Key Largo Dry Rocks is celebrated for its stunning underwater landscapes, abundant marine life, and accessibility, making it a top destination for divers visiting the Florida Keys.

Article at a Glance

• Location: Situated in the Florida Keys, Key Largo Dry Rocks is part of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.
• Depth Range: The site features shallow depths ranging from 1 to 25 feet, making it accessible for both beginners and experienced divers.
• Visibility: Typically excellent visibility, often exceeding 35 feet, enhances the diving experience and underwater photography opportunities.
• Main Attraction: The iconic Christ of the Abyss statue, a 9-foot bronze figure submerged in about 25 feet of water, is a highlight for divers and snorkelers.
• Marine Life: Home to over 600 species of tropical fish, including parrotfish, grouper, and nurse sharks, providing rich biodiversity for exploration.
• Conservation Efforts: Protected as part of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, with regulations in place to preserve the reef ecosystem and promote responsible diving practices.
• Ideal Diving Conditions: Best visited in late spring or early summer for warm water temperatures and calm seas, with early morning dives recommended for optimal conditions.

Key Largo Dry Docks

Location and Features

Key Largo Dry Rocks is located within the boundaries of the Key Largo Existing Management Area, formerly known as the Key Largo National Marine Sanctuary. It’s a shallow reef system with depths ranging from 1 to 25 feet, making it accessible for both snorkelers and divers.

Main Attraction: Christ of the Deep Statue

The main highlight of Key Largo Dry Rocks is the famous “Christ of the Deep” statue, also known as “Christ of the Abyss”. This 9-foot bronze statue sits in a sand channel on the offshore side of the reef in less than 25 feet of water. It’s one of the most photographed underwater sites in the Keys and attracts divers from around the world.

Marine Life and Coral

The reef offers close viewing of many types of fish and coral formations. The shallow depth and typically calm seas provide excellent visibility, allowing divers to observe the diverse marine ecosystem. You can expect to see:

• Various species of tropical fish
• Healthy coral formations
• Possible sightings of larger marine life

Diving Conditions

• Depth: 1 to 25 feet, making it suitable for beginners and snorkelers as well
• Visibility: Generally good due to shallow depth and calm seas
• Current: Usually mild, but can vary

Conservation and Regulations

Key Largo Dry Rocks is part of a protected area, and special regulations apply. Divers should be aware of the following:

• Mooring buoys are provided, and vessels must use these instead of anchoring
• It’s crucial to practice responsible diving and not touch or disturb the marine life or coral
• Be aware of your buoyancy to avoid damaging the shallow reef structures

Nearby Dive Sites

If you’re planning multiple dives in the area, consider exploring these nearby sites:

1. North Dry Rocks: Located just north of Key Largo Dry Rocks, featuring the “Minnow Cave”
2. North North Dry Rocks: A shallow spur and groove reef with some of the healthiest coral in the area
3. Molasses Reef: Said to be one of the most popular dive destinations in the world, offering diverse marine life and excellent visibility

What Marine Life Can I Expect To See?

Common Marine Species

• Tropical Fish: The reef is home to over 600 species of tropical fish, including colorful parrotfish, angelfish, and wrasse, which are often seen swimming around the coral formations.
• Groupers: Various species of grouper, including the more common black grouper and the larger goliath grouper, are frequently spotted near the reefs.
• Nurse Sharks: These gentle sharks can often be seen cruising by or resting on the ocean floor.
• Moray Eels: These elusive creatures hide in crevices and are a highlight for many divers.

Notable Attractions

• Christ of the Deep Statue: This iconic statue attracts both divers and photographers, often surrounded by schools of fish.
• Minnow Cave: Located at North Dry Rocks, this area is known for its seasonal populations of silverside minnows, providing a unique underwater spectacle.

Coral and Invertebrates

• Healthy Coral Reefs: The area features diverse coral formations, including elkhorn and staghorn corals, which provide habitat for many marine species.
• Sponge Species: Large barrel sponges and gorgonians can also be found in deeper areas of the reef.

Seasonal Visitors

• Pelagic Species: Depending on the season, divers may encounter larger pelagic fish such as barracuda, permit, and even manta rays.
• Turtles: Sea turtles are common in the area and can often be seen swimming gracefully through the water.

What Do Divers Say About This Site?

