John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park Essentials

Established in 1963 as the first undersea park in the United States, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park encompasses approximately 70 nautical square miles of protected waters. The park provides access to the Florida Reef, the only living coral barrier reef in the continental US. Key features include a 30,000-gallon saltwater aquarium, mangrove-lined waterways for kayaking, and beaches containing 17th-century Spanish shipwreck artifacts. Visitors can explore the offshore reefs through glass-bottom boat tours, snorkeling, and scuba diving excursions.

Visitors Center and Aquarium

Features a 30,000-gallon saltwater aquarium, natural history exhibits on the Florida Keys ecosystem, and a theater showing nature films.

Cannon Beach

Designated snorkeling area featuring remnants of a 17th-century Spanish shipwreck, including cannons located approximately 100 feet offshore.

Far Beach

A palm-lined swimming area with shallow waters and a specialized ramp for ADA accessibility.

North Beach

Coastal area providing access to the Florida Bay and mangrove trails for swimming and sunbathing.

Jules' Undersea Lodge

An underwater hotel located 21 feet deep in the Emerald Lagoon. Originally the La Chalupa research laboratory, it requires scuba diving to enter.

Dive Shop

On-site facility providing scuba equipment rentals, air fills, and guided reef excursions within the state park.

The Fish House

Seafood restaurant specializing in local catches like yellowtail snapper and mahi-mahi, prepared in traditional Key Largo styles.

South Beach

Sandy shoreline area used for swimming and sunbathing, located south of the park's main visitor hub.

Concessions and Gift Shop

Park facility offering snorkeling gear rentals, souvenirs, beach supplies, and light refreshments.

Sundiver Snorkel Tours

Tour operator providing daily snorkeling trips to the shallow inner reefs of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.