Written by: Candice at CS Ginger
Explore the vibrant reefs and shipwrecks of Marathon, Florida!
The Sunshine State is not only one of the most popular vacation destinations in the US because of its beaches and temperatures, but it is also home to spectacular snorkeling locations.
All the way (almost) to the bottom, you find the Florida Keys like beads on a chain. In this Florida Keys snorkeling guide, I will share with you why Marathon Key is excellent for snorkeling enthusiasts!
I just did a road trip down the Florida Keys from Miami this summer to investigate!
Best Snorkeling Sites In Marathon Key
In Marathon, you have excellent versatile snorkeling sites, including shallow water snorkeling for beginners and more “exciting” destinations for you experts out there.
So, whether you travel solo, with family, friends, or with your partner, the waters outside Marathon are definitely worth a bit of your time and attention.
1. Vibrant Sombrero Reef
Marathon is considered part of the Middle Keys in the Florida Keys, and Sombrero Reef is the largest reef in this portion of the Florida Keys Reef Tract.
Sombrero Reef is roughly 4 miles out from the coast of Marathon, one of the relatively shallow reefs in the area, and you can travel there by private boat or on organized or private snorkeling trips.
Depths generally range from 2 feet to 30 feet deep, so it is super versatile and a wonderful place for snorkelers and divers of all ages and experience levels to explore the reef and its sealife inhabitants up close.
Some of the reefs’ beauty is often visible during low tide when they are submerged only under a few feet of water.
You will meet loads of colorful fish, probably sting rays, sea turtles, and so much more; you never know exactly what you’ll encounter at Sombrero Reef.
2. Versatile Coffins Patch
Coffins Patch is another super popular snorkeling destination in Marathon Key. It features six different reefs, each showcasing a different type of coral.
This is highly uncommon and makes Coffins Patch a unique place to snorkel.
Some of the coral you can expect to see on a visit to Coffins Patch include fairy tail pillar coral, star coral, and fire coral. You’ll also be lucky to spot butterfly fish, blue tangs, angelfish, and so much more.
Given the diversity of coral and sea life, this is a wonderful place to bring your best underwater camera for incredible footage, especially in the shallowest areas where you will have a lot of light.
Many newbie snorkelers will be happiest in the shallow stake area, easily identified by the steel pole that is visible from the surface. This stretch of reef ranges from 10-15 feet deep.
The Elbow and Sand Circle reefs here also have relatively shallow water at approximately 15 feet. Both are amazing spots for both corals and sea life, with countless colorful schools of fish and even lobsters.
The reef is about 40 feet deep through this stretch. Other highlights at Coffins Patch include the Three Bag Reef Wreck, which features the remains of a shipwreck that occurred in the mid-1800s.
On the flip side, the Outer Edge is the preferred portion of Coffins Patch for those looking to scuba dive instead.
3. Teeming Looe Key Reef
Looe Key Reef is commonly considered the very best place for snorkeling in Marathon. The depth here spans 7-30 feet, making it another great snorkel trip spot for snorkelers of all ages and skill levels.
The clarity at Looe Key Reef varies depending on which part of it you are snorkeling through.
The shallower depths often offer amazingly clear waters, allowing snorkelers to explore the reef and catch sight of nearly 150 different species of fish, including yellowtail, parrotfish, moray eel, and barracuda.
Sharks of different varieties are often spotted at Looe Key Reef as well. It’s a great place to visit for snorkelers interested in seeing larger aquatic life. So be prepared to see bigger marine life on this reef.
4. Shipwreck In Delta Shoal
Delta Shoal is a great place to visit for visitors interested in exploring shipwrecks.
Though the wreckage would be more easily explored by scuba diving, you can still get some interesting views while snorkeling.
The depth here ranges from 6 – 25 feet and features some of the most unique coral structures you’ll come across in the Florida Keys.
Several long, finger-like coral forms can be explored here, as well as numerous coral canyons, where snorkelers will likely find droves of fish hiding away.
Look out for grunts, spiny lobsters, and angelfish, as well as an array of interesting sponges.
Even though it’s a great snorkeling spot, Delta Shoal isn’t super popular. Given that it’s relatively close to the busy Sombrero Reef, it’s a great place to come to escape the crowds.
5. Ancient Ivory Shipwreck
The Ivory Shipwreck is not only a fascinating location for exploring and snorkeling in Marathon, Florida, but also a testament to history.
This slave ship sank in 1853 and rests at a depth of about 15 feet.
