Dive into Paradise: Discover 70 Hidden Snorkeling Treasures of Florida
Truly An Undersea Wonderland!
Snorkeling is very popular in Florida due to the state's warm waters and abundance of marine life. Florida has some of the best snorkeling spots in the United States, including coral reefs, shipwrecks, and crystal-clear springs. Snorkeling in Florida is a great way to explore the state's diverse marine ecosystem and see a variety of colorful fish, sea turtles, dolphins, and other sea creatures. Many of the popular snorkeling sites in Florida are easily accessible from the shore, making it a great activity for families and people of all ages.
Here’s seventy great sites - in alphabetical order!1. Alexander Springs: Located in Ocala National Forest, this freshwater spring offers a unique snorkeling experience in crystal-clear water. You can spot a variety of fish and aquatic plants while exploring the spring. It's a perfect spot for a family day out in nature. Visit their website at https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/ocala/recreation/water-activities/recarea/?recid=34066 to learn more.
2. Alligator Reef: Situated in Islamorada, this reef provides snorkeling in clear waters teeming with marine life. You can see small coral reefs and seagrass beds during your adventure. It's an ideal destination for marine enthusiasts. Visit their website at https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/alligator-reef-historic-marker to learn more.
3. Anclote Key Preserve State Park: Located off the coast of Tarpon Springs, this state park offers rich snorkeling opportunities. Explore seagrass beds and a variety of fish and marine life in a serene environment. It's perfect for nature lovers and adventurers alike. Visit their website at https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/anclote-key-preserve-state-park to learn more.
4. Biscayne National Park: Nestled in Homestead, this national park boasts excellent snorkeling in clear waters. The park features diverse marine life, including coral reefs and shipwrecks. It's an underwater paradise for snorkelers of all levels. Visit their website at https://www.nps.gov/bisc/index.htm to learn more.
5. Blind Creek Beach: This Fort Pierce beach offers a unique, clothing-optional snorkeling experience. The waters are clear and host a variety of marine life, including seagrass beds and small reefs. It's a tranquil spot for those looking to connect with nature. Visit their website at https://www.stlucieco.gov/departments-services/a-z/public-works/coastal-engineering/coastal-beaches/blind-creek-beach to learn more.
6. Blue Heron Bridge: Located in Riviera Beach, this site is popular among divers and snorkelers. It's home to a diverse range of marine life, including seahorses, octopuses, and colorful fish. It's a must-visit for underwater photographers. Visit their website at https://www.palmbeachfl.com/listings/blue-heron-bridge-dive-site/4820/ to learn more.
7. Blue Springs State Park: Found in Orange City, this state park is a haven for manatees during the winter months. The spring's clear waters offer fantastic snorkeling opportunities. It's a perfect spot to enjoy Florida's natural beauty. Visit their website at https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/blue-spring-state-park to learn more.
8. Bower's Mansion Beach: This Vero Beach spot offers clear waters ideal for snorkeling. You can explore seagrass beds and encounter various marine life. It's a great location for a peaceful day by the ocean. Visit their website at https://www.indianriverchamber.com/list/member/bowers-mansion-beach-park-79 to learn more.
9. Cape Florida State Park: Located in Key Biscayne, this park is known for its clear waters and diverse marine life. You can snorkel among seagrass beds and shipwrecks. It's a perfect destination for history and nature enthusiasts. Visit their website at https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/cape-florida-state-park to learn more.
10. Cheeca Rocks: Situated in Islamorada, this snorkeling spot is known for its coral formations and sea turtles. The clear waters provide excellent visibility for marine exploration. It's a popular site for both novice and experienced snorkelers. Visit their website at https://fla-keys.com/.../outdoor-activities/snorkeling-dive-sites/cheeca-rocks/ to learn more.
11. Conch Reef: Located in Key Largo, this reef offers stunning underwater views. You can snorkel among coral formations and shipwrecks, encountering a variety of marine life. It's a top destination for underwater exploration. Visit their website at https://www.nps.gov/bisc/.../conch-reef-snorkeling.htm to learn more.
12. Coral Cove Park: In Tequesta, this park offers clear waters perfect for snorkeling. You'll find small coral reefs and seagrass beds teeming with marine life. It's an ideal spot for a family outing. Visit their website at https://discovermartin.com/destination/coral-cove-park/ to learn more.
13. Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge: Located in Crystal River, this refuge is a designated manatee sanctuary. The crystal-clear waters are ideal for snorkeling. It's a unique opportunity to swim alongside these gentle giants. Visit their website at https://www.fws.gov/refuge/crystal_river/ to learn more.
14. Dania Beach: This beach in Dania Beach offers clear waters for snorkeling. You can explore small reefs and seagrass beds rich in marine life. It's a great spot for a relaxing beach day. Visit their website at https://www.daniabeachfl.gov/558/Beach-Conditions to learn more.
15. Davis Reef: Found in Key Largo, this reef is home to various marine creatures like octopus and sea turtles. The clear waters make it a favorite among snorkelers. It's a fantastic site for underwater photography. Visit their website at https://www.fla-keys.com/.../outdoor-activities/snorkeling-dive-sites/davis-reef/ to learn more.
16. Devil's Den Prehistoric Spring: Located in Williston, this unique spot offers snorkeling in an underground spring. You can explore clear waters and prehistoric fossils. It's a fascinating destination for history and nature enthusiasts. Visit their website at
https://www.devilsden.com/
to learn more.
17. Dry Tortugas National Park: About 70 miles west of Key West, this remote park offers exceptional snorkeling. Explore shipwrecks and coral reefs in pristine waters. It's a must-visit for adventure seekers. Visit their website at https://www.nps.gov/drto/index.htm to learn more.
18. Egmont Key State Park: Near St. Petersburg, this state park is known for its clear waters and diverse marine life. You can snorkel with sea turtles and dolphins. It's an excellent spot for a day trip. Visit their website at https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/egmont-key-state-park to learn more.
19. Elbow Reef: Located in Key Largo, this reef offers clear water for snorkeling. Discover coral formations and shipwrecks while exploring the vibrant marine life. It's a popular spot for both beginners and experienced snorkelers. Visit their website at https://www.fla-keys.com/.../outdoor-activities/snorkeling-dive-sites/elbow-reef/ to learn more.
20. Fort De Soto Park: Near St. Petersburg, this park provides a protected area for snorkeling. Enjoy the variety of fish and marine life in calm waters. It's an ideal location for a family outing. Visit their website at https://www.pinellascounty.org/park/05_ft_desoto.htm to learn more.
21. Fort Island Gulf Beach: Located in Crystal River, this beach offers clear waters perfect for snorkeling. You can explore seagrass beds and artificial reefs. It's a great spot for a peaceful beach day. Visit their website at https://www.citrusbocc.com/.../parks-and-recreation/parks/fort-island-gulf-beach.aspx to learn more.
22. Fort Zachary Taylor State Park: In Key West, this state park features a secluded cove ideal for snorkeling. The crystal-clear waters are filled with abundant marine life. It's a perfect spot for a relaxing day in nature. Visit their website at https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/fort-zachary-taylor-historic-state-park to learn more.
23. French Reef: Located in Key Largo, this reef is known for its clear waters and rich marine life. Snorkel among coral formations and shipwrecks. It's an exciting destination for underwater explorers. Visit their website at https://www.fla-keys.com/.../outdoor-activities/snorkeling-dive-sites/french-reef/ to learn more.
24. Gilchrist Blue Springs State Park: Situated in High Springs, this park offers a clear spring perfect for snorkeling. Explore a variety of fish and marine life in the pristine waters. It's a beautiful spot for nature lovers. Visit their website at https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/gilchrist-blue-springs-state-park to learn more.
25. Ginnie Springs: Found in High Springs, this freshwater spring system offers crystal-clear waters for snorkeling. The park features several different springs with unique underwater caves. It's a popular spot for both relaxation and adventure. Visit their website at
https://ginniespringsoutdoors.com/
to learn more.
26. Gulf Islands National Seashore: Located in Gulf Breeze, this national park provides clear waters perfect for snorkeling. Explore seagrass beds and artificial reefs teeming with marine life. It's a tranquil spot for a day of discovery. Visit their website at https://www.nps.gov/guis/planyourvisit/snorkeling.htm to learn more.
27. Honeymoon Island State Park: In Dunedin, this state park offers clear waters ideal for snorkeling. You can encounter sea turtles and dolphins during your visit. It's a perfect destination for a peaceful getaway. Visit their website at https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/honeymoon-island-state-park to learn more.
