How to Snorkel Key Largo

The Chamber of Commerce bills Key Largo as the Dive Capital of the World. Nonsense! With coral reefs, shipwrecks, the Christ of the Abyss, and the Emerald Lagoon, home to the world's only underwater hotel, Key Largo is absolutely a snorkeler's delight.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Mask
• Fins
• Snorkel
• T-shirt
• Sunscreen
• Towel
• Seasick remedies

1. Decide what kind of snorkeling adventure best suits your needs.

2. For an offshore adventure exploring French Reef, North Dry Docks, or the City of Washington, a Civil War-era wreck, as well as many other excellent sites, book with one of the many charter outfits you'll see advertised along the Overseas Highway as you drive through Key Largo.

3. Visit John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park for a one-stop adventure suitable for the whole family. Children can explore the seagrass shallows off the beach while more experienced snorkelers can book a trip on the park's charter boat out to the reefs.

4. If the weather is not cooperating and high winds or rough surf make a trip to the reefs impossible or uncomfortable, snorkel the Emerald Lagoon at Jules' Undersea Lodge. With concrete steps and a handrail, this is a safe, controlled snorkel in a private lagoon 30 feet deep. A hotel is resting on the bottom. Swim down and take a peek through the window!

Tips & Warnings

• Jules' Undersea Lodge is at 51 Shoreland Drive. Look for the sign near Mile Marker 104.
• John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is at Mile Marker 102.5.
• A number of charter boats can be found near Mile Marker 100.