The Best Places to Snorkel from Land in Key West, Florida

Author: Nathan Knight

Key West offers some fantastic snorkeling spots that are accessible right from the shore, perfect for families, beginners, or anyone looking for a casual snorkel experience. While snorkeling from land is convenient and fun, it’s important to know the unique benefits and limitations of each location. Here’s your guide to the best land-based snorkeling spots in Key West, complete with pros, cons, and helpful insights.

Google’s Top 5 FAQ About Snorkeling In Key West

To help you make the most of your snorkeling experience in Key West, we’ve answered some of the most common questions about snorkeling in the area.

1. Can you snorkel on your own in Key West?

Yes, you can absolutely snorkel on your own in Key West! Many beaches, offer easy access to snorkeling spots right from the shore. You’ll need to bring or rent your own equipment and take basic safety precautions, such as checking weather conditions and staying within designated swimming areas.

However, keep in mind that the best snorkeling in Key West is located at the coral reef, which is only accessible by boat. For a richer, more colorful experience, guided tours to the reef are highly recommended.

2. Where is the best free snorkeling in Key West?

For free snorkeling, Fort Zachary Taylor and Higgs Beach are excellent options. At Higgs Beach, the remnants of an old pier create an artificial reef where you can spot small fish and crabs. Fort Zach has some rock formations a couple with a chance to see juvenile fish and other small marine creatures.

3. Where is the clearest water in Key West?

The clearest waters in Key West are found at the coral reef, located just a short boat ride from shore. Offshore waters are free from sediment and boat activity near the shoreline, offering unparalleled visibility to explore the stunning marine life and coral gardens. There are daily morning, afternoon & evening snorkeling charters that start at just $40

4. Is it better to snorkel in Key Largo or Key West?

While both locations offer incredible snorkeling opportunities, Key West stands out for its vibrant coral reef and accessible shore snorkeling spots. Key West’s reef is teeming with colorful fish, unique coral formations, and diverse marine life, making it one of the top snorkeling destinations in the world.

Additionally, Key West offers a lively and unique atmosphere, with stunning sunsets, historic landmarks, and plenty of other activities to enjoy after your snorkeling adventure.

5. Will I see sharks while snorkeling?

It’s highly unlikely that you’ll encounter sharks while snorkeling in Key West, especially near shore. The most common shark sightings are nurse sharks, which are harmless to humans. Nurse sharks don’t have traditional sharp teeth and are generally shy, resting on the ocean floor or slowly swimming away when approached.

Have More Questions?
If there’s anything else you’re curious about, don’t hesitate to ask! Snorkeling in Key West is an unforgettable experience, and we’re here to help you make the most of it. 🐠 🌊

Top 4 Places to Snorkel from Shore in Key West

1. Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

Address: 601 Howard England Way, Key West, FL 33040

Fort Zachary Taylor is a favorite among locals and visitors for its combination of history, natural beauty, and snorkeling opportunities. The rock formations near the shore create a habitat for marine life, making it a great spot to explore.

Pros

• Marine Life Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
  • Likely sightings include parrotfish, sergeant majors, angelfish, butterfish and wrasse.
  • The rocky areas provide shelter for small coral formations and schools of fish.
• Easy access with plenty of space to snorkel and relax.
• Family-friendly with picnic tables, a café, and equipment rentals available.

Cons

• The water is relatively shallow, limiting visibility and the variety of fish you’ll encounter.
• While the rock formations attract some marine life, you won’t find the vibrant coral gardens or large schools of tropical fish that thrive in deeper, offshore waters.
• Entry fee required for park access.

2. Higgs Beach

Address: 1000 Atlantic Blvd, Key West, FL 33040

Higgs Beach is a relaxed and accessible spot where the remains of an old pier create an artificial reef, attracting some marine life. It’s a great choice for casual snorkelers and families.

Pros

• Marine Life Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5)
  • Likely sightings include schools of snappers, colorful butterfish, wrasse, crabs, and occasional rays.
  • The old pier provides an interesting structure to explore.
• Free parking and easy access from downtown Key West.
• Amenities include restrooms, a playground, and picnic areas.

Cons

• The shallow waters and close proximity to shore mean fewer colorful fish and limited coral formations.
• Visibility can be affected by nearby boat traffic and sediment in the water.

3. Smathers Beach

Address: 2601 S Roosevelt Blvd, Key West, FL 33040

Smathers Beach is Key West’s largest public beach and offers calm waters that are ideal for beginners. While not as rich in marine life as other spots, it’s a fantastic place to get comfortable with snorkeling.

Pros

• Marine Life Rating: ⭐⭐ (2/5)
  • Likely sightings include small fish and seagrass inhabitants.
  • Calm, shallow waters are perfect for first-time snorkelers or families with young children.
• Amenities include food vendors, equipment rentals, and plenty of sandy space to relax.

Cons

• Marine life is limited, and waters can be cloudy during high winds.
• Visibility is often reduced due to shallow waters and nearby beach activity.

4. White Street Pier (Rest Beach)

Address: 1800 Atlantic Blvd, Key West, FL 33040

White Street Pier offers an off-the-beaten-path snorkeling experience. Although it’s not a traditional beach, the rocky areas and clear waters near the pier attract some marine life.

Pros

• Marine Life Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5)
  • Likely sightings include juvenile fish, starfish, and crabs.
  • A peaceful, uncrowded spot for a quiet snorkeling session.
• Nearby amenities like the yoga deck and shaded rest areas provide a relaxing environment.

Cons

• Limited marine diversity and smaller fish compared to the thriving coral reef offshore.
• The shallow, rocky waters are best for a brief snorkel rather than a full-fledged underwater adventure.
• To experience the colorful tropical fish and intricate coral structures Key West is famous for, you’d need to venture out to the reef.

For more information on Key West’s beaches check out this article: Top 8 Beaches in Key West

The Snorkeling Gem of Key West: The Coral Reef

• Marine Life Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
• Click here for our recommended reef snorkeling trips

While snorkeling from land provides a fun and easy way to explore Key West’s waters, it’s important to remember that the true underwater treasures lie just a short boat ride away. The third-largest living coral reef in the world, located off Key West’s coast, is home to stunning coral gardens, vast schools of fish, and marine life you simply won’t find near shore.

This world-famous reef offers:

• Crystal-clear waters with unbeatable visibility.
• Vibrant coral structures teeming with life, including angelfish, butterflyfish, and sea turtles.
• A chance to explore one of the most beautiful and diverse ecosystems on the planet.

Next Key West Tip: Best Ways To Get Around: Golf carts, taxis, ride-shares & more