Did you know that the San Pedro shipwreck you’ll snorkel over was part of a 1733 Spanish treasure fleet carrying over 16 million pesos in silver and gold when it sank during a hurricane? This underwater time capsule now rests in just 5.5 m (18 ft) of crystal-clear Florida Keys water, making it accessible to snorkelers and divers of all experience levels. As Florida’s second Underwater Archaeological Preserve, this 287-ton Dutch-built vessel offers a unique glimpse into maritime history that you can literally swim through.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
San Pedro Underwater Archaeological Preserve State Park is located approximately 1.25 nautical miles south of Indian Key in the Florida Keys. The park is accessible only by boat, making transportation planning essential for your visit.
Closest Airports
- Miami International Airport (MIA) – approximately 160 km (100 miles) north
- Key West International Airport (EYW) – approximately 80 km (50 miles) southwest
Getting to the Preserve
Since the preserve is only accessible by water, you’ll need to arrange boat transportation. You can:
- Book a guided snorkeling or diving tour from nearby Islamorada or Marathon
- Rent a boat if you have boating experience
- Join a charter boat specializing in underwater archaeological sites
Best Time to Visit San Pedro Underwater Archaeological Preserve
Timing your visit properly can make a significant difference in your experience at this underwater park.
Recommended Seasons
Best Months (November-April)
- Temperatures range from 21-27°C (70-80°F)
- Lowest rainfall and humidity
- Excellent water visibility (often 15+ meters/50+ feet)
- Gentle sea conditions
- Peak tourist season – book accommodations early
Months to Avoid (June-October)
- Hurricane season with unpredictable weather
- Higher rainfall affecting water visibility
- Very hot temperatures 29-32°C (85-90°F)
- High humidity levels
- Many tours may cancel due to weather conditions
For the absolute best experience, aim for February through April when water visibility is exceptional and temperatures are comfortable both in and out of the water.
Getting Around Locally
The Florida Keys are connected by the Overseas Highway (US-1), making it relatively easy to navigate between islands. Here’s how to get around efficiently during your visit:
Transportation Options
- Rental Car: The most flexible option for exploring the Keys
- Taxi/Rideshare: Available in more populated areas
- Shuttle Services: Connect major points in the Keys
- Bicycle Rentals: Popular for short-distance travel
Boat Transportation
- Tour Boats: Depart regularly from Islamorada and Marathon
- Water Taxis: Connect some islands and attractions
- Boat Rentals: Available with proper licensing
- Charter Services: Private options for customized experiences
Most visitors base themselves in Islamorada or Marathon and take boat tours to the preserve. If you’re staying elsewhere in the Keys, plan for adequate travel time to reach your tour departure point.
Where to Stay
While there’s no accommodation at the underwater preserve itself, the surrounding Florida Keys offer numerous options within easy reach of boat tours to San Pedro.
Islamorada
Closest area to the preserve with numerous dive shops and tour operators.
- Luxury resorts with private beaches
- Mid-range hotels with dive packages
- Vacation rentals for families
- Waterfront cottages
Marathon
Excellent mid-Keys location with many boat tour options.
- Family-friendly resorts
- Boutique waterfront hotels
- Budget-friendly motels
- RV parks and campgrounds
Key Largo
Slightly further but offers excellent diving infrastructure.
- Dive resorts with on-site operators
- All-inclusive packages
- Eco-lodges and nature retreats
- Waterfront vacation homes
Dining & Local Cuisine
The Florida Keys are famous for their fresh seafood and unique culinary traditions. While you’ll need to pack snacks and water for your day at the preserve, you’ll find plenty of dining options before and after your underwater adventure.
Local Specialties to Try
- Key Lime Pie: The official Florida state pie
- Conch Fritters: Deep-fried conch meat with spices
- Pink Shrimp: Sweet local shrimp often served with key lime
- Stone Crab: Seasonal delicacy (October-May)
- Hogfish: Local fish with sweet, delicate flavor
- Cuban Coffee: Strong espresso popular throughout the Keys
- Lionfish: Invasive species served as conservation effort
- Key West Pink Salt: Local seasoning for seafood
Dining Tips
- Many restaurants offer “cook your catch” services if you fish during your trip
- Waterfront dining is abundant and offers beautiful sunset views
- Make reservations during peak season (December-April)
- Pack a cooler with drinks and snacks for your boat trip to the preserve
Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities
The San Pedro Underwater Archaeological Preserve offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty. Here’s what you can expect to see and do during your visit.
Main Attractions at the Preserve
- Ballast Stone Pile: The main visible feature marking where the ship went down
- Replica Cannons: Placed on site to enhance the historical experience
- Memorial Plaque: Bronze plaque providing information about the shipwreck
- Ladrillo Bricks: Original red bricks from the ship’s galley mixed with ballast
- Historical Anchor: From another 1733 shipwreck, added to enhance the site
Nearby Attractions
- Indian Key Historic State Park: Abandoned 19th-century settlement
- Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park: Rare tropical forest
- History of Diving Museum: In Islamorada
- Theater of the Sea: Marine mammal park
- Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center: Wildlife sanctuary
- Rain Barrel Artisan Village: Local crafts and art
- Robbie’s Marina: Famous for tarpon feeding
- Anne’s Beach: Shallow swimming area
Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals
Enhance your understanding of the San Pedro shipwreck by visiting related museums and cultural attractions in the area.
