

Best for beginner divers, 2-35m, boat entry, mild current.
Sombrero Reef is the largest reef in the Middle Keys, marked by a historic lighthouse. The site features a classic spur-and-groove topography with high coral relief. Divers and snorkellers can explore depths ranging from 2 to 35 metres, with an average depth of 20 metres. Marine life commonly observed includes Great Barracuda, Blue Tang, Stoplight Parrotfish, Purple Sea Fan, and various wrasses. Less frequently, visitors may encounter Queen Angelfish, French Angelfish, Hogfish, and Scrawled Filefish. Conditions are generally mild, though divers should remain aware of boat traffic and surge. The site is accessible only by boat and is suitable for beginners.
24.62562, -81.10988
The pre-dawn trip is one of the best times to find lobsters crawling in plain sight before the sun comes up.
Access is by boat only; mooring buoys are located on the south side of the lighthouse.
Recorded at this site
Depth
Up to 35m
Visibility
10-30m
Skill Level
Beginner
Entry
Boat
Boat required
Water Temp
23-29°C
Current
Mild
Typical Dive
60 min
Best Time
Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
Commonly observed species include Great Barracuda, Blue Tang, Stoplight Parrotfish, Purple Sea Fan, and wrasses. You may also encounter Queen Angelfish, French Angelfish, Hogfish, Spanish Hogfish, Scrawled Filefish, Pacific Trumpetfish, Yellowtail Parrotfish, Gray Angelfish, and Caribbean Ocean Surgeonfish.
Yes, Sombrero Reef is suitable for beginners, offering a range of depths and generally mild currents.
The depth ranges from 2 to 35 metres, with an average depth of 20 metres.
This is a boat-only site located approximately 9,260 metres from the shore.
Yes, Sombrero Reef is well-suited for snorkelling and holds a high rating for the activity.
Diving at Sombrero Reef in Marathon requires the following certifications: Open Water. Always dive within your training limits.
Yes, equipment rental is available at or near Sombrero Reef in Marathon. Contact local dive operators for specific gear availability and prices.
A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for diving at Sombrero Reef in Marathon. Water temperatures range from 23°C to 29°C.
The best months to visit Sombrero Reef in Marathon are March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, and November. Conditions outside these months can still be good but are less predictable.
Divers at Sombrero Reef in Marathon should be aware of jellyfish, sharks. These encounters are generally rare and avoidable with proper awareness. Follow local safety guidance and maintain a respectful distance from all marine life.
Sombrero Reef in Marathon typically has mild currents that most divers can handle comfortably.
Visibility at Sombrero Reef in Marathon typically ranges from 10 metres to 30 metres. Conditions vary with weather, tides, and seasons.