John Pennenkamp Coral Reef State Park

Key Largo’s John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is one of a kind, offering an amazing glimpse into the underwater world. Renowned for being the country’s first undersea park, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park encompasses an impressive 70 nautical square miles. While many visitors view the park’s colorful coral reefs and teeming marine life on a glass-bottom boat tour, one can get an even closer look by scuba diving or snorkeling. Dive in to explore Florida’s Coral Reef at the park. Canoeing and kayaking through the park's waters are popular activities; fishing is permitted in designated areas. Visitors can also enjoy walking on short trails through tropical hammocks, picnicking or swimming at the beach. The visitor center features several large saltwater aquariums filled with sea creatures, and nature videos are shown in its theater. Full-facility and youth/group campsites are available.

Learn about the area’s history in our visitor's center. Dive back in time centuries ago when the New World was a bounty of opportunity and riches for those brave enough to endure the hardships of traveling by sea. At the new Maritime Heritage Exhibit, you can virtually explore six Key Largo shipwrecks found just miles from where you stand. Discover artifacts and the mysteries uncovered by maritime archaeologists in our historically rich waters.