Is snorkeling safe in the Keys?
Is snorkeling safe in the Keys? You can snorkel from pretty much any beach in Florida but again, if you must snorkel near bridges or pilings, please take all precautions including a snorkeling vest and dive flag as this is the Florida Keys and boat traffic is a way of life down here. Buddy system rules always apply!
What do you do if you see a shark while snorkeling?
Most sharks are not in any way dangerous and should be respected by observing from a distance and not touching, chasing, or harassing. Of the most inquisitive larger sharks, if you feel threatened or worried, always remain facing the shark, stay low, and back off slowly.
When should you not go to the Keys?
Hurricane season in the Caribbean—including Key West—runs from June to November. While we're fans of Caribbean off-season travel, even during fall months like October, you should expect plenty of afternoon showers this time of year. You also face heightened risk of having your trip disrupted by a major storm.
Why don t the Florida Keys have beaches?
The Keys don't have wide sandy beaches because the coral reefs we enjoy as snorkelers and scuba divers prevent the erosion and sand from building up along the shore.
Is it safe to walk around Key West at night?
The crime rate in the Florida Keys is low, but you should still use common sense when exploring Key West, especially at night and around hectic Duval Street and Mallory Square. Exercise caution when going into the water as well; be sure to heed all flags and warnings from authorities.
Are sharks a problem in Florida Keys?
Are there Sharks in the Florida Keys? You bet. It is common to catch nurse sharks while fishing on the flats. These bottom dwellers are generally docile and will only act defensively if provoked, so if you see one out snorkeling or diving there is no need for alarm as long as you do not disturb it.
Are there alligators in Key West?
Probably not. There's simply not enough fresh water in Key West, which has no lakes, no rivers, and gets significantly less rainfall than the Upper Keys, Everglades, or Miami. Occasionally, Key West gets American Crocodiles.
Are sharks common in Key Largo?
We see a number of different types of sharks in Key Largo, mainly Reef Sharks, Nurse sharks and some Bull sharks. There are however visitors to our shores that are a little larger.
Do people swim in the ocean in the Keys?
Boasting temperate waters and more than 3,400 hours of annual sunshine, the beaches of Key West are some of the most popular destinations on this tropical island paradise. You can enjoy the sun, sand and warm water as well as a variety of activities like swimming, snorkeling and fishing.
Are sharks common in the Keys?
Lemon sharks get their name from their pale yellow coloring and are one of the species that is most abundant in the Florida Keys, as these are their native waters. They prefer shallow waters and are often seen on the flats, reefs, and even venturing into fresh waters at times.