www.floridakeys.noaa.gov · Official
Sanctuary protection context.
Dive Spot Guide•
Alligator Reef
Classic shallow Key Largo reef under the Alligator Reef lighthouse.
ScubaSnorkelBoat EntryBeginner
ReefWreck
Usually visited by boat in clear Upper Keys weather, Alligator Reef suits easy recreational dives and snorkel-capable conditions when current and chop remain moderate.
About Alligator Reef
Alligator Reef is one of Key Largo's classic shallow reef stops, mixing easy coral structure, broad light penetration, and the recognizable offshore lighthouse that helps define the site above water. The dive is approachable for newer divers and snorkel-capable conditions, but still rewarding because healthy reef growth and common Keys fish life spread across a wide, easy-to-read layout.
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Research Estimate At Alligator Reef
Conservative baseline from public research. No community dives logged yet.
VisibilityVisibility: 15m
AccessModerate entry effort
Coral HealthHealthy coral
Marine LifeGreat variety
FacilitiesLimited facilities
CrowdedQuite busy
Current StrengthLight current
Surge StrengthLight surge
Where Is Alligator Reef?
This spotNearby spots
Community sourced coordinates.
Alligator Reef Planning Details
Depth range, seasonality, and planning context.
Reported Depth
6.1m - 12.2m
Depth Note
Depth reported as 20–40 ft.
Best Season
Good year-round in the Upper Keys, with the easiest conditions arriving in calm, clear-weather windows.
Typical Conditions
Expect shallow to mid-depth reef, ordinary Keys blue water, and a more forgiving recreational profile than the deeper outer Alligator sections.
Safety & Access At Alligator Reef
Hazards, restrictions, and access requirements.
Key Hazards
Waves
Safety Notes
The site is straightforward in calm conditions, but open-water chop, boat traffic, and current still matter because the reef lies offshore under the lighthouse.
Access Restrictions
Alligator Reef is normally reached by charter or private boat rather than by shore.
Legal Notes
Protected sanctuary rules apply around the reef. Avoid touching coral or wildlife and follow all current Florida Keys regulations.
Local Intel For Alligator Reef
Community notes to help plan your visit.
Scuba
Scuba diving depths are reported around 20–40 ft.
Freedive
Freedivers can work the shallow reef from a support boat on calm days.
Snorkel
Snorkel conditions can be good when seas are settled because much of the reef sits in bright, shallow water.
Alligator Reef Dive Conditions Planner
Use the planner to scan this week, inspect today in local time, and understand how exposure shapes conditions at Alligator Reef.
Current Snapshot
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🌥️Variable
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Surface / Entry
Wind No data · Tide No data
Sea State
Swell No data · Period unavailable
Visibility Outlook
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Exposure Profile at Alligator Reef
Directional shelter context for incoming swell.
Exposure Note
Hourly forecast data is not available yet.
Wildlife at Alligator Reef
Species commonly reported at this site, with direct links into their wildlife guides.
Recent Logged Visits At Alligator Reef
Community dive logs and visit reports for this site.
No Dive Logs Yet
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Dive Spot Log Averages At Alligator Reef
Average conditions based on logged dives & visits.
Conditions
Avg. Visibility15m
Activity
No dive activity logged yet.
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Alligator Reef Guide - Frequently Asked Questions
Planning answers for access, conditions, timing, and site logistics.
Alligator Reef Guide - Sources and Updates
Last Updated
Research Sources
www.keylargoscuba.com · Operator
Key Largo access and ordinary reef conditions.
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