It’s a really interesting spot to visit and check out, but it is more readily enjoyed as a scuba dive rather than a snorkel session.
Lots of marine life can be spotted here, including bluehead, surgeonfish, and blue tang.
Best Places to Snorkel Marathon From the Shore
6. Bahia Honda State Park
Bahia Honda State Park is a must-visit spot when spending time in Marathon. It’s a gorgeous park above and below the surface.
There are a number of beaches to visit at this park, but Calusa Beach and Sand Spur Beach are the preferred locations for snorkeling. Keep in mind that snorkeling from the shore is very different from snorkeling in a reef environment.
The shore at Bahia Honda State Park would be a great first stop for those new to snorkeling when snorkeling in Marathon.
The water clarity is generally pretty good here, and snorkelers can easily spot colorful fish through the seagrass near the rock jetty at Calusa Beach.
7. Sombrero Beach
Sombrero Beach is a great place for visitors who aren’t quite ready for a journey out to Sombrero Reef.
The shore snorkeling here won’t offer the same experience that the reef does, as the sea life in the shore areas is much less plentiful.
It is one of the best clear-water beaches in Florida, and the beautiful white sand makes for the perfect spot to spend a beach day.
Beginner snorkelers will be able to see some coral and small fish just off the shore. The rock shelf is an excellent spot to explore, as some marine life lingers there.
8. Horseshoe Beach
Horseshoe Beach is a lagoon encircled by a rock jetty in the form of a horseshoe, hence the name. This isn’t your typical Florida beach, as this small area is fairly rocky and often muddy.
This beach is typically pretty quiet, so it’s a good place for snorkeling if you want to avoid the crowds.
Snorkelers can typically spot some small fish species, including tropical fish and jellyfish, as well as some corals. As for bigger sea life, you might spot manatees, rays, and barracuda.
9. Cannon Beach in Pennekamp State Park
Cannon Beach in Pennekamp State Park is another great place to snorkel off the shore for families or those who are just learning to snorkel.
This spot is great because it’s relatively shallow near the shore and still offers glimpses of some beautiful, colorful fish.
For those comfortable with swimming away from the shore a bit, there’s a cool shipwreck to explore just off this beach as well!
Best Snorkeling Tours In Marathon Key
Unless you know a destination well, I always recommend you consider one or a few organized tours, as there is so much to gain from going on adventures guided by a local or an expert!
So, if you want to make sure you get to the best snorkeling spots in Marathon, here are three top-rated tours that will make sure you don’t miss out or go to the “wrong” place!
Three-Hour Pontoon Tour Sombrero Reef
Marathon Key: 3-hour snorkeling adventure on a Pontoon at Sombrero Reef! A pontoon is a
This three-hour Snorkeling Adventure on a Pontoon at Sombrero Reef is a tour that will transport visitors from Marathon out to Sombrero Reef for an afternoon of snorkeling.
It’s a great opportunity to explore one of the world’s great reefs and see some amazing wildlife and coral in a guided atmosphere.
Captain Patrick and first mate Jessie were knowledgeable and extremely fun, we really enjoy both of them! We were amazed at all the sea life we were able to see! (Andrea, 2024)
Private Snorkeling Tour In Marathon
Although probably not ideal for solo travelers, if you travel with family or friends, heading out for the day on a private snorkeling tour might be the perfect option for a perfect day with your loved ones!
This private tour has dozens of top-rated reviews, and for this tour, you will be treated like a VIP while exploring the best snorkeling locations for the day!
Talk to the captain about where you want to go. Popular places like Sombrero Lighthouse or Coffins Patch are on the list, and this boat tour with the privacy of just you and your squad will definitely be a highlight on your trip to the Keys.
Hiram was a fantastic guide. He was on time, courteous and knowledgeable. We were taken out to the area called the lighthouse Where we went snorkeling . My sister and I had an amazing time! (Pascogirl, 2024)
Catamaran Snorkeling Tour With The Starfish
Starfish Snorkeling Tours will take you on a beautiful catamaran called The Starfish out to a wonderful day at Sombrero Reef.
Personally, I love catamaran trips! They are so beautiful and comfortable, and just hanging around on the net while the water slowly passes underneath is always a zen time, at least for me.
This is a super convenient option for travelers who don’t have their own snorkeling equipment, as masks and flippers are included in the tour.
These guided snorkeling tours are great opportunities to find the best and most beautiful coral reefs and all the different types of aquatic life on display right in front of you.
