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Welcome to Paradise a challenging year for the Keys with erroneous reports of oil balls and impending environmental doom — but I am so pleased to tell you that none of these reports actually materialized! All is well and thriving here in the Keys and the reports just keep getting better, from a healthy reef system — go out for yourself and look at all of the new corals growing everywhere — to the sprawling mangrove forests! We do have some of the most inviting waterfront resorts, quaint B&B’s and eateries that will send you home with a different perspective on dining! But the greatest asset we have here in the Keys is Mother Nature — just ask Jimmy Buffet. What do you think “Mother, Mother Nature” was about? I am sure you came to the Keys to get into the water! We have plenty of that here and all of the activities that go with it! So get out, get wet and have fun! PS: Please tell our advertisers you read about them in the EcoGuide — they alone make this guide possible!
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Welcome to America’s island paradise and thank you for picking up this copy of EcoGuide Florida Keys! It has been
Enjoy Paradise — Enjoy the Florida Keys! Richard H. Stewart, Publisher & Editor-in-Chief
As an adult I took that passion and became an advocate. As a nine year resident of the Florida Keys, I have been living in one of the most environmentally sensitive places in the world. Since I moved here, I have learned so much. I am very thankful for the opportunities of enlightenment I have had. My eyes have been opened beyond what I could have dreamed. This heightened awareness has led to my making conscious choices everyday for the betterment of my community, my environment, and my planet. I have a voice and the ability to spread the “good green word.” I am very excited to be the Regional Publisher of the EcoGuide Florida Keys. This publication supports and encompasses education, economy and the environment. The day I met Richard Stewart, my life changed forever. He has given me an opportunity to continue to spread the “good green word” nationwide. We are all connected on this planet. This publication allows you to think globally, but act locally. As you travel to the Florida Keys, slow down, look around and participate in environmental preservation. Life is full of adventures, just tread softly through them! Christi Allen, Regional Plublisher & Editor EcoGuide Florida Keys is published bi-annually by Ocean Realm Media, PO Box 2388, New Smyrna Beach, FL 32170. Content may not be copied without written permission. ECOGUIDE is a trademark of Ocean Realm Media. Ph: 352.817.5893. EcoGuides are printed on 100% FSC certified paper in compliance with the environmental and social standards of the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). EcoGuide | 3 | Florida Keys
IMAGE BY RICHARD STEWART
I have been an admirer of the environment since I was a child. I developed a passion for the environment in high school.
The Origins Of
The Florida Keys The Florida Keys are sometimes referred to as “America’s tropical paradise” and for good reason. Stretching more than 107 miles from Key Largo to Key West, the “cays” or keys, dot the waterscape like tropical stepping stones into the Caribbean. The deep blue water along the Atlantic side, the teal color of the bayside and the green palm trees together give you the feeling that you are traveling an oversea highway to the Caribbean. The Florida Keys are composed of five separate districts in the county of Monroe. Starting in the north is Key Largo/Tavernier, followed by Islamorada, Marathon, Big Pine Key and the Lower Keys, and at the southernmost — Key West. Each town displays characteristics that sets it apart, as do the aquatic and touring activities. Each has its own allure, such as the diving and snorkeling reputation of Key Largo; the fishing in Islamorada or the kayaking around Big Pine. Of course, in reality you can dive, kayak and experience nature tours from one end to another. How the keys were formed is a time-line that dates back millions of years when the planet was one ocean. Following the ice age along with the continental drifts of North and South America, parts of the Keys — notably the Upper Keys area of Key Largo — were formed by sedimentary materials covering a solid base. This process took a long period of time. Thousands of acres of coral forests that covered this submerged region eventually formed into the present day land mass now referred to as Key Largo Limestone. Additionally, as the glaciers reformed, taking water from the ocean, the lowering sea level exposed the shallower middle keys coral forests eventually creating today’s low elevation land mass of the middle keys. From the Big Pine Key area to Key West, the geographic profile is a combination of sand and Oolite — calcium carbonate deposits lying on top of Key Largo Limestone — forming today’s channel-ridden shoals and islands.
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AMERICA’S TROPICAL PARADISE
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and as they grow, secretes the limestone-like material that forms the hard coral. In order for coral to grow, it depends on a warm and healthy environment free of pollution. Keys-wide there are many initiatives in place to assure the long-term survival of the reef and backwater systems. New facilities and a network of pipes have been constructed to gather stormwater and reduce waste material from leaching into the coastal water. Along with new roads are retention ponds designed to minimize the distribution of oil-tainted roadway run-off water which can cause the degradation of the mangrove and reef system and its fragile relationship with the overall coastal and bayside eco-system. Other initiatives, such as the Sanctuary Friends Foundation’s environmental-embedment installation program and the Audubon of Florida’s Key’s Environmental Restoration projects, have further assisted in slowing damage from population encroachment. The Sanctuary Friends moorings program was created to support the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary’s efforts to place new and replace deteriorated moorings — thus limiting reef damage from boat anchors. Because of the Caribbean-like tropical environment, the Keys host a variety of flora and fauna — many considered invasive. The Audubon Society of Florida’s program is to fund the restoration and enhancement of the Florida Keys natural areas. From the filling in of man-made canals and the removal of non-native vegetation to the replenishment of sea grasses — more than 30 projects have all contributed to protecting the natural environment of the Keys.
How the Florida Keys were formed geologically is an important part of understanding the fragile environment the keys are today. The keys of today may host thriving and growing communities but these modern day land masses are still connected to the existence of the marine life community as coral reef forests still thrive just offshore. Coral is a marine organism — not a rock as many believe after observing the skeletal remains of the dead coral. The coral animal is called a Polyp with the outer skeleton the actual coral. The coral polyp is a carnivorous animal that feeds off of smaller organisms
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Vacationing away from home doesn’t mean travelers have to give up being environmentally conscientious according to DEP Director of Sustainable Initiatives, Deas Bohn. “Staying in a designated Green Lodging facility allows vacationers to conserve water and energy while protecting the state’s natural resources so that Florida remains a beautiful travel destination for future generations.” Please Consider Supporting a Green Lodge When Planning Your Visit to the Florida Keys. The Florida Green Lodging Program is a voluntary initiative of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) that designates and recognizes lodging facilities that make a commitment to conserve and protect Florida’s natural resources. The program’s environmental guidelines allow the hospitality industry to evaluate its operations, set goals and take specific actions to continuously improve environmental performance.
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DIRECTORY OF FLORIDA KEYS GREEN LODGES
Directory of Florida Keys Green Lodges
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GREEN | Tavernier LODGES Largo | Key LODGES | KEY GREEN LARGO | TAVENIER
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GREEN LODGES | ISLAMORADA | BIG PINE KEY
GREEN LODGES | KEY WEST
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GREEN LODGES | KEY WEST EcoGuide | 11 | Florida Keys
Key Largo Chamber of Commerce | www.FloridaKeys.org
IMAGE BY RICHARD STEWART
Key Largo B
and
Tavernier
efore Henry Flagler completed his overseas railroad in 1913, travel to the Keys was without a doubt a challenge. The eleven mile road from Florida City to Card Sound met up with the Key Largo Ferry until the wooden draw bridge was completed in 1928. Flagler’s railroad project linked Miami to Key West at a cost of 50 million dollars only to be destroyed by a hurricane in 1935. By 1938, the state had finished what is now known as the Overseas Highway. Today, driving to the Keys, and into Key Largo is a twenty minute ride from Florida City along newly paved and widened roads. Key Largo is the first of five districts in Monroe County, lying between mile markers 107 and 89, and is most commonly referred to as the “Dive Capital of the World” because of its expanse of healthy tropical reefs just off the coast. Some say Key Largo was made famous by the Humphrey Bogart movie of the same name but, there is no doubt to the local
“conch” residents that Key Largo’s attraction is a combination of both its thriving reefs and its local charm. Every year, tens of thousands head to Key Largo to scuba dive, snorkel, kayak and fish. Dotted all along the overseas highway can be found great seafood and specialty restaurants, dive operators, fishing charters and gift shops. If you are a scuba diver or snorkeler you can relish the fact you are in the most sub-tropical environment in the continental U.S. The reef system is amazing, offering excellent shallow reef dives with mounds of Staghorn and Elkhorn corals, sponges and an array of fish life. Some of the most interesting reefs have tunnels running throughout — a product of the ocean eroding the limestone base. The marine life is vibrant — Grouper, Yellow Tail Snapper, Green Moray Eels and even Nurse Sharks linger in the sandy valleys between the coral mounds. It all makes for an exciting dive for all.
