SUN RAYS, SPORTS & SPLASHES

By Iona Brannon

The Florida Keys are a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities to enjoy in the crystal-clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean. From snorkeling and scuba diving to fishing and kayaking, there are adventures for everyone on a tropical getaway to the Keys.

One of the top water sports destinations in the Florida Keys is John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, located in Key Largo. This park is home to the Florida Keys Reef Tract, the only living coral barrier reef in North America and one of the largest coral barrier reefs in the world. For this reason alone, snorkeling and scuba diving are popular activities in the park. Visitors can join a snorkeling tour and rent equipment from the park, including kayaks and stand-up paddleboards to explore the park’s mangrove forests and shallow waters. pennekamppark.com

Known as the “Sportfishing Capital of the World,” one must-visit spot for water sports is the laid-back Islamorada. Fishing among the turquoise waters and lush vegetation make it a stunning experience, and Pelican Cove Resort offers a variety of fishing charters, including deepsea fishing and fly fishing. The on-site marina also allows guests to dock their own boats.

Pelican Cove offers complimentary fishing classes every Thursday and Saturday, where you can try your hand even if you’re a rookie. In addition to fishing, the resort also offers several other water sports activities, including scuba diving, jet-skiing and tarpon feeding. pelicancovehotel.com

Another destination to visit is Hawks Cay Resort. This luxury resort offers a variety of water activities for guests to enjoy, including snorkeling, scuba diving and fishing. Located on Duck Key, the resort is known for its worldclass diving and snorkeling. They offer a variety of excursions, including trips to the nearby coral reefs and shipwrecks.

Those craving an underwater adventure will want to try scuba diving at the nearby Christ of the Abyss statue, a popular dive site located off the coast of Key Largo. Guests can also explore the shallow waters of the resort’s private lagoon, home to various tropical fish and coral reefs. hawkscay.com

No matter which water sport sounds best to you, the Florida Keys is the perfect destination to enjoy it. The warm, crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life make it a paradise for water sports enthusiasts.