Things to do nearJohn Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

Established in 1963, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park holds a notable place in American conservation history as the country's first underwater state park, created in large part through the advocacy of Miami Herald editor John D. Pennekamp and the efforts of the Florida Board of Parks. The park protects a portion of the only living coral barrier reef in the continental United States, a fragile and biodiverse structure that forms part of the broader Florida Reef Tract running the length of the Keys. Underwater, visitors encounter more than 40 species of coral alongside hundreds of species of fish, sponges, and marine invertebrates. Above the waterline, the park's shoreline habitats include mangrove forests, seagrass beds, and a small beach where wading birds forage at low tide.

Snorkeling and scuba diving are the central draws, with several reef sites accessible by boat from the park's marina, where concessionaire-operated tours depart throughout the day. The glass-bottom boat is a particularly good option for those who prefer to stay dry while still observing the reef's intricate formations up close. Kayak and canoe rentals allow visitors to thread quietly through the park's backcountry waterways, where manatees and sea turtles occasionally surface.

A visitor center near the park entrance houses aquarium tanks and natural history exhibits that provide useful context before you head out on the water. Key Largo's dining scene, just outside the park boundaries, offers fresh seafood and a relaxed island atmosphere that complements a full day of outdoor exploration. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park stands as one of the most ecologically significant and visually remarkable natural areas in Florida, offering an encounter with a living reef that few places in the country can match.