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most of the water bird species inhabit coastal Florida. Within the Florida Keys there are seven types of herons and four types of Egrets, along with Cormorants, Osprey, Frigate Birds, Vultures, Roseate Spoonbills, Bald Eagles, Kites, Owls, Hawks, Stilts, Brown Pelicans, White Ibis and many more species. The Upper Keys are most interesting in terms of wild life, trees and flowers and there are over eighteen million visitors a year that “flock” here for bird-watching vacations! Every year, the Upper Keys are visited by shorebirds traveling from North America to South America. Hawks, songbirds and shorebirds stop here on their migration south as the Keys are an important feeding and resting place for these migrating birds — many of whom fly thousands of miles round trip from place to place. But for many who visit Key Largo fishing is what counts the most! The Key Largo and Islamorada Flats, Flamingo & Everglades National Park are among their favorites — as is the deep sea fishing along the Atlantic. Backcountry and flats fishing the water of Key Largo is not only one of the best experiences you can have fishing, it is also a lot of fun. Whether you come with your own boat or charter an entire boat, you are sure to come back with catch of Bonefish, Tarpon, Permit, Snook, Redfish or Trout! Conservation efforts designed to enhance fish stocks have been driving the fishing ethic in the Keys for decades. Keys guides pioneered catch-andrelease fishing. Size and bag limits, and more recently bans on gill nets and fish traps in state water, have enabled stocks to grow and stabilize.
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Let’s not overlook snorkeling! If you are not a SCUBA diver but would like to see Key Largo’s natural wonders beneath the surface — then you are a candidate to become a snorkeler! No training is required — though it will be helpful to IMAGE BY TOM STACK have someone show you how to clear the water out of the snorkel. Key Largo has the most famous protected reefs in the continental U.S. The John Pennekamp Coral Reef Park — named after a visionary Miami Herald journalist — has a world renown reputation for its incredible reef life and, as a snorkeler there are so many wonderful shallow water sites to experience that do not require SCUBA certification. As you drive from south Miami along the Overseas Highway towards Key Largo enjoy the panoramic views to the west — part of the Everglades and the Florida Bay. This is one of the best kayaking environments South Florida has to offer. From Key Largo up to Florida City there are many bays, lagoons, marsh lakes and canals to kayak, one could spend a life time paddling and still not see it all. Key Largo has the location advantage for kayaking as there are hundreds of trails and launches and an endless array of wildlife to view along the way. One day you are paddling throughout the maze of mangroves in the bay, the next day you are paddling and hiking the razor grass trails of the Everglades — all within 30 minutes of Key Largo. Diving and kayaking are just two of the many activities Key Largo has to offer. Birding — otherwise known as the art of observing wild birds — is an activity that everyone from eight to eighty can enjoy and appreciate. The Keys, and in particular Key Largo, offer an amazing and diverse population of feathered friends. The water around Key Largo is an ecologically fascinating place where freshwater from the Everglades mixes with the saltwater of Florida Bay. Ever since John James Audubon visited the Keys in 1832, birders have been taking notes — on the bird life of the Upper Florida Keys. The birds diversity of this coastal landscape is due to habitat nesting, and migration. The wildlife in the Florida Keys varies with the contrast in habitat. It is in the protected shallow flats and mangrove shoreline of the Upper Keys where
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BEACHES | BIRDING | BOATING | FISHING | ECOTOURS Beaches
Boating
Most popular bird watching areas around Key Largo area are Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge, Dagny Johnson, Key Largo Hammocks Botanical State Park, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Florida Keys Wild Bird Center and Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park. Expect to see Frigatebirds, “Great White” Heron, Reddish Egrets, Roseate Spoonbills, White-crowned Pigeons, Mangrove Cuckoos, Antillean Nighthawks, Gray Kingbirds, Black-whiskered Vireos and Yellow Warblers. For more information, call: Florida Keys
If you brought your own boat there are three ramps available for launching. Card Sound boat ramp on Card Sound Road, Bayside at Sunset Point Park (MM 95.2) and at Harry Harris Park (MM 92.5). If you are looking for a rental contact: Tiki Watersports at 305.852.9298 (MM 94.2).
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Birding
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John Pennekamp Park Key Largo is better know for the bluegreen water than white sand beaches. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park has a man-made, beach called Canon Beach. For information call: 305-451-6300. Located at 102601 Overseas Highway (MM 102.6).
Wild Bird Center at 305.852-4486, 93600 Overseas Hwy (MM 93.6 Bayside), www.flwbc.org. Note: FKWBC is on the edge of the Tavernier city limits. Highly reccommended even if staying in Key Largo.
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Fishing Key Largo has some of the best fishing in the Keys. Offshore, you will find Sailfish, Dolphin (mahi-mahi), Tuna, Wahoo, King Mackerel and Blue Marlin. On the bayside you find Bonefish, Tarpon, Permit and
ECO & GLASS BOTTOM BOAT TOURS | KAYAKING
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more. Deep sea fishing charters, backcountry and reef fishing — Key Largo offers the experienced guides.
Eco & Glass Bottom Boat Tours The waters around Key Largo is an ecologically fascinating place where freshwater from the Everglades mixes
with the saltwater of Florida Bay. Everglades National Park just west of Key Largo. An array of wildlife is within easy reach of the dock, including Bottle-nosed Dolphin, Crocodiles, Sea Turtles, Alligators, and Manatees. Highly skilled boat captains and eco-tour outfitters are available. For more information contact: Amy Slate’s Amoray Dive Resort, 305.451-3595, 104250 Overseas Highway (MM 105-104), wwwAmoray.com, or Captain Slate’s Atlantis Dive Center, 305.451.3020, 51 Garden Cove Drive, www.CaptainSlate.com.
Kayaking
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Key Largo and Everglades National Park are year round sea kayaking regions.
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Whether you bring your own kayak or rent one from an outfitter and join a guided tour, there are dozens of locations to satisfy all levels of ability — from an easy 2 mile trip to a 10 mile trek! From Key Largo to Tavernier, there are the favorite paddle trails. Starting from the north, just as you enter Key Largo there is Garden Cove, reached via Garden Cove Drive. This is a pleasant, mostly protected trail of around 2.5 miles. Further south, near the Florida Bay Outfitters location (adjacent to the Caribbean Club, MM 104) there is a launch site that will get you headed toward Dusenberry Creek. This is a moderate paddle of around 5.5 miles. Near the middle of Key Largo is Sunset Park, Swash Key and Plantation Key (MM 95.3) lie about 1.5 miles away. On the north side of Tavernier, launching from Harry Harris County Park, there is a pleasant soft paddle — Dove Creek, that is approximately a 2 mile trip. One of the benefits of basing your kayak adventures in Key Largo is the proximity of the Florida Everglades National Park with nearly100 miles of kayak trails and
an abundance of wildlife. For more information on the various trails, tours and rentals contact: Coastal Kayaking, 305.894.5045, or Florida Bay Outfitters, 305.451.3018.
Paddle Boarding
One of the fast-growing water sports, stand up paddleboarding (SUP) is an easy way to play on the water. With a minimum of equipment, you can paddle anything from ocean surf to the bayside flats. This is an amazing full body workout and since you’re standing at your full height, you’ll enjoy excellent views of marine life, as well as along the shore on the horizon. For more information on paddle boarding call: Florida Bay Outfitters, 305.451.3018, or Mangrove Watersports at 305.283.3518,
Parks The Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park is located on County Road 905, one-quarter mile north of the intersection with the Overseas Highway (US 1).
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The Everglades National Park. The only ecosystem of its kind in the world, encompasses more than 1.4 million acres. Visitors see bald eagles and nearly 300 additional species of birds, as
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PADDLE BOARDING | PARKS
well as Alligators, Deer and Bobcats. Gateway — Florida City. Harry Harris Park Beach This Tavernier Beach is inside the Monroe County's Harry Harris park and is another man-made beach on the Atlantic Ocean. There is a wide expanse of white sand with a number of covered picnic tables and a bath house. (Mile Marker 92.5 oceanside).
SAILING | SCUBA & SNORKELING
Sailing Key Largo offers catamaran charters as well as mono hull and Hobie Cat rentals.
Scuba & Snorkeling Without a doubt Key Largo’s most recognized activity is SCUBA diving. From the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park — great for snorkeling — to the first few stops on the Wreck Trek, Key Largo has it all. Beautiful shallow reefs teaming with fish, the 100 year old wreck of the Benwood, to Key Largo’s greatest artificial reef — the Spiegel Grove. At 510 feet in length and an 84 foot beam, the Spiegal Grove is one of the
largest artificial reefs in the world. The Duane, a Coast Guard Cutter that was named after the Secretary of the Treasury under President Andrew Jackson, is near the Bib, a patrol and escort ship that served in the North Atlantic, Caribbean Sea, Mediterranean Sea, Viet Nam and the Pacific Ocean. If you are not a certified SCUBA diver, Key Largo a great place to begin! A resort course offers you an opportunity to “TRY SCUBA” under the supervision of a certified instructor who will provide pool training and a closely monitored open water experience. Just enought to wet your appetite so when you go home you can get an Open Water certification. For more information about SCUBA and snorkeling contact the following oporators:
Captain Slate’s Atlantis Dive Center 305.451.3020 Florida Keys Dive Center 305-453-3535 Horizon Divers, 305-453-3535 Island Ventures, 305.451.4957
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Keys Diver and Snorkel Center 305-451-1177 Scuba Do Diving Company 305-451-3446
IMAGE BY TOM STACK
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park As one of Florida's most fascinating natural parks, this preserve includes the Coral Reef Theater, a reconstruction of a living reef in a 30,000 gallon aquarium, snorkeling, diving, glassbottom boat tours, kayak, canoe, camping, fishing and more (MM 102.5).
