John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

The land-based portion of this vast park is pleasant, encompassing hammock trails and beachy areas, but the main attractions are underwater. This is the most accessible portion of the coral reef that runs the length of the Keys. No array of pictures or brochure flim-flam can prepare you for the beauty of the reef, which can be seen from the comfort of a glass-bottomed boat. Garish fish and exotic sea creatures glide around, and can be viewed up close by snorkeling or diving (tours also available, along with equipment rental). The much-photographed Christ of the Abyss statue is within the boundaries of the park, submerged in 25ft of water six miles east-north-east of Key Largo’s South Cut.