You can’t see it, but it’s here: The world's third-largest coral reef lies deep in our backyard. The Florida Keys Reef Tract begins just off Key Biscayne and runs 221 miles south, paralleling Florida’s southeastern coast down to the Dry Tortugas, about 70 miles west of Key West. It’s the only living coral barrier reef in North America and it supports over 260 species of tropcal fish and 80 varieties of coral
Impressed? Wait until you see it up close. Parrotfish, wrasses, damselfish, snappers, grunts, and barracudas are commonly spotted amidst the reef, as are lobsters, sea cucumbers, urchins, shrimp, and anemones. Here are a few of our favorite spots to take the plunge:
- Fowey Rocks Lighthouse reef (20 to 35 feet deep) is a perfect place for beginning snorkelers as lots of soft corals play host to plenty of tropical and exotic fish.
- Emerald Reef (15 to 30 feet deep) has been called one of Miami’s best undiscovered reef sites. Lobsters are said to favor the natural reef loaded with large rocks that double as hiding spots.
- Thousands of colorful fish swim through the waters of Patty’s Patch (30 feet deep) reef just south of Key Biscayne. Lucky divers have been known to spot moray eels.
- After swimming through Patty’s Patch, head to Rainbow Reef (30 feet deep) for exceptional views of intricate hard corals and graceful soft corals.
Like what you see? Help take care of it - as with all things environmental, preservation is key to the Florida Keys Reef Tract. Do your part underwater with these quick and easy tips:
- Don't touch the coral. Period.
- Be fin-friendly. Swim far enough away so you don't break the coral with your fins.
- Don’t swim too close to the bottom. You'll stir up sediment and disturb new coral growth.
The details: For info on the coral reef and diving and snorkeling excursions, visit pennekamppark.com, tarpoondivecenter.com or southbeachdivers.com. For preservation tips visit reefrelief.org.
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