Lobster Seasons The two day spiny lobster sport season is always the last consecutive Wednesday and Thursday in July. It begins at 12:01 am on the last Wednesday in July and ends at 12:00 midnight on the last Thursday in July. The bag limits are 6 per person per day for Monroe County and Biscayne National Park, and 12 per person per day for the rest of Florida. The possession limit on the water is equal to the daily bag limit, and off the water is equal to the daily bag limit on the first day, and double the daily bag limit on the second day.
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Possession limits are enforced on and off the water. Spiny lobster have a minimum size limit — larger than a 3" carapace, measured in the water. Reminder: possession and use of a measuring device is required at all times, and night diving is prohibited in Monroe County (only during the sport season). A recreational saltwater license and a crawfish permit are needed for harvest. Regular spiny lobster season is ALWAYS August 6 through March 31. The bag limit is 6 per person per day. Harvest of lobster is prohibited in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park during the sport season. Harvest is also prohibited during both the 2-day sport season and regular season in Everglades National Park, Dry Tortugas National Park, and no take areas in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Call (305) 743-2437 or visit www.fknms.nos.noaa.gov for information about no take areas in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Call the Marathon Law Enforcement office at (305) 2892320 for more lobster harvesting regulations for Monroe County.
LOBSTER BAG LIMITS - Mini Season 2-Day Sport Season (July 26 –27) Monroe County, 6 per person per day Biscayne National Park, 6 per person per day Elsewhere, 12 per person per day Regular Season (August 6 – March 31) Monroe County, 6 per person per day Biscayne National Park, 6 per person per day Elsewhere, 6 per person per day Regardless of what species you are fishing for, bag limits are only for properly licensed individuals and those people exempt from license requirements who are actively harvesting, and those people harvesting may not exceed their individual bag limit and take someone else’s bag limit. That is, people (including children) who are not actively harvesting or are not properly licensed (if a license is required) may NOT be counted for purposes of bag limits. EcoGuide | 21 | Florida Keys
Florida Keys Wreck Trek WIth the addition of the Vandenberg, the Florida Keys “Wreck Treck” now totals ten in all. Most of the wreck dives are within the acceptable “open water” standards but require “advanced open water” in many instances. Following is a list of wrecks, in each district, as well as dive operators that serve the area.
Key Largo Spiegel Grove: Length: 510'. Vessel Type: Landing-ship-dock liberty ship. Year Sunk: June 10, 2002, Depth: 130'. Benwood: Length Overall: 360'. Vessel Type: Freighter. Year Sunk: 1941, Depth: 50'.
Key Largo, Tavernier & Islamorada Bibb and Duane: Length Overall: 327'. Vessel Type: Treasury Class U.S. Coast Guard cutter. Year Sunk: Nov. 27, 1987 Max. Depth: Bibb 130, Duane 120'. Eagle: Length Overall: 269'. Vessel Type: Freighter. Year Sunk: Dec. 19, 1985, Depth: 110'.
Marathon Thunderbolt Length Overall: 188'. Vessel Type: Cable layer Year Sunk: March 3, 1986, Depth: 120'.
Big Pine Adolphus Busch: Length Overall: 210'. Vessel Type: Freighter. Year Sunk: Dec. 5, 1998, Depth: 105'.
Key West Cayman Salvager: Length Overall: 187'. Vessel Type: U.S. Coast Guard steel-hulled buoy tender. Year Sunk: August 1985, Depth: 90'. Joe's Tug: Length Overall: 65'. Vessel Type: Steel tugboat. Year Sunk: Jan. 21, 1989, Max. Depth: 60'. Vandenberg: Length Overall: 522’. Vessel Type: Missile Tracker Year Sunk: May 2009, Depth: 90'.
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Islamorada Chamber Of Commerce | www.IslamoradaChamber.org
IMAGE BY RICHARD STEWART
Islamorada A
s you go further south into the Keys string you depart the “Diving Capital of the World” and enter the “Sport Fishing Capital of the World” as Islamorada is known. Islamorada (mile markers 90 to 72) was incorporated in 1997 as “Islamorada, Village of Islands” — though the first post office was established in 1908. It is comprised of four separate islands with residents, two islands that are part of the Florida State Park system — Indian Key and Lignum Vitae Key — and one private island, Tea Table Key. The diving in this area is also fantastic, as is kayaking and other aquatic activities such as Kite Boarding and Paddle Boarding. However when you enter Islamorada you are without any doubt in fishing country. Evidence of just that can be seen in the various marinas — headquarters for over 100 charter fishing operators. There is no shortage of fishing opportunities with 16 marinas in
Islamorada alone. What type of fishing is best? It depends on the desired catch: party boats trawl along the coast; deep sea sportfishing charters that go miles out; patch reef fishing or on the Florida Bay side backcountry fishing — home to a variety fish including, Bonefish, Trout, Redfish, Snook, Jack Crevalle, Permit and Mangrove Snapper. Whether you are a seasoned or amateur fisherman there is no shortage of choices — and whether you are a “catch and release” or a “catch and eat” fisherman the Islamorada fishing scene will fulfill all of your catch expectations. If fishing is not your idea of getting close to nature, then a day of kayaking the back country might be of interest. On the bayside of Islamorada there is a network of islands, one 2.5 miles in diameter is only a mile from the main island. This makes for a pleasant experience for the beginner taking a guided tour.
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For the seasoned kayaker, you’ll want to do a little “island hopping” to fulfill your day. Scuba diving and snorkeling is excellent in this area due to its location south of the reef system of Key Largo. Here dive operators can venture north to the park, an area less frequented by the Key Largo operators or head out for a shorter ride to the reefs just five minutes from the dock. High profile coral heads and broad ledges with virbrant marine life provide a wonderful dive experience. An underwater shipwreck park, named after the sunken Spanish ship “San Pedro,” is located in 18 feet of water approximately 1.25 miles south of Indian Key.
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Islamorada, in addition to being home for two state parks, is also the place to find one of the best beaches in the area — Anne’s Beach. Great for lounging in the water or having a picnic, Anne’s Beach’s shallow, sandy bottom is also the most popular location for kite boarding and the ever so fast activity of stand up paddling.
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BEACHES | BIKING | BOATING | FISHING Anne’s Beach MM 73.5 A public beach popular for swimming, kiteboarding and picnicing. Public restrooms. Pet friendly. Founders Park MM 87, Bayside. www.Islamorada.fl.us. Public beach and park, watersports rentals, marina, boat ramp, fitness and walking trails, dog park and amphitheater. Holiday Isle Beach MM84.5 A private beach open to the public, including the watersports facility, restrooms, marina and tiki bar. Library Beach MM 81.5, Bayside. Public beach, playground picnic facilities, and restrooms. Settler’s Park & Beach MM 90.5 Natural coral coastline.
Tea Table Fill MM 79, Bayside. Public boat ramp, bike path and deep water swimming.
Biking All along the Overseas Highway there are continuos bike paths as well as trails through a number of beach and park locations such as Anne’s Beach (MM 73.5), Founders Park (MM 87) and Tea Table Fill (MM 79). For bike rentals contact: A1A Watersports, 305.664-8182, MM 82, Bayside.
Boating Boating is popular in the Keys as one might imagine with an endless choice of waterways. Whether you bring your own boat or seek a rental there are established boating rules and regulations to follow. For rentals contact: A1A Watersports, 305.664.8182, MM 82.7, Oceanside, or Islamorada Watersports, 305.853.5483.
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Beaches
Fishing Islamorada is world-renowned for offshore sport fishing, fly fishing, reef fishing, the flats and backcountry fishing! Islamorada is considered the sportfishing capital of the world so it’s easy to see why there are more than a dozen marinas with a variety of sport and back country fishing operators. The three most popular marinas are Bud n’ Mary’s Marina at MM 79.9, Holiday Isle Marina at MM84, and Whale Harbor Marina at MM 83.5. Typically you
KAYAKING | KITE BOARDING book your trip with the boat captain at the dock. Flats fishing in Islamorada became known in the early 1900’s. Bonefish, Permit, Tarpon, and Sharks — not easy to find or catch. The Backcountry — as it is called on the Florida Bay side — runs as far north as the Everglades National Park. The waters depth in the Backcountry averages 3 feet to 7 feet. This is also fertile waters for Redfish, Snook, Seatrout, Jacks, Ladyfish and more. For Islamorada fishing information call: Blue Chip Charters, 305.852.8477.
so as to minimize the effort! Indian and Shell Key s are a mere 1.5 miles, but for the best experience with wildlife narratives and identification you might want to consider a guided tour. For information on rentals contact: A1A Watersports, 305.664.8182, Oceanside or Islamorada Watersports, 305.853.5483.
Kite Boarding Islamorada is considered the best location in the Keys for Kite Boarding because of prevailing easterly and southern winds. The best place for access to the water is at the southern tip of Islamorada. Anne’s Beach, the only natural beach in Islamorada, is open to the public. Another location is at Whale Harbor, MM84 where boarders find a great northeast to south breeze. Riders pay $10 a day. The launch area is very small, so expert or advanced kiteboarding experience is required. For information call: The Otherside Boardsports, 305.853.9728, or Islamorada Watersports, 305.853.5483.
