Key West Coral Reef Maps
Table of Contents
For the daring explorers of the underwater universe, who want to come face to face with this mysterious world and unveil its secrets, the coral reefs in Key West are a continuous source of pleasant surprises. Situated at a distance of about 7 miles from the mainland, the system is formed of more than 110 different varieties of corals. Those that are already hardened are grouped as pillars, while elk-horn and stag-horn are the most commonly met shapes for the living coral colonies.
Marine Life
Sponges and sea anemones also live in the area, completing the landscape and making it even more beautiful. They cover the caves and holes of the reef, creating perfect hiding places for the fish or other creatures hunted by predators like the nurse sharks or in search of food. The reef is the ideal habitat for many species of lobsters, jelly fish, snails and even sea turtles. The latter come here attracted not only by the calmness of the waters, but also by the numerous places on the beach when they can nest their eggs. The excellent living conditions it provides for over 500 species of sea creatures make the coral reef in Key West one of the most important natural monuments in the area.
Dive Deep Into the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary: Top Five Dive Sites
The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary is a shimmering jewel off the coast of Florida, offering divers an unparalleled experience of vibrant marine life, historic shipwrecks, and breathtaking underwater landscapes. If you’re planning to explore the depths of this marine sanctuary, we present to you the top five dive sites that promise an adventure of a lifetime.
1. Molasses Reef
Overview
Molasses Reef, situated in Key Largo, is renowned for its sprawling coral formations and the diverse marine life it harbors. With visibility often exceeding 100 feet, it provides divers with a crystal-clear view of the underwater spectacle.
Key Attractions
- Vibrant Corals: Witness elkhorn, brain, and star corals decorating the seascape.
- Marine Life: Encounter parrotfish, moray eels, and even the occasional nurse shark.
- Dive Difficulty: Suitable for beginners to intermediate divers.
2. Sombrero Reef
Overview
Marked by a historic lighthouse, Sombrero Reef in Marathon offers shallow dive sites, making it perfect for both snorkelers and divers.
Key Attractions
- Coral Gardens: Swim through dense thickets of finger and brain corals.
- Fish Parade: Watch schools of grunts, snappers, and angelfish glide past.
- Dive Difficulty: Ideal for novices, with depths ranging from 5 to 30 feet.
3. The Vandenberg Wreck
Overview
Sunk intentionally off Key West to form an artificial reef, the Vandenberg Wreck has now become a hub for marine life and a favorite among advanced divers.
Key Attractions
- Historic Shipwreck: Explore the sunken remains of this massive 520-foot ship.
- Photographic Opportunities: Capture stunning images of the ship’s structures enveloped by corals.
- Dive Difficulty: Recommended for advanced divers due to its depth and potential currents.
4. Looe Key Reef
Overview
Nestled south of Big Pine Key, Looe Key Reef boasts an intricate patchwork of coral formations and is often touted as the most beautiful dive site in the sanctuary.
Key Attractions
- Diverse Habitats: Traverse through spur-and-groove coral formations and sandy channels.
- Thriving Ecosystem: Spot barracudas, rays, and the endangered hawksbill turtle.
- Dive Difficulty: Suitable for all skill levels, with varying depths and conditions.
5. Carysfort Reef
Overview
An iconic lighthouse marks Carysfort Reef in the northern region of Key Largo. Its sprawling reef system promises an exhilarating experience.
Key Attractions
- Ancient Coral Colonies: Marvel at some of the oldest coral formations in the sanctuary.
- Abundant Marine Life: Encounter grouper, queen angelfish, and colorful sponges.
- Dive Difficulty: Perfect for intermediate to advanced divers, given its depth and intricate topography.
