For those who love the underwater world, Lighthouse Point offers access to some of the best snorkeling spots in South Florida. Whether you're a seasoned snorkeler or just dipping your toes into this exciting activity, the diverse marine life and crystal-clear waters of the area are sure to impress. Here are six must-visit snorkeling locations near Lighthouse Point!
Snorkeling Near Lighthouse Point
SS Copenhagen
Just three-quarters of a mile offshore, the SS Copenhagen shipwreck is a fascinating site for snorkelers and divers alike. This historic wreck, which sank in 1900, is now part of the Florida Underwater Archaeological Preserve. It’s home to a variety of marine life, including colorful coral formations, schools of fish, and the occasional sea turtle. The wreck’s shallow depth makes it accessible for snorkelers looking to explore a piece of Florida’s maritime history. The SS Copenhagen rests on the ledge of a reef in 16-31 ft. of water with its bow facing south and is located ¾ of a nautical mile offshore of Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, south of Hillsboro Inlet
Lauderdale-by-the-Sea Reef
One of the most popular snorkeling spots in the area, the Lauderdale-by-the-Sea Reef is easily accessible right off the beach. This vibrant reef is teeming with tropical fish, including parrotfish, angelfish, and sergeant majors, making it an ideal spot for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike. The reef is part of the town's "Snorkel Trail," which is clearly marked and easy to follow, ensuring you won’t miss a thing.
Pompano Drop Off
For those seeking a bit more adventure, the Pompano Drop Off offers a more dramatic underwater landscape. Located just offshore from Pompano Beach, this site features steep ledges and coral formations that create a stunning backdrop for spotting larger marine creatures like groupers and barracudas. While it’s more commonly visited by divers, snorkelers will also find plenty to explore in the shallower areas.
Anglin’s Pier Reef
Situated near Anglin’s Fishing Pier in Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, this reef is a hidden gem for snorkelers. The calm waters and abundant marine life make it a great spot for families or those new to snorkeling. You’ll find an array of colorful fish darting around the coral, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a stingray gliding across the sandy bottom.
Hillsboro Inlet
The Hillsboro Inlet area offers a mix of wrecks, reefs, and marine life, providing a rich experience for snorkelers. The diverse underwater environment attracts everything from small tropical fish to larger species like barracudas. The proximity to the inlet means the water is usually clear, offering great visibility for underwater exploration. This spot is perfect for those looking to experience a bit of everything in one location.
Turtle Ledge
As the name suggests, Turtle Ledge is known for its frequent sea turtle sightings. Located just off Pompano Beach, this site is a favorite among snorkelers looking to encounter these majestic creatures up close. The ledge itself is also home to a variety of other marine life, including sponges, corals, and fish. It’s a peaceful spot that offers a more relaxed snorkeling experience while still delivering plenty of underwater excitement.
Want to Explore Further North?
Cato’s Bridge
When you are in search of snorkeling locations near Jupiter, Cato’s Bridge is a location that you should not miss! Located along the west side of the Intracoastal Waterway and south of the Jupiter Inlet Bridge, this “swimming hole” stays crystal clear all day. As it is in the middle of the Jupiter waterway, be sure to stay mindful of boats traveling under the bridge and always dive with a buddy and a dive flag. Keep your eyes out for some local residents like the Florida Manatee, Grouper, Snook and starfish down below!
Peanut Island / Phill Foster Park
Located below the Blue Heron Bridge in the Lake Worth Lagoon, the marked underwater trail gets a steady flow of crystal clear water from the Atlantic Ocean. The current, along with the bridge pilings, rocks and artificial reefs, delivers the variety of sea life. The best time to snorkel at Phil Foster is within 2 hours before and up to the slack tide. You will need a red and white divers flag.
John D MacArthur
There is plenty to see at MacArthur’s rock reef, with marine life of various degrees flocking to the outcropping dependent on time of year, tide cycle, and time of day. On a clear dive, you can expect to see small snook and the usual reef residents like sergeant majors, yellow chub, or a multitude of snappers school throughout, especially under ledges. The rock reef created at MacArthur is an interesting change of pace from the deeper coral reefs and artificial reefs that dot the South Florida coast.