There are no boundaries for kayaking in the Keys, but if you want to maximize the experience beyond the physical activitiy, there are a wealth of adventures to be had. To the south of Islamorada are several beautiful areas to paddle — Indian, Shell and Lignum Vitae Keys. Bill Keogh’s Florida Keys Paddle Guide points out these three Keys as the best places to visit for moderate to advance kayakers. You need to consider the current and tide schedule
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Kayaking
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PADDLE BOARDING | PARKS | SCUBA & SNORKELING | SAILING The latest and, perhaps, greatest aquatic activity to hit the water, paddle boarding, can be done nearly anywhere by anyone. Rent a board and head out on your own or join a guided trip to see everything from manatee to fish as they pass around and under your board. Anne’s beach and No Name Key are two popular launch sites For rentals and tours call: Islamorada Watersports, 305.853.5483,The Otherside Boardsports, 305.853.9728, or Mangrove Watersports, 305.283.3518.
Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park. A former quarry used by Henry Flagler in the early 1900’s during his building of the Overseas Railroad, it was a source for decorative stone pieces called Keystone. Now on display are exposed sections of fossilized coral, as well as some of the original quarry machinery. Located at mile marker 85.5 near Islamorada. A good example of this fossilized Keystone coral is the Hurricane Monument at Mile Marker 82 in Islamorada.
Parks
Scuba & Snorkeling
Indian Key State Park Explore the island. Learn about it’s unique past. Follow the re-created street system. An interpretive trail takes you through the historic community of Indian Key, the first county seat of Dade County and once a thriving center for cargo-salvaging businesses retrieving shipwrecks throughout the Keys. The park is accessible only by private boat or tour boat.
Conch and Alligator Reef are the most popular areas for shallow water activities. The USS Alligator, the reefs name sake, ran aground and sank in 1822 while protecting a convoy from pirates. In 25 feet of water lie the remains of the wreck along with the twin piles of ballast stones. Conch reef begins a gradual decent from 40 feet to 100 feet — a great deep water life experience. Contact Key Dive, 305.664.2211.
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Sailing
IMAGE BY RICHARD STEWART
Paddle Boarding
A steady offshore breeze provides an optimum environment for an exciting sailing experience. Cruise along the shoreline with stops to swim and snorkel along the coral reefs and sandbars. A popular day trip is a visit to Indian Key State Park. Sunset cruises are memorable. Private or group charters are available. For more information contact: Horizon Cat at 305.307.3728, located at the Islander Resort, Mile Marker 82.1, www.Horizon-Cat.com.
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Celebrating Healthy Living, A Healthy Planet and Peaceable and Sustainable Communities From November 1st-7th, 2010, during the inaugural event, EcoWeek 2010, over 50 different environmental and healthy-living events will be taking place in every part of the Keys- from Key Largo to Key West. Each year, EcoWeek will be a week filled with activities blending entertainment with education, healing sciences and arts as well as technologies for creating a better environment. EcoWeek Events, Inc. is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization created to manage and produce the festival EcoWeek. The mission of EcoWeek is to educate and celebrate environmental preservation. The core purpose is to promote sustainable ecotourism, to enhance the local economy in an environmentally responsible way, and attract ecologically and socially conscious individuals to the Keys. The organization has set core values as its baseline for the festival. ] Educate on the Florida Keys uniquely fragile and pristine environment ] Provide funds for local environmental projects ] Directly benefit the economic development of the Keys community ] Foster respect for a peaceable community ] Give insight into our impacts as human beings and also a greater appreciation of our own natural habitat ] Promote a sustainable community ] Minimize the negative aspects of conventional tourism on the environment ] Leave no Carbon Footprint This festival is the first of its kind to bring eco-friendly activities to all of these communities. EcoWeek is highlighting the total “Keys Experience� by bringing together everything that makes us unique, yet is part of our every day existence. Those participating in Florida Keys EcoWeek will benefit from an increased level of awareness and consciousness while having fun, enjoying a beautiful environment, being educated, participating in environmental preservation and (depending on the activities) possibly winning prizes! For more information and list of events, go to www.EcoWeekFloridaKeys.com. Sign up for the RSS feed as information and new events are added daily; log on to stay on top of current news about the most exciting and revolutionary event celebrating Environmental Preservation! EcoGuide | 33 | Florida Keys
Watch For EcoWeek 2011 - Oct. 31st thru Nov. 6th.
Event Sampler Jimmy Johnson’s Big Chill Hallow-Green Party
Environmental Summit
Kid’s “Trick or Treat” at Key Deer Refuge Visitor Ctr in Big Pine Citizens Solutions Workshop EcoKeys Guided Snorkel Excursion
Swami Beyondananda, Environmental Comic Relief
Florida Bay Outfitters Kayak Tour
Art in the Garden
National Key Deer Refuge Center in Big Pine
Key West Progressive Dinner
Dancing Dolphin Spirits
Amoray Coral Restoration
Reef Relief Waters of Wonders
National Key Deer Refuge Ctr Amateur Birding Tour in Big Pine
Sanctuary Friends Foundation of the Florida Keys Film Festival
National Key Deer Refuge Center Night Hike in Big Pine
GLEE Green Future Expo
The Garden's Hotel-Green Lodge Happy Hour
The Pelagic Sea presentation and films by Bill Macdonald
FIRM Ride/Race Weekend
Islamorada Progressive Dinner
Mango Water Sports Paddle Board Poker Run
Remedy's Nutrition Health Talk
Boyscouts of America Florida Sea Base Regatta
Swami Beyondananda, Environmental Comic Relief
Light of Consciousness "Seeds of Life"
Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail
GLEE Green Business Expo
EcoKeys Sailing and Snorkeling Excursion
GLEE Green Life Expo
EcoKeys Sunset Sail
Eco Market
Drumming Circle
TJ's EcoFestival and EcoFashion Show
Key Largo Progressive Dinner
Key West Wee-Cycle
Hawk’s Cay ECO-ART: Renewable, Recycled, And Reborn!
South Dade Toyota Prius Driving Challenge
Marathon Progressive Dinner
Chemical Free – Beautiful Me
Kava Kava Night
Captain Slate’s Atlantis Dive Center Lion Fish Safari
EcoWeek 2011 - Oct. 31st thru Nov. 6th.
EcoWeek Event Reef Relief Film Festival (November 1-5th) FREE. Donations accepted. 11:30am, 1:30pm and 3:30pm films shown daily. Reef Relief Environmental Center, 631 Greene Street, Key West. Reef Relief will host a week long “Explore the Reef� Open House. The Environmental Center introduces visitors to coral reef ecosystems, its threats and what can be done to protect our coastal resources. For a full list of movies, call 305-294-3100 or reefrelief@gmail.com, www.reefrelief.org.
Marathon Chamber Of Commerce | www.FloridaKeysMarathon.com
IMAGE BY RICHARD STEWART
Marathon O
ften referred to as the heart of the Florida Keys, Marathon is approximately half way between Key Largo and Key West (MM 61 to 47). Established in the early 1800’s as a fishing village, Marathon received its name when Henry Flagler moved his railroad construction to the island and began his two year “marathon” to extend the railroad on to Key West. Marathon is home to the longest segmental bridge in the world — the Seven Mile Bridge. It is also home to a variety of natural attractions from hard wood hammocks and rain forests to stretches of white sand beaches. Curry Hammock is made up of a group of islands in the Middle Keys, with public access to swimming, a playground, picnic tables, grills and showers on the ocean side of Little Crawl Key. The hardwood hammocks found on these tropical islands support one of the largest populations of thatch
palms in the United States. Mangrove swamps, sea grass beds and wetlands provide vital habitats for tropical wildlife. As with most of the Keys, kayak locations are plentiful with the most popular from Boot Key off the main island of Marathon south to the popular Bahia Honda State Park. Bahia Honda is one of the deepest natural channels in the Keys and has sandy beaches for swimming and snorkeling activities. Fishing is found offshore, on the reefs or bayside flats. The old Seven Mile bridge is also a favorite place to fish from. Scuba diving, snorkeling and even SNUBA are available on dozens of dive sites — Sombrero Reef the most noteable — all suitable for both experienced diver and the inexperienced. Marathon takes pride in being one of the Keys wreck trek stops with its 200 foot Thunderbolt.
