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Starting on the north end and making our way south, we drop in at Hens & Chickens patch reef to snorkel around a reef formation that resembles a mother hen and her chicks. If you hit it just right, you might see a hawksbill turtle, spotted trunkfish, bicolor damselfish, and more. With plenty of ocean life to see from the surface, snorkelers of all ages and abilities will enjoy this site. Next, we head down to Cheeca Rocks patch reef, which is small but well worth the time and effort. With depths ranging from 8 to 20 feet and an array of marine life including turtles, eels, and bluehead wrasse, this stop will have everyone talking about the amazing ocean life for months to come.
Sombrero Reef is amazing, but have you heard about snorkeling Coffins Patch? You might be the first of your friends to visit this local gem. Coffins Patch offers depths from 6 to 25 feet and rewards you with pillar coral, stingrays, nurse sharks, and butterfly fish. A memorable site, each snorkeler will enjoy the vast array of marine life here.
Grab your gear and head over to Coral Cove Park for a swim to this man-made reef. Abundant with marine life, visibility is usually excellent, allowing you to see all the ocean dwellers as they go about their day. Don't be surprised if a shark or two stop by to check out the scenery. A great spot to visit, you’re sure to enjoy the swim out, visiting with all the aquatic life, and the swim back to shore.
Blue Heron Bridge is a no-brainer for snorkeling enthusiasts, but did you know that Peanut Island, a short hop south, also offers amazing snorkeling? With a shallow water reef habitat located in the Intracoastal Waterway, this area is sure to entice even the most reluctant of the group into the water. Reachable from the beach or by boat charter, The Breakers Reef on the west side delivers abundant marine life including nurse sharks and sea turtles.
Recently enhanced, Red Reef Park’s snorkel reef is man-made and thriving with ocean life. With the recent addition of more limestone boulders, this area continues to grow and is a local favorite. One of the few spots that also offers a boardwalk and bathroom facilities, this beach entry site is ideal for all snorkel adventurers.
North or south of the pier off Commercial Blvd, just walk into the water and swim out a bit. Before you know it, you’ll be on top of the inner reef with plenty of marine life. For the more adventurous, head out a bit further to the mid-reef for even more diverse ocean dwellers. Just make sure to bring a dive flag as boat traffic is high in this area.
Wade in and check out the SS Breconshire, also known as The Boiler shipwreck, just off the coast. Easily accessible from the beach, this 300-foot long wreck is visible from the surface when conditions are right. Turtles, stingrays, and plenty of tropical fish call this location home, making it a delight for snorkelers.
With shallow reefs just 100 feet off the shore, Pepper Park is a must-see snorkeling site. The Urca De Lima wreck, Florida’s first underwater archaeological site, sits in about 20 feet of water. With an array of reefs and abundant ocean dwellers, this hidden gem is perfect for adventurers of all ages and skill levels.
With Bathtub Reef, St. Lucie Inlet Preserve State Park, and Jensen Beach to Jupiter Inlet Aquatic Preserve all within minutes of each other, this area is a snorkeler’s paradise. Frequent dolphin sightings and diverse marine life ensure a delightful experience for snorkelers of all ages. Opt for a boat charter to avoid traffic on land and fully explore the area’s many snorkeling sites.
Only reachable by boat, snorkeling Egmont Key allows you to explore part of a fort from 1898 that is now underwater. This remote island, part of a nature preserve, is a must-see for its unique history and abundant marine life.
With calm waters and depths starting at 6 feet, Point of Rocks on Siesta Key offers plenty to see. Plants, algae, and corals play host to crabs and an array of fish, making it perfect for snorkelers of all ages.
Snorkeling the Destin East Jetty, you might spot octopus, wrasse, sergeant majors, crab, and puffer fish. With crystal clear waters and calm conditions, everyone will enjoy exploring this area.
Check clarity levels before visiting Morrison Springs Park, but when conditions are right, this 250-foot diameter spring offers a protected area for snorkeling. Ponce de Leon Springs State Park nearby offers crystal clear waters and a refreshing 68 degrees year-round.
The Pensacola Beach Gulf Snorkel Reef, just 500 feet offshore, attracts a variety of marine life. This family-friendly snorkel adventure is easy to get to and offers a backdrop for an enjoyable day of exploration.
The 30A Community has several artificial reefs for snorkeling. The most famous being the one in Grayton Beach.
New to snorkeling? The Navarre Beach Marine Sanctuary is perfect for beginners. This artificial reef, maintained by volunteers, attracts a variety of gulf marine life, ensuring a delightful experience for everyone.
For an educational adventure to see these places, join Appleseed Expeditions and let us guide you through the best snorkeling spots in Florida.
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