The John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park located in Key Largo is widely known for its beautiful and breath-taking undersea sights and wonders. It has gorgeous coral reefs and very diverse marine life. Given its vibrant underwater world, snorkeling is considered one of the most popular activities that you would want to do here. If you are one of those tourists and vacationers who love to swim and discover the beauty of marine life, you might want to consider John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. It is your go-to place for recreation and leisure where colorful and effervescent reefs await eager and thrilled snorkelers.

Every year, there are more than 700,000 divers and enthusiasts who like to have the time of their lives in the Florida Keys. There is much to behold when exploring the beautiful realm below the surface. The Florida Keys have a whole new and thriving ecosystem where marine habitats grow. And what better way to experience all these than by snorkeling the great underwater world. Snorkeling in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is a must-try not only for adults but for kids as well.

But before you take the first plunge, it helps to be prepared and know everything a Key Largo snorkeler needs to do and learn. Surely, we all want the experience fun. But of course, safety should also be at the top of our list. The following are the basic tips that you need as you get ready for your underwater excursion:

Make Sure You Have The Right For Your Snorkeling Equipment

It is important to have your equipment and wetsuit ready and fitted before you get in the water. To determine whether you have found the right fit for your mask, it should stay snugly around your head. To keep the water from seeping in, the mask strap should not be worn at the base of your head. The mask should also allow you to breathe slightly through your nose. Otherwise, it may cause you some discomfort.

Finding the right fins should also be considered as it will affect your underwater mobility. It is recommended to use adjustable fins or full-boot fins so you will be able to preserve more energy as you snorkel. Avoid wearing fins that are too tight or too loose. And of course, you should find the right fin that fits you snugly.

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Breathe

Sometimes, it can be overwhelming, especially for a newbie to see what it’s like below the surface of the water. This might cause beginners to enjoy the underwater experience only for a short time due to proper breathing concerns.

It is always a general rule to take deep and focused breaths when you are snorkeling. This allows you to be more relaxed and thus, allows you to enjoy a longer time snorkeling. Since this is an underwater activity, having deep breaths will help you thrive in the water. There is special snorkeling gear for kids so they may also have a coastal experience at the Coral Reef State Park.

Do Not Snorkel On Your Own

As tempting and as exciting as it seems, it is always advised to do the snorkeling activity with a group of friends or team. Snorkeling alone is highly discouraged primarily because of safety reasons, no matter how experienced you think you are when it comes to snorkeling the Florida Keys.

In addition, snorkeling with a group of people will allow you to enjoy the whole experience as you share it with those around you who also witnessed the underwater majesty offered by John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.

Always Practice Reef Etiquette

One should always be reminded that no matter how majestic and mysterious the underwater world in Key Largo is, it is not yours. That is why it is best to enjoy the beautiful scenery but make sure to leave them be. As pretty as they look, it is advised to not feed the fish as it will interfere with the natural marine life cycle. One should always observe keeping a comfortable distance from the actual reef. Proper reef etiquette should always be observed.

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In addition, one should not take anything that belongs in the water. Allow them to live as if they are uninterrupted. As always, it is nice to take pictures of them. But taking some of them with you as souvenirs is highly discouraged, and even illegal.

The John Pennekamp State Park isn’t just your ordinary destination place. It is considered one of the best snorkeling destinations in the world. It is the first-ever underwater park in the United States. So, when it comes to snorkeling, you will never run out of places to visit. If you’re a beach bum and your reason to visit is to snorkel, then the best time to visit is during the spring months when the sky is clear and the climate is pleasant.

Indeed, the coral reefs of John Pennekamp State Park are worth snorkeling. For those who have yet to try snorkeling, it is a great option worth trying especially when you are visiting this place.

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