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IMAGE BY BOB BRAYMAN
The USS Randolph aka the Thunderbolt
In 1942 the USS Randolph began its career as a U.S. Army cable-laying ship and later as a lightening research vessel for Florida Power and Light. In the 1980, while awaiting a geological survey mission, the Randolph sank at a dock on the Miami River. In 1986 the Marathon diving community purchased the vessel from a salvage company for its final assignment as an artificial reef. The Thunderbolt was sunk in March 1986. Resting upright at 115 feet, the Thunderbolt is heavily encrusted with coral and sponges and attracts thousands of Silver-sides that school around the huge cable-laying wheel mounted on the bow. Large Blackjacks and ominous Barracuda make the wreck their permanent home where they feed on the swarm of small fish. The Thunderbolt is fully intact making it a visually pleasing wreck dive and great for photographers. During the cleaning of the vessel all of the doors and hatches were removed, making it safe to penetrate the structure, swim up staircases or view the large bronze propellers at the stern. THUNDERBOLT DIVE OPERATORS Halls Diving, 1994 Overseas Hwy, 305.743.5929. Tilden’s Diving, 4650 Overseas Hwy, 305.743.7255. , EcoGuide | 42 | Florida Keys
BICYCLING | BIRDING | FISHING Fishing
The Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail (FKOHT) is a scenic, multi-use bicycle and pedestrian corridor extending from Key Largo to Key West. Marathon offers a number of places to bike with its main path running paralell with U.S. 1, aka the Overseas Highway. Other interesting trails include the old 7 mile bridge of which 2 miles are rideable, a path around Coco Plum and Curry State Park and the path on Sombrero Beach Road to Sombrero Beach. For bike rentals contact: Wheel 2 Go, 305-289-4279, 5994 Overseas Hwy, www.Wheels-2-Go.com.
If you enjoy deep sea fishing, the Middle Keys have some of the best fishing in the world. Marathon is known as a feeding ground for popular game fish like White
Marathon has most of the birds found throughout the Keys. The best times for birding are during the spring and fall migration. Some of the more unique birds include Great White Herons, Antillean Nighthawks, Gray Kingbirds, BlackWhiskered Vireos, White-Crowned Pigeons and the elusive Mangrove Cuckoo. A great place to visit is the Crane Point
IMAGE BY RICHARD STEWART
Birding
IMAGE BY RICHARD STEWART
Bicycling
Museum and Nature Center at 5550 Overseas Hwy, Mile Marker 50.5 Bayside.
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and Blue Marlin, Amberjack and Black Fin Tuna. South east of the Middle Keys is one of the most popular fishing areas known as the West Hump. A sea mound that rises from the bottom of the ocean from a depth of almost 500’. Prefer Bonefish, Snook or Redfish? Then the the backcounty flats are for you. For guides, party boats and sportfishing charters contact Captain Pip’s Marina (MM47.5), 1410 Overseas Hwy, 305-743-4403, www.captainpips.com.
Kayaking
IMAGE BY RICHARD STEWART
Between Bahia Honda to the south and Duck Key to the north there are a half dozen or so popular routes. Paddling around Bahia Honda Key and the Bahia Honda State Park is a very scenic 4.5 mile route. Another one of similar length is
IMAGE BY TOM STACK
KAYAKING | SCUBA & SNORKELING
from the southern end of the Seven Mile Bridge, weaving between the tiny islands of Money Key, Little Money Key, Duck Key and Molasses Key. In Marathon, the place to go is Boot Key, where there is a series
of natural canals throughout the thick mangroves. The loop is about three miles. And to the north, there is a mild 2 mile route to an area known as Tom’s Harbour Keys. For kayak rentals and guided tours call: Florida Keys Kayak Tours, 305 872.7474.
Scuba & Snorkeling Many of the most popular reefs are
shallow — 25’ to 30’ — Sombraro, Coffins Patch, Delta Shoal, are very beautiful and lush with coral and fish life. Perfect diving for the novice or for the non-diver trying SNUBA for the first time. For deeper diving, Loyd’s Ledge is at 50’ to 70’, Sombrero Ledge at 80’ to 100’ and the Thunderbolt found at 75’ to 120’. For dive trip information call: Hall’s Diving Center, 305. 743.5929, or Tilden’s Scuba Center, 305-743-7255.
Costa Rica Take A ride on the Wild Side!
www.EcoGuideCostaRica.com
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Big Pine Key Chamber Of Commerce | www.LowerKeysChamber.com
IMAGE BY RICHARD STEWART
Big Pine Key And The Lower Keys
U
nlike the Upper and Middle districts, the Lower Keys are defined as a series of islands beginning with Little Duck Key and to the south, Ohio and Bahia Honda, home to one of the most attractive state parks in the Keys, and then onward to the primary residential and business area of Big Pine Key. A little further south you will find one of the Keys most pristine dive and snorkeling areas — Looe Key and the Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary. The colorful island names continue as you head south through Little Torch, the Ramrod Key, Cudjoe Key, Saddlebunch Key, Big Coppitt, Boca Chica and finally Stock Island. Big Pine and the Lower Keys do not share some of the same pioneering stories as with Key Largo and Marathon. This area was most known for the “big pines” that grew here, fueling a small charcoal burning industry. With a
population of residents less than 40 miles away in Key West, Big Pine charcoal became the source of cooking fuel for the residents, aka the Conchs, in Key West. There are also tales of treasure hunters in Big Pine Key but, most likely, the salvaging of vessels running aground on their way to the deep water ports of Stock Island and Key West. Today aquatic activities and nature create the area's reputation. Kayaking is one of the most popular activities along the Lower Keys and around the Western area of Big Pine Key. All along the Overseas Highway are places to pull off to the side of the road and find a reasonable launch site. Big Pine is home to Bill Keogh — one of the Keys most colorful kayak guides and author of the Florida Keys Paddling Guide. If you are an experienced kayaker, and equipped with GPS, The Guide is filled with
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National Key Deer Refuge, a 9,200 acre habitat for the endangered Key Deer. Notable for their size averaging 28 inches and weighing in at a mere 90 pounds, the Key Deer are indigenous to only the
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IMAGE BY RICHARD STEW-
Think of fishing in the Florida Keys and Islamorada comes to mind. But the Lower Keys offer virtually the same fishing options from bridges, backcountry or charter boats. The reefs are thick with Yellow Tail and Snapper and the Gulf Stream with Marlin, Tuna and Wahoo — just waiting to take the bait and give you a fight! For nature lovers, you’re in the right place as Big Pine and No Name Keys are the locations of the IMAGE BY BEBE ROBERTS
hundreds of coordnates, but because of the hundreds of maze-like Mangrove forests one must pay close attention to location throughout the trip. If you are new to kayaking you are best to arrange for a guided tour of the area. When you talk Florida Keys scuba and snorkeling, it is most common to hear about the Upper and Middle Keys. But few know diving in the Lower Keys, though smaller in terms of overall area of reef system, is quite good since it is part of the Looe Key Marine National Marine Sanctuary. The reefs are healthy, the visibility is generally outstanding and the marine life as is extensive. Snorkeling is wonderful and easy with many of the trails in 10 to 30 feet of water within proximity to the shore making it a short boat ride to the sites. Big Pine Key is also on the Wreck Trek map — home to the 220’ Adolphus Busch.
Lower Keys. All along the 174 square mile area between Key West and Marathon is the Great White Heron National Refuge — home to over 170 species of birds. Looking for a beach? Then head to Bahia Honda, the 524-acre state park. The park’s landmark, the Flagler Overseas Railroad Bridge, is a engineering marvel in itself. Bahia Honda’s beauty is the sandy white beaches and the rare flora and fauna such as Yellow Satinwood, Gumbo Limbo and Silver Palms.
BEACHES | BIRDING | FISHING | KAYAKING | SCUBA & SNORKELING Beaches
Birding
Bahia Honda, MM 37 www.floridastateparks.org/bahiahonda Calusa Beach: Bahia Honda State Park adjacent to the old bridge and marina. Camping, picnic tables, food, bath house and restrooms open to the public. Sandspur Beach: Bahia Honda ajacent the Sandspur camping area.
Marathon to Key West is the Great White Heron National Refuge. Hundreds of species can be seen from various roadside vantage points. Bahia Honda is an excellent place to see wading birds and shorebirds. A variety of shorebirds including Willets, Sanderlings, Ruddy Turnstones, Short-billed Dowitchers and Plovers may be seen along the shore. Several species of wading birds may be seen in the park as well, including Great White Herons, Great Blue Herons, Tri-colored Herons, Great Egrets, Snowy Egrets and White Ibis. For guide information contact: Florida Keys Kayak Tours, 305-8727474, www.FloridaKeysKayakTours.com.
Kayaking There are more than 35 launch sites from Duck Key to Stock Island. One very popular launch for accessing west Big Pine Key is the Old Wooden Bridge Fishing Camp off Bogie Drive. Refer to the Florida Keys Paddle Guide
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or contact: Bill Keogh, Florida Keys Kayak Tours, 305-872-7474.
Scuba & Snorkeling
IMAGE BY BILL KEOGH
Visit the Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary for outstanding reef diving and snorkeling. If wreck diving is what you are looking for, visit the Adolphus Busch off Cudjoe Key. For information contact: Looe Key Dive Resort and Dive Center, 305.872.2215, Strike Zone Charters, 305.872.9863, or Triple Dive Charters, 305.879.4397.
