The Florida Keys are an island chain off the southern coast of Florida, stretching 110 miles from Key Largo, the chain’s longest island, to Islamorada, Marathon, the Lower Keys, and, finally, Key West. Each of the Keys is unique, with beautiful natural waters, making this chain of islands the perfect destination for holidaymakers seeking unforgettable water-based adventures.
Visitors to the Florida Keys can swim in both the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. The waters stretch for 110 miles and are perfect for above-surface water sports and activities. However, those who have explored the depths of the Florida Keys – like Paul Simonson, a PADI-certified divemaster raised in the region – know they’re best experienced beneath the surface.
Key Largo is home to some of the Florida Keys’ most incredible underwater destinations. There is the 9-foot bronze “Christ of the Deep” statue placed underwater for divers and snorkelers to admire. It even serves as a destination for sub-aquatic weddings! Key Largo also contains the John Pennecamp Coral Reef State Park, America’s first underwater park, and Jules’ Undersea Lodge, the world’s only underwater hotel.
The Lower Keys host the annual Florida Keys Underwater Music Festival in Looe Key Reef, broadcasting marine-themed songs through speakers suspended beneath boats, such as “Yellow Submarine” and “Fins.” Visitors are encouraged to play mock instruments and wear costumes. The event is held to increase marine tourism in the Keys and encourage responsible diving and coral reef preservation.
For more information about conserving and protecting underwater destinations in the Florida Keys, see the embedded PDF.
Despite the vulnerability of the Florida Keys’ coral reefs, they remain a huge source of aquatic tourism. Islamorada has some of the most stunning in the region. Divers and snorkelers can explore its huge population of marine life at underwater destinations like Davis Reef, Alligator Reef and Pickles Reef. There is also the Eagle, a 287-foot ship sunk in Islamorada and covered in colorful coral and sponge for visitors to admire.
With so much natural aquatic beauty across the island chain, the Florida Keys are a destination unlike any other. Each Key has its own distinctive character and unique underwater attractions, transporting visitors to a world separated from busy big-city life. And with increased awareness of respectful tourism and environmental conservation, the Florida Keys will remain a stunning underwater tourist destination for years to come.