Where can I snorkel in Key Largo for free?
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. The island is accessible via the overseas highway, which offers stunning views of the surrounding waters. Key largo is known for its marine life and is often referred to as the ‘diving capital of the world.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.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)!
Is snorkeling safe in Key Largo?
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. 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.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.The only Key Largo snorkeling from shore is at either of the two designated beaches in Pennekamp Park.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.
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. 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.
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. 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.
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. 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.
What is the best month for snorkeling in the Florida Keys?
Off-Season: The Summer Adventure (June to August) For true water lovers, this can be the best time of the year. The ocean is incredibly warm—think bathwater temperatures—and the underwater visibility for diving and snorkeling is often at its absolute best. If you melt in extreme heat, avoid this area in the summer. On the other hand, if you hope to dive and snorkel but hate cold water, don’t go in the winter. And, of course, a violent hurricane (which can hit between June and late November) can really wreck your plans.