Explore Lower Keys

Diving in the Lower Keys of Florida offers a captivating underwater adventure that attracts divers from around the globe. This enchanting destination, stretching from the vibrant Key West to the pristine reefs of Marathon, is renowned for its rich marine biodiversity and spectacular dive environments. The waters here are teeming with colorful corals, playful dolphins, and graceful sea turtles, making each dive an unforgettable experience. One of the most remarkable features of this region is the world-famous wreck of the Vandenburg, a must-see for any wreck diving enthusiast.

The Lower Keys boast a wide range of diving experiences, from the stunning coral gardens of Looe Key to the dramatic walls and vibrant marine life of Sand Key. Most dive sites are easily accessible via local charter boats, allowing for convenient exploration. Whether you're interested in shallow reef diving or deep wreck exploration, the Lower Keys offer something for every diver. It's worth noting that having Wreck and Deep Diving certifications is recommended for those planning to explore the deeper, more challenging sites. Additionally, most boats provide Enriched Air Nitrox, so being prepared with the appropriate certification can enhance your diving experience.

Upcoming Events

    • Try Scuba

    Try Scuba

    The SSI Try Scuba program is the best way to try scuba diving for the first time. You will be in confined water and well looked after by your instructor, so you can enjoy those first unforgettable breaths underwater and experience the magic of scuba diving. At the end of this short course, you will have earned your SSI Try Scuba recognition card and undoubtedly want to go diving again. Endless scuba diving adventures are waiting for you and this course is where it all begins. Start today!

    Finz Dive Center Inc., 6003 Penisular Ave, Suite 4, 33040, Key West, FL, USA
    May 16, 2026 +65 More
    $499.00
    Scuba Skills Update

    Scuba Skills Update

    It is easy for dive skills to get rusty and to lose confidence when you have not dived for a while. With the SSI Scuba Skills Update, we will get you back in the water and diving with ease in no time. This scuba refresher course allows you to review and practice scuba skills you learned in your Open Water Diver program, under the guidance of an SSI Professional. This is a great course to take just before a dive holiday, so you spend less time worrying about your skills and more time admiring the marine life. If you are a non-certified Open Water Diver student, a Scuba Skills Update is ideal for practicing your dive skills before your open water training dives. With no fixed course duration, you can take your time and focus on the skills you need help with.

    Finz Dive Center Inc., 6003 Penisular Ave, Suite 4, 33040, Key West, FL, USA
    May 13, 2026 +232 More
    $150.00
    React Right - Course Combination (FA, CPR, AED, O2)

    React Right - Course Combination (FA, CPR, AED, O2)

    React Right is SSI’s emergency first response course and provides you with the training and knowledge you need to act as a first responder in a medical emergency. In this flexible dive program, you can choose which subjects you want to learn about, including primary assessment, first aid, CPR and primary stabilization techniques. You can also learn about oxygen administration in diving emergencies and Automated External Defibrillator (AED) basics. Using a combination of academic sessions and practical training scenarios, this program will give you the tools and confidence you need for emergency response. By the time you are certified, you will be able to act as an emergency first responder, provide first aid and CPR, administer oxygen and provide AED support in a medical emergency. Earn your SSI React Right specialty certification. Get started today!

    Finz Dive Center Inc., 6003 Penisular Ave, Suite 4, 33040, Key West, FL, USA
    On Request
    Open Water Diver

    Open Water Diver

    This globally recognized certification program is the best way to begin your lifelong adventures as a certified scuba diver. Personalized training is combined with in-water practice sessions to ensure you have the skills and experience required to become truly comfortable underwater. You will earn the SSI Open Water Diver certification.

    Finz Dive Center Inc., 6003 Penisular Ave, Suite 4, 33040, Key West, FL, USA
    On Request
    Find Courses & Events

    Dive Activity

    Diving in Lower Keys

    The Lower Keys offer an array of exceptional dive sites that attract divers from around the world. One of the most notable is the Vandenberg Wreck, a massive former military ship resting off Key West. This site offers divers the thrill of exploring its corridors and observing the thriving marine life that has made it their home. Nearby, the Adolphus Busch Sr. wreck is another favorite, providing a fascinating glimpse into a sunken cargo ship adorned with coral and fish.

