John Pennekamp State Park

Type:

Scuba DivingSnorkeling

Entry:🏖️Shore Entry

Difficulty:Beginner

Tags:

Reef

About This Dive Spot

A protected Florida state park site with shallow, clear water and abundant reef life just offshore. It is described as an easy spot well-suited to beginner divers and also to snorkelers. The area is associated with the Boy Scouts of America SeaBase camp program.

Planning details

Reported depth and seasonality.

Depth note

Shallow, clear water just offshore.

Typical conditions

Shallow, clear water.

Safety & access

Hazards, restrictions, and required precautions.

Hazards

Restricted access

Access restrictions

Part of the Florida State Park system and has protected status.

Local intel

Community notes to help plan your visit.

Tailored notes for different activities.

Scuba

Good option for beginner divers in shallow, clear water.

Snorkel

Also described as a good site for snorkelers due to shallow, clear water.

Dive Spot Log Averages

Average conditions based on logged dives & visits

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Dive Conditions Planner

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Spots Near John Pennekamp State Park

📍 4.2 km

Mike’s Wreck (Hannah M. Bell)

Not Set

This site is the wreck of the Hannah M. Bell, long known locally as Mike’s Wreck, and is one of several wrecks in the Elbow Reef area. It’s a shallow wreck dive with depth varying across the site. It’s described as well-suited to reef divers and newer divers, offering a relaxed dive with frequent small reef fish and occasional larger visitors.

📍 5.0 km

North Dry Rocks / Minnow Caves

⚓

North Dry Rocks, also known as Minnow Caves, is a reef system of coral heads located north of Key Largo Dry Rocks. The site is shallow, reaching a maximum depth of about 10 m. It is described as suitable for divers of all skill levels and snorkelers, with large numbers of angelfish and other tropical fish and typically little to no current.

📍 6.3 km

Christ Statue / Christ Of The Abyss

⚓

Christ of the Abyss is an underwater bronze statue off Key Largo, set on the seabed at about 7 m depth. Installed in 1965, it depicts a figure with arms raised toward the surface and is a well-known stop for divers. Access to the site is by boat.

📍 6.4 km

Grecian Rocks

Not Set

Grecian Rocks is a sanctuary-protected reef where, at low tide, parts of the reef can break the surface. The main diving side is shallow, with a maximum depth around 30 ft. The inner area is sheltered by the reef and stays around 15 ft, making it suitable for snorkeling. The reef is described as having abundant marine life and a variety of corals, with loggerhead turtles seen year-round and eagle rays more common in summer.

📍 6.8 km

Banana Patch Reef

Not Set

Banana Patch Reef sits at the southern end of the Grecian Rocks area and features a long, sloping ledge that curves outward, giving the site its name. The ledge starts shallow and gradually drops into deeper water. The reef is described as having healthy hard and soft corals with bright coloration. Remnants from the filming of "Thunderball" are present underwater, including some remaining scaffolding and structures.

📍 8.6 km

The Elbow

⚓

The Elbow offers coral reefs with diverse formations and sea sponges, along with shipwrecks. The maximum depth is 18 meters (60 feet) with mild to medium currents. This site is accessible for divers of all levels and water temperatures range from 21° C (70° F) in winter to 29° C (85° F) in summer.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best entry point at John Pennekamp State Park?

Entry at John Pennekamp State Park is detailed in the spot description above. Look for specific landmarks, access paths, and any tide or condition requirements. Local divers often share updated entry tips in their dive logs.

What conditions are best for diving John Pennekamp State Park?

Optimal conditions at John Pennekamp State Park depend on several factors including tide, wind, and season. Check recent dive logs for current condition reports and patterns. Generally, calmer seas and high tide provide better visibility and easier entry.

What is the maximum depth and typical visibility at John Pennekamp State Park?

Depth and visibility information for John Pennekamp State Park can be found in the spot details and recent dive logs. Conditions can vary significantly based on weather, tide, and season. Always plan your dive according to current conditions and your certification level.

Are there any safety considerations or local etiquette at John Pennekamp State Park?

When diving John Pennekamp State Park, respect local regulations, marine life, and other water users. Be aware of any specific hazards like currents or boat traffic mentioned in the spot description. Follow Leave No Trace principles and local diving etiquette.