Key West Chamber Of Commerce | www.KeyWestChamber.com
IMAGE BY RICHARD STEWART
Key West Y
ou may think you have reached the end of the line at MM0, but in reality you have just arrived at the begining of the fun-in-the-sun paradise! Although this small (2 miles by 4 miles) southernmost city in the United States and the capital of the Conch Republic, may be legendary for eccentric party goers, sunworshipers and legendary treasure hunters, there is no shortage of family aquatic activities and nature discoveries in Key West. How did Key West evolve into such an aquatic environment? It all started during the ice age when the polar caps began to develop causing the sea level to drop. From out of the depths came a land mass that was actually the tail end of the Appalachian mountains. Key Largo’s land was formed by coral, known as Key Largo Limestone. Key West, on the other hand, is a material called Oolite. Eventually the caps went through another melt down creating the current geological wonder we call a Key
(from the Tiano Indian word Cay). The warm, tropical environment of this near-equator land mass was and still is conducive to the growth of those little tiny undersea critters know as coral polyps! The hard material most think is the coral is actually the lime secretion and the platform on which the coral forms its habitat. For more than 300 years the population consited of natives and Europeans who passed by only to stop for water. It was not until Florida became part of the United States in 1821 that Key West and the Keys began to flourish. Of course Henry Flagler’s railroad project added fuel to the already bustling growth of Key West as a deep water port. Shipping was big and its commerce caused Key West to become Florida's largest populated city with professional residents such as doctors, lawyers, insurance representatives, politicians, military personnel, journalists and publishers!
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With this natural setting, you can see why there are so many activities and underwater exploration available. Scuba diving activities surround Key West, and the sites are within reasonable travel time. There are several locations like Marquesas Reef, Smith Shoal and for the snorkeler, Sand Key that are enchanting. And if you are a wreck diver, the southernmost portion of the Florida Keys wreck trek includes the USS Wilkes-Barre, Joe’s Tug and most recently — the USS Vandenberg. Kayaking has become one of the most popular activities thoughout the Keys. Its an activity nearly everyone can do, ranging from leisure paddling to competitive races. Key West offers great kayaking because of the miles of mangrove islands and backcountry flats. If it is windy on the east side you launch from the west. Hurricane Hole has been one of the more popular launches for many years. Fishing is excellent with the usual options of offshore, reef or backcountry locations. Ernest Hemingway sought blue Marlin in the Florida Straights between Cuba and Key West and Zane Grey’s angling skills mastered the backcountry flats! If fishing is your passion, there are more than a half a dozen marinas between Stock Island and downtown Key West where you can locate and book individual fishing charters or group party boats. Key West is all residental so there are really few nature-type tours on the island. It’s the water surrounding the island that provides Key West eco-tourism — scuba, snorkeling and kayaking. The closest thing to remote eco or nature tour would be a day trip to the Dry Tortugas National Park. The Dry Tortugas consist of 7 small islands and the surrounding water, 70 miles from Key West. The second largest island, Garden Key is home to Fort Jefferson. Snorkeling in this area is very good since the shallow water, between 3’ and 5’, is perfect for the growth of healthy coral. Between March and September, some 100,000 Sooty Terns gather on Bush Key for their nesting season, along with 2,500 breeding Brown Noddies. When John James Audubon visited the Florida Keys in the early 1800s, he was amazed by the abundance and diversity of bird life. Human encroachment has taken a toll on the avian population, but hundreds of songbirds, water birds, shorebirds, and raptors still pass through Key West every year. There are a few great places to visit that showcase the nature of the Keys, such as the EcoDiscovery Center and the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory. Another exciting water activity is sailing. You can rent Hobie Cats or climb aboard a Historic Schooner or Tall Ship and enjoy the brilliant sunsets.
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The U.S.S.VandenberG
At10:24 am, May 27, 2009, the General Hoyt S. Vandenberg became an artificial reef in 140 feet of water seven miles from Key West!
Upon first sight of the Vandenberg being prepared to be scuttled as the southern anchor of the Florida Keys Shipwreck Trail, former crew member Chuck Garrison, who served on the ex-U.S. military missile-tracking ship remarked, “Wow! This will be one helluva
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wreck to dive.� Garrison has visited the WW II wreckstrewn waters of the Pacific, and agrees the highly distinctive Vandenberg, the world's secondlargest ship ever sunk to create a reef, has dozens of dive points to interest novice and seasoned recreational divers.
Project visionary Joe Weatherby onboard the Vandenberg during pre-sinking preparations.
From the bottom, the Vandenberg measures 10 stories high in the water column, the keel is the deepest point at 140 feet. But it is the top of the structure that contains most of the ship's interesting attributes, some purposely cut from one part of the ship and welded elsewhere to make attention-getting dive spots from bow to stern, all trimmed to reach within 40 to 50 feet of the surface.
Starting from a vantage point at the bow and moving aft, the kingpost and foremast are immediately eye-catching, and provides underwater photo opportunities for dive buddies, and can serve as a rest platform or perhaps a decompression stop on ascension from deeper dives. Continuing aft, the bridge symbolizes the ship's intriguing maritime history: at the top of the wheelhouse a telescope has been mounted, which was part of the star-tracking systems during Vandenberg's active duty. Behind the bridge and the main mast is the smaller of two iconic radar dishes. Next is, the number 1 Barbette, a heavy steel structure in the shape of a pedestal used to
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protect artillery gun turrets on military ships. Aft of the number 1 Barbette is the larger radar dish, which in the 1999 movie “Virus” provided quite an explosive sequence when a laser from space blew the dish off the ship. It’s indeed intact though, secured to the vessel and ready for fish to shelter and breed. All dive spots along the top structure are open, free from obstruction and should be easy to maneuver over and around during a dive. Further aft is the trimmed part of the foremast with the crow’s nest, as well as the bottom half of the ship’s smokestack — the other half, trimmed to approximately 20 feet tall for an even profile along the ship's superstructure, now sits atop the
IMAGE BY STEPHEN FRINK
weather balloon hangar at the stern. Likely to be one of the most visited dive sites on the Vandenberg, this balloon hangar will be loosely dubbed the “underwater Margaritaville,� a clubhouse tribute to the famous Parrotheads who have contributed support to the
Vandenberg project, aside from being fanatical fans of Jimmy Buffett, whose musical and literary fame has saturated Key West. The Vandenberg will be a safe, enjoyable dive for all experience levels of certified divers. Those trained and experienced in light-wreck
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penetration can expect to explore the ship's many cargo holds, stair towers, elevator shafts and hallways. At 100-plus feet, holes cut along the outside of the hull to help sink the ship provide swim-through opportunities for advanced and skilled technical divers. Yet the properly
certified and trained wreck diver will be able to swim a full 475 feet along the starboard section of Deck 1. Though it is unlikely divers will be able to see end to end because the ship is nearly two football fields long, it is possible that one dive on the Vandenberg could reveal both shallow and deep-water fish such as Goliath grouper and sailfish, attracted by the clouds of bait expected to school around the wreck. Of course, it will take multiple dives to get a real sense of its scale. And over the course of decades the ship is to be densely populated with coral species, sponges, invertebrates, sea fans and sea whips. Divers will want to make this Florida Keys Shipwreck Trail entry in their logbook over and over again to see the progression of marine ecosystems as they develop. Garrison, who attests to Vandenberg's past, said, “There is quite a history with this old girl, a lot of miles under her belt.” The Vandenberg sits upright on the ocean bottom. VANDENBERG DIVE OPERATORS
IMAGE BY STPHEN FRINK
Captain’s Corner, 305.296.8865. Dive Key West, 305.296.3823. Keys Scuba Shack, 305.896.0723 Lost Reef Adventures, 305.296.9737. Lucky Dog Divers, 305.587.4018 Southpoint Divers, 800.891.3483
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Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Regulations These regulations apply throughout the entire area of the Sanctuary, including other protected areas and Sanctuary zones. The purpose of these regulations is to protect Sanctuary resources from both direct and indirect threats. These regulations focus on habitat protection, reducing threats to water quality, and minimizing human impact to delicate resources. The following activities are prohibited Sanctuary-wide: * Moving, removing, taking, harvesting, damaging, disturbing, touching, breaking, cutting, or otherwise injuring, or possessing any living or dead coral, or coral formation, or attempting any of these activities, except as permitted by the FKNMS regulations * Discharging or depositing trash or other pollutants. * Dredging, drilling, prop dredging or otherwise altering the seabed, or placing or abandoning any structure on the seabed. * Operating a vessel in such a manner as to strike or otherwise injure coral, seagrass, or other organisms. attached to the seabed, or cause prop-scarring. * Having a vessel anchored on living coral in water less than 40 feet deep when you can see the bottom. Anchoring on hardbottom is allowed. * Operating a vessel at more than idle speed/no wake within 100 yards of residential shorelines, stationary vessels, and navigational aids marking reefs. * Operating a vessel at more than idle speed/no wake within 100 feet of a "divers down" flag. * Diving or snorkeling without a dive flag. * Operating a vessel in such a manner which endangers life, limb, marine resources, or property * Releasing exotic species. * Damaging or removing markers, mooring buoys, scientific equipment, boundary buoys, and trap buoys. * Moving, removing, injuring, or possessing historical resources. * Taking or possessing protected wildlife. * Using or possessing explosives or electrical charges. * Harvest and possession of marine life species -tropical fish, invertebrates, and plants -- except in accordance with rules 68B-42 of the Florida Administrative Code. EcoGuide | 55 | Florida Keys
BEACHES | BICYCLING | ECOTOURS
Clarence S. Higgs Memorial Beach Also known as County Beach, this strip of beach is one-half mile west of Smathers Beach on Atlantic Boulevard, near the south end of White Street. Swimming area. Nice pier and recreational facilities. C.B. Harvey Rest Beach This recently designed and landscaped park located on the Atlantic Ocean near White Street Pier. It is a great location for watching the sunrise. The beach is 300 yards long with picnic areas. Ft Zachary Taylor State Historic Park While the fort is great, this happends to be the best beach in Key West. Picnic tables, restrooms. Enter through the Truman Annex on Southard Street. Smathers Beach Key West's longest beach is west of the airport on South Roosevelt Boulevard. Picnic areas. Restroom facilities. Volleyball net. Sailing and watersports operators.
