Elbow Reef is well-regarded among divers for its rich biodiversity, beautiful underwater scenery, and favorable diving conditions, making it a popular destination in the Florida Keys.

Article at a Glance

• Location: Elbow Reef is situated in Key Largo, Florida, within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, renowned for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life.
• Diving Depth: The reef features depths ranging from 6 to 18 meters (20 to 60 feet), making it suitable for divers of all experience levels.
• Visibility: Divers can typically expect excellent visibility, often reaching up to 24 to 30 meters (80 to 100 feet), ideal for underwater photography.
• Marine Life: The site is home to a rich variety of marine species, including tropical fish, sea turtles, nurse sharks, and colorful corals.
• Notable Dive Sites: Highlights include the City of Washington wreck, Hannah M. Bell wreck, and the shallow Banana Patch, offering diverse diving experiences.
• Best Time to Dive: Spring and early summer (March to May) are considered the best times for diving due to favorable weather and water conditions.
• Conservation Efforts: Elbow Reef is part of a protected area with regulations in place to safeguard its marine ecosystem, ensuring sustainable diving practices.

Elbow Reef Key Largo

Elbow Reef, also known as The Elbow, is a popular coral reef located in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, just east of Key Largo. This stunning underwater ecosystem is part of the Key Largo Existing Management Area and lies within a Sanctuary Preservation Area (SPA).

Location and Characteristics

The Elbow is situated approximately six nautical miles southeast of Key Largo. It features a well-defined spur and groove system with healthy deepwater corals. The reef is relatively shallow, with depths ranging from 6 to 60 feet, making it accessible for both divers and snorkelers.

Marine Life and Coral Formations

Elbow Reef boasts a diverse array of marine life and impressive coral formations:

• Beautiful coral heads rise from the ocean floor, some reaching heights of over 15 feet.
• The reef is home to various sea sponges and abundant marine life.
• The shallow depths and vibrant ecosystem make it an excellent spot for both day and night dives.

Historical Significance

One of the unique aspects of Elbow Reef is its historical shipwrecks:

• The City of Washington, a schooner lost in 1917, lies just off the Elbow Lighthouse.
• A Civil War wreck with wooden beams and iron fasteners can be found north of the lighthouse.
• These shipwrecks have become part of the reef ecosystem, with corals growing around them over time.

Diving and Snorkeling

Elbow Reef is a prime destination for underwater enthusiasts:

• There are 11 dive sites with mooring balls to choose from within the Elbow Reef area.
• The reef’s shallow depths and clear waters make it ideal for snorkeling as well as scuba diving.
• Night dives are popular due to the abundance of marine life and the relatively shallow depths.

What Marine Life Can I Expect To See?

Marine Life

• Tropical Fish: The reef is home to a wide variety of tropical fish, including parrotfish, angelfish, and butterflyfish, which are commonly found among the coral structures.
• Predatory Fish: Larger species such as barracuda and nurse sharks are also present, adding excitement for divers and snorkelers alike.
• Moray Eels: These fascinating creatures can often be spotted hiding in crevices within the reef.
• Coral Species: The reef features a range of healthy corals, including stony corals and sea fans, which provide habitat for many marine organisms.
• Sea Sponges: Various types of sea sponges can be found throughout the area, contributing to the biodiversity of the ecosystem.

Habitat Features

• Coral Formations: The reef has a well-defined spur and groove system that supports diverse marine life and offers shelter for smaller species.
• Shipwrecks: Notable wrecks like the City of Washington enhance the marine environment, attracting fish and other marine organisms that thrive around these structures.

Diving Conditions

Elbow Reef is accessible to divers of all levels, with depths ranging from 25 to 60 feet. The area experiences mild to medium currents, making it suitable for various diving activities throughout the year.

What Do Divers Say About This Site?

Overall Impressions

• Diverse Marine Life: Many divers report seeing a wide variety of fish species, including parrotfish, grouper, and even larger predators like barracuda and nurse sharks. The presence of unique creatures, such as flamingo tongue snails and sea turtles, adds to the excitement of diving here.
• Great Visibility: The underwater visibility at Elbow Reef is often praised, allowing divers to fully appreciate the vibrant colors and intricate details of the coral reefs and marine life.

Dive Conditions

• Accessibility: The site is suitable for divers of all levels, with depths ranging up to 60 feet. Many reviews mention that the conditions are generally mild, making it a comfortable dive experience.
• Wreck Diving: The presence of historical wrecks like the City of Washingtonenhances the diving experience. Divers enjoy exploring these wrecks, which are teeming with marine life and provide unique photographic opportunities.

Recommendations

• Dive Operators: Reviews recommend various dive operators in Key Largo that offer trips to Elbow Reef. Many divers appreciate the professionalism and friendliness of the staff, enhancing their overall experience.
• Photography Opportunities: Divers interested in underwater photography often highlight Elbow Reef as an excellent location due to its stunning coral landscapes and abundant marine life.

