Sombrero Key Sanctuary Preservation Area (SPA) has a classic spur-and-groove reef formation. It is located four miles seaward of Boot Key and with depths inside the SPA boundaries under 30 feet, it is one of the most popular sites for snorkeling and diving in the Middle Keys.

Jul 17, 2022 · One of the most well-known places for Florida Keys snorkeling and scuba diving in the Marathon, Florida region is Sombrero Reef, which has been declared an SPA area. The 142′ lighthouse, which is situated in the SPA region’s northernmost …

Sombrero Reef is a designated SPA area and is one of the more popular scuba diving and Florida Keys snorkeling destinations in Marathon. The area’s name is derived from the 142’ lighthouse which is located in the northern section of the SPA region.

Sanctuary preservation areas (SPA) within Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary protect shallow reefs along the reef tract. SPAs encompass discrete, biologically important areas that help sustain critical marine species and habitats.

This is a spur-and-groove coral reef, sitting on the outer banks offshore of Vaca Key, characterized by large fingers of coral, separated by narrow sandbeds. Suggest edits to improve what we show. Explore different ways to experience this place.

Apr 7, 2017 · The Sanctuary Preservation Area (SPA) around the Sombrero Reef Light is a no-take, no-touch zone where everything in its boundary is protected. Sombrero Reef isn’t just a local tourist attraction in our backyard though, it is a part of …

Sombrero Reef is the largest coral reef in the Middle Keys, and part of the greater Florida Reef system. Located offshore of Vaca Key, Sombrero Reef is accessible by boat from Marathon, and is just five nautical miles south of Pigeon Key.

Sombrero Reef is one of the largest and surely the most magnificent coral reefs in the Middle Keys, home to some of the best spur and groove reef formations in all the Keys. The amount of coral is breath-taking.

Sombrero Key is one of the 18 SPAs within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, designated to protect coral reef ecosystems and prevent overfishing and habitat destruction. Anchoring is prohibited to protect the coral; mooring buoys are provided for boats.

Nov 3, 2024 · Sombrero Reef is designated as a Sanctuary Preservation Area (SPA), which prohibits fishing and lobstering to protect the ecosystem1 4. This protected status helps maintain biodiversity and provides a safe haven for various marine species 1 .