One of the most well-known places for Florida Keys snorkeling and scuba diving in the Marathon, Florida region is Sombrero Reef, which has been declared an SPA area. The 142′ lighthouse, which is situated in the SPA region’s northernmost sector, is the source of the area’s name. This substantial reef serves as a nice illustration of the typical spur and groove coral reef development. Additionally, it boasts a location that is a great favorite for anybody snorkeling or scuba diving in the Florida Keys.
The arch is a large limestone structure covered with a profusion of vibrant sea sponges, stony and gorgonian coral, plus snapper, grunt, and neon gobies. Without a doubt, you’ll want to take a picture of the barracudas protecting the arch. Additionally, don’t overlook the little gobies that are eliminating parasites from the bigger Florida fish at their cleaning stations. The moray eels that are peering out at you from under the lighthouse should also be captured on camera.
You may find that this is one of the most picturesque snorkeling locations in the Florida Keys. The location may be somewhat busy due to all the traffic, which is a drawback. It makes sense why it’s so well-liked given its accessibility, excellent visibility, and diverse range of diving elements. But don’t let the congestion stop you from going. If you did, you would be losing out on a fantastic snorkeling or learning dive experience in the Florida Keys. If you want to learn more, you can follow this guide on Sombrero reef snorkeling.
Just remember to bring your diving or snorkeling gear. Bring what you have or rent from the charter company you go out with if you don’t.
What can you find in Sombrero reef s?
It’s so cliché that people go to Key Largo or Key West for snorkeling and diving excursions, but those “in the know” claim that the Middle Keys’ turquoise waters hold the real activity. More specifically, Sombrero Beach on the south side of Marathon is said to provide the greatest snorkeling in the Florida Keys. Due to its proximity to the seaside, this site is renowned as one of the greatest spots to see the sun’s uninterrupted descent into the Atlantic Ocean at the conclusion of a rejuvenating beach day.
Sombrero Beach is a two-mile-long public beach that is safe, enjoyable, and open to exploration for anyone. No of your level of skill, Sombrero Beach’s palm tree-lined, white sand coastlines invite you to explore the world of snorkeling. The shallow water makes for an ideal training place for beginning snorkelers, while the deeper waters are just a short distance away for experienced snorkelers looking for novel challenges. It is not surprising that this is a well-liked option for both local and out-of-town families to snorkel from the beach since the surrounding sea grass beds, sand flats, and rock shelf provide safe shore snorkeling options teeming with starfish and underwater invertebrates.
Sombrero Reef, the third-biggest barrier reef in the world and the largest reef in the Middle Keys, lies just eight miles offshore. Thousands of tropical fish, vivid corals, sponges, and other marine life thrive in this stunning 30 acre coral reef diving site, which has depths of 2 to 30 feet. There are a variety of minor canyons and sea cave arches to explore at the location. Sombrero Reef, where the Sombrero Lighthouse is located, has a spur-and-groove structure just on the edge of the barrier reef, making it may be the greatest snorkeling location in the Keys. The highest of Florida’s six reef lights, the offshore iron lighthouse, which was decommissioned in 2015, has a focal plane of 142 feet.
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Wildlife in the region
The variety of marine animals that live in the seas of Sombrero Beach is unmatched in terms of diversity! The reef region is also home to a variety of fish species, including Hogfish, Wrasse, Parrotfish, Angelfish, Scorpionfish, Stoplight, Damselfish, Snapper, Barracuda, Blue Tang, and numerous more. Fishing and lobstering are absolutely forbidden since the reef is a controlled Sanctuary Preservation Area. Sombrero Beach serves as a loggerhead sea turtle breeding place from April to October. While March through September are the best months for snorkeling, we politely ask that you respect the protected portions of the beach that are closed to visitors during the nesting season.
Facilities And Rules On-Site for Sombrero reef snorkeling
Kayaking is another popular pastime to take into consideration when it’s time to catch your breath. There are several useful facilities available on the beach at Sombrero Beach for your shore time. While the kids play on the playground or volleyball court, you may have a lunch break in the shaded picnic area with barbeque pits. There are also contemporary showers, bathrooms, and changing areas on-site for general use. At the top of the beach, there is a large, level parking area that is completely free, as well as wheelchair access. Leashed dogs are allowed to participate in the family activities. At the end of Sombrero Beach Road, which begins at Mile Marker 50 off the Overseas Highway, is where Sombrero Beach may be located. The park is open every day from 7:30 AM until sunset.
What You Should Know About Sombrero Beach’s Rules and Facilities
Kayaking is an additional amenity available at Sombrero Beach in the Florida Keys. When spending time on the coast in the region, visitors will discover a number of facilities. Kids may play on the playground or volleyball court. At the picnic pavilion, there are grills available for them to use for lunch. On the beach, there are also restrooms, modern changing rooms, and showers that are open to everybody. Additionally, there is free parking and disability accessibility on-site.
Sombrero reef snorkeling is safe
The Florida Keys are the ideal location for snorkeling enthusiasts because to their abundance of sea turtles, tropical fish, stingrays, crystal blue seas, and hard and soft corals. After all, the third-largest coral barrier reef in the world is found in this area. The Florida Keys are home to some of the most breathtaking and top-notch snorkeling locations in the world, from John Penkyamp Coral Reef State Park and Molasses Reef in the Upper Keys to the breathtaking Looe Key and Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park in the Lower Keys.
This does not exclude the possibility of seeing dolphins, sea turtles, or spotted eagle rays at the Alligator Reef in the Middle Keys, which is a popular snorkeling site. Nothing, however, compares to the true action that takes place underwater in the Middle Keys at Sombrero Beach on the south side of Marathon. The most thrilling dive and snorkeling adventures may be seen here.
The lovely public Sombrero Beach, with its recognizable palm palms and smooth, white sands surrounding the magnificent coastlines, can be found two kilometers off the Overseas Highway. Anyone may go snorkeling at Sombrero Beach, regardless of age or degree of expertise. For instance, novice snorkelers may practice at Sombrero Beach’s shallow waters, while more ardent and seasoned experts can go to the deeper waters and take on brand-new difficulties.
Final words
Now you know how to get the most out of Sombrero reef snorkeling. People may continue their snorkeling excursions after making the most of Sombrero Beach in the Middle Keys by traveling to Big Pine Key or Islamorada in the south or north, respectively. Curry Hammock State Park, which located nearby Marathon, is a great place to explore the outdoors.
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