Took our grandchildren (7 and 12) to Pennenkamp and it turned into a most eventful day when a Manatee showed up in the swimming area and spent an hour hanging out. The kids got within t10 feet of the peaceful animal for much of that time. It took an average experience and made it very special. Without that, a nicely... More

The scuba community really owes a lot of thanks to the folks who created, and have maintained and enforced the preservation of Pennekamp as a park and protected area. Today I am just back from diving in Jamaica - where the reefs are a sad expanse of dead coral, algae, and devoid of fish. Without the park and various protection... More

-The small aquarium leaves something to be desired but it IS a small one that has minimal funding. -There is a small cove with a rocky "beach" with a roped-in area where you can enjoy the water with your small children. -There is an old ship wreck within the ropes so you can see that if you choose. -LOTS of... More

We loved the park and the snorkeling adventure by boat! It was everything that we thought it would be and more. My grandchildren snorkeled for the very first time and the staff was great and the cost very reasonable.

I went to the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park primarily for the snorkeling. Please be warned that there are no real 'beaches' in Key Largo and the Coral Reef park is EXACTLY that : the 'land' part itself is extremely small : a small sad looking aquarium, a small area where the swamp meets the land, a ticket station,... More

Great place to snorkel, it hass a water museum in there that is very interesting and the water areas are great. nice place for a picnic!

The operation here is smooth - you rent if you need to, you can get a brief refresher in snorkeling if you want. Not too much science, but clear on what to do, what not to do. Concern for coral is evident. A pleasant outing even on a day with some wind and waves.

Loved the kayaking through the mangroves!! Absolutely beautiful and a great way to get some exercise. Everyone was so helpful and friendly here. And snorkeling off their little beach... we encountered their adolescent manatee that like to come near shore and visit the people. I personally got to swim with her and it was just pure magic. A trip I'll... More

This is a great park for exploring. Pay upon car entrance - I think it was about $9 for the two of us. The welcome center is staffed and has info about the park and a cute aquarium with about 10 tanks to look at. Outside, lots of birds and other wildlife. There are a couple of swimming areas that... More