Related Museums
- History of Diving Museum (Islamorada): Exhibits on diving history and shipwreck exploration
- Keys History & Discovery Center (Islamorada): Local history including maritime disasters
- Mel Fisher Maritime Museum (Key West): Treasure hunting and shipwreck artifacts
- Florida Keys History & Discovery Center: Exhibits on the 1733 Spanish Fleet disaster
Annual Events
- Underwater Music Festival (July): Underwater concert at Looe Key Reef
- Island Fest (March/April): Arts, crafts, and seafood in Islamorada
- Original Marathon Seafood Festival (March): Celebrating local cuisine
- Wreck Trek Diving Event: Special guided dives to multiple shipwrecks
Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences
The San Pedro Underwater Archaeological Preserve offers various water activities, but there are also many other outdoor experiences to enjoy in the surrounding area.
Activities at the Preserve
Snorkeling
The shallow 5.5 m (18 ft) depth makes this site perfect for snorkelers. You can easily see the ballast pile, replica cannons, and plaque from the surface.
Scuba Diving
Divers can get a closer look at the archaeological features and marine life that has made the shipwreck home.
Underwater Photography
The clear waters and historical elements make this a popular spot for underwater photography.
Marine Life Observation
The wreck serves as an artificial reef, attracting colorful fish, corals, and other marine creatures.
Nearby Outdoor Activities
- Fishing: The Florida Keys are world-famous for sport fishing
- Kayaking: Explore mangrove tunnels and shallow bays
- Paddleboarding: Popular in protected waters throughout the Keys
- Eco-Tours: Guided nature experiences in the unique Keys ecosystem
- Sunset Cruises: Spectacular evening boat tours
Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs
As both a state park and an archaeological site, San Pedro Underwater Archaeological Preserve has specific guidelines to ensure safety and preservation.
Safety Guidelines
- Always snorkel or dive with a buddy
- Use a dive flag when in the water
- Be aware of boat traffic in the area
- Check weather conditions before heading out
- Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated
- Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the environment
Preservation Etiquette
- Take only photos, leave only bubbles – removing artifacts is prohibited and illegal
- Do not touch or stand on the ballast pile or other features
- Maintain proper buoyancy control when diving
- Do not feed or harass marine life
- Secure loose equipment to prevent damage to the site
Remember that this is both a natural and historical site protected by state and federal laws. Violations can result in significant fines and penalties.
Visitor Comments About San Pedro Underwater Archaeological Preserve
“As an amateur history buff, swimming over a genuine Spanish treasure shipwreck was a bucket list experience! The water clarity was amazing, and we could easily see the ballast stones and cannons from the surface. Our guide was knowledgeable about both the history and marine life. Definitely worth the boat trip!”
“We visited during February and had perfect conditions. The site is well-maintained with mooring buoys, and the underwater plaque helped us understand what we were seeing. Spotted several colorful fish species using the wreck as habitat. Would recommend bringing an underwater camera!”
“Our family snorkeled here with kids ages 10 and 12, and everyone loved it. The shallow depth made it accessible even for the less experienced swimmers. The combination of history and natural beauty was perfect. Tip: book a tour that includes Indian Key State Park for a full day of exploration.”
Practical Travel Tips
Make the most of your visit to San Pedro Underwater Archaeological Preserve with these helpful tips.
What to Bring
- Snorkeling or diving equipment (or rent from tour operators)
- Underwater camera
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Hat and sunglasses
- Towel and change of clothes
- Water and snacks
- Motion sickness medication if prone to seasickness
Planning Tips
- Book tours in advance, especially during high season
- Check weather forecasts before your trip
- Consider a morning visit for calmer waters
- Combine with visits to nearby attractions
- Bring cash for tips and small purchases
- Download offline maps of the area
- Purchase travel insurance that covers water activities
Dive Into Living History: Your Unforgettable Adventure Awaits!
San Pedro Underwater Archaeological Preserve State Park offers a truly unique experience where history and nature converge beneath the crystal-clear waters of the Florida Keys. Whether you’re an experienced diver, a casual snorkeler, or a history enthusiast, this underwater museum provides an accessible window into the past that few other destinations can match.
As you float above the remains of this centuries-old Spanish treasure ship, you’ll gain a tangible connection to the maritime history that shaped this region. The preserve’s shallow depth and protected status make it an ideal destination for underwater explorers of all skill levels, while the surrounding Florida Keys offer endless opportunities for extending your adventure.
Plan your visit during the optimal months, book your activities in advance, and prepare to be amazed by this perfect blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The San Pedro awaits, ready to share its stories from beneath the waves.
0 Comments