What are the reefs in Key West?

Answer: The most popular reef locations in Key West are Sand Key Lighthouse, Eastern Dry Rocks, Western Dry Rocks, Rock Key, Western Sambo, Cottrell Key and Archer Key. The Florida Keys Reef Tract is the third-largest living coral barrier reef in the world, stretching over 360 miles from Key Biscayne down to the Dry Tortugas, with Key West offering access to some of the best reef sites. This reef system is home to over 1,400 species of marine life, including 40 species of stony coral and over 500 species of tropical fish.

Sand Key Lighthouse Reef

• Distance from Key West: ~8.5 miles southwest

• Depth: 5 to 25 feet

• Best for: Snorkeling and beginner-friendly diving

• Why it’s special: Marked by the historic 110-ft Sand Key Lighthouse, this reef is one of the most visited in the area. It features abundant sea fans, soft corals and a wide variety of tropical fish, making it perfect for snorkelers of all skill levels.

Eastern Dry Rocks

• Distance from Key West: ~6 miles south

• Depth: 5 to 35 feet

• Best for: Snorkeling and shallow diving

• Why it’s special: Eastern Dry Rocks has dramatic coral heads, sponge gardens and crevices filled with marine life like barracuda, parrotfish, and lobster. It’s also one of the best places to see brain coral formations up close.

Western Dry Rocks

• Distance from Key West: ~11 miles southwest

• Depth: 15 to 45 feet

• Best for: Scuba diving and advanced snorkelers

• Why it’s special: This site is deeper and less visited than its eastern counterpart, which means better visibility and larger marine species. Expect to see nurse sharks, moray eels and even the occasional sea turtle.

Cottrell Key (a.k.a. Cottrell Reef)

• Distance from Key West: ~8 miles northwest (Gulf side)

• Depth: 5 to 25 feet

• Best for: Backcountry snorkeling

• Why it’s special: Located in the backcountry, Cottrell Key offers a completely different reef experience. You’ll find shallow patch reefs and sponge beds surrounded by mangroves. Bonus: it’s often included on dolphin-watch combo tours.

Archer Key

• Distance from Key West: ~5.5 miles west

• Depth: 3 to 8 feet

• Best for: Kayak or private boat adventures, secluded snorkeling

• Why it’s special: While not a reef in the traditional sense, Archer Key offers excellent snorkeling in a serene backcountry setting. It’s also a favorite spot for wildlife lovers looking to escape the crowds and explore mangrove ecosystems.

Rock Key

• Distance from Key West: ~7 miles south

• Depth: 5 to 35 feet

• Best for: Snorkeling and diving

• Why it’s special: Often visited alongside Sand Key and Eastern Dry Rocks, Rock Key is known for its coral fingers and fish-filled gullies. It’s a great all-around reef for casual snorkeling and photography.

Western Sambo Reef

• Distance from Key West: ~9 miles southeast

• Depth: 10 to 40 feet

• Best for: Scuba diving, conservation-focused tours

• Why it’s special: Western Sambo lies within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary and is part of the Sambo Ecological Reserve. It’s a protected area with some of the healthiest coral in the Keys, ideal for eco-conscious adventurers and marine life lovers.

Click here for a list of Key West’s best snorkeling tours

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