Sand Key Lighthouse
Explore vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life around the iconic Sand Key Lighthouse, a must-visit snorkeling and diving spot in Key West.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm seas, best visibility
Sand Key Lighthouse
Best Time
Calm seas, best visibility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life around the iconic Sand Key Lighthouse, a must-visit snorkeling and diving spot in Key West.
"Beautiful reef that we were able to snorkeling down by going through sunset water sports. Lots of variety in The reef."
🐠 Snorkel Gear Provided
Most boat tours include snorkel gear, but check when booking. Some offer complimentary drinks too!
🌊 Check Wave Conditions
Visibility can be affected by waves. Ask your charter about current conditions for the best experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vibrant Coral Reefs
Around Sand Key Lighthouse
Explore a diverse underwater world teeming with colorful fish and marine life. A must-see for snorkelers and divers!
Iconic Lighthouse Views
Sand Key Lighthouse
Marvel at the historic Sand Key Lighthouse, a picturesque landmark offering stunning views from the water.
Abundant Marine Life
Sand Key Lighthouse Reef
Spot parrotfish, angelfish, barracudas, and more in this lively marine sanctuary.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Visibility
Book Your Underwater Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐠 Snorkel Gear Provided
Most boat tours include snorkel gear, but check when booking. Some offer complimentary drinks too!
🌊 Check Wave Conditions
Visibility can be affected by waves. Ask your charter about current conditions for the best experience.
📸 Drone Views are Epic
Capture breathtaking aerial shots of the lighthouse and turquoise waters.
🛥️ Boat Charters Galore
Numerous charters depart from Key West for Sand Key Lighthouse. Book ahead! 
Tips
from all over the internet
🐠 Snorkel Gear Provided
Most boat tours include snorkel gear, but check when booking. Some offer complimentary drinks too!
🌊 Check Wave Conditions
Visibility can be affected by waves. Ask your charter about current conditions for the best experience.
📸 Drone Views are Epic
Capture breathtaking aerial shots of the lighthouse and turquoise waters.
🛥️ Boat Charters Galore
Numerous charters depart from Key West for Sand Key Lighthouse. Book ahead!
🐡 See Diverse Fish
Expect to see parrotfish, angelfish, and even barracudas!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the beautiful and diverse reef at Sand Key Lighthouse, teeming with colorful fish, making it a fantastic spot for snorkeling and diving. Many highlight the clear waters and the unforgettable experience of exploring the underwater world, often facilitated by friendly boat tour operators. While some note potential impacts on the reef's health, the overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive for a memorable aquatic adventure.
"Beautiful reef that we were able to snorkeling down by going through sunset water sports. Lots of variety in The reef terms of depth and area for creatures to high. Brief is full of very colorful fish like dorys, parrotfish and angelfish. It was a great place for the kids to have a first snorkel experience at the key West barrier reef."
James Clifford
"Unforgettable experience, we came here with sunset watersports and it was so nice.
I was afraid of some stuff because see is scary... but beautiful.
The long video is funny.
My bf says that he saw a fish pooping."
NM
"Came by sailboat and stayed the night on a mooring ball. Beautiful coral & fish seen when snorkeling. Came back a few days later and the waves can definitely alter visibility"
Kate
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sand Key Lighthouse is accessible only by boat. Several charter companies in Key West offer snorkeling and diving trips to the lighthouse and surrounding reefs. You can also reach it by private boat or sailboat, with mooring balls available for overnight stays. +1
Popular options include Sunset Water Sports, Key West Sunset WS, and The Water Traveler. Many tours offer snorkeling gear and sometimes complimentary drinks. It's wise to book in advance, especially during peak season.
No, Sand Key Lighthouse is located offshore and is only accessible by watercraft. Private boat rentals or sailing trips are alternatives to organized tours.
Yes, freedivers can enjoy the clear waters and vibrant reef around Sand Key Lighthouse. The depth can vary, offering interesting exploration opportunities.
Sand Key Lighthouse is located approximately 6 miles southwest of Key West, making it a relatively short boat trip for most charters.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You don't need a specific ticket for the lighthouse itself, but you will need to book a boat tour or charter to reach it. Prices for these tours vary.