28. Horseshoe Reef: Located in Key Largo, this reef is known for its clear waters and diverse marine life. Snorkel among coral formations and shipwrecks. It's an exciting spot for marine enthusiasts. Visit their website at https://www.fla-keys.com/.../outdoor-activities/snorkeling-dive-sites/horseshoe-reef/ to learn more.
29. Ichetucknee Springs State Park: This park in Fort White offers pristine waters for snorkeling. Explore a variety of fish and aquatic plants in the clear spring. It's an excellent location for a peaceful day in nature. Visit their website at https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/ichetucknee-springs-state-park to learn more.
30. Indian Key Historic State Park: Located in Islamorada, this park offers clear waters perfect for snorkeling. Discover coral reefs and shipwrecks while exploring the marine life. It's a great spot for history and nature enthusiasts. Visit their website at https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/indian-key-historic-state-park to learn more.
31. John D. MacArthur Beach State Park: This North Palm Beach park offers clear waters ideal for snorkeling. Explore seagrass beds and artificial reefs teeming with marine life. It's a perfect spot for family outings. Visit their website at
https://www.macarthurbeach.org/
to learn more.
32. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park: Situated in Key Largo, this park is known for its stunning coral reef. Snorkel among tropical fish, stingrays, and nurse sharks in designated areas. It's a must-visit for marine life enthusiasts. Visit their website at https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/john-pennekamp-coral-reef-state-park to learn more.
33. Juniper Springs: Located in Ocala National Forest, this freshwater spring offers crystal-clear waters for snorkeling. Explore a variety of fish and aquatic plants in the serene environment. It's an ideal spot for a relaxing day in nature. Visit their website at https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/ocala/recreation/water-activities/recarea/?recid=34058 to learn more.
34. Juno Beach Park: In Juno Beach, this popular beach offers clear waters for snorkeling. Encounter sea turtles and stingrays during your adventure. It's a great location for a fun day by the sea. Visit their website at https://www.jupiter.fl.us/119/Juno-Beach-Park to learn more.
35. Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse Outstanding Natural Area: Located in Jupiter, this area provides clear waters for snorkeling. Discover colorful fish and coral formations while exploring the underwater world. It's a top spot for both beginners and experienced snorkelers. Visit their website at https://www.jupiterlighthouse.org/outstanding-natural-area to learn more.
36. Key Largo Dry Rocks: This Key Largo site is famous for the Christ of the Abyss statue. Snorkel among coral reefs and shipwrecks in the clear waters. It's a memorable destination for underwater explorers. Visit their website at https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/key-largo-dry-rocks-state-park to learn more.
37. Key West National Wildlife Refuge: Off the coast of Key West, this protected area offers exceptional snorkeling. Explore coral reefs and a variety of marine life. It's an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts. Visit their website at https://www.fws.gov/refuge/National_Key_Deer_Refuge/visit/key_west_refuge_unit.html to learn more.
38. Lake Worth Beach: This Lake Worth beach offers clear waters perfect for snorkeling. Explore seagrass beds and artificial reefs teeming with marine life. It's a great spot for a relaxing beach day. Visit their website at https://www.lakeworthbeachfl.gov/beach/ to learn more.
39. Lauderdale-By-The-Sea: Located in Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, this beach is known for its clear waters and rich marine life. Snorkel among coral reefs and shipwrecks for an exciting underwater adventure. It's a top destination for snorkeling enthusiasts. Visit their website at https://www.discoverlbts.com/beaches/ to learn more.
40. Long Key State Park: This state park in Long Key offers clear waters ideal for snorkeling. Explore seagrass beds and mangrove swamps teeming with marine life. It's a perfect spot for nature lovers. Visit their website at https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/long-key-state-park to learn more.
41. Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary: Located in Big Pine Key, this sanctuary is renowned for its beautiful coral reef. Snorkel with sea turtles, barracuda, and various species of tropical fish. It's a top spot for marine life enthusiasts. Visit their website at http://bahiahondapark.com/looe-key-snorkeling-tours.html to learn more.
42. MacArthur Beach State Park: In North Palm Beach, this park offers a clear lagoon for snorkeling. Discover a variety of fish and marine life in the serene waters. It's an excellent location for a family day out. Visit their website at https://www.macarthurbeach.org/ to learn more.
43. Molasses Reef: Located in Key Largo, this reef is known for its clear waters and diverse marine life. Snorkel among coral formations and shipwrecks for an unforgettable experience. It's a popular spot for underwater photographers. Visit their website at https://www.fla-keys.com/.../outdoor-activities/snorkeling-dive-sites/molasses-reef/ to learn more.
44. Morrison Springs: Situated in Ponce de Leon, this freshwater spring offers crystal-clear waters for snorkeling. Explore a variety of fish and aquatic plants in this serene environment. It's a great spot for nature enthusiasts. Visit their website at https://www.floridasprings.org/.../morrison-springs-state-park/ to learn more.
45. Navarre Beach Marine Park: This Navarre Beach park provides clear waters perfect for snorkeling. Discover artificial reefs and seagrass beds teeming with marine life. It's a tranquil spot for a day of underwater exploration. Visit their website at
https://www.navarrebeachmarinesanctuary.com/
to learn more.
46. Peacock Springs State Park: Located in Luraville, this freshwater spring system offers crystal-clear waters for snorkeling. Explore a variety of fish and underwater caves in the serene environment. It's a popular spot for both relaxation and adventure. Visit their website at https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/peacock-springs-state-park to learn more.
47. Peanut Island Park: Found in Riviera Beach, this park offers clear waters ideal for snorkeling. Explore seagrass beds and small reefs teeming with marine life. It's a perfect location for a family day out. Visit their website at https://discover.pbcgov.org/parks/Pages/PeanutIsland.aspx to learn more.
48. Phil Foster Park: Located in Riviera Beach, this park is known for its abundant marine life. Snorkel just south of Blue Heron Bridge to see seahorses, octopuses, and tropical fish. It's a great spot for underwater photographers. Visit their website at https://discover.pbcgov.org/parks/Locations/Phil-Foster.aspx to learn more.
49. Pickles Reef: In Key Largo, this reef offers clear waters perfect for snorkeling. Discover coral formations and marine creatures like angelfish and butterflyfish. It's an exciting spot for marine life enthusiasts. Visit their website at https://www.fla-keys.com/.../outdoor-activities/snorkeling-dive-sites/pickles-reef/ to learn more.
50. Rainbow Springs State Park: Located in Dunnellon, this freshwater spring offers crystal-clear waters for snorkeling. Explore a variety of fish and aquatic plants in the serene environment. It's a beautiful spot for nature lovers. Visit their website at https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/rainbow-springs-state-park to learn more.
51. Red Reef Park: This Boca Raton spot is known for its shallow coral reef. Snorkel among parrotfish, barracuda, and moray eels in the clear waters. It's a great destination for a day of underwater exploration. Visit their website at https://www.myboca.us/.../Red-Reef-Park-and-Gumbo-Limbo-Nature-Center to learn more.
52. Rock Springs Run State Reserve: Located in Apopka, this freshwater spring offers crystal-clear waters for snorkeling. Explore a variety of fish and aquatic plants in this peaceful environment. It's a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts. Visit their website at https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/rock-springs-run-state-reserve to learn more.
53. Sebastian Inlet State Park: In Melbourne Beach, this state park offers a tidal pool ideal for snorkeling. Discover a variety of fish and marine life in the calm waters. It's a great location for a family outing. Visit their website at https://www.floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/sebastian-inlet-state-park to learn more.
54. Singer Island Beach: This Singer Island beach offers clear waters perfect for snorkeling. Explore seagrass beds and small reefs teeming with marine life. It's a great spot for a relaxing beach day. Visit their website at https://discover.pbcgov.org/parks/Pages/SingerIsland.aspx to learn more.
55. Sombrero Beach: Located in Marathon, this beach offers clear waters ideal for snorkeling. Discover seagrass beds and small reefs filled with marine life. It's a perfect destination for a family day out. Visit their website at https://www.ci.marathon.fl.us/visitors/beaches/ to learn more.
56. South Beach Park: In Vero Beach, this park offers clear waters for snorkeling. Explore small reefs and seagrass beds rich in marine life. It's a beautiful spot for a relaxing day by the ocean. Visit their website at https://www.indianriverchamber.com/list/member/south-beach-park-beach-restaurant-94 to learn more.