South Beach At the end of Duval Street is a small public beach with picnic tables. Restroom.
Bicycling Riding a bike in Key West is more for transportation than recreation. With many narrow and one-way roads it makes sense to use a bike to get around — not to mention the difficult task of finding a parking spot! There is no better way to see Old Town than bicycle and there are plenty of racks to secure your bike. If you are looking for excercise, take a spin to Southernmost Point, Higgs Beach or Smatthers Beach on South Roosevelt. Another popular place for local riders is the College Park Fitness Loop. For bike rentals and path information call: Recycle Bike Rentals, 305.292.3336, 5160 Overseas Hwy, Stock Island (just north of Hurricane Hole Marina), www.RecycleKW.com.
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EcoTours IMAGE BY RICHARD STEWART
Beaches
From the reefs of the National Marine Sanctuary to the dolphin flats, Key West has an amazing variety of ways to experience nature. Snorkel tours, Kayak tours, Walking tours and the always popular dolphin watch tours. An amazing cruise out to the Gulf of Mexico where it is near impossible to not see dolphins — swimming along side or jumping the boats wake. It is not uncommon to have a dolphin swim near as you snorkel around the flats and shallow reefs. If a dolphin approaches, do not attempt to touch as this is considered harassment and you can be fined. Other open water sights include reef fish, sharks, sea turtles, marine birds and
Fishing Key West offers the variety of fishing as seen throughout the Keys. There is an abundance of charters and party boats awaiting the avid fisherman. For a selection of guides and boats visit one of the following marinas: Hurricane Hole Marina, Key West Bight Marina, Banana Bay Marina.
waterfront and Salt Pond Key. The entire trip is ten mile but can be shortened by returning via the Salt Creek canal. For information contact: Bill Keogh, Florida Keys Kayak Tours, 305.872.7474, Crystal Clear Charters, 305.74.5641.
Sailing Kayaking Access is an issue for kayaking in the Keys. In Key West, there are four or five convenient locations: Simonton Street launch, Smathers Beach, Little Hamaca Park, the Florida Keys Community College and the public ramp at MM5.3. Bill Keogh’s Florida Keys Paddling Guide is one of the best references avalable for locations you may want to visit. If you want an easy course consider the Salt Creek Run, a two mile tour down the residental canal that leads to mangrove creeks and salt ponds. For a more strenuous workout you can circumnavigate the island where you pass Smather’s Beach, Mallory Square
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IMAGE BY RICHARD STEWART
spotted eagle rays. Walking and birding tours can be found around Fort Jefferson on Dry Tortugas — some 70 nautical miles west of Key West. Mangrove tours can be organized via kayak. For more about area ecotours contact the following operators: EcoDiscovery Tours, 305.289.2288, www.EcoDiscoveryToursFloridaKeys.com. Florida Keys EcoTours, 305.766.3518, www.Keys-Ecotours.com. Echo Cat, 305.292.5044, www.DolphinEcho.com. Sunny Days Key West, 305.296.5556, www.SunnyDaysKeyWest.com Wild About Dolphins, 305.294.5026. www.WildAboutDolhpins.com.
IMAGE BY RICHARD STEWART
FISHING | KAYAKING | SAILING
One of the most beautiful ways to see Key West from the water is on a sailboat. Whether it’s a historic schooner or tall ship, a glass bottom boat or a sleek
catamaran, the clear water will mesmerize you and the sunsets will leave you in awe. Private cruises, Dinner cruises, Wind and Wine, Snorkel and Sunset. There is a cruise for just about everyone. For more information contact: Crystal Clear Charters, 305.74.5641; Florida Keys EcoTours, 305.766.3518; Sunny Days Key West, 305.296.5556.
Scuba & Snorkeling With more than four dozen named reef sites, scuba and snorkeling continues to be Key West’s most popular aquatic activity. From shallow 20’ to 35’ reefs such as
Rock Key and Eastern Dry Rocks, Marquesas and Cottrell, to moderate and deep sites such as Sambo, Outer Reef and Ten Fathom Ledge that runs from 50’ to 90’. Most frequently seen marine life include Angelfish, Butterflyfish Parrotfish, Nurse Sharks, Stingrays, Turtles and Eels. Hard corals such Brain, Star and Pillar are found throughout the patch reefs. Wreck diving is rapidly growing with the Vandenberg being the most recent edition to the list of sites. Other popular dives are Chet Alexander's Wreck — at 25’, Joe’s Tug — starting at 40’ and the Cayman Salvor — at 90’. For more information on SCUBA or snorkeling contact one of the following operators: Captain’s Corner, 305.296.8865 Crystal Clear Charters, 305.747.5641 Dive Key West, 305.296.3823 Echo Cat, 305.292.5044 Florida Keys EcoTours, 305.766.3518 Keys Scuba Shack, 305.896.0723 Lost Reef Adventures, 305.296.9737 Southpoint Divers, 800.891.3483 Sunny Days Key West, 305.296.5556 Wild About Dolphins, 305.294.5026
EcoGuide | 58 | Florida Keys
Parks Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park Florida's southernmost state park is popular for recreation. A beautiful beach. Nature trail and bicycling within the park. Dry Tortugas National Park A cluster of seven islands, 70 miles west of Key West. Known for its famous bird and marine life.
IMAGE BY STEPHEN FRINK
IMAGE BY RICHARD STEWART
SCUBA & SNORKELING | PARKS
Marine ecologist studying endangered sawfish
The Lionfish: a menace to humans and marine life
A scientist at The Florida State University Coastal and Marine Laboratory has won a three-year, grant to study the endangered but little-known sawfish, whose numbers are believed to have declined globally more than 90 percent.The formidable-looking sawfish is related to the stingray but more closely resembles a shark. It has been overexploited in many parts of the world due to the commercial appeal of its prominent, toothy rostrum (snout). Marine ecologist Dean Grubbs and his Florida State team will focus their research on the ecology of the smalltooth sawfish, the only domestic marine fish currently listed in the U.S. Endangered Species Act but, until now, rarely investigated. Its once-extensive range in the United States now is primarily restricted to southwest Florida and the Florida Keys. "Worldwide, there are only six or seven extant species of sawfishes and all are listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species," Grubbs said. "This means we are in danger of losing an entire order of animals that are among the largest of all fishes, including some sawfish species that reach lengths of more than 20 feet." Grubbs said populations have declined due to overfishing and habitat loss.
At French Reef, 30 feet below the ocean's surface a diver was on a mission to find and capture one of the gorgeous but dreaded new invaders of the Florida Keys - a lionfish. There have been 68 marine-invading species in Florida, the Caribbean and the Gulf of Mexico over the last century, according to the U.S. Geological Survey, but none has wreaked as much havoc to the marine environment as the voracious red lionfish that devours native fish populations wherever it invades. The Nature Conservancy said the lionfish, with its floating, striped headdress, looks like a Las Vegas showgirl. Its beauty is the reason it was once a top-10 imported tropical fish for aquariums in the United States. But the lionfish, native to the Pacific and Indian oceans, is a menace to humans and marine life. It has venomous fins, and no known marine predators in the territory it is invading. The lionfish reached the Florida Keys a year ago. Its arrival was expected, with scientists calling it the completion of a circle that began a generation earlier when the first lionfish was spotted off the coast of Miami in 1985. Most believe the original invaders came from aquariums.
