Looe Key Snorkeling
Are you looking for the BEST snorkeling in Looe Key Reef and Big Pine? You’ve found the right place.
Looe Key Snorkeling
One of the Best Reefs in the Keys!
The Florida Keys are known for their amazing reefs, and Looe Key Reef is right in the heart of it all. Looe Key in Big Pine FL is home to some awesome reefs, full of some of the most amazing aquatic life in the world. Snorkeling in Looe Key and Big Pine FL is a once in a life time experience you don’t want to miss.
Amazing Reefs
We can’t say enough about the beauty of Looe Key’s reefs. The community does so much to keep the reefs healthy and thriving and it shows!
Top Rated Charters
Strikezone Charters & Captain Hook’s comes HIGHLY rated for it’s snorkeling charters in Big Pine FL. It’s our job to give you a great experience, and our customers are always happy.
Safe and Fun
Looe Key snorkeling is fun for all ages. Part of that fun is knowing you’re safe. We pride ourselves on doing things the right way so our customers have fun and stay safe.
What You’ll See Snorkeling Looe Key Reef
Looe Key Reef is one of the most alive places in the Florida Keys. The reef is home to more than 150 species of fish and over 50 kinds of coral, so there is always something new to see. On a typical trip our snorkelers spot:
- Parrotfish, angelfish, butterflyfish and other bright reef fish
- Yellowtail snapper, grunts, jacks and the occasional barracuda
- Sea turtles gliding over the coral
- Nurse sharks and southern stingrays resting on the bottom
- Goliath grouper, eagle rays and, if you are lucky, dolphins
The coral itself is the star, from towering star and brain coral to sea fans waving in the current. It is one of the healthiest reef systems left in the Keys, and every trip looks a little different.
About Looe Key Reef & the National Marine Sanctuary
Looe Key sits about seven miles offshore from Big Pine Key, inside the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. It is a protected Sanctuary Preservation Area, which means the reef gets the care it needs to stay healthy, and it shows the moment you put your face in the water.
Water depths run from roughly 7 feet at the top of the reef down to about 30 feet at the sand line, so there is plenty to see whether you are a first timer floating on the surface or a stronger swimmer who wants to explore deeper. The reef was named after the HMS Looe, a British warship that wrecked here in 1744.
Because it is only reachable by boat, the reef stays uncrowded and pristine. That is exactly why we run our trips out of Big Pine Key, the closest and easiest launch point to one of the best reefs in North America.
Big Pine FL Snorkeling Trips
We provide the gear. We provide the best spots. All you need to do is book! We offer snorkeling trips in Looe Key twice every day. Click the button below to book your trip.
Why Our Customers Love Our Snorkeling
Captain Hook’s Marina and Dive Center earned another Certificate of Excellence in 2024 for our Big Pine and Looe Key services. We work hard to provide the highest level of service possible, and we owe a great deal of thanks to our customers who make everything possible for us. As one of the best dive shops in Big Pine, we’re proud to offer scuba diving & snorkeling trips twice per day and a variety of other services.
Where to Snorkel in Big Pine Key
Looking for epic snorkel adventures in Big Pine Key? Captain Hook’s Marina and Dive Center has what you need. Our Big Pine location runs daily trips to Looe Key, a top spot to explore stunning reefs and unique marine life. It’s easy access right in the heart of the Florida Keys. You won’t want to miss it. Dive in, discover and make memories!
29675 Overseas Hwy,
Big Pine Key, FL 33043
P: (305) 872-9863
E: Email Us
More About Our Big Pine Snorkel Trips
Which Locations Will We Go To?
Our snorkel trips go to a number of different locations in Looe Key. We even have a few of our own “secret” locations that our captains have found over the years.
The weather often dictates exactly which reef we will go see on any given day.
Is Snorkeling in Looe Key Safe?
Of course! You’ll be accompanied on the trip by one of our captains and a mate. Both are certified in CPR should anything happen.
As for sea creatures, you’ll see all sorts of different, beautiful ocean life!
What will I see at Looe Key Reef?
Looe Key Reef is home to more than 150 species of fish and over 50 kinds of coral. Snorkelers regularly see parrotfish, angelfish, yellowtail snapper and barracuda, plus sea turtles, nurse sharks, stingrays and the occasional eagle ray or dolphin. No two trips look exactly the same.
How deep is the water at Looe Key?
Depths range from about 7 feet at the top of the reef to roughly 30 feet at the sand line. That makes it comfortable for beginners floating on the surface and interesting for stronger swimmers who want to explore a little deeper.
What time are the Snorkel trips?
Snorkel and dive trips depart every day at 8:30AM and 1:00PM.
Do I need any snorkel gear?
Captain Hook’s will provide everything you need!
Where is Looe Key Reef located?
Looe Key is about seven miles offshore from Big Pine Key, inside the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. It is only reachable by boat, which is why our trips leave right from our Big Pine Key marina, the closest launch point to the reef.
How much does it cost to snorkel in Looe Key Reef?
Our Looe Key Reef snorkel trips are $54 with gear included.