Sombrero Reef

Sombrero Reef

Marathon Key, Florida, is part of the diving center world known as The Florida Keys with exciting dive sites such as…

Marathon Scuba Diving – Sombrero Reef

If you go to Marathon Key, Florida, then Sombrero Reef is a must dive.

This large and beautiful reef system is located less than 3 miles from the north end of the seven mile bridge that links Marathon and Key West, and easily identified by the 142ft lighthouse.

The lighthouse has some moray eels guarding the base of the lighthouse and reef from intruders!

Marathon Key, Florida, dive centers love this popular reef system which is ideal for novices and snorkelers alike.

The uneven sandy bed provides a home to coral growths of elkhorn, staghorn, brain, finger, and lettuce corals together with some lovely seafans, sponges and soft corals to give stunning views from the moment you enter the water.

One of the highlights of any dive here is the famous ‘Arch’ formed from coral limestone.

This healthy reef is alive with a vast array of marine life such as gobies, hogfish grouper, barracuda, jewfish, and is a mass of color, and this beautiful dive is one not to be missed.

Marathon Scuba Videos

One of the attractions of Florida Key scuba diving is that you will be able to take underwater photographs or underwater videos such as the one below. With excellent light and clear waters you will be able to get some excellent shots.

This video was taken at Sombrero Reef and it gives you an idea of what to expect diving off the Florida coast … look at my cousin swim! (Press the button second right on the bottom of the video player to see it in full screen)…

Terence’s Log

Sombrero Reef
Depth: 2-11m (6-35ft)
Visibility: 9-39m (30-130ft)
Plenty of fish
Novice
Reef Diving
Snorkeling: Yes

Definitely a highlight of Marathon Key, Florida. One of the most colorful reefs I have dived, and, some stunning deeper areas on the ocean side of the lighthouse.

Some gorgeous coral formations covered with a vast array of colorful fish.

Watching the gobies and other small fish dive back and forth from the cover of the coral to cleaning some of the larger fish was amazing.