What to Expect on a Guided Snorkeling Tour
If you choose to join a guided snorkeling tour, you can expect to enjoy a super nice boat ride out to the reef destination of the day. If you don’t have a car, check whether the tour you choose offers pick-up.
The tour operator will generally provide all the snorkeling equipment you need, and maybe also refreshments for the day (check what is included!).
Once at the departure point on the places to snorkel, you will get a safety briefing and go through the rules of the day, as the tour guides will make sure you are safe and looked after while in the water.
Then, you can put on your snorkeling gear and have time to explore the reef and surrounding areas. Around Marathon, you can expect a teeming marine life around the reefs, and maybe also dolphins and sea turtles if you are lucky.
All you need to do is chill and enjoy, and at the end of the designated snorkeling time, you will be counted back on the boat and head back to Marathon.
Things to Bring On Your Snorkeling Tour
There are some essentials you should always bring along when planning a snorkeling excursion.
You’ll want to make sure you have all the needed equipment for snorkeling, as well as some personal items to make sure you stay as comfortable as possible.
If you’re planning on joining a snorkeling tour, be sure to check what the tour provides, as some of the needed items will be covered.
See the list below and load up your beach tote!
- Underwater Camera
- Motion Sickness Tablets
- Reef- Friendly Sunscreen
- Towel
- Swimming Suit
- Wet Suit
- Water Bottle
- Food and snacks
Eco-Friendly Snorkeling Tips
When you have the privilege to explore our planet, especially underwater, it is also part of the package deal to protect the environment and marine life on your journey.
So, if you can, choose designated eco-friendly reef tours when exploring the marine wildlife in the Florida Keys.
The list below might be self-explanatory to nature enthusiasts, but nevertheless, I encourage you to remember these acts of love towards the ocean when you visit, even through the really small things.
- Dont touch or extract corals or things you find snorkeling
- On that note, corals are sharp and have a lot of bacteria, so if you touch them and get a scratch, it may cause an infection!
- In addition to “leaving no trace” (no garbage in the ocean!), I want to encourage you to expand on that.
- If you bring a net with you, you are prepared to collect any floating debris or garbage you find while snorkeling. This is your chance to contribute and give back!
- Choose eco-friendly tours if possible. Look for companies that educate visitors on marine conservation and follow ethical guidelines.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen made with non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to protect both your skin and the marine ecosystem.
- If you are exploring on your own, make sure you research local guidelines and protective areas. Follow local regulations, avoid anchoring boats on reefs, and stay within designated areas to help preserve these vital ecosystems.
Best Time to Go Snorkeling in Marathon Florida
Snorkeling Year-Round in Marathon Florida.
Marathon is a really great place to go year-round for vacation, but it is probably best enjoyed in the spring.
This is because the spring season has super comfortable weather and not too much rain. Most of the “snowbird” seasonal residents will also have left town by then.
Also, if you visit anytime between April and October, you can bet on great snorkeling conditions.
If you plan on summer, you need to know two things: Marathon (and the Keys) are super popular, so you will not be visiting alone, and secondly, summers are hot! And humid!
Winter in Marathon is also a good choice; the weather and temperatures are super-friendly, and the visibility in the ocean this time of year is excellent. So there is not really any bad time to go!
Snorkeling In Marathon Florida In Winter
Winter is also an excellent time to visit Marathon, especially for snorkeling enthusiasts.
While much of the country is bundling up against the cold, the Sunshine State still has warm waters, sunny skies, and, not least, crystal-clear visibility, making it a prime snorkeling destination even in the cooler months.
One of the biggest advantages of winter snorkeling in Marathon is the calm water conditions that time of year.
As hurricane season ends in November, the winter months bring more stable weather, which means clearer water and minimal wave activity. This is perfect for interacting with the vibrant marine life that thrives around the Florida Keys reefs.
Water temperatures in Marathon in winter average between 70-75°F (21-24°C), which is still comfortable for snorkeling for most people.
If you’re sensitive to cooler water, consider bringing a lightweight wetsuit to stay warm while exploring the reefs.
Popular spots like Sombrero Reef and Looe Key Reef are still bustling with marine life during this season, and you can expect to see parrotfish, angelfish, and even the occasional sea turtle or shark!
With fewer tourists compared to the peak summer season, you can enjoy the underwater world without the crowds, making it an ideal time for solo travelers, families, and couples looking for a more intimate adventure.
Is Marathon Florida In Winter Worth It?
It certainly is!
