John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park - Key Largo, Florida

Address:Mile Marker 102.5 on U.S. 1
Key Largo, Florida
Tel: (305) 451-1202

John Pennekamp State Park was established in 1963, to protect and preserve the only living coral reef in the continental United States. Though the park encompasses sea-grass beds and mangrove swamps in addition to coral reef, the reef is certainly the main attraction here and the center of activities. The marine life below, such as corals, sponges and seahorses, can be viewed through glass-bottomed boats, on a 2.5-hour tour. Others may choose snorkeling or scuba diving instead, where you can come face to face with exotic tropical fish including parrotfish, wrasses, damselfish, and snappers. The park also offers power boats, canoes, and kayaks for those interested in viewing the rich natural beauty by boat. Fishing and swimming are permitted in designated areas and camping, with hot showers, is also available.

Established in 1963, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park was the first undersea park created in the United States. The park, combined with the adjacent Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, encompasses 178 nautical square miles of coral reefs, seagrass beds and mangrove swamps. These areas were established to protect and preserve the only living coral reef in the continental United States. Named for the late Miami newspaper editor John D. Pennekamp, who was also instrumental in preserving the land that would become the Everglades National Park, Coral Reef State Park now enjoys over a million visitors per year from around the world.