Snorkeling Key West
Tops Spots and Tips

Snorkeling Key West should be on your list of things to do in life if you are a serious water lover. The coral reefs around Key West provide the habitat for an array of fish life, and the coral itself makes for a breathtaking sight.

In fact, there are over 100 species of coral and upwards of 500 species of fishes and other marine life in the waters surrounding Key West. The coral reefs offshore of the Florida Keys are actually the only living reefs in the continental United States which are still alive. You'll see more vibrant colours here than any other snorkeling locations in the country.

What makes it so ideal for snorkelers? Well, in the Keys much of the reef is in very shallow water. This makes it accessible without any complicated diving gear and convenient for those with little experience in the water. Normally calm and clear water conditions make it a ideal for beginners. The upside for the more experienced is the variety of life you will see below the surface.

Key West Snorkeling Spots

One of the most popular areas for snorkeling around Key West is Sand Key. Sand Key light sits just a few miles from Key West and is surrounded by reefs and fish life. This is one of the largest snorkeling areas around Key West, although some parts of this reef are a bit deep for snorkeling. Nonetheless, this area should be near the top of your list for any southernmost snorkeling expedition.

Nine Foot Stake is another ideal snorkeling area, as most of the reef here is in very shallow water.

The coral reefs around Key West are alive—so it is vitally important that you don’t touch the coral while snorkeling either with your hands or your fins. All coral life is easily damaged by contact.

Snorkel Gear

Snorkeling gear is available for rent from some shops on the beach. Normally it will be provided to you if you go on a snorkeling boat trip. The gear will consist of the snorkel, mask, fins, and safety vest.

Even if you have snorkelled before, you will be expected to wear a safety vest when in the water on an commercial snorkel boat trip. Sea conditions can change so it is always best to be prepared and safety wise.

Snorkeling Trips

Youll be spoiled with choices when it comes to selecting a snorkel boat operator, there are many in Key West. While you can enjoy some snorkeling Key West around the shoreline by renting gear from a dive shop, you will only get to experience the true magnificence of snorkeling in Key West by going out to the reefs with a professional crew.

Look for a company with top quality gear and a good vessel, as well as a highly experienced captain and crew with certification. Your options include sailboat snorkelling, large power vessels carrying many snorkelers, or smaller boats with your party only aboard or a split with another small group or couple.

Snuba Diving

Snuba diving is an interesting alternative. It is a combination of snorkeling and scuba, you breathe from an air tank located on the surface while you go below with your snorkel gear and an air hose. Its like scuba without the burden of tanks and snorkelling with unlimited air.