Key Largo Diving: Best Dive Sites by Skill Level
Using Reefhouse Resort & Marina as your launch point, here are some of the best dives to experience in Key Largo by skill level.
Key Largo, hailed as the “Diving Capital of the World,” offers some of the best diving experiences in Florida. That’s owed to easily accessible dive sites, vibrant coral reefs and wrecks teeming with a variety of marine life, and excellent crystal-clear water visibility – all located just a few miles off the coast. And when you stay at Reefhouse Resort & Marina – offering its own on-site diving outfitter and guiding service – you’ll find a diving experience to suit your preferences, whether you’re a novice just starting out or seeking more thrilling adventures. Below, we’ve curated a selection of Key Largo’s top dive sites based on skill level, allowing you to maximize your time in this underwater paradise.
BEGINNER DIVE SITES IN KEY LARGO
Molasses Reef
Molasses Reef is renowned for its breathtaking coral formations and abundant marine life, making it one of the most popular dive sites in the Keys. It’s part of a protected conservation zone, meaning it’s closely monitored to preserve its delicate coral formations and biodiversity. With depths ranging from 10 to 40 feet, it’s perfect for beginners eager to discover the underwater world. Expect to encounter vibrant corals, sea turtles, nurse sharks, and colorful schools of tropical fish – and maybe even the remnants of a shipwreck – all in calm, crystal-clear waters that enhance visibility and ease of navigation.
- Location: 6 miles off the coast, Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary
Grecian Rocks
For those looking to dip their toes into the serene waters of the Keys, Grecian Rocks provides a shallow and calm environment. Ranging from 5 to 25 feet deep, this reef is home to graceful angelfish, parrotfish, and stingrays in addition to unique coral formations. The tranquil conditions make it ideal for first-timers. Many boat companies will bring guests here if it’s a particularly windy day, since it’s more protected from wind and waves.
- Location: 5 miles off the coast, Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary
Christ of the Abyss
Nestled in the depths of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the iconic Christ of the Abyss statue stands in just 25 feet of water. This 9-foot-tall bronze statue, which was placed underwater in 1965, is a replica of the original submerged in Italy’s Mediterranean Sea. The statue was donated to the park to honor those who have lost their lives at sea and now serves as a symbol of peace and protection for divers. It’s surrounded by thriving coral reefs and a kaleidoscope of marine life. With excellent visibility and gentle currents, it’s a perfect introduction to diving.
- Location: 6 miles off the coast, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
INTERMEDIATE DIVE SITES IN KEY LARGO
Benwood Wreck
Benwood Wreck, a World War II-era freighter, sits in waters ranging from 25 to 50 feet deep, offering a fascinating dive for those with some experience. Now transformed into a thriving artificial reef, this site is home to an array of marine species, including large barracuda, groupers, and vibrant schools of snapper. With its moderate depth and manageable currents, it strikes the perfect balance between adventure and accessibility for intermediate divers.
- Location: 7 miles off the coast Key Largo, Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary
French Reef
Unlike more open reefs, French Reef is renowned for its network of swim-through caves, tunnels, and coral canyons, offering a more adventurous dive experience. Ranging from 30 to 60 feet deep, the reef is known for its stunning coral formations and diverse marine life. The underwater topography is a photographer’s dream, with plenty of hidden corners to explore, all framed by crystal-clear waters and excellent visibility.
- Location: 7 miles off the coast Key Largo, Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary
Snapper Ledge
As its name suggests, Snapper Ledge is a haven for schools of snapper, but that’s just the beginning. This intermediate dive site, with depths between 30 and 40 feet, is renowned for its bustling marine life, which includes parrotfish, grunts, and the occasional lobster. The clear waters and gentle currents provide an inviting environment for intermediate divers looking for a slightly more adventurous experience. Divers often report feeling immersed (literally!) in the action as fish swirl around them in these pristine, clear waters.
- Location: 7 miles off the coast Key Largo, Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary
ADVANCED DIVE SITES IN KEY LARGO
Spiegel Grove
For the seasoned diver, Spiegel Grove offers an unparalleled wreck diving experience. This colossal 510-foot former U.S. Navy ship rests at depths of over 130 feet, with strong currents adding to the challenge. The ship’s vast, intricate structure provides endless opportunities for exploration, and its coral-encrusted surfaces attract a stunning array of marine life, including barracudas, groupers, and sea turtles. This awe-inspiring dive is a must for any advanced diver.
- Location: 6 miles off the coast of Key Largo, Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary
Duane Wreck
USCGC Duane, a former Coast Guard cutter, now lies at a depth of 120 feet, upright and intact, making it one of the best-preserved wrecks in the Keys. After being decommissioned on August 1, 1985 as the oldest active U.S. military vessel, Duane was donated to the Keys Association of Dive Operators for use as an artificial reef. Due to its depth and the often-strong currents, it’s an exhilarating dive for advanced divers.
- Location: 1 mile south of Molasses Reef off of Key Largo, Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary
Eagle
Eagle, a 269-foot freighter resting at 110 feet, offers a more challenging dive for advanced divers. The ship, which lies on its side, is covered in vibrant soft corals and sponges, creating a haven for marine life such as rays, turtles, and even the occasional shark. The deep, current-swept environment makes this an exhilarating and rewarding dive for those with the experience to handle it.
- Location: 6 miles off Lower Matecumbe Key, Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary
WHERE TO STAY IN DURING A DIVING TRIP TO KEY LARGO, FL
Reefhouse Resort & Marina
Sitting on the 17 lush, tropical island acres, this luxury Key Largo resort retreat embodies coastal calm with its private vibe and sand-hued waterfront suites that makes guests feel as though they have the run of the place. Enjoy diving, boating, fishing, and parasailing from the on-site marina or take things a bit slower and bounce between the outdoor heated pool and private outdoor beach.
