Fun South Florida

Guide

Snorkeling in the Florida Keys

The Florida Keys sit beside the only living coral reef in the continental United States, so snorkeling is the main event. Here are the trips and parks we list, from Key Largo to Key West, plus a few ways to see the water without getting in. Conditions and trip times change, so check with each operator before you go.

Reefs and snorkel trips

Boat trips and parks built around the reef.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State ParkKey Largo

America's first undersea park. Glass-bottom boats, snorkel trips and kayak trails.

Official page

Key Largo Scuba DivingKey Largo

Dive and snorkel trips to the reefs and the Christ of the Abyss statue in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.

Looe Key Snorkel TripBig Pine Key

Boat trips to Looe Key, one of the healthiest coral reefs in the Keys, for snorkeling and diving.

Dry Tortugas National ParkKey West

A full-day ferry or seaplane trip to Fort Jefferson, with snorkeling in clear water 70 miles past Key West.

Official page

See the water your way

Glass-bottom boats, mangrove kayaking and a dolphin program for those who would rather stay dry or go slower.

Key West Glass-Bottom BoatKey West

See the reef without getting wet on a glass-bottom boat trip, often with a sunset option.

Islamorada Mangrove Kayak TourIslamorada

Paddle quiet mangrove tunnels and flats looking for rays, birds and baby sharks.

Dolphins PlusKey Largo

Dolphin swim and encounter programs in natural lagoons in Key Largo.

Official page

Common questions

Where is the best snorkeling in the Florida Keys?

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo, Looe Key near Big Pine Key and Dry Tortugas National Park off Key West are all listed here. Each has its own trip times and conditions, so confirm with the operator.

Can I see the reef without snorkeling?

Yes. The Key West Glass-Bottom Boat and the glass-bottom boats at John Pennekamp let you see the reef without getting wet.

Is Dry Tortugas worth the trip?

It is a full-day ferry or seaplane trip to Fort Jefferson with snorkeling in clear water about 70 miles past Key West. Book ahead and check the schedule.

What else can I do on the water in the Keys?

Islamorada has mangrove kayak tours and fishing charters, Key West has fishing charters, jet ski tours and parasailing, and Key Largo has dolphin programs.

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