    Shore diving is equally rewarding, with sites like Bahia Honda State Park offering easy access to vibrant reefs teeming with marine life. For those seeking unique experiences, night dives reveal the mesmerizing behavior of nocturnal creatures. Dive travelers can enjoy a balance between accessible shore dives and liveaboard options, maximizing their time exploring the underwater wonders of the Lower Keys.

    Top Wildlife Sightings in Lower Keys

    The Lower Keys, part of the Florida Keys, are a vibrant underwater paradise teeming with diverse marine life. Among the common reef fish, divers can expect to encounter colorful parrotfish, angelfish, and the frequently seen sergeant majors. These species thrive in the coral reefs, offering a stunning display of colors and patterns.

    Seasonal highlights include sightings of nurse sharks and reef sharks, often spotted during the warmer months. Sea turtles, such as the loggerhead and green turtle, are also occasionally seen gliding gracefully through the water. Rays, including the southern stingray, can be observed year-round, especially in sandy areas or near seagrass beds. The likelihood of encountering these majestic creatures varies with the season, with peak activity typically observed during the summer months.

    Wildlife Sightings are Based on User Generated Content

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 27

    iStock-Global_Pics
    Barracuda

    Barracuda
    1.1k Sightings
    J
    83
    F
    49
    M
    64
    A
    71
    M
    100
    J
    124
    J
    207
    A
    102
    S
    83
    O
    84
    N
    58
    D
    84

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 200

    Alamy-WaterFrame
    Moray Eel

    Moray Eel
    444 Sightings
    J
    42
    F
    28
    M
    37
    A
    30
    M
    37
    J
    38
    J
    76
    A
    22
    S
    25
    O
    40
    N
    32
    D
    37
    Shutterstock-Shane Myers Photography
    Green Turtle

    Green Turtle
    129 Sightings
    J
    9
    F
    9
    M
    11
    A
    20
    M
    2
    J
    9
    J
    15
    A
    11
    S
    3
    O
    10
    N
    18
    D
    12

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 600

    iStock/ultramarinfoto
    Wrasse

    Wrasse
    118 Sightings
    J
    4
    F
    3
    M
    8
    A
    8
    M
    7
    J
    10
    J
    32
    A
    11
    S
    10
    O
    7
    N
    9
    D
    9
    iStock-ShaneGross
    Loggerhead Turtle

    Loggerhead Turtle
    65 Sightings
    J
    1
    F
    3
    M
    10
    A
    9
    M
    0
    J
    18
    J
    14
    A
    5
    S
    0
    O
    0
    N
    4
    D
    1

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 100

    iStock-burnsboxco
    Parrotfish

    Parrotfish
    727 Sightings
    J
    47
    F
    28
    M
    46
    A
    52
    M
    46
    J
    71
    J
    182
    A
    75
    S
    54
    O
    46
    N
    40
    D
    40

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 90

    Shutterstock-Rich Carey
    Angelfish

    Angelfish
    690 Sightings
    J
    50
    F
    19
    M
    35
    A
    49
    M
    54
    J
    70
    J
    166
    A
    64
    S
    60
    O
    47
    N
    32
    D
    44

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 250

    Shutterstock-Henry_and_Laura_Whittaker
    Grouper/Basslets

    Grouper/Basslets
    541 Sightings
    J
    50
    F
    27
    M
    48
    A
    36
    M
    51
    J
    51
    J
    97
    A
    47
    S
    33
    O
    49
    N
    17
    D
    35

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 110

    iStock-Rainer von Brandis
    Snapper

    Snapper
    382 Sightings
    J
    36
    F
    9
    M
    15
    A
    18
    M
    29
    J
    46
    J
    98
    A
    38
    S
    19
    O
    24
    N
    21
    D
    29

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 12

    iStock/cinoby
    Lionfish

    Lionfish
    373 Sightings
    J
    27
    F
    20
    M
    19
    A
    38
    M
    26
    J
    27
    J
    71
    A
    31
    S
    33
    O
    29
    N
    10
    D
    42
    Show More

