North Dry Rocks / Minnow Caves

Type:

Scuba DivingSnorkeling

Entry:⚓Boat Entry

Difficulty:Beginner

Tags:

Reef

About This Dive Spot

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.

Planning details

Reported depth and seasonality.

Reported depth

Up to 10m

Depth note

Maximum depth reported as 10 m (32 ft).

Typical conditions

Typically little to no current.

Local intel

Community notes to help plan your visit.

Tailored notes for different activities.

Scuba

Shallow profile (to ~10 m) described as suitable for divers of all skill levels.

Snorkel

Shallow depth and reef structure are described as suitable for snorkelers.

Dive Spot Log Averages

Average conditions based on logged dives & visits

No community dive data has been logged here yet. Be the first to record a dive and seed the averages.

Dive Conditions Planner

Current snapshot, today hourly conditions, and seven-day planning data.

Current snapshot

Right now

--🌥️Variable

Weekly trends

Marine rhythm

Surface outlook

Unlock the full potential of DiveJourney.

Recent Logged Visits

No Dive Logs Yet

Be the first to log a dive at this spot and share your experience!

Spots Near North Dry Rocks / Minnow Caves

📍 1.4 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.

📍 2.8 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.

📍 2.8 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.

📍 3.6 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.

📍 4.7 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.

📍 5.0 km

John Pennekamp State Park

🏖️

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.

Loading nearby spots...

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best entry point at North Dry Rocks / Minnow Caves?

Entry at North Dry Rocks / Minnow Caves 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 North Dry Rocks / Minnow Caves?

Optimal conditions at North Dry Rocks / Minnow Caves 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 North Dry Rocks / Minnow Caves?

Depth and visibility information for North Dry Rocks / Minnow Caves 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 North Dry Rocks / Minnow Caves?

When diving North Dry Rocks / Minnow Caves, 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.