divers consistently rate Molasses Reef highly for its rich biodiversity, excellent visibility, historical dive sites, and commitment to environmental protection, making it a must-visit destination in the Florida Keys.

Article at a Glance

• Molasses Reef is a top diving destination in the Florida Keys, featuring over 600 species of marine life.
• The reef offers dive sites suitable for both beginners and experienced divers, with depths ranging from 6 to over 90 feet.
• Guided dives are highly recommended for a safe and enriching experience, with several local dive centers offering services.
• Conservation efforts are in place to protect the reef, making it crucial for divers to follow responsible diving practices.
• Photography enthusiasts can capture stunning underwater shots, with tips available to enhance their photographic skills.

Molasses Reef

Molasses Reef is a prominent coral reef located within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, specifically southeast of Key Largo. This reef is notable for its ecological diversity and recreational opportunities, making it one of the most visited dive sites in the world.

Location and Characteristics

• Geographical Position: Molasses Reef is situated approximately six miles offshore from Key Largo and lies within the Key Largo Existing Management Area, adjacent to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.
• Ecological Features: The reef features a classic spur-and-groove coral formation, characterized by well-defined channels that promote biodiversity. It is home to a variety of coral species, including elkhorn, staghorn, and brain corals, along with numerous fish species like snappers, angelfish, and parrotfish.

Historical Context

• Grounding Incident: On August 4, 1984, the freighter Wellwood ran aground on Molasses Reef, causing significant damage to approximately 5,805 square meters of coral habitat. Restoration efforts were coordinated by NOAA, which included transplanting corals from nearby reefs.

Recreational Activities

• Diving and Snorkeling: The reef is renowned for its clear waters and rich marine life, attracting divers and snorkelers year-round. It features around 30 dive sites marked by mooring buoys that prevent damage to coral formations.
• Notable Sites: Among the popular dive sites is buoy #7, known as The Winch, where divers can explore remnants of a historical shipwreck.

Marine Life

Molasses Reef boasts an impressive array of marine species:

• Corals: The reef supports a vibrant mix of hard and soft corals.
• Fish Species: Divers can expect to see a variety of fish, including nurse sharks, green moray eels, and sea turtles. The area has also seen an increase in Caribbean reef sharks.

Conservation Status

As part of a Sanctuary Preservation Area (SPA), Molasses Reef benefits from special regulations aimed at protecting its delicate ecosystem. These measures help maintain the health and biodiversity of the reef.In summary, Molasses Reef stands out not only for its beauty and recreational opportunities but also for its ecological significance within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Its ongoing conservation efforts are crucial for preserving this vibrant underwater habitat.

What Marine Life Can I Expect To See?

Coral Species

• Hard Corals: Includes elkhorn, staghorn, star, brain, and fire corals.
• Soft Corals: Features like sea fans and gorgonians are also abundant.

Fish Species

• Common Fish: Colorful varieties such as snappers, angelfish, parrotfish, and spadefish.
• Larger Species: You may spot Caribbean reef sharks, nurse sharks, and even sea turtles (including hawksbill and loggerhead turtles) frequently in the area.

Invertebrates

• Crustaceans: Look for lobsters, shrimp, and coral crabs hiding in the crevices of the coral formations.
• Other Invertebrates: Various species of sponges contribute to the vibrant underwater landscape.

Pelagic Species

• Larger Pelagic Fish: Eagle rays and barracudas are often seen cruising along the reef’s edges.

What Do Scuba Divers Say About This Site?

Overall Experience

• Diversity of Marine Life: Divers appreciate the abundance of species, with over 600 possible creatures to observe, including colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, and various coral types. The reef’s biodiversity is often described as a highlight of the diving experience.
• Visibility: Many divers note that visibility can reach up to 100 feet on good days, enhancing the underwater experience and making it easier to spot marine life.