Key Information

Category	Details
Location	Key Largo, Florida, USA
Max Depth	Approximately 18 meters (60 feet)
Depth Range	6 to 18 meters (20 to 60 feet)
Visibility	Typically 24 to 30 meters (80 to 100 feet)
Current Conditions	Mild to medium currents
Suitability	Suitable for all levels (beginners to advanced)
Notable Dive Sites	City of Washington wreck, Hannah M. Bell wreck, Banana Patch
Marine Life	Tropical fish, sea turtles, nurse sharks, corals
Best Time to Dive	Spring and early summer (March to May)
Water Temperature	21°C (70°F) in winter to 29°C (85°F) in summer
Photography Opportunities	Excellent for underwater photography
Night Diving	Available and suitable for advanced divers
Conservation Status	Part of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary; protected area with regulations

Highlights of Diving This Site?

Stunning Coral Reefs

• Vibrant Coral Formations: Divers can explore beautiful coral reefs characterized by diverse coral species and healthy ecosystems. The spur and groove formations provide a unique underwater landscape, enhancing the diving experience.
• Rich Biodiversity: The reef is home to numerous marine species, including colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, and various invertebrates. Divers often report sightings of parrotfish, grouper, and even nurse sharks.

Shipwrecks

• Historical Wrecks: Elbow Reef features notable shipwrecks like the City of Washington, a schooner lost in 1917, which adds an element of exploration and history to dives. These wrecks are often teeming with marine life, making them exciting spots for divers.
• Diverse Ecosystems: The wrecks serve as artificial reefs, attracting various fish and providing habitats for marine organisms. This contributes to the overall biodiversity of the area.

Dive Conditions

• Accessible Depths: The site has a maximum depth of 60 feet (approximately 18 meters), making it suitable for divers of all levels. The mild to medium currents are manageable for most, enhancing the overall safety and enjoyment of dives.
• Excellent Visibility: Divers often praise the clear waters at Elbow Reef, which can reach visibility of up to 80 feet. This clarity allows for stunning underwater photography and enhances the overall diving experience.

Unique Experiences

• Underwater Photography: With its vibrant colors and diverse marine life, Elbow Reef is a favorite among underwater photographers. Divers frequently capture images of unique species such as flamingo tongue snails and elkhorn corals.
• Night Diving Opportunities: The area is also known for night dives, where divers can witness different marine behaviors and encounters with nocturnal species, adding another layer to the diving experience.

Iconic Spots At This Site

City of Washington

• Description: This wreck sank in 1917 and is known for its scattered remains, which have become part of the natural reef ecosystem. Coral growth has made many parts unrecognizable as a wreck.
• Depth: Approximately 8 meters (26 feet).
• Level: Suitable for all divers.
• Highlights: The site is often populated with schools of fish and offers a unique blend of wreck exploration and coral reef diving.

2. USS Spiegel Grove

• Description: This is one of the largest wrecks intentionally sunk to create an artificial reef, lying upright on the seabed after Hurricane Dennis righted it in 2005.
• Depth: Ranges from 20 to 40 meters (66 to 131 feet).
• Level: Intermediate to advanced due to varying currents.
• Highlights: The wreck features multiple passageways, making it suitable for both experienced divers and those looking to explore larger structures.

3. Christ of the Abyss

• Description: A famous underwater statue of Jesus Christ, this bronze figure sits at about 7.6 meters (25 feet) deep and is one of three similar statues worldwide.
• Level: Accessible for all divers, including snorkelers.
• Highlights: The statue is surrounded by vibrant marine life and coral, making it a popular spot for photography and reflection.

4. Hannah M. Bell

• Description: This wreck rests at a depth of about 20 feet and is known for its cargo history and the marine life that has made it home.
• Level: Suitable for all levels.
• Highlights: The shallow depth makes it an excellent choice for novice divers looking to explore a wreck without deep-water concerns.

5. USS Duane

• Description: A retired Coast Guard cutter sunk as an artificial reef, known for its strong currents and diverse marine life, including bull sharks.
• Depth: Ranges from 21 to 37 meters (69 to 121 feet).
• Level: Advanced due to strong currents.
• Highlights: The wreck provides exciting encounters with larger marine species and is a favorite among experienced divers.

Environmental Conservation Efforts at Elbow Reef

Environmental conservation efforts at Elbow Reef in Key Largo are primarily managed through its designation as a Sanctuary Preservation Area (SPA) within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Here are some key aspects of the conservation efforts:

Protected Status

Elbow Reef is part of the Key Largo Existing Management Area, which provides it with special protections. As a Sanctuary Preservation Area, it benefits from regulations designed to limit consumptive activities and protect the marine ecosystem.

