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Possibly one of the most popular attractions of the Florida Keys, the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park was the first underwater protected park in the US. The park covers an enormous area of around 70 nautical square miles, comprising open water, spectacular coral reefs, on-shore mangrove forests, and tropical hammock forests.

The entire area is an irresistible playground for nature lovers, who can spend hours exploring the abundantly populated coral reefs using snorkels or scuba gear.

Visitors who prefer not to swim can still enjoy the bounty from the comfort of a glass-bottomed boat. Other activities include canoeing, kayaking, swimming, short hiking trails, camping, and picnicking.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, 102601 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037, Phone: 305-451-6300

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
© Courtesy of Microgen - Fotolia.com

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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