Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary

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.

• 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.