Costs can range from around $50 for a Groupon deal for two people to more for private charters. It's best to check with individual tour operators for current pricing.
Generally, there are no separate entrance fees for the reef area itself. The cost is typically included in your boat tour or charter price.
Boat tours typically run during daylight hours, with departures in the morning and afternoon. It's advisable to confirm specific schedules with your chosen charter company.
While some operators might have last-minute availability, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during busy periods, to avoid disappointment.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
The most popular activity is snorkeling and diving around the vibrant coral reefs. The lighthouse itself offers a picturesque backdrop for these underwater adventures.
You can expect to see a wide variety of colorful fish, including parrotfish, angelfish, and dory. Barracudas are also commonly spotted, along with diverse reef creatures.
Yes, Sand Key Lighthouse is often recommended for beginners due to its relatively shallow depths and abundant, visible marine life. The clear waters make it easy to spot fish.
Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a towel, and a waterproof camera. Most tours provide snorkel gear, but you might want to bring your own if you have specific preferences.
Most snorkeling trips last between 2 to 4 hours, including travel time to and from the lighthouse. Some private charters may offer longer excursions.
📸 📸 Photography
The lighthouse itself provides a stunning subject, especially from the water. Underwater photography is also incredible, capturing the vibrant reef and marine life. Drone photography offers unique aerial perspectives.
No, Sand Key Lighthouse is located offshore and is not accessible from land for photography. You need to be on a boat or in the water to get good shots.
For general photography, consider using aperture priority mode to control depth of field. For underwater shots, a wide-angle lens and good lighting are crucial.
Yes, drone photography offers spectacular views of the lighthouse and the surrounding turquoise waters. Ensure you follow all local drone regulations.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide softer light and fewer crowds. For underwater shots, midday sun can offer good illumination, but be mindful of glare.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Opt for tours that emphasize safety and have experienced guides. Early morning trips are often best to avoid rougher afternoon seas, ensuring a more comfortable experience for kids. The novelty of being on a boat and exploring the underwater world makes Sand Key Lighthouse a memorable outing for the whole family.
🐠 Dive Enthusiasts
Several dive shops in Key West can arrange trips to Sand Key. It's a great spot for practicing skills or simply enjoying the underwater scenery. Remember to check conditions, as visibility can be affected by currents and wave action.
📸 Photography Buffs
+1Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for underwater photography and a drone for breathtaking aerial perspectives of the lighthouse and its surroundings. Early morning or late afternoon light can enhance the mood of your shots. Remember to protect your equipment from saltwater.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Underwater World
Many visitors highlight the clarity of the water as a major draw, especially during calm conditions. However, it's important to note that wave action can significantly impact visibility. Checking local sea conditions before booking a trip is highly recommended. Some reviews mention that the reef appears to be slowly declining, but it remains a very enjoyable and visually rich environment for underwater exploration.
Several charter companies in Key West specialize in taking visitors to Sand Key Lighthouse for snorkeling and diving excursions. These tours often provide necessary equipment and can range from group trips to private charters, catering to different preferences and budgets.
+2The Iconic Sand Key Lighthouse
+1From the water, the lighthouse offers a distinct visual marker for boaters and snorkelers. Its isolation contributes to the feeling of being in a special, secluded spot. Drone footage often captures breathtaking aerial views of the lighthouse surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Keys, showcasing its picturesque setting.
While the lighthouse is a key attraction, the primary draw for most visitors is the marine ecosystem surrounding it. The lighthouse's location is strategic, marking an area rich in coral formations and marine biodiversity, making it a popular destination for those seeking an authentic Keys experience.
Navigating Your Visit
+2When planning your trip, consider the best time to visit for optimal conditions. Early mornings often provide calmer seas and better water visibility, which is crucial for snorkeling and diving. Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends, offering a more serene experience. Always check the weather and sea conditions on the day of your excursion, as they can significantly impact visibility and the overall enjoyment of the trip.
Most tours provide essential snorkeling gear, but it's always a good idea to confirm this when booking. Bringing personal items like sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a waterproof camera is essential for a comfortable and memorable experience. Some tours also offer complimentary drinks, adding to the convenience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit