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Snorkeling with Sea Turtles in the Florida Keys The Florida Keys offer a unique opportunity to snorkel or dive with sea turtles in their natural habitat.

Snorkeling with Sea Turtles in the Florida Keys

The Florida Keys offer a unique opportunity to snorkel or dive with sea turtles in their natural habitat. Located in the southeastern United States, the Keys are a 120-mile-long archipelago of coral cays and islands that stretch from Key Largo to Key West. This subtropical paradise is home to a diverse array of marine life, including sea turtles, which can be found swimming alongside snorkelers and divers in the crystal-clear waters.

Key Facts

  • The Florida Keys are home to six species of sea turtles, including the green sea turtle, loggerhead sea turtle, and hawksbill sea turtle.
  • Sea turtles can live up to 80 years in the wild and can weigh up to 900 pounds.
  • The best time to spot sea turtles in the Florida Keys is during the summer months when the water temperature is warmest.

Practical Tips

  • Get certified: Before snorkeling or diving with sea turtles, make sure you are certified in scuba diving or snorkeling.
  • Choose the right location: Some popular spots for snorkeling and diving with sea turtles in the Florida Keys include John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Dry Tortugas National Park, and the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.
  • Respect the wildlife: Never touch or feed sea turtles in the wild, as this can harm them and disrupt their natural behavior.

What to Expect

  • When snorkeling or diving with sea turtles, you can expect to see these magnificent creatures swimming alongside you in the water.
  • Sea turtles can be quite curious and may even approach you to investigate your presence.
  • Be sure to bring a waterproof camera to capture photos and videos of your encounter with these amazing animals.
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Best Times to Visit

The best time to visit the Florida Keys to snorkel or dive with sea turtles is during the summer months (June to August) when the water temperature is warmest and the sea turtles are most active.

Practical Info

  • Hours: The hours for snorkeling and diving in the Florida Keys vary depending on the location and the time of year.
  • Fees: There may be fees for snorkeling and diving in the Florida Keys, which can range from $20 to $100 per person.
  • Location: The Florida Keys are located in the southeastern United States, and the best way to get there is by flying into Key West International Airport (EYW) or by driving on the Overseas Highway (US-1).

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