John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

"Located in Key Largo, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is the first undersea park in the United States and a true Florida icon. "

Recommended For

Snorkelers & scuba divers
Explore vibrant coral reefs and underwater ecosystems teeming with marine life

Families
Enjoy glass-bottom boat tours, aquariums, picnics, and calm beaches

Hikers & nature lovers
Stroll boardwalks and shaded trails through mangroves and tropical hardwoods

Kayakers & paddlers
Navigate tranquil mangrove channels and coastal lagoons

Park Highlights

Visitor Center: Includes a 30,000-gallon saltwater aquarium, educational displays, and an on-site theater showcasing reef documentaries
Coral Reefs: Explore Molasses Reef, teeming with tropical fish, stingrays, and colorful coral via snorkeling or glass-bottom boat
Beaches: Coral and rock beaches perfect for sunbathing, wildlife watching, and launching watercraft
Trails: Walk the Mangrove Trail boardwalk or the Wild Tamarind and Grove Trails with interpretive signage

Activities

Snorkeling Tours: Daily excursions visit 1–3 reef sites (weather permitting). Equipment rentals available on-site
Glass-Bottom Boat Tours: View sea turtles, barracuda, and more through the boat’s transparent bottom during guided reef excursions
Canoeing & Kayaking: Rent single kayaks and explore the mangrove channels at your own pace
Fishing: Designated areas are available for saltwater fishing (Florida license required)
Scuba Diving: For certified divers, the park offers access to some of the state’s most beautiful dive sites
Picnicking & Swimming: Enjoy shaded picnic areas and shallow beach entry for cooling off

Hiking Trails

Mangrove Trail: Boardwalk loop through dense red and black mangroves
Wild Tamarind Trail: Winds through tropical hardwood hammock with labeled native plants
The Grove Trail: Connects with Wild Tamarind for a longer loop through shaded forest

Camping

Open year-round, the park’s campground features fully equipped campsites, including group and youth options. Beach wheelchairs are available at no cost.

Insider Tip

Catch a sunrise at the beach and stay for a morning snorkel or glass-bottom boat tour. Summer is prime season for snorkeling visibility, but trails and birdwatching are enjoyable year-round.

Visitor Information

Address: 102601 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037
Phone: 305-451-6300
Website: floridastateparks.org