When you visit the captivating city of Marathon in the Florida Keys, prepare to immerse yourself in the aquatic wonders that abound. With a plethora of Marathon, Florida rentals situated within easy reach of pristine beaches, snorkeling emerges as a highlight of your vacation experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a novice, Marathon offers a myriad of awe-inspiring locations for you to explore beneath the waves. Encounter vibrant marine life, intricate coral reefs, and even intriguing shipwrecks, providing an unparalleled underwater adventure. And while the underwater world captivates, the city of Marathon itself boasts a wealth of attractions to discover. From picturesque parks and enlightening museums to an enchanting aquarium and charming galleries, there’s no shortage of experiences to enrich your stay.
Don’t miss the chance to indulge in delectable cuisine at both fine dining establishments and casual restaurants near Marathon, FL, or pay a visit to the renowned Turtle Hospital for a glimpse into marine conservation efforts.
Sombrero Beach
Sombrero Beach welcomes snorkelers of all experience levels. It boasts one of the largest barrier reefs globally and has earned its reputation as the premier snorkeling site in the Keys. Its diverse offerings cater to beginners seeking shallow waters for practice and seasoned enthusiasts eager to explore deeper realms teeming with marine wonders.
Beyond the coral gardens, snorkelers can encounter starfish, crabs’ scuttles, and the gentle sway of sand flats amidst expansive seagrass beds. For those visiting between April and October, the chance to witness turtle nesting sites adds an extra layer of excitement, though certain areas are cordoned off during nesting season to ensure the protection of these magnificent creatures.
Nestled just a stone’s throw from the Overseas Highway, the accessible two-mile stretch of Sombrero Beach promises convenient access to its aquatic wonders. Renowned for its safety, Sombrero Beach is one of the most secure spots for snorkeling adventures in the Florida Keys, offering a memorable experience for all who venture beneath its azure waves.
Sombrero Reef
Renowned as one of the premier snorkeling destinations in the Florida Keys, Sombrero Reef encompasses 30 acres of vibrant coral formations and bustling marine life, reaching depths of up to 30 feet in certain sections. This underwater marvel is characterized by its distinctive “spur and groove system,” featuring expansive coral ridges interspersed with deep canyons, sandy beds, and winding channels, offering a captivating landscape for exploration.
Embarking on a snorkeling excursion to Sombrero Reef provides an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in this underwater paradise. Guided tours typically include top-quality snorkeling gear, comfortable transportation aboard a covered catamaran, and refreshing freshwater showers for post-snorkeling relaxation. As you glide through the crystal-clear waters, don’t forget to admire the iconic 142-foot lighthouse, which stands as a sentinel over the reef, offering a picturesque backdrop to your aquatic adventure.
In adherence to conservation principles, it’s essential to respect the protected status of Sombrero Reef by refraining from touching or disturbing the delicate coral ecosystems. By embracing responsible snorkeling practices, visitors can contribute to the preservation of this natural treasure for future generations to enjoy.
Sombrero Reef
Renowned as one of the premier snorkeling destinations in the Florida Keys, Sombrero Reef encompasses 30 acres of vibrant coral formations and bustling marine life, reaching depths of up to 30 feet in certain sections. This underwater marvel is characterized by its distinctive “spur and groove system,” featuring expansive coral ridges interspersed with deep canyons, sandy beds, and winding channels, offering a captivating landscape for exploration.
Embarking on a snorkeling excursion to Sombrero Reef provides an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in this underwater paradise. Guided tours typically include top-quality snorkeling gear, comfortable transportation aboard a covered catamaran, and refreshing freshwater showers for post-snorkeling relaxation. As you glide through the crystal-clear waters, don’t forget to admire the iconic 142-foot lighthouse, which stands as a sentinel over the reef, offering a picturesque backdrop to your aquatic adventure.
