Florida Keys Diving and Snorkeling

The waters surrounding the Islands of the Florida Keys are home to one of the most abundant and diverse marine ecosystems in the world. Home to the continental United States' only natural living coral reef, as well as hundreds of shipwrecks and man-made coral reef structures, the Florida Keys has built a reputation as one of the best scuba diving and snorkeling destinations in the world. The local residents and government have made a commitment to preserve this stunning natural resource by promoting responsible diving and snorkeling practices. Mooring stations at all the major dive sites help discourage anchor damage while dive masters, guides and locals all work to educate and inform visitors on the importance of the reef systems and the preservation of the Florida Keys' breathtaking and colorful underwater ecosystem. Informing snorkelers and divers about the importance of not touching the delicate coral or interacting with the fragile marine life helps ensure the stunning beauty and breathtaking wonder of the Florida Keys' reef systems will continue to flourish for future generations.

The warm waters and natural currents of the Florida Keys are home to an incredible diversity and number of marine species. Colorful reef fish abound in both the shallow reef systems-perfect for snorkelers and beginning divers-and among the deeper reefs and wrecks that attract expert divers from around the world. From the creation of the John Pennekamp Coral Reef Park to the Key Largo National Marine Sanctuary to the Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary to the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, the waters of the Florida Keys-some 2,600 nautical miles- have been protected and preserved making the Florida Keys Island Chain one of the most outstanding dive destinations in the world.

Key Largo, the first stop along the U.S. Highway 1, is known as the "Diving Capital of the World", for its stunning natural coral reef and world famous John Pennekamp Coral Reef Park. The diving and snorkeling in Key Largo is as good as it gets. With its stunning reef formations, massive schools of colorful fish and invertebrates, and some of the most pristine, crystal clear water in the world Key Largo is one of the favorite locations for underwater photographers. No matter your skill level, a Key Largo snorkeling and diving trip promises to be an awesome and unforgettable experience.

But Key Largo isn't the only great diving and snorkeling location in the Florida Keys. All of the islands boast world-class scuba and snorkeling. Islamorada, better known for its great sport fishing, is also a great diving location, as the same conditions that attract sport fish also attract many colorful reef species as well. The Islands of Marathon are home to the famous Sombrero Reef and the world-class wreck diving in the Florida Straits. The Lower Keys boast the stunning Looe Key Reef as well as miles of unspoiled and pristine waterways and shallows that provide excellent snorkeling opportunities for families and anyone looking to get away from the crowds and explore all the underwater beauty of this secluded natural area. And while many people think of Key West as party central of the Florida Keys or a place where history come to life, but the waters surrounding this most famous island of the Florida Keys chain are home to pristine reefs, coral crusted wrecks, and some truly world-class snorkeling and scuba diving.

No matter which island you choose to visit, you will find a fascinating and colorful undersea world awaiting you when you snorkel and dive The Florida Keys.