Kingdom Beneath the Sea -- Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

It's a place of shimmering water, of tropical breezes, of underwater fantasies. It's living rock, and animals that look like plants. It's a statute with its arms raised to they sky, yet still beneath the sea.

Welcome to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in the Florida Keys.

Kingdoms of the Sea

Pennekamp State Park is mostly under the waves, so the big draw is definitely on the watery side. Being the only living coral reef in the United States, Pennekamp is a mecca for divers from all over the world. And what a reef it is! It's a watery kingdom, with thrones of coral and guardian fish patrolling about.

Snorkel and Dive Tours

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park offers both snorkel and dive tours from its dive center. The main reef is about four miles offshore, so you are spirited away in a catamaran for your trip (the Spirit of Pennekamp).

Tours run around two hours of actual water time, and by all accounts they are very much worth it.

Glass Bottom Boats

If you aren't into getting wet but still want to see the reef, how about a glass-bottomed boat tour? You can relax in air-conditioned comfort and discover your own Atlantis.

What Else?

How about camping, fishing, swimming and canoing? All this and more can be found at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Come on and visit another world, just beneath the waves.

Bahia Honda State Park: A Slice of Paradise

Bahia Honda State Park has something very unusual for the Florida Keys.

It has a beach. And a really nice one too.

Although the Florida Keys are islands, natural beaches are very rare indeed. Why? Mainly because the waters surrounding the Keys are so calm, the sand doesn't get a chance to build up. Bahia Honda has the best beach in the Florida Keys, and possibly the best in Florida.

Things to Do and See

Swimming is a popular activity at Bahia Honda. The turquoise waters are warm, in the upper 70's to the 80's most of the year, and very clear. Although the beach faces out to the Atlantic Ocean, unless there is a storm out to sea, the waters are calm.

Along with swimming, snorkeling is a big draw to Bahia Honda. The same calm, clear waters that invite swimming are excellent for exploring the underwater world. And if you really want a treat, take a snorkeling tour from Bahia Honda out to Looe Key and visit the coral reef.

Kayaking and boating are also on the list of fun things at the park. There is a small marina and a boat ramp. If you have somehow misplaced your boat, you can rent a kayak from the park concession. The calm waters are great for exploring the nooks and crannies of the island, especially on the Gulf side.

Why Not Stay Awhile?

Let's not forget camping. From tents to RVs to renting one of their beach cabins, all kinds of camping are available. Here's a caveat: call ahead to reserve a camping spot or especially one of the cabins. As you might imagine, a beach cottage in paradise has a bit of a waiting list.

Bahia Honda State Park is located in the lower Florida Keys, just south and west of the Seven Mile Bridge. One visit and you'll understand why they call the Florida Keys the American Caribbean.

So come on down for a visit.

The weather is fine and the natives are friendly.

Sound Intriguing? Here's more information on Bahia Honda State Park.