top snorkeling destination is its unique location.We encourage you to explore the park, but we generally recommend you take a snorkel tour with a company outside the park. The only Key Largo snorkeling from shore is at either of the two designated beaches in Pennekamp Park. The beaches access an enclosed bay that has a sea grass bottom and is surrounded by mangroves.Best Key for Snorkelers & Scuba Divers: Key Largo However, I have found the snorkeling and scuba diving to be much better in Key Largo. While there are certainly places to snorkel and scuba dive in Key West, they are much less impressive than the waters of Key Largo (in my opinion)!