The Florida Keys in November
The Florida Keys, stretching over 120 miles south of mainland Florida, offer some of the world’s most renowned scuba diving experiences. With its pristine waters, thriving coral reefs, and diverse marine species, the region is a top destination for divers. As the only living coral barrier reef in the continental U.S., the Keys provide a fascinating underwater world. In November, warm water temperatures and calm seas make for ideal diving conditions, especially around Key West, home to the famous Vandenberg wreck.
Why November is Ideal for Diving in the Florida Keys
November is one of the best times of year to dive in the Florida Keys, thanks to several favorable factors:
Pleasant Water Temperatures: Water temperatures in November hover between 78°F to 81°F, creating a comfortable diving environment without the need for heavy wetsuits.
Enhanced Visibility: Clearer waters make for visibility often exceeding 50 feet, offering stunning views of coral reefs and marine life.
Fewer Crowds: With the high season still weeks away, November is perfect for a relaxed, crowd-free diving experience.
Marine Life Migration: This period sees an uptick in diverse marine species, such as eagle rays, reef sharks, and colorful fish, taking shelter in the reefs and wrecks of the Keys.
Top Scuba Diving Sites in the Florida Keys
1. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park (Key Largo)
Established in 1963, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is the first undersea park in the U.S., spanning nearly 70 square miles. It offers a variety of dive sites suited for all levels of divers:
Christ of the Abyss: A 9-foot bronze statue set in just 25 feet of water. Its iconic placement makes it a popular spot for divers and snorkelers alike. Learn more about John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.
Molasses Reef: Known for vibrant marine life, including angelfish, parrotfish, and moray eels, this reef features clear waters and easy access for divers of all levels.
Benwood Wreck: A WWII wreck resting in shallow waters that now hosts a fascinating array of coral and tropical fish, making it a top attraction for underwater photographers.
2. Spiegel Grove (Key Largo)
The USS Spiegel Grove, a 510-foot Navy vessel intentionally sunk in 2002, has become one of the largest artificial reefs globally:
Advanced Wreck Diving: With depths ranging from 60 to 130 feet, the Spiegel Grove attracts advanced divers eager to explore its massive structure.
Thriving Marine Life: Schools of barracudas, groupers, and colorful fish now call this sunken giant home.
For an in-depth guide to diving the Spiegel Grove, check out our Diving Adventures page.
3. The Duane and The Bibb (Key Largo)
These twin U.S. Coast Guard cutters, sunk in 1987, serve as vibrant artificial reefs:
The Duane: Sitting upright at a depth of 120 feet, it’s accessible to experienced divers, with its crow’s nest resting at about 60 feet.
The Bibb: Lying on its side at a similar depth, The Bibb offers a unique diving experience, attracting barracudas, snappers, and other reef fish.
4. Alligator Reef (Islamorada)
Named after the wreck of the USS Alligator, this shallow reef offers breathtaking views for beginners and seasoned divers alike:
Coral Diversity: Alligator Reef is home to various coral species like elkhorn, brain corals, and vibrant sponges.
Abundant Marine Life: Angelfish, nurse sharks, and barracudas are frequently spotted among the colorful corals and sponges.
5. Sombrero Reef (Marathon)
Known for its historic lighthouse, Sombrero Reef is a fantastic site offering clear waters, diverse marine life, and striking coral formations:
Clear Visibility: Visibility often exceeds 50 feet, giving divers an exceptional view of the underwater terrain.
Unique Coral Structures: The reef boasts formations such as brain coral and star coral, home to many small reef fish and crustaceans.
Tropical Fish: The area is a haven for parrotfish, butterflyfish, and damselfish, making it ideal for underwater photographers.
6. Looe Key Reef (Big Pine Key)
Part of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, Looe Key Reef is a favorite for divers due to its unique topography and diverse ecosystem:
Spur-and-Groove Formation: This rare reef formation offers depths ranging from 5 to 100 feet, ideal for various skill levels.
Rich in Marine Life: Divers encounter a wide array of species, from goliath groupers and eagle rays to smaller tropical fish and invertebrates.
Visit the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary to learn more about the protected areas and conservation efforts.
7. Vandenberg Wreck (Key West)
A premier dive site in Key West, the USNS General Hoyt S. Vandenberg was sunk in 2009 to form an artificial reef. Now an underwater haven, it’s an incredible dive for advanced and beginner divers alike:
Multi-Level Dive: Resting at depths between 40 and 140 feet, this site offers exciting exploration for divers of all skill levels.
Varied Marine Life: The Vandenberg attracts barracudas, jacks, and the occasional reef shark, making it a thrilling dive for wildlife enthusiasts.
Spectacular Underwater Views: The massive superstructure provides a striking backdrop for underwater photography, especially with the frequent presence of large schools of fish and rays.
For information on booking a dive to the Vandenberg, visit Lost Reef Adventures’ Vandenberg Diving page.
Marine Life Encounters in November
The Florida Keys are teeming with marine life in November, offering divers encounters with diverse species:
Sea Turtles: Green and loggerhead turtles graze around the reefs, providing excellent photo opportunities.
Reef Sharks: Frequently seen around wrecks like the Spiegel Grove and Vandenberg, these sharks are a thrilling sight for divers.
Eagle Rays: These graceful creatures glide through the water, often appearing in the shallow reefs and sandy patches around the reefs.
Goliath Groupers: Known for their size, these gentle giants can be found around deeper wrecks like the Duane and Spiegel Grove.
Colorful Reef Fish: Parrotfish, butterflyfish, and angelfish add vibrant color to the underwater landscape, creating a paradise for underwater photographers.
Diving Conditions and Safety Tips
November’s favorable conditions make it an excellent month for scuba diving in the Florida Keys, but divers should still keep these safety tips in mind:
Weather Check: Although November usually brings calmer seas, it’s essential to stay updated on weather forecasts and potential late-season storms.
Thermal Protection: A 3mm wetsuit is typically sufficient for November’s water temperatures, ensuring comfort during longer dives.
Respect Marine Life: It’s essential to observe marine creatures without disturbing them. Avoid touching coral or approaching wildlife too closely.
Guided Dives for Beginners: For less experienced divers, guided tours are recommended to enhance safety and enjoyment, especially for sites like the Vandenberg, where currents may be present.
Why Choose Lost Reef Adventures for Diving in the Keys
Located in Key West, Lost Reef Adventures offers unparalleled diving experiences for exploring the wonders of the Florida Keys. Known for their professionalism, expert dive guides, and extensive knowledge of local waters, Lost Reef Adventures is the go-to choice for divers of all levels. Specializing in trips to the Vandenberg wreck, Lost Reef Adventures provides unique insights into this world-renowned dive site. Their dive team prioritizes safety, education, and environmental stewardship, ensuring that every dive is both memorable and respectful of the underwater ecosystem.
With Lost Reef Adventures as your dive shop, you’ll experience the best of Key West diving, including guided tours of the Vandenberg and other top sites in the Florida Keys. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced diver, Lost Reef Adventures will help you make the most of your underwater exploration in November.
For additional details, check out our Scuba Diving Courses and Florida Keys Dive Sites to plan your trip.
