Snorkeling in Key Largo

For a spectacular visual treat, snorkel in Key Largo. The Florida Keys are home to the third-largest barrier reef in the world, and Key Largo offers a multitude of snorkeling sites to educate and entertain the whole family.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Mask
• Fins
• Snorkel
• T-shirt
• Sunscreen
• Towel
• Seasick remedies
• Bathing suit
• Underwater camera (optional)

1. Decide what kind of snorkeling adventure best suits your vacation needs. There are a dozen or more diving tours available online. Would you enjoy a large catamaran with a number of people on board? A 50-foot captained sailboat for a small group? A small, private, captained boat?

2. Find out what gear is supplied by the tour operators. Most provide mask, fins, snorkel and safety vests. Check to see what snacks and refreshments are available on board, as well as the sites visited and length of tour.

3. Head to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the first underwater state park and The Florida Keys Natural Marine Sanctuary. Snorkeling tours are available at the park for about $30 for 2.5 hours of snorkeling.

4. Visit the many great snorkeling sites of the park. "The Elbow" hosts several shipwrecks. The "Christ of the Deep" statue is one of three bronze sculptures created by Italian artist Guido Galetti and donated to the park in 1966.

5. Enjoy snorkeling in inclement weather at the Jules' Undersea Lodge, which used to be a marine-research lab. The "Emerald Lagoon" is part of this unusual underwater hotel, which provides snorkeling equipment and access to its facilities for only $15.

Tips & Warnings

• Bring a disposable underwater camera to capture the magnificent views.
• No fishing is allowed in the state park. Key Largo has been protected from spearfishing and coral collection for 40 years.
• Do not touch the coral, or you will damage the fragile marine life.