Why is it called Molasses Reef?
The reason why the reef is called “Molasses” takes you into the realm of legend, as none of the potential reasons can be confirmed. The story goes that a large barge, being pulled by a ship, somehow ended up on the reef with it’s sticky cargo of Molasses stored in barrels. The rest is history!
How do I get to Molasses Reef?
Obviously, you need to get on a boat for snorkeling Molasses Reef. You can get on a tour in Key Largo or at Pennekamp State Park. We are not sure if the large boats from the park or Key Largo go to Molasses as the companies often won’t tell you the destination until you leave.
How deep are the reefs in Key Largo?
15-40 feet
Dazzling French Reef, also in the Key Largo area, offers depths from 15-40 feet. Divers swim through cliffs and canyons, gullies and archways to see large groupers and moray eels.
Where is the Pickles Reef located?
Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary
Pickles Reef is a small coral reef located within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. It lies to the southeast of Key Largo, to the south the Key Largo Existing Management Area and John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.
How far is Molasses Reef from shore?
The glass bottom boat tour takes you to Molasses Reef which is further offshore, about 6.5 miles; average depth is about 10 to 30 feet.
How deep is the water in Molasses Reef?
Depths range from 6 feet down to more than 90 feet. Currents along the outside edge of the reef can make for an exciting drift dive and is great for Drift Diver training. This reef is also perfect for Snorkelers and for Open Water divers. Huge high profile coral heads jut off the bottom 12-15 feet.
Where is the Jesus statue in Key Largo?
The Christ Statue is positioned on the seaward side of the Key Largo Dry Rocks. The reef is shaped like a hand with sand channels between the fingers. The statue is marked by a pencil buoy and sits in one the fingers.
Where is the best place to snorkel in the Keys?
Top Florida Keys Snorkeling Areas
- Fort Zachary Taylor, Key West.
- John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Key Largo.
- Sombrero Reef, Marathon.
- Key Largo Dry Rocks, Key Largo.
- Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary, Big Pine Key.
Can you Spearfish Molasses reef?
You can fish while tied to the mooring buoys, go lobstering, dive or snorkel, but spearfishing is prohibited in this area.
How far is the reef off Islamorada?
The reef line runs parallel with the Keys and is an average distance of 4 miles off shore. The reef drops from an average depth of 60′ on top to 90′ on the bottom. We use all sorts of fishing techniques while on the reef, so don’t think it’s strictly bottom fishing!
How big is the Pickles Reef?
Fast Facts Average Depth: 15 ft. Max Depth: 25 ft.
What animals live in Pickles Reef?
Plenty of schooling fish including Grunts, Snappers, Goatfish, and Sergeant Majors can be found here. Check under the ledges for Blue Chromis, Spotted Drums and Moray Eels. A perfect site for new as well as experienced divers.