Popular Dive Sites

• The Winch Hole: This site is particularly favored for its historical significance, featuring the remains of the Solobodna shipwreck. Divers enjoy exploring the winch and taking underwater photographs.
• Eagle Ray Alley: Known for sightings of larger pelagic species like eagle rays and reef sharks, this area adds excitement to dives.
• The Aquarium: Renowned for its vibrant marine life, this site often allows divers to observe nurse sharks resting under rocks. Many divers find it to be one of the most rewarding spots.

Accessibility and Conditions

• Suitable for All Levels: Divers appreciate that Molasses Reef caters to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced divers. The shallow areas are ideal for novice divers, while deeper sections provide challenges for more experienced ones.
• Mooring Buoys: The presence of over 30 mooring buoys allows boats to dock without damaging coral formations, which divers find reassuring as it helps protect the reef.

Drift Diving Opportunities

• Current Conditions: The currents along the outside edge of the reef can make for exciting drift dives, which many divers enjoy. This aspect is particularly beneficial for drift diver training.

Conservation and Protection

Protected Environment: Divers appreciate that Molasses Reef is part of a protected area where fishing and collecting are prohibited. This conservation effort contributes to the health and vibrancy of the reef ecosystem

Key Information

Category	Details
Location	Approximately 6 miles offshore from Key Largo, FL
Depth Range	6 to over 90 feet
Marine Life Diversity	Over 600 species, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and various corals
Notable Dive Sites	– The Winch Hole (shipwreck remains)
	– Eagle Ray Alley (pelagic species)
	– The Aquarium (abundant marine life)
Visibility	Often exceeds 30-100 feet
Best Diving Seasons	Spring (April – June) and Fall (September – November)
Mooring Buoys	Over 30 buoys available for safe docking
Conservation Status	Part of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary; fishing and collecting prohibited
Accessibility	Suitable for all diving skill levels
Popular Activities	Scuba diving, snorkeling, underwater photography

Highlights of the Molasses Reef Experience

Rich Marine Life

• Diverse Species: Home to over 600 species of marine creatures, including colorful tropical fish like parrotfish, angelfish, and snapper, as well as larger species such as nurse sharks and Caribbean reef sharks.
• Coral Variety: The reef features most Caribbean coral types, including elkhorn, staghorn, brain, and fire corals, creating a vibrant underwater landscape.

Unique Dive Sites

• The Winch Hole: A historical site featuring the remains of the Solobodna shipwreck from 1887, including a large iron winch. It’s popular for underwater photography and exploring marine life.
• Eagle Ray Alley: Known for sightings of larger pelagic fish and cruising reef sharks, this area runs alongside the Winch Hole.
• The Aquarium: Named for its abundance of marine life, this site is ideal for observing nurse sharks resting under rocks.

Accessibility and Conditions

• Easy Access: Located about 6 miles offshore from Key Largo, with over 30 mooring buoys allowing boats to dock without damaging coral.
• Depth Range: The reef’s depths range from 6 to over 90 feet, accommodating both snorkelers and divers of varying skill levels. Most sites are between 15 to 45 feet deep.

Conservation Efforts

• Protected Area: As part of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, Molasses Reef benefits from fishing restrictions that help maintain a healthy ecosystem. This protection allows for a thriving population of marine life.

Scenic Views and Visibility

• Iconic Landmarks: The reef is marked by a 45-foot light tower that serves as a navigational aid and a recognizable feature for divers.
• Clear Waters: The proximity to the Gulf Stream ensures excellent visibility, often exceeding 35 feet, enhancing the underwater experience.

Iconic Spots at Molasses Reef

The Winch Hole

• Historical Significance: This site features the remains of the Solobodna, a shipwreck from 1887. The large iron winch from the ship is a focal point for divers and a popular subject for underwater photography.
• Diving Experience: The area around the winch is rich in marine life, providing an exciting backdrop for exploration and photography.

Eagle Ray Alley

• Pelagic Encounters: Located alongside the Winch Hole, this area is known for sightings of larger pelagic species, including cruising reef sharks and spotted eagle rays.
• Unique Features: Divers can explore the walls of the alley, where spiny lobsters often hide in crevices.