57. Spanish Rocks: Located in Islamorada, this area offers clear waters perfect for snorkeling. Discover coral formations and seagrass beds teeming with marine life. It's a fantastic spot for underwater explorers. Visit their website at https://fla-keys.com/.../outdoor-activities/snorkeling-dive-sites/spanish-rocks/ to learn more.
58. The Aquarium: In Key Largo, this area is known for its clear waters and diverse marine life. Snorkel among coral formations and creatures like seahorses and crabs. It's a great destination for marine life enthusiasts. Visit their website at https://www.fla-keys.com/.../outdoor-activities/snorkeling-dive-sites/the-aquarium/ to learn more.
59. The Elbow: This Key Largo area offers clear waters ideal for snorkeling. Explore coral formations and marine creatures such as sea turtles and barracudas. It's a top spot for underwater photographers. Visit their website at https://www.fla-keys.com/.../outdoor-activities/snorkeling-dive-sites/the-elbow/ to learn more.
60. The Humps: Located in Key Largo, this area provides clear waters for snorkeling. Discover coral formations and marine creatures like rays and sharks. It's an exciting destination for adventure seekers. Visit their website at https://www.fla-keys.com/.../outdoor-activities/snorkeling-dive-sites/the-humps/ to learn more.
61. The Statue of Christ of the Abyss: Found in Key Largo, this famous statue offers clear waters perfect for snorkeling. Discover coral formations and marine creatures like seahorses and octopuses. It's a must-see for underwater explorers. Visit their website at https://www.fla-keys.com/.../outdoor-activities/snorkeling-dive-sites/statue-christ-abyss/ to learn more.
62. Three Sisters Springs: Located in Crystal River, this freshwater spring is a designated manatee refuge. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkeling. It's an excellent spot to swim alongside these gentle giants. Visit their website at https://www.discovercrystalriverfl.com/natural-attractions/three-sisters-springs/ to learn more.
63. Turtle Reef: Situated in Key Largo, this reef is known for its clear waters and rich marine life. Snorkel among coral formations and marine creatures like sea turtles and rays. It's a top spot for underwater photographers. Visit their website at https://www.fla-keys.com/.../outdoor-activities/snorkeling-dive-sites/turtle-reef/ to learn more.
64. Venice Beach: This popular beach in Venice offers clear waters ideal for snorkeling. Encounter sharks and stingrays while exploring the underwater world. It's a fantastic spot for a beach day. Visit their website at https://www.visitvenicefl.org/venice-beach/ to learn more.
65. Vero Beach City Beach: In Vero Beach, this spot offers clear waters perfect for snorkeling. Discover small reefs and seagrass beds filled with marine life. It's a beautiful location for a peaceful day by the sea. Visit their website at https://www.indianriverchamber.com/list/member/city-of-vero-beach-recreation to learn more.
66. Vortex Spring: Located in Ponce de Leon, this freshwater spring offers crystal-clear waters for snorkeling. Explore a variety of fish and underwater caves in this serene environment. It's a popular spot for nature enthusiasts. Visit their website at https://www.vortexspring.com/ to learn more.
67. Wabasso Beach Park: Found in Vero Beach, this park offers clear waters ideal for snorkeling. Discover small reefs and seagrass beds teeming with marine life. It's a great spot for a family day out. Visit their website at https://www.indianriverchamber.com/list/member/wabasso-beach-park-267 to learn more.
68. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park: Located in Spring Hill, this freshwater spring is famous for its mermaid shows. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkeling. It's a unique destination for family fun. Visit their website at https://weekiwachee.com/ to learn more.
69. White Banks Dry Rocks: In Key West, this area offers clear waters ideal for snorkeling. Discover coral formations and marine creatures like parrotfish and wrasse. It's a great destination for underwater photographers. Visit their website at https://fla-keys.com/.../outdoor-activities/snorkeling-dive-sites/white-banks-dry-rocks/ to learn more.
70. Yankee Capts: Located in the Gulf of Mexico, this area provides clear waters for snorkeling. Explore coral formations and shipwrecks teeming with marine life. It's a must-visit for adventure seekers. Visit their website at https://yankeecapts.com/snorkeling-trips/ to learn more.
There’s simply so much great snorkeling in Florida, both freshwater and salt water, from the beach and from a boat…. Go our and try some of the phenomenal spots listed above….