Looe Key Reef, located within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, is one of the most celebrated dive sites in the region. Situated south of Big Pine Key, this reef is renowned for its vibrant coral formations and diverse marine life. The reef is named after the HMS Looe, a British ship that ran aground on the reef in 1744. Today, it serves as a protected area, ensuring the preservation of its stunning underwater ecosystem.

The reef is divided into several zones, including a Sanctuary Preservation Area (SPA) and a “Research Only” zone, which helps protect the delicate coral and marine species that inhabit the area. Divers and snorkelers visiting Looe Key can expect to encounter a variety of fish, including parrotfish, angelfish, and even larger species like sharks and Goliath groupers. The clear, warm waters provide excellent visibility, making it an ideal spot for underwater photography and exploration.

One of the highlights of diving at Looe Key is the diversity of its coral structures. The reef features both hard and soft corals, creating a colorful and dynamic underwater landscape. The presence of sea fans, sponges, and other invertebrates adds to the reef’s complexity and beauty. Additionally, the reef’s relatively shallow depth, ranging from 5 to 30 feet, makes it accessible to divers of all skill levels.

The marine fauna at Looe Key Reef is incredibly diverse, with over 150 species of fish calling it home. Divers can spot yellowtail snapper, angelfish, parrotfish, barracuda, and the elusive moray eel. The reef is also a haven for various shark and ray species, providing thrilling encounters for those lucky enough to spot them. The abundance of marine life makes every dive a unique and exciting experience.

Looe Key Reef is characterized by its spur and groove reef formation, which consists of coral ridges (spurs) separated by sandy channels (grooves). This structure not only creates a visually stunning underwater landscape but also provides numerous hiding spots for marine creatures. The reef’s formation supports a rich biodiversity, with different species thriving in the various microhabitats created by the spurs and grooves. The protected status of the reef ensures that these delicate ecosystems remain intact, allowing divers to witness the beauty of a thriving coral reef.

There are a total of 46 mooring balls in this massive site - 9 of them in the so called "Looe Key Deep" - which is the deepest part of the reef. Navigation can be tricky in this site and divers are encouraged to keep track of their ways at all times. The spur and groove formations offer an underwater masse that can easily disorient divers. Given how popular this site is, it may be complicated navigating the site at the surface.

For those looking for a more challenging dive, mooring ball 34 (LK34) is right where the wall begins to go deeper - reaching max depth at 90 feet.

Conditions tend to be spectacular in this site - probably one of the best reef sites in the Florida Keys. Visibility is typically 100 feet and currents are very mild - although they can pick up a little in the deeper part of the site. Divers should be VERY aware of their surrounding at the surface. This site is also very popular among boaters