Throughout the winter months, the water temperature is comfortable in Marathon and the Keys. The water conditions are very clear, which means that visibility will be really good!
December in Florida is actually also a good month to visit, as the holiday season ambiance trickles in and the dreaded hurricane season has ended.
Wait, Where Is Marathon Florida?
Located in the middle keys, Marathon is a 10-mile-long island, around one hour (and 50 miles) from Key West in South Florida and 47 miles from Key Largo in the other direction.
It is popular for all sorts of water activities, boating, snorkel tours, and sunset cruises to have a great time. It is also renowned for fishing, including deep-sea and reef fishing.
If you love snorkeling, kayaking, jet skiing, paddle boards, or even scuba diving, this is also your destination.
Best of all, the water surrounding Marathon is super clear and is home to the third-largest living coral barrier reef system close to the Caribbean Sea, making for some of the best snorkel locations in the world.
Marathon Florida Map
FAQ: Snorkeling in Marathon Florida
Is There Good Snorkeling in Marathon?
Yes! Marathon is an excellent place to visit if your travel plans include lots of different areas to snorkel.
There are several different spots near the city that showcase some of the most beautiful coral reefs in the world!
Can You Snorkel Off the Beach in Marathon, Florida?
Yes, you can snorkel off the beach in Marathon, Florida.
Some of the best snorkeling spots in Marathon Florida are Sombrero Beach and Bahia Honda State Park, where you find some of the best off-beach snorkeling in the Marathon area.
Where Is The Best Beach To Snorkel In Marathon?
Sombrero Beach is one of the best beaches in Marathon for snorkeling. Bahia Honda State Park is one of the best Florida Gulf Coast Beaches.
Can You Snorkel In Marathon Key?
Yes! Marathon Key may be most known for its various fishing opportunities, but it is also an amazing place to visit for snorkeling!
Plus, the keys offer some of the best weather year-round. The warmest beaches in Florida in December can be found here!
What Reefs Are Near Marathon Florida?
Sombrero Reef and Looe Key Reef are some of the best reefs to visit near Marathon.
The clarity of the water is amazing in these places, especially in winter, allowing visitors to enjoy the beautiful coral and dazzling variety of fish and other sea life!
Wrap-Up: Snorkeling in Marathon Florida
There’s so much wonder and beauty waiting to be explored in the depths surrounding Marathon, Florida, as a destination. This middle key is almost right in the middle of Key Largo and Key West.
- Heart of the Reef: Marathon, Florida, is right in the heart of the Florida Keys, home to dozens of incredible reefs. It’s like being in the epicenter of underwater beauty!
- World’s 3rd Largest Reef: The waters off the Florida Keys house the third-largest coral barrier reef in the world. Imagine being able to explore one of the most significant underwater ecosystems on the planet!
- Safe and Calm Waters: Marathon’s waters are known for being shallow and calm, making them safe for snorkelers of all levels. So, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, you can enjoy yourself without worry.
- Variety of Marine Life: From the beaches to the reefs, the variety of marine life you can observe is simply astounding. It’s not every day you get to swim with the fish, right?
- Sombrero Reef: This popular snorkeling spot in Marathon Key offers excellent underwater photo opportunities. With its 142′ lighthouse, it’s not just about what’s under the water but also what’s above it.
- Experienced Crews: When you go on a snorkeling tour in Marathon, you’ll be in the company of experienced and knowledgeable crews. They can guide you to the best spots and ensure your safety, allowing you to focus on the fun.
- Awesome Snorkeling Tours: Marathon offers snorkeling tours that take you to offshore reefs. These excursions are pleasurable due to the favorable weather conditions and the sheer beauty of the reefs.
Whether you take a tour out to the reef or enjoy the sea life from the shore, here’s to a great snorkeling adventure in the Sunshine State!
So, snorkeling in Marathon, Florida, is not just an activity. It’s an adventure, a marine learning experience, and a chance to witness the vibrant underwater world up close.
What’s your favorite snorkeling spot in Marathon? Let me know in the comments below if something is missing from this travel guide!
Related blog posts:
Snorkeling with Sharks in Florida: The Ultimate Adrenaline Experience
21 Best Beaches In Southwest Florida For Happy Summer Days
8 Spectacular Panama City Florida Snorkeling Sites By The Gulf Of Mexico
About Candice from Exploring The Gulf
Candice knows the value of traveling as a family. They love exploring the United States with their three daughters!
They have crafted Exploring the Gulf and CSGinger as supportive resources to encourage other parents and adventurers to jump into the world of travel.