EcoGuide | 59 | Florida Keys
FWC to enforce new sea grass protection rule Under new legislation aimed at protecting sea grass in Florida's aquatic preserves, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) will educate boaters on the importance of the plants. After a suitable education period, officers will begin citing boaters who intentionally destroy sea grass in a careless manner that scars sea grass beds within an aquatic preserve. This is a noncriminal infraction. Sea grass scarring results because of operating a motorized vessel in a way that damages or destroys plants' roots, shoots or stems. The scarring is commonly referred to as prop scars or propeller scars. “I can't emphasize enough how important sea grass is to marine life,” said Capt. Mark Warren of the FWC. “Approximately 80 percent of Florida's fisheries species spend at least part of their life cycles in sea grass. If you like to fish, or like seafood, you should like and preserve sea grass.” Sea grass is a submerged, grass-like plant that inhabits the shallow coastal waters of Florida. Sea grass meadows are an important but often overlooked habitat for many of Florida’s recreationally and commercially important marine life, such as fish, crabs and clams. Many species of juvenile fish use sea grass as cover from larger predators. A single acre of the aquatic plant community can support as many as 40,000 fish and 50 million invertebrates. Warren recommends that boaters be watchful for the deep green sea grass beds as they ply the waters of the state. If a boater does run aground on a sea grass bed or sees the propeller is stirring up plant and sand debris, Warren says the boater can minimize the damage. “The boater should stop his boat. If the water depth is sufficient to allow the engine to continue pumping cooling water without ingesting dirt or debris, he can allow the engine to cool for a minute or two. Then, the boater should tilt his engine, and push, paddle or pole his boat to deeper water, where it can be safely operated. In no case should a boater try to power his boat out of a sea grass bed when grounded. This can cause extensive damage to these sensitive habitats.” Sea grass also provides critical habitat for animals such as wading birds, manatees and sea turtles. Further, it improves water quality. Sea grass filters nutrients from land-based industrial discharge and stormwater runoff before these nutrients are washed out to sea and to other sensitive habitats, such as coral reefs. Oceanbottom areas that are devoid of sea grass are vulnerable to intense wave action from currents and storms. With no sea grass to stabilize the ocean bottom, beaches, businesses and homes suffer greater storm damage. EcoGuide | 60 | Florida Keys
ACTIVITIES DIRECTORY BICYCLE RENTALS
Islamorada - A1A Watersports, 81984 Overseas Hwy, 305.664.4535.
BOAT RENTALS
Islamorada - A1A Watersports, 82749 Overseas Hwy, 305.664.8182. Islamorada - Islamorada Watersports, 84771 Overseas Hwy, 305.853.5483. Key Largo - Tiki Watersports, 94381 Overseas Hwy, 305.852.9298. Marathon - Captain Pips, 1410 Overseas Hwy, 305.743.4403.
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ECOTOUR OPERATORS
Key Largo - Capt. Slate’s Atlantis Dive Center, 51 Garden Cove Drive, 305.451.3020. Key Largo - Just In Time EcoTours, 104250 Overseas Hwy, 305.283.3518. Islamorada - A1A Watersports, 82749 Overseas Hwy, 305.664.8182. Islamorada - Backcountry Cowboy Outfitters, 82240 Overseas Hwy, 305.517.4177. Islamorada - Islamorada Watersports, 84771 Overseas Hwy, 305.853.5483. Key West - Clearly Unique Charters, 305.747.8651. Key West - Florida Keys EcoTours, Key West Seaport, 305.766.3518. Key West - Echo Cat, 611 Grinnell St, Key West Seaport, 305.292.5044. Key West - Sunny Days Key West, 201 Williams St, Key West Seaport, 305.296.5556. Key West - Wild About Dolphins, 600 Peninsular Ave, 305.294.5026.
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FISHING GUIDES
Islamorada - Blue Chip Charters, 305.852.8477. . Marathon - Captain Pips, 1410 Overseas Hwy, 305.743.4403.
KAYAK OUTFITTERS
Islamorada - A1A Watersports, 82749 Overseas Hwy, 305.664.8182. Islamorada - Islamorada Watersports, 84771 Overseas Hwy, 305.853.5483 Key Largo - Coastal Kayaking, 17 Poinciana Drive, 305.394.5046. Key Largo - Florida Bay Outfitters, 104050 Overseas Hwy, 305.451.3018. Key West - Clearly Unique Charters, 305.747.8651.
KITE & WAKE BOARD OUTFITTERS
Islamorada - Islamorada Watersports, 84771 Overseas Hwy, 305.853.5483. Islamorada - Otherside Boardsports, 83292 Overseas Hwy, 305.853.9728.
MM47.5 MM82.7 MM83.2 MM104
An Ocean Realm, EcoMedia & Marketing, LLC, Publication.
Richard H. Stewart
Publisher/Editor-in-Chief
Christi Allen
Regional Publisher/Editor MM83.2 MM83
Ken English Vickie Kayuk
Associate Editors
SCUBA & SNORKEL OPERATORS
Key Largo - Amy Slate’s Amoray Dive, 104250 Overseas Hwy, 305.283.3518. Key Largo - Capt. Slate’s Atlantis Dive Center, 51 Garden Cove Drive, 305.451.3020. Key Largo - Horizon Divers, 100 Ocean Drive, 305.453.3535. Key Largo - Island Ventures, 103900 Overseas Hwy, 305.451.4957. Key Largo - Keys Diver & Snorkel Center, 99696 Overseas Hwy, 305.451.1177. Key Largo - Scuba Do, 100750 Overseas Hwy, 305.451.3446. Islamorada - Islamorada Watersports, 84771 Overseas Hwy, 305.853.5483 Islamorada - Key Dives, 79851 Overseas Hwy, 305.664.2211. Marathon - Hall’s Diving, 1994 Overseas Hwy, 305.-743.5929. Marathon - Tilden’s Dive Center, 4650 Overseas Hwy, 305.743.7255. Ramrod Key - Looe Key Resort & Dive Center, 27340 Overseas Hwy, 305.872.2215. Key West - Captain’s Corner, 125 Ann Street, 305.296.8865. Key West - Dive Key West, 3128 N. Roosevelt Blvd, 305.296.3823. Key West - Lost Reef Adventures, 261 Margaret Street, 305.296.9737. Key West - Scuba Shack, 5130 US Highway 1, 305.96-0723. Key West - Wild About Dolphins, 600 Peninsular Ave, 305.294.5026.
PADDLE BOARD OUTFITTERS
Key Largo - Florida Bay Outfitters, 104050 Overseas Hwy, 305.451.3018. Key Largo - Mango Watersports, 305.283.3518. Islamorada - Islamorada Watersports, 84771 Overseas Hwy, 305.853.5483. Islamorada - Otherside Boardsports, 83292 Overseas Hwy, 305.853.9728.
SAILING.CHARTERS
Key West - Florida Keys EcoTours, Key West Seaport, 305.766.3518. Key West - Echo Cat, 611 Grinnell St, Key West Seaport, 305.292.5044. Key West - Sunny Days Key West, 201 Williams St, Key West Seaport, 305.296.5556.
EcoGuide | 61 | Florida Keys
MM104 MM103.9 MM100 MM100.7 MM83.2 MM79.8 MM48 MM49.5 MM27.5
Consultants Bill Keogh/Kayaking Spencer Slate/SCUBA Paul Tejera/Fishing Mike Walsh/Wake Boarding Sheri Sullenger/Dolphins Mal McCleary/Coral Steve Neil/Paddle Boarding Lucia Anreus-Hall/Co-Publisher EcoGuides Latin America Markets Sherry Sabety/Co-Publisher EcoGuides Pacific Markets
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Peter Symes/Co-Publisher EcoGuides Global Markets EcoGuide Florida Keys is published biannually and distributed throughout the Keys via hotel, resort and B&B lobbies, dive retailers, kayak, paddle board and wake board outfitters, marinas, restaurants and select gift stores. Use of any portion of this content is allowed only with permission of the publisher. PO Box 2388, New Smyrna Beach, FL. 352.817.5893.
Reef Relief for the Florida Keys Reef Relief began in 1987 with the installation of mooring buoys near Key West, which have grown into a system of 116 buoys at 7 reefs. Led by founder Craig Quirolo, Reef Relief has created coral nurseries to save storm-damaged corals in the Florida Keys and Bahamas. Craig led a 15 year Coral Photo Monitoring Survey of reef health that is currently being loaded onto an online archive at www.reefrelief.org. This survey led to the discovery of new coral diseases. Craig has worked with Reef Relief’s Scientific Advisory Board and numerous other researchers to identify the causes of decline. Reef Relief supported the creation of marine protected areas such as the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary and the Negril (Jamaica) Marine Park, and the Key West Marine Park in cooperation with the City of Key West. They helped install buoys and establish programs throughout the region, including mooring buoys, a coral survey and operation of the volunteer-staffed Captain Roland Roberts House Environmental Center in Green Turtle Cay in the Abacos, Bahamas. The Clean Water Campaign has led the effort to identify contamination from sewers, agricultural runoff, cruise ships, boats, and other sources of pollution that are affecting water quality at coral reefs in South Florida and around the globe. Reef Relief staff guided policy development through implementation for a range of projects including advanced, nutrient stripping waste treatment for the City of Key West, establishment of a boater No Discharge Zone in the Florida Keys, passage of a phosphate ban for laundry detergents, approval of bans on offshore oil drilling and exploration for South Florida, increased state standards for shallow injection wells, and a host of other actions. Today, Reef Relief continues to guide policy, participate in marine projects for coral reefs, and develop new educational programs like Coral Camp in the summer for kids ages 6-12. They are located at 631 Greene Street in Key West. The environmental center is open to the public 10am to 4pm Monday thru Friday with interactive exhibits, a kid zone, and theatre. Visit Reef Relief online at www.ReefRelief.org. or call (305) 294-3100. EcoGuide | 62 | Florida Keys