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 130

    Shutterstock_Krzysztof Odziomek
    Butterfly Fish

    Butterfly Fish
    349 Sightings
    J
    19
    F
    18
    M
    14
    A
    32
    M
    17
    J
    46
    J
    97
    A
    29
    S
    26
    O
    12
    N
    16
    D
    23

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 2

    AdobeStock-hakbak
    Nurse Shark

    Nurse Shark
    336 Sightings
    J
    21
    F
    19
    M
    21
    A
    22
    M
    36
    J
    41
    J
    72
    A
    28
    S
    19
    O
    16
    N
    15
    D
    26

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 150

    Shutterstock-aquapix
    Sweetlips and Grunts

    Sweetlips and Grunts
    228 Sightings
    J
    11
    F
    5
    M
    13
    A
    11
    M
    13
    J
    38
    J
    56
    A
    19
    S
    26
    O
    9
    N
    18
    D
    9

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 130

    AdobeStock-JirinaVFR
    Pufferfish

    Pufferfish
    228 Sightings
    J
    16
    F
    15
    M
    13
    A
    12
    M
    12
    J
    26
    J
    44
    A
    15
    S
    21
    O
    12
    N
    12
    D
    30

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 55

    Shutterstock-RLS Photo
    Lobster

    Lobster
    212 Sightings
    J
    14
    F
    7
    M
    13
    A
    13
    M
    17
    J
    27
    J
    23
    A
    34
    S
    16
    O
    21
    N
    17
    D
    10

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 80

    iStock/Extreme-Photographer
    Stingrays

    Stingrays
    194 Sightings
    J
    24
    F
    8
    M
    14
    A
    32
    M
    9
    J
    32
    J
    20
    A
    16
    S
    10
    O
    9
    N
    12
    D
    8

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 350

    Alamy-Andre Seal
    Damselfish

    Damselfish
    181 Sightings
    J
    3
    F
    7
    M
    16
    A
    16
    M
    15
    J
    10
    J
    29
    A
    24
    S
    17
    O
    4
    N
    21
    D
    19

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 85

    iStock-mirecca
    Surgeonfish

    Surgeonfish
    180 Sightings
    J
    11
    F
    6
    M
    12
    A
    15
    M
    9
    J
    18
    J
    56
    A
    7
    S
    23
    O
    11
    N
    5
    D
    7

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 40

    iStock-wrangel
    Triggerfish

    Triggerfish
    171 Sightings
    J
    10
    F
    13
    M
    13
    A
    17
    M
    9
    J
    21
    J
    22
    A
    10
    S
    20
    O
    11
    N
    19
    D
    6

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 3

    Shutterstock_Leo Lorenzo
    Trumpetfish

    Trumpetfish
    145 Sightings
    J
    15
    F
    3
    M
    9
    A
    14
    M
    12
    J
    16
    J
    34
    A
    19
    S
    7
    O
    4
    N
    5
    D
    7

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 60

    iStock-Global_Pics
    Squirrelfish

    Squirrelfish
    129 Sightings
    J
    6
    F
    2
    M
    9
    A
    15
    M
    12
    J
    15
    J
    17
    A
    10
    S
    12
    O
    9
    N
    9
    D
    13

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 40

    iStock-Hoatzinexp
    Jackfish

    Jackfish
    127 Sightings
    J
    14
    F
    4
    M
    9
    A
    7
    M
    12
    J
    3
    J
    38
    A
    6
    S
    9
    O
    2
    N
    15
    D
    8

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 90

    Shutterstock-Levent Konuk
    Goatfish

    Goatfish
    121 Sightings
    J
    7
    F
    2
    M
    10
    A
    3
    M
    4
    J
    19
    J
    35
    A
    10
    S
    9
    O
    3
    N
    11
    D
    8

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 60

    iStock-Global_Pics
    Spiny Lobster

    Spiny Lobster
    118 Sightings
    J
    8
    F
    4
    M
    20
    A
    10
    M
    9
    J
    3
    J
    19
    A
    19
    S
    13
    O
    2
    N
    6
    D
    5

