Can you snorkel for free in Key Largo?
Your only option for shore snorkeling in the area is the state park, but it is not free or very good. Overall Key Largo snorkeling is much better than the Key West area. But generally there are more spectacular snorkel spots in the Keys between Key Largo and Key West, what we call the Middle Keys. 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.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.Low winds are always best for snorkeling. Generally June through September have lower winds in the Keys. One more thing, there is a jellyfish bloom in the late summer that makes snorkeling Florida Keys no fun, primarily in August and September.Snorkeling in Key Largo is world class because the waters are protected by both John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Famous snorkeling sites include the Christ of the Abyss Statue and Molasses Reef.
Do you need a license to snorkel in Florida?
Snorkeling does not require a certification, but it does require you to be a strong swimmer. The short answer is YES. Essentially, snorkeling is a surface sport that involves mostly floating and requires very little (if any) actual swimming.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.
Which Florida key has the best snorkeling?
Florida Keys 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. Key Largo Dry Rocks is arguably the most famous snorkeling site in John Pennekamp, largely due to the presence of the *Christ of the Abyss* statue, a 9-foot-tall bronze figure submerged in 22 feet of water.
Is snorkeling at Dry Tortugas worth it?
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. First-time visitors to the Florida Keys should set aside at least a week to experience the best that these legendary islands—plus the gateway areas of Miami and the Everglades—have to offer.
When should you not go snorkeling?
Snorkeling in a current or riptide can be dangerous because it will be hard for you to get away from it. Tip: Check the conditions of the water. Snorkeling in designated areas with a snorkel guide. 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!