The First Undersea Park in the U.S. Has Incredible Diving, Snorkeling, and Glass-bottom Boat Tours

"Key Largo's John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the first undersea park in the United States, remains one of the only places in Florida where you can snorkel or scuba dive among truly healthy coral. I've done the famed Christ of the Abyss dive here, finning through schools of blue tang and parrotfish grazing on brain coral, and it's one of the most awe-inducing underwater experiences in the state."

"Spread across 70 nautical square miles, Pennekamp is a rare blend of tropical hammocks, mangrove tunnels, and protected reef, all rooted in a conservation legacy that began in the 1950s. The visitor center's Maritime Heritage Exhibit and 30,000-gallon saltwater aquarium add another layer of discovery, letting you virtually explore six nearby shipwrecks and browse artifacts recovered from Key Largo's historic waters."

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo protects 70 nautical square miles of mangrove tunnels, tropical hammocks, and a protected coral reef rooted in a conservation legacy from the 1950s. The park provides snorkeling, scuba diving, and glass-bottom boat tours that showcase elkhorn and staghorn coral, goliath grouper, sea turtles, and abundant reef fish. A visitor center features a Maritime Heritage Exhibit and a 30,000-gallon saltwater aquarium with virtual explorations of six nearby shipwrecks and recovered artifacts. Facilities include 42 reservable campsites with hookups, a primitive group camp, a marina with dock slips and moorings, and kayak and paddleboard rentals. Entry fees vary and pets are allowed on leash.

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