Exploring the underwater by snorkeling is the experience of a lifetime in Marathon, FL. A complete set of snorkeling apparatus and gadgets will also maximize your snorkeling experience. Explore the fascinating water adventure conveniently with the best snorkeling guide.
Snorkeling near Marathon FL is safe for snorkelers and the area in which snorkelers explore is set through a map. There are guides who will be with the guests and snorkeling is only done under a restricted map area to maintain the safety and enjoyment of every snorkeler.
Sea Turtle, Blue Tangs, schools of spadefish, and more. All the animals and fish are seen often at the various Marathon Snorkeling Spots.
Snorkeling Spots Near Marathon Florida:
Probably the best snorkeling spots near Marathon FL would be the four main sanctuaries south of Key West. The sanctuaries are called Sand Key, Rock Key, Eastern Dry Rocks, and Western Sambo.
They are farthest offshore, which in general often means clearer water and their sanctuary status means larger fish are common and more likely to be visible.
Gulf Side Snorkeling
The gulf side of Key West has been crystal clear and great for snorkeling. You can see turtles, nurse sharks, different types of fish, and live coral. The water temperature of Gulf Side has been in the high 80′s so you don’t need to worry about wearing a wetsuit.
Cottrell Key Snorkeling
When the winds are blowing hard, especially out of a southern direction, the water on the reef can be very rough. On days like that, there are other options to snorkel in Marathon.
Cottrell Key is north of Key West on the gulf side, and there is a lot of rocky structure and many large coral heads. There is also wreckage from possibly a ship of some sort. Although on average the water is not as clear here as the snorkeling spots that are offshore closer to the Gulf Stream, the water can be reasonably clear with around 20 feet of visibility.
Alexander Wreck
The Alexander wreck is located on the gulf side west of Key West and is broken into two pieces. The wreck sits in 20-30 feet of water and is home to a large variety of sea life. The visibility can be very variable on this wreck. There is close to 20 feet of visibility which is considered good for this area.
The wreck was filled with lane. Perhaps they are all on the other piece of the wreck. It is rumored there is a 600-pound Goliath Grouper that lives in and around that wreck. Also, there you can see a huge schools of bait hovering over the wreck and spadefish, blue runners, parrotfish, and cero mackerel swimming on and around it.
Stargazer Reef Snorkeling
Between Rock Key and Sand Key, there is an artificial reef structure which apparently is some sort of tribute to ancient mariners. It’s in 20 feet of water and is now home to dozens of mangrove snappers, large angelfish, and a large Goliath Grouper.
It’s a good depth for snorkeling and is surrounded by white sand which creates a great contrast between the bottom and the structure.
So, what are you waiting for? Plan your next trip to Florida and enjoy snorkeling near Marathon!
