John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, located in Key Largo, Florida, is the first underwater state park in the United States. Covering about 70 square miles, the park is famous for its stunning coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life. As part of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, it offers visitors the opportunity to experience the only living coral reef in the continental U.S. through snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and glass-bottom boat tours. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or simply want to admire the underwater world, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is a must-visit destination.

Features of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

World-Class Coral Reefs & Marine Life
- Home to colorful coral formations, tropical fish, sea turtles, and nurse sharks.
- Features the famous “Christ of the Abyss” statue, a submerged 8.5-foot-tall bronze statue resting in 25 feet of water.
Snorkeling & Scuba Diving Excursions
- Guided trips take visitors to some of the best snorkeling and diving spots in Florida.
- Explore famous reefs like Molasses Reef, Dry Rocks, and Grecian Rocks.
Glass-Bottom Boat Tours
- A perfect option for non-swimmers and families to view vibrant marine life and coral formations without getting wet.
Kayaking & Paddleboarding
- Paddle through mangrove-lined waterways, where you might see manatees, dolphins, and wading birds.
Beaches & Swimming Areas
- Features Cannon Beach and Far Beach, both great for swimming and relaxing by the water.
Hiking & Nature Trails
- Explore short scenic trails through mangrove forests and coastal habitats.

Recreational Activities & Experiences

Snorkeling & Scuba Diving – Discover Florida’s only living coral reef.
Glass-Bottom Boat Tours – See underwater marine life without diving.
Kayaking & Canoeing – Paddle through peaceful mangrove trails.
Fishing – Allowed in designated areas following state fishing regulations.
Hiking & Wildlife Watching – Spot birds, iguanas, and marine creatures along the trails.
Picnicking & Relaxing on the Beach – Enjoy a beachside picnic with ocean views.

Vicinity of the Coral Reef State Park

Nearby Attractions

Make the most of your visit to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park by exploring these nearby destinations:

Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center (8 miles away) – A sanctuary for rescued birds, including hawks, pelicans, and owls.
Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park (10 miles away) – A beautiful nature preserve with rare plants and scenic trails.
Key Largo Undersea Park (5 miles away) – Home to Jules’ Undersea Lodge, the world’s only underwater hotel.
Florida Keys Brewing Co. (20 miles away in Islamorada) – A fun spot to sample locally brewed craft beer.
Islamorada’s Theater of the Sea (22 miles away) – A marine park offering dolphin swims and sea lion shows.

Amenities & Facilities

Visitor Center & Aquarium – Features interactive exhibits, aquariums, and educational displays about Florida’s coral reefs.
Snorkel & Dive Equipment Rentals – Available on-site for easy access to water activities.
Boat Rentals & Marina – For those wanting to explore the park’s waters on their own.
Picnic Areas & Restrooms – Shaded areas with picnic tables, grills, and restroom facilities.
Campground – Offers tent and RV camping sites with basic amenities.

Accessibility

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park ensures an inclusive experience for all visitors:

ADA-Accessible Pathways, Restrooms & Picnic Areas.
Glass-Bottom Boat Tours are wheelchair-friendly.
Beach Wheelchair Rentals Available.
Service Animals Allowed per ADA regulations.

Tips for Visiting John Pennekamp Coral Reef

Book Snorkeling & Boat Tours in Advance – These tours fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
Bring Reef-Safe Sunscreen – Help protect Florida’s delicate coral reef ecosystem.
Arrive Early – Parking and beaches can get crowded, especially on weekends.
Check the Weather & Water Conditions – Visibility for snorkeling and diving depends on the conditions.
Respect Wildlife & Coral Reefs – Avoid touching coral, and follow conservation guidelines.

Why Visit John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park?

As America’s first underwater state park, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park offers an unparalleled experience for ocean lovers, nature enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. Whether you’re snorkeling among vibrant reefs, gliding over marine life in a glass-bottom boat, or exploring lush mangrove trails, this park is a true paradise in the Florida Keys. If you want to experience Florida’s stunning underwater world, this is the place to go.

For more information visit: https://pennekamppark.com