John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
Key Largo, Florida
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is the first undersea park in the United States, stretching for 70 nautical square miles off the shores of Key Largo, Florida. The coral reef system that lives beneath the water is one of the only ones in the continental US, granting visitors a rare glimpse into the reef-building corals that create an ecosystem that countless marine plants and animals rely on for survival.
Don’t assume that because this park is primarily underwater that you can only experience it via snorkeling or scuba diving. The visitor center has natural-history exhibits, screens educational nature videos, and is home to a 30,000 gallon saltwater aquarium. Wildlife viewing is popular, especially crocodile and manatee sightings. Plus, there are two beaches where swimming and snorkeling are allowed. Other activities in the park include picnicking, paddling, hiking, fishing, camping, and boating.
Glass-bottom boat tours and snorkeling boat tours launch limited times each day.
Accessible amenities in the park include wheelchair-friendly boats, docks, snorkeling vessels, playground, beach access, restrooms, and campsites.
Travelers camping or RVing will find a water fountain, shower station, campsites, restrooms, and laundry facilities onsite.
The Visitor Center and Aquarium of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is located at 102601 Overseas Highway on the island of Key Largo. The Overseas Highway is the only direct roadway linking the Florida Keys to mainland Florida, and it’s the only way to get to the Visitor Center by car. There is also a FlixBus that runs from Miami to Key Largo, which then you can walk or taxi to the Visitor Center.
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is open from 8am until sunset throughout the year. Even when the temperatures drop in the winter, the sun is still strong, so consider visiting before noon for optimal sunlight and less sun exposure. In the summer, seasonal rains are especially heavy between May and June. Always visit a few hours prior to a forecasted storm to prevent risk of lightning strikes, strong winds, and waves.
Jules’ Undersea Lodge is located on Key Largo near the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park Visitor Center. Each single room is entirely underwater and requires visitors to scuba dive to enter their accommodations. Not only is it one of the most unique stays you can have in the Florida Keys, it’s also a fantastic way to observe the marine life that lives around the reef without having to wear a breathing device.
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