Regulations and Restrictions

Several specific regulations are in place to protect Elbow Reef:

• Fishing and harvesting of marine life are prohibited, with the exception of catch and release fishing by trolling in certain SPAs (not including Elbow Reef).
• Discharging any matter except cooling water or engine exhaust is prohibited.
• Touching or standing on living or dead coral is not allowed.
• Anchoring on living or dead coral or any attached organism is forbidden.

Mooring Buoys

To prevent anchor damage to corals, mooring buoys have been installed for boaters to use

1. This helps preserve the delicate reef structures while still allowing for recreational access.

Diving and Snorkeling Guidelines

While diving and snorkeling are allowed, visitors are encouraged to follow responsible practices:

• Taking only pictures and leaving only bubbles is strongly emphasized.
• Divers are asked not to disturb, damage, or remove historical resources or artifacts.

Research and Monitoring

The sanctuary status allows for ongoing research and monitoring of the reef ecosystem, which helps inform conservation strategies and assess the health of the marine environment.

Public Education

Efforts are made to educate visitors about the importance of preserving the reef ecosystem and its historical shipwrecks. This includes information about responsible diving practices and the significance of maritime heritage sites.

Maximizing Your Diving Experience at Elbow Reef

Plan Your Dives

• Choose the Right Sites: Elbow Reef offers multiple dive sites suitable for various skill levels. Popular spots include:
  • The City of Washington wreck (26 feet deep, suitable for all levels)
  • Banana Patch (6-14 meters deep, known for colorful corals)
  • The Elbow (southern tip, for advanced divers due to strong currents)
• Check Conditions: Water temperatures range from 21°C (70°F) in winter to 29°C (85°F) in summer. Visibility is often excellent, up to 80 feet.

Enhance Your Experience

• Use Nitrox: For deeper dives, consider using Nitrox to extend bottom time safely.
• Try Night Diving: Elbow Reef offers excellent night diving opportunities to see different marine behaviors.
• Bring a Camera: The clear waters and vibrant marine life make for great underwater photography.

Explore Diverse Ecosystems

• Coral Formations: Observe the spur and groove system and various coral species.
• Marine Life: Look for tropical fish, sea turtles, nurse sharks, and unique species like flamingo tongue snails.
• Shipwrecks: Explore the City of Washington and other historical wrecks that have become part of the reef ecosystem.

Follow Conservation Guidelines

• Use mooring buoys instead of anchoring to protect the reef.
• Practice good buoyancy control to avoid damaging corals.
• Respect marine life and historical artifacts by not touching or removing anything.

Dive Safely

• Dive within your certification level and experience.
• Be aware of currents, which can range from mild to medium.
• Always dive with a buddy and follow local diving regulations.

Capturing Memories at Elbow Reef: Photography Tips

Equipment Essentials

• Underwater Housing: Invest in a quality underwater housing for your camera to protect it from water damage while allowing you to take clear shots.
• Macro Lens: A good macro lens can enhance your ability to capture intricate details of corals and small marine life.
• Strobe Lights: Using external strobes can help illuminate subjects effectively, especially in deeper waters where natural light may be limited.

Camera Settings

• White Balance: Adjust the white balance manually to match the lighting conditions underwater. This is crucial as different depths and water clarity can affect color representation.
• Aperture and Shutter Speed: Use a wide aperture (low f-stop number) for shallow depth of field shots, which helps isolate subjects. For moving subjects, increase the shutter speed to avoid motion blur.
• ISO Settings: Start with an ISO of around 400-800, adjusting based on lighting conditions. Be cautious with high ISO settings as they can introduce noise.

Composition Techniques

• Vary Your Angles: Experiment with different angles—shoot from above, below, or at eye level with your subject. This can create more dynamic and interesting photos.
• Focus on Details: Capture close-ups of corals, fish, and other marine life. Use a macro lens for detailed shots that showcase textures and colors.
• Silhouettes and Backlighting: Utilize backlighting to create dramatic silhouettes against bright backgrounds. This technique works well with larger marine animals or coral formations.

Lighting Considerations

• Natural Light: Take advantage of natural light during shallow dives. The best time for underwater photography is typically mid-morning when sunlight penetrates the water effectively.
• Avoid On-Camera Flash: On-camera flash often results in glare and reflections off the water surface. Instead, position external strobes strategically for better lighting.

Practical Tips

• Stability: Hold your camera steady by tucking your elbows into your body or using a tripod if conditions allow. This is especially important for macro shots where even slight movements can affect focus.
• Reduce Water Movement: If possible, turn off any pumps or filters that may cause currents in the water, allowing for clearer shots of stationary subjects.
• Practice Patience: Underwater photography often requires waiting for the right moment. Be patient and observe marine life behavior before taking your shot.

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