In adherence to conservation principles, it’s essential to respect the protected status of Sombrero Reef by refraining from touching or disturbing the delicate coral ecosystems. By embracing responsible snorkeling practices, visitors can contribute to the preservation of this natural treasure for future generations to enjoy.
Bahia Honda State Park
Nestled along the picturesque Overseas Highway in Big Pine Key, Bahia Honda State Park offers an unparalleled snorkeling experience just steps from its pristine beaches. Delve into the crystal-clear waters, where depths of as little as five feet reveal a vibrant underwater world teeming with life. Whether you bring your own snorkeling gear or rent it at the park, immerse yourself in an adventure unlike any other.
Embark on a journey through the marine wonderland of Bahia Honda State Park, where encounters with mesmerizing wildlife await at every turn. Marvel at the graceful dance of lobsters, the scuttling of curious crabs, and the ethereal beauty of starfish. Lose yourself in the enchanting vistas of sprawling seagrass beds and dramatic rocky formations, each a testament to the park’s breathtaking natural splendor.
Coffins Patch
Named for its distinct features, Coffins Patch comprises approximately six patches of reef. Visitors can explore one or multiple areas while snorkeling. Though certain sections are better suited for divers, there’s an abundance of marine life for snorkelers to enjoy throughout. At depths of 15-20 feet, the Donut presents itself as a circular rock mound adorned with sponges, diverse fish species, and an array of coral formations, including grouper, hogfish, sea fans, and sea rods. Lucky observers may even catch a glimpse of hawksbill turtles gracefully navigating the coral structures.
In the shallower waters of the Stake, an even greater variety of marine life thrives: from moray eels and parrotfish to blue tangs and nurse sharks, accompanied by patches of pillar coral—renowned as some of the world’s finest. Among the notable sights is the area’s namesake: an iron pole protruding from the oval-shaped coral.
Delta Shoals
Delta Shoals, with its shallow waters and distinctive formations, is a coveted destination for snorkelers and ranks among the finest spots for shore-based exploration. Spanning depths from six to 25 feet, this aquatic gem lies just a mile to the east of Sombrero Reef.
For those with a penchant for maritime history, the allure of shipwrecks beckons. While the depths may challenge casual snorkelers, divers can revel in the remnants of the enigmatic 130-foot North America Shipwreck, its debris scattered at a depth of 14 feet. Alternatively, the Ivy Wreck, speculated to be a former slave schooner, offers a trove of historical artifacts at a reachable depth of 15 feet, including coins, cannon balls, silver bars, and an imposing anchor.
Amidst the throngs drawn to Sombrero Reef, Delta Shoals presents a quieter alternative, promising serene exploration amidst its pristine waters. Novice snorkelers will find the conditions more amenable yet no less enchanting, with a wealth of natural wonders to discover. These aforementioned sites merely scratch the surface of the snorkeling delights waiting to be uncovered in and around Marathon. Throughout the Florida Keys, a plethora of other locations await, each boasting its own unique blend of depths, marine life, coral formations, and maritime history.
Plan Your Visit
Plan your dream getaway to Marathon, Florida, and make it a reality by booking your stay at the enchanting Coconut Cay Resort! Our Marathon accommodations are the perfect home base for all of your vacation adventures. View all of our rooms and book your stay today!
Where to Stay
From among the several Marathon Florida hotels and resorts to choose from, Coconut Cay stands out in the heart of Marathon. The resort offers king and queen rooms sleeping up to four guests and featuring, depending on which unit you select, full kitchens or mini-fridges, flat-screen TVs, furnished patios, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Choose from pool or canal view rooms. Some rooms are even pet-friendly!
The resort includes a marina with boat slips plus onsite kayaks, paddleboards, and fishing poles, a pool with lounge chairs, charcoal grills, and convenient onsite parking. Being in the middle of the city also means you’re close to many main attractions such as Marathon, FL, restaurants, shops, and galleries. The resort is just minutes from many snorkeling sites, such as Sombrero Beach and Bahia Honda State Park.
