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.

Top Dive Sites Map

★★★★★ USS Vandenberg (Wreck)

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.

2,713
Logs
1,058
Divers
33.0 m
⌀ Depth
15.0 m
⌀ Visibility

★★★★☆ Marker 32 Reef

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.

815
Logs
583
Divers
9.0 m
⌀ Depth
10.0 m
⌀ Visibility

★★★★☆ Sand Key Lighthouse

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.

730
Logs
534
Divers
10.0 m
⌀ Depth
11.0 m
⌀ Visibility

★★★★☆ Cayman Salvager (Wreck)

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.

304
Logs
249
Divers
26.0 m
⌀ Depth
13.0 m
⌀ Visibility

★★★★☆ Eastern Sambo Reef

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.

312
Logs
178
Divers
10.0 m
⌀ Depth
10.0 m
⌀ Visibility
Mares, Predrag Vuckovic

★★★★☆ Lost Reef

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.

142
Logs
102
Divers
12.0 m
⌀ Depth
13.0 m
⌀ Visibility
Mares

★★★★☆ Eastern Dry Rocks

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.

885
Logs
666
Divers
10.0 m
⌀ Depth
11.0 m
⌀ Visibility
Mares, Predrag Vuckovic

★★★★☆ Rock Key

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.

780
Logs
545
Divers
10.0 m
⌀ Depth
11.0 m
⌀ Visibility
Mares

★★★★☆ 9 Foot Stake

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’.

449
Logs
348
Divers
9.0 m
⌀ Depth
11.0 m
⌀ Visibility
Scubapro

★★★★★ Middle Sambo Reef

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.

79
Logs
47
Divers
11.0 m
⌀ Depth
11.0 m
⌀ Visibility
Scubapro

★★★★☆ Cannonball Cut

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.

370
Logs
292
Divers
8.0 m
⌀ Depth
11.0 m
⌀ Visibility
Aqualung

★★★★☆ Western Sambo Reef

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.

372
Logs
232
Divers
9.0 m
⌀ Depth
10.0 m
⌀ Visibility
Aqualung

★★★★☆ Joe’s Tug

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.

146
Logs
115
Divers
19.0 m
⌀ Depth
13.0 m
⌀ Visibility
Mares, Janez Kranjc

★★★★☆ The Haystacks

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.

718
Logs
495
Divers
10.0 m
⌀ Depth
10.0 m
⌀ Visibility
Aqualung

★★★★☆ Ball and Chain

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.

92
Logs
64
Divers
11.0 m
⌀ Depth
12.0 m
⌀ Visibility

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.

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.

Statistics

Historical data and trends

Dive Activity & Environmental Conditions

Centers Map

Looe Key Reef Resort LLC

27340 Overseas Highway, 33042 Ramrod Key, FL - USA

Dive Key West - Capt. Hooks LLC

1708 N ROOSEVELT, 33040 Key West, FL - USA

Finz Dive Center Inc.

6003 Penisular Ave, Suite 4, 33040 Key West, FL - USA

Captain Hook’s Looe Key Reef Adventures

29675 Overseas Highway, 33043 Big Pine Key, FL - USA