Where to snorkel in South Fla.

Dr.Corona · Post by **Dr.Corona** » April 21, 2005 4:35 pm

Doing the trip to Fort Lauderdale in about a month. Any reccommedations on where to snorkel and what companies to check out?

I've read there is snorkeling in Biscayne National Park. I've also read there is also good snorkeling in Key Largo but that's a fair drive south of where we're staying.

Would like to stay close to Lauderdale if possible.

Thanks!

ToplessRideFL · Post by **ToplessRideFL** » April 21, 2005 6:45 pm

Since we snorkel in the water

you are lucky. Lauderdale has water!

But you won't see much off the coast of Lauderdale other than a few random barracuda and the ocean floor. If you dive you can get out farther and see a bit more.

I know you dont want to make the drive...but John Pennecamp Park in Key Largo is really the closest for any decent snorkeling. Its not a bad drive if you left early in the AM.

At Bahia Mar... one of the Marinas in Lauderdale you can take a tour. They will take you out far enough to get a decent snorkel. Have never tried it. But here is the link. Have fun!

http://www.prodiveusa.com/snorkeling.shtml

Reefdiver · Post by **Reefdiver** » April 21, 2005 7:08 pm

Key Largo is where you want to go.....I don't recommend going with the pholks at Pennekamp tho...drive a little south of there and go out with Ocean Divers. They are located near the Holiday Inn.

HawaiianGator · Post by **HawaiianGator** » April 22, 2005 8:05 am

not much to see on that part of the coast .... its generally flat and not much on the reefs around there ....

chalksoperations · Post by **chalksoperations** » April 22, 2005 8:24 am

I do alot of snorkeling and reef diving in the area, and if you want to stay close to Lauderdale you can do well at Biscayne Park. Not sure if you have access to a boat, or you are looking for an operator. If you have a boat, head out about 1.5 miles past Elliott Key. The reef there is in great shape. Depending on water conditions and such, there are great coral formations in the same area near Shark Reef. If you don't, the visitors center at Biscayne Park really isn't bad. I take the kids there after school quite a bit. It can really give you a good picture as to how delicate the whole system is. I recommend the quick :15 minute movie at the park. It goes into how Andrew affected the reef and how it has recovered.

I figure what's the point in seeing the reef if you can't get a full appreciation for what it is.

Don't underestimate the sun. If you've done snorkeling before you know what it can be like. So many people come off those reef boats with a white chest and a red back, get yourself covered good.

If you're up for a beer after the trip after you come off the reef, let me know!