There are many reasons why living in Key West is such an amazing experience, but one of the most spectacular things you will find in the Florida Keys is our coral reef. The Florida Reef is the ONLY living coral reef in the continental United States. It is home to some of the Keys most colorful residents! One of the best ways to explore the reef and all its’ inhabitants is by going snorkeling!

Approximately 6,000 coral reefs are found between Key Biscayne and the Dry Tortugas. There are many charters that are available to those wanting to snorkel. Sailboat charters, catamarans, and glass bottom boats are some of the favorite ways to go snorkeling in the Keys. However you decide to get to the reefs- just do it! It is one of the most amazing experiences you may have!

There are a few things to remember when snorkeling. Coral is a living organism, so when diving or snorkeling, look, but do not touch! Avoid grabbing, standing or sitting on the coral. Not only can you damage the coral, but you may hurt yourself in the process. Most important: all coral is protected, it is against the law to collect, harvest or sell Florida corals.

If you are wondering what you may see when you go snorkeling, the answer is a lot! The reefs are full of tropical fish, hard and soft corals, sponges, snails, jellyfish, anemones, crabs, lobsters, rays, sea turtles, nurse sharks, and other sea life. There are around 110 species of corals and over 500 species of tropical fish living in perfect harmony on the reefs! So come on down to Key West, where the water is alive!

After a day of snorkeling, come back to shore and relax watching the sunset over the water, then enjoy some of the amazing cuisine Key West has to offer. If this sounds like the life for you, call Margarita Villoch and start packing! There is nothing quite like the island life!