The Aquarium

• Abundant Marine Life: Aptly named, this spot is known for its rich biodiversity. Divers can expect to see a variety of fish and often spot nurse sharks resting under rocks.
• Diving Conditions: While it can experience some current, the abundance of marine life makes it a rewarding dive site.

Additional Highlights

• Diverse Depths: The reef features depths ranging from 6 to over 90 feet, catering to divers of all skill levels.
• Clear Waters: The reef benefits from clear visibility, often exceeding 35 feet, making it ideal for both snorkeling and diving.
• Accessibility: With over 30 mooring buoys, divers can easily access various sites without damaging the coral.

Environmental Conservation Efforts

Protected Area Designation

• Molasses Reef is part of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, established in 1990 to protect 2,900 square nautical miles of coastal waters.
• It’s designated as a Sanctuary Preservation Area (SPA), which provides additional protections and regulations.

Zoning System

• The sanctuary uses a zoning system to manage resources and reduce user conflicts.
• This includes areas where fishing is prohibited, serving as nurseries for the reef ecosystem.

Mooring Buoy System

• Over 490 mooring buoys have been installed throughout the Florida Keys, including at Molasses Reef.
• This system, developed by local residents John and Judy Halas, significantly reduces anchor damage to corals.

Restoration Efforts

• After the 1984 grounding of the freighter Wellwood, NOAA coordinated a major restoration project.
• This included placing reef modules in damaged areas and transplanting corals from nearby reefs.

Legal Protection

• NOAA settled a $6.275 million claim with the responsible parties for the Wellwood grounding, funding restoration efforts.
• The sanctuary prohibits activities like coral collection and endangered conch harvesting.

Ongoing Monitoring

• The sanctuary conducts regular monitoring of reefs, water quality, fish, and invertebrates to inform management decisions.

Education and Outreach

• The Eco-Discovery Center, supported by the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation, provides interactive learning experiences for visitors.
• The sanctuary offers innovative education programs, citizen science opportunities, and volunteer programs.

Maximizing Your Diving Experience

Plan Your Dive Sites

• Explore Diverse Locations: With over 30 marked dive sites, plan to visit a variety of spots like:
  • The Winch Hole: Features historical shipwreck remains and is great for underwater photography.
  • Eagle Ray Alley: Known for sightings of larger pelagic species and cruising reef sharks.
  • The Aquarium: Abundant marine life, including resting nurse sharks.

Timing Your Dives

• Morning Dives: Often offer calmer conditions and better visibility.
• Afternoon Dives: Can be excellent for spotting active marine life.
• Night Dives: Molasses Reef is a top destination for night diving, offering a unique perspective on nocturnal marine life.

Skill-Appropriate Choices

• Beginners: Stick to shallower areas (10-40 feet) near the Molasses Reef Tower.
• Intermediate: Explore the mid-range depths (15-45 feet) where most dive sites are located.
• Advanced: Consider drift dives along the outer edges where currents can be stronger.

Maximize Marine Life Encounters

• Be Patient: Often, staying in one spot and observing can yield more sightings than constantly moving.
• Look in Crevices: Many species, like spiny lobsters, hide in the reef’s nooks and crannies.
• Scan the Blue: Keep an eye out for larger pelagic species passing by, especially in Eagle Ray Alley.

Respect the Environment

• Use Mooring Buoys: Always tie up to one of the 30+ mooring buoys to avoid damaging coral.
• Practice Good Buoyancy: Protect the delicate coral formations by maintaining proper buoyancy control.
• Follow Regulations: Remember, Molasses Reef is a protected area where fishing and collecting are prohibited.

Capturing Memories: Photography Tips

Get Close to Your Subject

• Proximity Matters: Aim to get within 12 inches of your subject. Water reduces color, contrast, and sharpness, so the closer you are, the better your images will be.