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 28

    Udo Kefrig
    Clownfish

    Clownfish
    79 Sightings
    J
    1
    F
    3
    M
    4
    A
    7
    M
    3
    J
    9
    J
    25
    A
    7
    S
    4
    O
    5
    N
    8
    D
    3

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 60

    iStock-Global_Pics
    Soldierfish

    Soldierfish
    78 Sightings
    J
    3
    F
    5
    M
    6
    A
    11
    M
    8
    J
    1
    J
    20
    A
    8
    S
    3
    O
    2
    N
    3
    D
    8
    AdobeStock-_italo
    Moon Jellyfish

    Moon Jellyfish
    70 Sightings
    J
    1
    F
    1
    M
    0
    A
    0
    M
    0
    J
    0
    J
    5
    A
    11
    S
    42
    O
    3
    N
    5
    D
    2

    The image shown is a representative illustration and does not depict every individual animal in this category.

    Total number of species approx.: 7000

    iStock-Michael Zeigler
    Crab

    Crab
    63 Sightings
    J
    2
    F
    3
    M
    5
    A
    11
    M
    1
    J
    1
    J
    11
    A
    15
    S
    6
    O
    2
    N
    6
    D
    0

    The best Months to dive in Lower Keya

    The Lower Keys, a popular diving destination, offers year-round diving opportunities. Water temperatures range from 24°C–30°C/75°F–86°F, ensuring comfortable dives throughout the year. Visibility is typically excellent, averaging 15–30 meters/49–98 feet, although it can vary depending on weather conditions.

    Wind and currents are significant factors affecting diving conditions. The winter months can bring stronger winds and rougher seas, which may reduce visibility and increase water turbulence. Despite this, diving remains possible year-round. The most favorable conditions are usually found between late spring and early fall when the weather is calmest and visibility is at its peak.

    Dive Centers

    Finz Dive Center Inc.

    Finz Dive Center Inc.

    6003 Penisular Ave, Suite 4, 33040 Key West, FL - United States
    Looe Key Reef Resort LLC

    Looe Key Reef Resort LLC

    27340 Overseas Highway, 33042 Ramrod Key, FL - United States
    Captain Hook’s Looe Key Reef Adventures

    Captain Hook’s Looe Key Reef Adventures

    29675 Overseas Highway, 33043 Big Pine Key, FL - United States
    Dive Key West - Capt. Hooks LLC

    Dive Key West - Capt. Hooks LLC

    1708 N ROOSEVELT, 33040 Key West, FL - United States

    Mote Marine Laboratory

    24244 Overseas Highway, 33042 Summerland, FL - United States

    Dive Sites

    Virginia Scuba, 20109 Manassas
    USS Vandenberg (Wreck) <span class="text-color-primary text-sm"> (★4.6)</span>

    USS Vandenberg (Wreck) (★4.6)

    This is one of the most famous dive sites in Key West. Sunk over 10 years ago this Ex-Military Missile Tracking Ship varies in depth from 70 feet to 100 plus feet and is for advanced and expert divers only.
    Nikki M. (#2162199)
    Marker 32 Reef <span class="text-color-primary text-sm"> (★4.0)</span>

    Marker 32 Reef (★4.0)

    6 Miles south of Key West is Marker 32 reef. This site is located adjacent to Western Sambos reef. This reef has two mooring balls on it. Very easy dive site with spur-and-groove style coral formations.
    marco p. (#1764087)
    Sand Key Lighthouse <span class="text-color-primary text-sm"> (★4.1)</span>

    Sand Key Lighthouse (★4.1)

    Sand Key is a Sanctuary Preservation area that was originally its own island. Due to erosion and hurricanes, it’s been reduced to a very small patch of sand surrounded by a coral reef. The sand is an especially nice feature you don’t usually have at other Florida coral reefs. Great dive and snorkel spot.
    Virginia Scuba, 20109 Manassas
    Cayman Salvager (Wreck) <span class="text-color-primary text-sm"> (★4.4)</span>

    Cayman Salvager (Wreck) (★4.4)

