Scuba Diving and Snorkeling - Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary, Florida

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Scuba Diving and Snorkeling at Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary, Florida. Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary is an outstanding destination if you’re interested in scuba diving or snorkeling in the Florida Keys.  Looe Key Sanctuary is a tongue and groove reef system located near Big Pine Key. It is named after the HMS Looe which struck the reef, burned and was sunk in 1744. The horseshoe shaped reef at Looe Key has been a National Marine Sanctuary since 1981.

Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary presents both beginner and skilled scuba divers and snorkelers with plenty of opportunities to spot a huge variety of marine life. The water tends to be very clear and conditions are ideal for diving.  There are more than 150 species of fish that reside in and around the reef and approximately 50 species of coral.

Some of the fish you may spot while scuba diving or snorkeling at Looe Key Sanctuary include parrotfish, angelfish, moray eel and barracuda. You may also spot a variety of ray and shark species. Corals present include elkhorn, star, brain, and staghorn among many others.

One popular diving attraction you won’t want to miss near Looe Key is the Adolphus Busch. This 210 foot long ship was prepared and sunk to a depth of 110 feet a few miles off Looe Key to the west. The ship serves as an artificial reef and contains large swim-throughs specially designed for divers. In addition to the wreck, you can spot Jewfish weighing hundreds of pounds on a dive to this unique attraction.

There are many dive shops and charter services visitors can take advantage of to arrange a scuba diving or snorkeling adventure at Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary. Whatever your skill level, you can find equipment rentals and chartered trips to match your interests and capabilities. You can choose chartered diving trips that visit one site or several, including the Adolphus Busch. Dive locations are located just a few miles from shore.

Whether you’re interested in scuba diving lessons or trying out snorkeling for the first time, Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary is ideal. You can book accommodations with a hotel or resort that features a dive shop right on site if you wish, or easily make arrangements on your own.

Plan your dives at Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary for mornings when waters are calmest, or in the evenings at dusk when lighting changes are most dramatic. Don’t forget to bring along (or rent) an underwater camera for your adventure.

1201 White St., Ste. 102
Key West, FL 33040
800-352-5397, 305-296-1552