Use Proper Lighting

• Flash Settings: Always turn on your camera flash, preferably in “forced flash mode,” especially when shooting within 3-4 feet of your subject. This helps restore lost colors underwater.
• External Strobes: Consider using an external strobe to minimize backscatter from particles in the water. Position the strobe away from the camera to reduce reflections.

Optimize Camera Settings

• White Balance: Use auto white balance when using a flash, and switch to manual white balance when shooting without it. Adjust settings based on depth—colors fade as you go deeper.
• Aperture Priority Mode: If your camera allows, use aperture priority mode to control exposure while allowing the camera to adjust shutter speed automatically.

Composition Techniques

• Shooting Angles: Get low and shoot upwards for more dynamic compositions. Avoid shooting directly down at subjects, as this can flatten the image.
• Focus on the Eyes: Ensure that the subject’s eyes are in focus for more engaging photos. This is especially important for capturing marine life like fish and turtles.

Be Mindful of Movement

• Stay Calm: Approach subjects slowly and avoid sudden movements to prevent scaring them away. Remaining still can often attract curious marine life towards you.

Practice Before Diving

• Familiarize Yourself with Equipment: Practice using your camera in a controlled environment, such as a swimming pool, to understand its settings and handling before diving.

Check Water Conditions

• Visibility Matters: Before diving, inquire about recent water conditions and visibility from dive operators. Good visibility enhances photo opportunities significantly.

Experiment with Different Techniques

• Macro vs. Wide-Angle: Depending on your subject, switch between macro mode for close-ups and wide-angle settings for broader reef shots. This versatility can help capture diverse underwater scenes 24.

Frequently Asked Questions

Top Recommended Operators and Tours

1. Sea Dwellers Dive Center

• Rating: 4.8 (704 reviews)
• Address: 105 Laguna Ave E5, Key Largo, FL 33037
• Phone: (305) 451-3640
• Website: Sea Dwellers Dive Center
• Highlights:
  • Offers daily two-tank dive trips to Molasses Reef.
  • Known for its clear water and abundant marine life, including over 30 dive sites.
  • Ideal for both divers and snorkelers, with trips departing daily at 8:30 AM and 1 PM.

2. Horizon Divers

• Overview: Renowned for world-class service and safety.
• Specialties:
  • Guided reef and wreck tours.
  • Technical diving courses and certifications.
  • Small-group experiences for personalized attention.
• Website: Horizon Divers

3. Conch Republic Divers

• Overview: A staple in the Key Largo diving community for over 30 years.
• Services:
  • Full-day and half-day dive trips to various sites, including Molasses Reef.
  • Offers coral restoration dives as part of their commitment to marine conservation.
• Website: Conch Republic Divers

Private Charter Options

1. Sea Dwellers Dive Center

• Overview: Offers private dive charters tailored to your group’s preferences.
• Features:
  • Customizable itineraries to explore various dive sites.
  • Experienced crew providing in-depth briefings and assistance.
• Contact: (305) 451-3640
• Website: Sea Dwellers Dive Center

2. Key Largo Scuba Diving

• Private Dive Charter: Available for groups wanting a tailored experience at Molasses Reef.
• Details:
  • Charter includes tanks and weights, with the option to add a guide if desired.
  • Focus on exploring the reef at your own pace.
• Website: Key Largo Scuba Diving

3. Island Ventures

• Private Charters: Offers private snorkeling and diving charters for groups.
• Highlights:
  • Flexible scheduling and personalized itineraries.
  • Access to popular sites like The Winch Hole and Eagle Ray Alley.
• Website: Island Ventures

Key Largo Dive Sites 

• Molasses Reef
• The Winch Hole
• Eagle Ray Alley
• French Reef
• Pickles Reef
• Key Largo Dry Rocks
• Grecian Rocks
• Carysfort Reef
• Elbow Reef
• North Dry Rocks
• North North Dry Rocks
• Snapper Ledge
• Christ of the Abyss Statue
• Watsons Reef
• Sombrero Reef
• Western Dry Rocks