John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

"Loved it! We went just to relax, we didn’t take advantage of any of the amenities. Restrooms were nice, beaches were clean. One of the trails had educational signs about the trees. We had a great time. The little aquarium was a nice surprise."

"First time at John Pennekamp... started with kayaking around the mangroves in the morning. Not able to rent a boat due to the wind, but did do the 3:00 snorkeling tour. Joel and Art were great. Explained everything thoroughly and just down to earth guys. Appreciated their knowledge and desire for safety for all. Had our own gear, as we've snorkeled many times before. Fins up people! It was discouraging to see people kicking the coral/standing on it, despite being told not to. Many fish, some lobsters and barracuda were seen. Overall, great day in nature."

"A very worthwhile stop on any trip through the keys. It has a mini-aquarium, charter rides to the coral reef, kayak and paddle board rentals, public recreational beaches, informational trails, gift shop, bathroom with showers, and camping (though it fills up in advance). I walked all, but the mangrove trail as it was destroyed during my visit in January 2024 - they ate relatively short but very informative. I also chartered a snorkeling trip to the barrier reef with Joel and Lucas. They were great guides, and the experience was highly memorable. If you'd prefer to stay dry, there are also glass bottom boats."

"What a great park to visit, they have a lot to offer and most off all the staff was super friendly! The awareness about reefs in an important one in the region. The nature is beautiful and they have a nice little beach to snorkle from. It's not as nice as out in the Sean, but even when the visibility is 0 out there you get a chance to see some here. They have these barracudas who as not scared of you and swim right under you. The park offers kayaks, snorkeling, and diving tours as well. There are campgrounds and lots of little activities."

"Great place to spend the day! Kayaking, snorkel, to a rentals available! The beaches weren't super nice to relax at as they had just been hit by a storm, but the hiking trails and areas around the park are very beautiful with the mangroves. A very natural state park with lots of fun history. Sunken shipwreck to explore in the swimming area which was pretty cool!"