General Impressions

• Accessibility: Many divers appreciate the shallow depths (around 25 feet) of Key Largo Dry Rocks, making it an ideal site for beginners and snorkelers. The site is often described as having minimal current, which enhances the diving experience for less experienced divers.
• Marine Life: Divers frequently mention the abundance of marine life, including colorful tropical fish, nurse sharks, and even the iconic “Christ of the Deep” statue. The statue is particularly noted for attracting a variety of fish, making it a popular photo opportunity.
• Visibility: The visibility at Key Largo Dry Rocks is generally good, allowing divers to fully enjoy the vibrant underwater scenery. This clarity is often attributed to the conservation efforts in the area, which have helped maintain the health of the coral reefs.

Specific Features

• Christ of the Deep Statue: This 9-foot bronze statue is a major draw for divers and snorkelers alike. Many divers express that no visit to Key Largo is complete without seeing this iconic underwater landmark.
• Coral Diversity: The site features diverse coral formations that are home to numerous fish species. Divers often comment on the health and vibrancy of the corals, which contribute to the overall beauty of the dive.

Comparisons with Other Sites

• Less Crowded Options: Some divers prefer nearby sites like North Dry Rocks for a quieter experience. While North Dry Rocks lacks the famous statue, it offers rich marine life and less crowded conditions, making it appealing for those looking to avoid larger groups.

Challenges

• Weather Conditions: A few divers have noted that while conditions are generally calm, unexpected rough seas can occur due to wind. This can make entry and exit from boats challenging, especially for novice divers.

Key Information Table

Highlights of Diving This Site?

1. Christ of the Deep Statue

• Iconic Landmark: The 9-foot bronze statue is one of the most photographed underwater sites in the Florida Keys, located in about 25 feet of water. Many divers consider it a must-see during their visit.
• Marine Life Interaction: The statue attracts a variety of marine life, providing excellent opportunities for underwater photography.

2. Rich Marine Biodiversity

• Abundant Species: Divers can expect to see over 600 species of tropical fish, including parrotfish, angelfish, and nurse sharks. The area is known for its friendly marine life, making it ideal for both novice and experienced divers.
• Coral Diversity: The reef features healthy coral formations, including elkhorn and staghorn corals, which support a vibrant ecosystem.

3. Shallow Depths and Accessibility

• Ideal for All Levels: With depths ranging from 1 to 25 feet, the site is accessible for beginners and snorkelers. The shallow waters allow for easy exploration without strong currents.
• Training Opportunities: The conditions are perfect for training new divers or for those looking to improve their skills.

4. Visibility and Conditions

• Good Visibility: Generally, visibility is excellent, often exceeding 35 feet, allowing divers to enjoy the colorful underwater scenery fully.
• Calm Seas: Typically mild currents make diving enjoyable and safe, although conditions can vary based on weather.

5. Nearby Dive Sites

• North Dry Rocks: Just north of Key Largo Dry Rocks, this area features the popular Minnow Cave and offers a less crowded experience while still showcasing beautiful coral and fish.
• Variety of Dive Experiences: Nearby sites like Molasses Reef and the wrecks of USS Spiegel Grove and Duane provide additional diving opportunities with different environments and challenges.

6. Conservation Efforts

• Protected Waters: As part of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, the area has been protected since the 1970s, contributing to its rich marine environment and healthy coral reefs.

Iconic Spots At This Site

1. Christ of the Abyss Statue

• Description: This 8.5-foot tall bronze statue of Jesus Christ stands in about 25 feet of water. It was submerged on August 25, 1965, and is one of three cast from the original mold by Italian sculptor Guido Galletti. The statue symbolizes peace and serves as a memorial for divers who have lost their lives at sea.
• Significance: The statue is a major attraction for both divers and snorkelers, often considered a must-see when visiting Key Largo. Its location on the reef allows for stunning underwater photography opportunities, especially with schools of fish swimming around it.

2. Diverse Coral Reefs

• Reef Structure: The Dry Rocks area features a unique reef structure shaped like a hand, with sand channels between the “fingers.” This design provides various habitats for marine life, making it an excellent spot for exploration.
• Marine Life: Divers can expect to see a wide variety of marine species, including parrotfish, angelfish, grouper, nurse sharks, and moray eels. The health of the coral and the abundance of fish contribute to the area’s popularity.

3. Accessibility

• Ideal Conditions: The shallow depths (1 to 25 feet) make this site accessible for divers of all skill levels, including beginners and snorkelers. The generally calm waters enhance the diving experience.
• Visibility: Typically good visibility allows divers to fully appreciate the vibrant underwater scenery and marine life.

