There are kayaks with closed decks, sit-on-top kayaks and inflatable kayaks. Combine that with a snorkel, mask and rubber fins while swimming through the turquoise waters of Key West and you have a vacation where you can explore coral reefs and colorful salt sea fish and paddle around and between mangrove trees. There are a number of tours you can take, including some focused on families with small children. Swimming and paddling are both excellent ways to build and stretch your muscles while burning calories.
Sand Key Lighthouse Reef
At Sand Key, you'll find 10 miles of coral reefs and one of the primary destinations for snorkeling around Key West. There's also an iron lighthouse to visit. View marine life such as snapper, tarpon, redfish, bonefish and boxfish as they swim by. On some tours, snorkeling locations on the reef are chosen on the day of your trip depending on weather conditions and the tides to ensure you have the safest and best snorkeling trip possible.
Ten-Fathom Ledge
Found a mile southwest of Western Sambo, in the Lower Keys, there are caves and coral ledges where you can view an abundance of marine life. The ledge is located in 35 to 50 feet of water. The ocean side depths range from 50 to 115 feet. It's a great place to kayak, snorkel and explore. The flow of the Gulf Stream keeps the area waters clear for good visibility. A common sight are grouper, lobster, eagle rays and sharks.
Kedge Ledge
Kedge Ledge is located 4-1/2 miles west-southwest of Sand Key. Only a few dive boats go this way because there are no markers that designate where the area begins and ends except for three coral encrusted schooner anchors of unknown origin. Its 30-foot depth and 15-foot ledge runs east to west, making it easy to navigate with a kayak. While you're snorkeling, search for the remains of the sunken anchors.
Looe Key Reef Marine Sanctuary
Located 30 miles offshore from Big Pine Key, Looe Key Reef is a large "groove and spur" reef. The remains of the H.M.S. Looe, sunk in the area in 1744, still lies on the ocean floor. You'll find majestic slopes, ledges and thousands of years of coral growth. A cave is located 12 feet below the surface. In the northeast quadrant, look for Elkhorn coral. In the south, look for a massive star coral on a pedestal. Near buoy 39, you can find a coral reef nursery and green conch.
Mangrove Islands
As its name implies, Mangrove Islands are home to mangroves, the only trees that can grow in salt water. There are tours that will guide you through the islands, explaining biological and historical facts. The guides help beginners learn how to properly maneuver a kayak. Mangrove Islands have a unique ecosystem that you can enjoy exploring with both your kayak and beneath the water. Common wildlife include an array of birds, rays and fish.
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