How to Snorkel in Key West

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Whether you are looking to explore the reefs offshore or just take a swim out from the beach, snorkeling opportunities abound in our southernmost city. You won't have to go out of your way to discover the ins and outs of the Key West snorkeling scene. During the course of your Duval Street crawl you will come upon a multitude of kiosks barking the various snorkeling excursions offered here.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

snorkel
fins
mask
sunscreen
t-shirt
towel
hat

Step1

Decide whether you want to spend a few hours cruising offshore on one of the many snorkel charters available, weather permitting, or if you just want to head out into the water right from the beach.

Step2

For those looking to explore the reefs offshore, you will need to decide on the kind of charter boat experience you want to have. The most economical trips are those on the giant catamaran "party boats" that can accommodate as many as 100 snorkelers. For those seeking a more intimate experience, private charters are readily available.

Step3

For those wishing to stay closer to shore, plan a trip to the Key West Marine Park, a boater free zone stretching, roughly, from the end of Duval Street to Higgs Beach near the White Street Pier. Snorkeling off the beach won't produce large corals and schools of fish, but a vast list of species live here including octopus, conchs, lobster, starfish, and corals, as well as a host of colorful fish.

Step4

Drive 30 miles north and spend the day at Bahia Honda State Park where Sandspur Beach was declared America's Best by Dr. Beach, Stephan Leatherman, in 1992. Snorkel off the beach or take a charter boat out to the reefs. Snorkeling gear may be rented at the marina.

Tips & Warnings

To learn more about the Key West Marine Park, stop by Reef Relief, a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation of coral reefs. The Reef Relief Environmental Center is located adjacent to Conch Republic Seafood at Schooner Wharf.
A fleet of snorkeling charter boats can also be found at Schooner Wharf.
Snorkeling can be done at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park, but is not recommended for less experienced snorkelers or children. Currents can be swift here which not only mucks up the visibility, but swimming against them can be a fight.