    Cayman Salvager is one of the three Key West dive sites that are part of the Florida Keys Wreck Trek program. This is a popular fishing and diving site a short distance from Key West.
    Nikki M. (#2162199)
    Eastern Sambo Reef <span class="text-color-primary text-sm"> (★3.9)</span>

    Eastern Sambo Reef (★3.9)

    20 minutes directly south of Key West is the Eastern Sambo Reef. This reef is located inside the Western Sambo Ecological Reserve and is fully protected from all types of fishing. The reef is approximately nine square miles of spur-and-groove type coral formations. The reef ranges from 10-4 feet’ in depth.
    Mares, Predrag Vuckovic
    Lost Reef <span class="text-color-primary text-sm"> (★4.4)</span>

    Lost Reef (★4.4)

    Lost reef is an aquarium so to speak. Off the beaten path it doesnt see many visitors. If you get a chance to drift it I highly recommend doing so.
    Mares
    Eastern Dry Rocks <span class="text-color-primary text-sm"> (★4.2)</span>

    Eastern Dry Rocks (★4.2)

    The Eastern Dry Rocks reef is a popular spot for diving and/or snorkeling. It is also quite close to multiple other reefs including Sand Key and Rock Key, so it is common for divers and snorkelers to see multiple reefs on one outing.
    Mares, Predrag Vuckovic
    Rock Key <span class="text-color-primary text-sm"> (★4.1)</span>

    Rock Key (★4.1)

    The crevices within the reef at Rock Key are deeper and wider than what is usually found at other coral reefs. These wider openings create the perfect hiding habitat for grouper, moray eel, and other Florida fish.
    Mares
    9 Foot Stake <span class="text-color-primary text-sm"> (★4.2)</span>

    9 Foot Stake (★4.2)

    15 minutes south of Key West, FL lies 9 Foot Stake Reef. This reef is located next to Marker 32 Reef and is located in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary System; however, fishing and spearfishing are allowed. The depth of this reef ranges from 15’-30’.
    Scubapro
    Middle Sambo Reef <span class="text-color-primary text-sm"> (★4.5)</span>

    Middle Sambo Reef (★4.5)

    This is the middle reef dive site that makes up the Sambo Reef area near Key West, Florida. These reefs lie in a marine reserve and are home to healthy coral and lots of fish.
    Scubapro
    Cannonball Cut <span class="text-color-primary text-sm"> (★3.8)</span>

    Cannonball Cut (★3.8)

    6 miles to the south of Key West is Cannonball Cut. This dive site does not have a mooring ball which makes it a good place for drift diving. This site consists of continuing fields of coral. Maximum depth is 18m/60 feet. This site is good for drift diving as well as lionfish hunting.
    Aqualung
    Western Sambo Reef <span class="text-color-primary text-sm"> (★4.1)</span>

    Western Sambo Reef (★4.1)

    15 minutes south of Key West is the Western Sambo Reef. This reef is one of two Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Ecological Reserves. It is fully protected from all types of fishing. Depth runs from 7-40 feet.
    Aqualung
    Joe’s Tug <span class="text-color-primary text-sm"> (★4.2)</span>

    Joe’s Tug (★4.2)

    Joe’s Tug - 60ft to 70ft Private mooring ball. Tug boat wreck scattered throughout a wonderful reef. Typically there is an eel in the stern section and many schools of yellowtail and other fish around the bow. We call this agreat reef with a wreck in the middle. Ask how it ended up getting its name.
    Mares, Janez Kranjc
    The Haystacks <span class="text-color-primary text-sm"> (★4.1)</span>

    The Haystacks (★4.1)

    Haystacks lies on the reef area known as the Western Sambo reef and is an excellent, shallow boat dive. Perfect for snorkelers and all levels of divers.
    Aqualung
    Ball and Chain <span class="text-color-primary text-sm"> (★4.1)</span>

    Ball and Chain (★4.1)

    Ball and Chain is one of Key West’s most historic outer reef sites. Made famous by old home made moorings called Bubba Buoys were used to moor ships off Key West for quarantine.