Dive-site story
Positioned southeast of Key Largo within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, Molasses Reef is characterized by high-profile spur-and-groove coral formations separated by wide sand channels. Marked above the surface by a tall skeletal light tower, the area encompasses recognizable features like the Winch Hole, the Spanish Anchor, and sprawling coral ridges. Elkhorn, brain, and star corals carpet the limestone relief, drawing both resident reef species and pelagic visitors skirting the edge of the Florida Straits.
Classic spur-and-groove coral topography punctuated by wide white sand chutes
Historical artifacts embedded into the reef, including an encrusted winch drum and a colonial anchor
High density of resting nurse sharks and swimming southern stingrays along the channel floors
Large schools of permit, yellowtail snapper, and Atlantic spadefish schooling in midwater
Location
Use the map to plan with your operator and confirm the exact entry point on the day.
Seasonality
Late spring through early autumn offers the calmest seas and highest underwater clarity.
Marine life
| Species | Likelihood | J | F | M | A | M | J | J | A | S | O | N | D |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nurse sharkGinglymostoma cirratum | Common | ||||||||||||
| Green sea turtleChelonia mydas | Common | ||||||||||||
| Great barracudaSphyraena barracuda | Common | ||||||||||||
| Goliath grouperEpinephelus itajara | Seasonal | ||||||||||||
| Green moray eelGymnothorax funebris | Common | ||||||||||||
| Spotted eagle rayAetobatus narinari | Seasonal |
Marine forecast