4. Nearby Attractions

• North Dry Rocks: Just north of Key Largo Dry Rocks, this area features additional dive sites like Minnow Cave and offers a less crowded experience while still showcasing beautiful coral and diverse marine life.
• John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park: As part of this park, Dry Rocks is protected under conservation efforts that help maintain its ecological health and biodiversity

Environmental Conservation Efforts at Key Largo Dry Rocks

Protected Area Status

Key Largo Dry Rocks is part of several overlapping protected areas:

1. Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary: Established in the 1990s, this designation provides comprehensive protection for the entire Florida Keys reef system.
2. Key Largo Existing Management Area: Formerly known as the Key Largo National Marine Sanctuary, this area was established in 1975 to protect the offshore coral reefs.
3. Sanctuary Preservation Area (SPA): This specific designation for Key Largo Dry Rocks imposes additional regulations to protect the reef.
4. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park: Established in 1960, this was America’s first underwater park and includes the waters where the Christ of the Abyss statue is located.

Conservation Measures

1. Mooring Buoys: The sanctuary has installed mooring buoys around the reef. Vessels are required to use these instead of anchoring, which helps prevent damage to the coral.
2. Restricted Activities: Special regulations apply in the SPA, limiting certain activities to protect the marine environment.
3. Coral Restoration: Active coral restoration projects have been undertaken at Dry Rocks reef, focusing on species like Staghorn, Elkhorn, and Acropora corals.
4. Seagrass Protection: The conservation area also protects vital surrounding seagrass beds, which provide habitat for various marine organisms.

Impact of Conservation Efforts

1. Biodiversity Preservation: The area is known for its thriving population of star coral and supports over 600 species of tropical fish.
2. Ecosystem Health: The reef system has maintained its health and vibrancy due to decades of protection, making it a prime destination for divers and snorkelers.
3. Scientific Research: The protected status allows for ongoing scientific study and monitoring of the reef ecosystem.
4. Public Education: Conservation efforts include educating visitors about proper reef etiquette, such as not touching corals and using reef-safe sunscreen.

Maximizing Your Diving Experienceat at Key Largo Dry Rocks

Plan Your Dive

1. Choose the Right Time: Early morning dives often offer the best visibility and calmest conditions.
2. Check Tide Tables: Plan your dive around low tide for shallower depths and better visibility of the Christ of the Abyss statue.
3. Consider Seasonal Factors: Be aware of potential coral bleaching events, especially during summer months with higher water temperatures.

Dive Responsibly

1. Practice Proper Buoyancy: The shallow reef requires excellent buoyancy control to avoid damaging coral. Be especially careful in areas as shallow as 1-25 feet.
2. Use Mooring Buoys: Always use designated mooring buoys instead of anchoring to protect the reef.
3. Respect Marine Life: Never touch, stand on, or take anything from the reef. Even slight contact can cause significant damage.
4. Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen: To help prevent coral bleaching, use only reef-safe sunscreen products.

Explore Key Features

1. Christ of the Abyss Statue: This iconic 9-foot bronze statue is the main attraction, located in about 25 feet of water.
2. Coral Formations: Explore the diverse coral structures, including healthy populations of star coral, staghorn, and elkhorn coral.
3. Marine Life: Look for the abundance of tropical fish species, friendly barracudas, and possible ray sightings.

Enhance Your Experience

1. Bring an Underwater Camera: The good visibility and shallow depths make for excellent photo opportunities, especially around the Christ statue.
2. Consider Multiple Dives: Visit nearby sites like North Dry Rocks to experience different reef structures and marine life.
3. Participate in Conservation: Many operators offer opportunities to learn about or participate in coral restoration efforts.

Capturing Memories at Key Largo Dry Rocks: Photography Tips

1. Use an underwater camera or waterproof housing for your regular camera. The shallow depths (1-25 feet) make this site ideal for both snorkelers and divers to take photos.
2. Take advantage of the good visibility, which is often 35 feet or more. This allows you to capture wide-angle shots of the reef and marine life.
3. Focus on the iconic Christ of the Abyss statue. Try different angles and perspectives:
   • Shoot from below looking up to capture the statue with sunbeams in the background
   • Get close-up details of the statue’s face or hands
   • Include divers or fish in the frame for scale
4. Use natural light when possible. The shallow depth means ambient light is usually sufficient without a strobe.
5. Look for colorful coral formations and tropical fish to add vibrancy to your images. The site is known for its diverse marine life.
6. Practice proper buoyancy control to avoid damaging the reef. Never touch or stand on coral.
7. Consider using a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive reef scenes.
8. For macro photography, search for small creatures hiding in the coral like shrimp or blennies.
9. If possible, plan your dive during early morning for the best lighting conditions and calmest seas.
10. Be patient and take your time. Hovering in one spot can allow shy marine life to acclimate to your presence.
11. After your dive, use editing software thoughtfully to enhance colors and contrast without overdoing it.

Frequently Asked Questions

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