Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary

The basics

If you step foot in the water while in the Florida Keys, you’ve technically visited this marine sanctuary. Explore the reserve on a snorkeling and scuba diving trip, which increases your chance of spotting marine life by taking you to prime spots along the Shipwreck Trail. If you’d rather stay dry, take a boat tour in search of dolphins and manatees, or rent a boat for a day of island hopping or fishing.

Things to know before you go

• Don’t forget to pack a swimsuit, beach towel, and reef-safe sun protection.
• If visiting by boat, be sure to use the sanctuary’s mooring buoys to avoid damaging the reef.
• Most snorkeling and scuba diving tours include all necessary equipment, and often last around half a day.

How to get there

Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary starts just south of Miami and stretches through the Florida Keys to the Dry Tortugas. Most excursions depart from marinas in Key Largo or Key West. Parking is free at the Eco-Discovery Center.

When to get there

The sanctuary’s Eco-Discovery Center is open regularly throughout the week, but may be closed on select days so it’s advisable to check the opening schedule before you visit. The best time for exploring the sanctuary is between late April–early June or November–mid-December, when temperatures are warm and rainfall is at a minimum.

Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center

To learn more about the history and conservation efforts of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, visit the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center. Through interactive exhibits, you’ll learn about the land- and water-based wildlife and plants of the Florida Keys. There’s also a living reef tank, where you can observe an abundance of coral and fish species.

Where is the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary located?

The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary has no physical address, as it’s entirely off-land. It is one of 15 marine protected areas under NOAA’s protection and includes all of the water south of Miami, which ends at Dry Tortugas National Park. Once you enter the Florida Keys, the water is the marine sanctuary.

What marine life can visitors expect to see while exploring the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary?

The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary is home to hundreds of different fish species, birds, reptiles, and mammals. The most common jellyfish species include cannonball jelly and Portuguese man o’ war. Seven species of sea turtles, manatees, dolphins, sharks, and the invasive lionfish are also found there.

Can visitors explore the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary independently, or are guided tours required?

You can boat privately into the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary or hire a boat charter to take you through the waters. The Marine Sanctuary does not provide guided tours; however, you can take a self-guided tour of the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center and ask the staff questions.

Is there a designated area for swimming or recreational activities within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary?

Yes, there are designated areas where swimming and recreational activities like boating and diving. Anyone venturing into the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary on a private vessel should know the marine zones. These areas protect specific habitats and limit interaction between anglers, divers, and recreational or commercial visitors.

Are any boat tours or charters available to explore the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary?

You cannot book a boat tour or charter through the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary; however, you can book a private charter from any third-party company in the Florida Keys. The Marine Sanctuary recommends booking a charter with a Blue Star operator to ensure coral reefs are protected.

Can visitors bring their own snorkeling or diving gear to explore the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary?

Yes, visitors are allowed to bring their own snorkeling gear and diving gear to explore the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. The Marine Sanctuary does not provide any rental services. Remember that all boats and equipment must abide by all relevant laws, including the regulations for each marine zone.

Ways to explore

Whether snorkeling, fishing, or just cooling off with a swim, there are plenty of ways to get on— and in—the water within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Set sail on a boat cruise or island-hopping tour around the reef, paddle through the mangroves on a glass-bottomed kayak or stand-up paddleboard excursion, or join a guided scuba dive to spot dolphins, sea turtles, and eagle rays.

There are endless options for water sports, from parasailing to jet skiing, while the interactive Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center lets you experience the underwater wonders of the Keys without getting wet.

Accessibility

There are wheelchair-accessible beaches, boat cruises, and other activities available around the Florida Keys.

Age limits

Many boat, snorkel, and scuba dive tours have a minimum age; most water activities require participants to be confident swimmers

What to pack

Your swimsuit, a towel, snorkel, water shoes, reusable water bottle, underwater camera, wide-brimmed hat, reef-safe sunscreen, your dive certification card

What to wear

Light, quick-dry clothing

Not allowed

Touching or disturbing the coral or marine life

Amenities

Visitor Centers at the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and Eco-Discovery Center, boat ramps

Address 

The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary starts just south of Miami and stretches through the Florida Keys to the Dry Tortugas. Dip your toes in the water anywhere off the coast of the Keys, and you’re within the marine sanctuary.

Driving

Driving between the Florida Keys is easy, with the Overseas Highway (US 1) linking all of the islands. Most excursions depart from the marinas in Key Largo or Key West. Parking is free at the Eco-Discovery Center in Key West.

Public transportation

Shuttle buses run between the main towns along the Keys, from which you can join a guided boat cruise or activity to explore the National Marine Sanctuary.

Best times to visit

Morning is often the best time to spot turtles, so choose a scuba diving or snorkeling tour with an early departure. Alternatively, sunset is the most scenic time for a boat cruise.

Best days to visit

Boat tours set out daily along the reef, but mid-week tours typically attract fewer participants, especially outside of peak periods. Departures are always weather dependent, so plan your cruise or scuba dive for early in your stay—that way, you’ll have the opportunity to reschedule if necessary.

Best months to visit

Summer through fall (May to November) is the best time for snorkeling and scuba diving, with warm waters, high visibility, and the chance to spot green turtles, reef sharks, and groupers. However, hurricane season runs from August through October, when the weather can be temperamental.

Special events

NONE.