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Visit Key West and see two worlds for the price of one! Key West is a great city, full of fun things to do and a fascinating history. The closest point to Cuba, or The Southernmost Point, is right in Key West, reminding us all of how far south this tiny tropical island really is! Explore Key West on your vacation and see the world Ernest Hemingway saw: swashbuckling characters, Duval Street, quaint old Conch housese, and ultra delicious dining and seafood.

Then, explore the second world in Key West: the water and the world underneath the surface. There's North America's only living coral reef just 6 miles out from the beaches of Key West. Having a coral reef so close to our shores means a whole beautiful world of marine life like fish, coral, dolphins, rays, sharks, eels, and an entire living ecosystem right there within a short boat ride from the docks of Key West.

By far the best way to explore the marine world is to go Key West snorkeling. Come on, the water is like bath water in summertime, and like any summer lake even in winter. It's gorgeous out there, and you can float effortlessly in the salt waters, gazing down through your mask at coral, fish, rays, and anything else that swims nearby.

Most people who come to Key West on vacation and who want to go snorkeling, book a spot on a Key West snorkeling trip. There are several companies that take visitors out to the coral reef, ranging from small boats that emphasize a private experience, to larger catamarans that feature a party-like atmosphere. One thing all the snorkeling charters have in common is that they will supply your gear for you. Even wetsuits in winter, if you want one. They give mask, snorkel, fins and personal life jacket for each snorkeling customer. Not that you won't already be buoyant enough with our salt water. It's actually hard to get under the water, especially if you are wearing a wetsuit, which makes you even more buoyant.

The majority of Key West snorkeling boats take visitors out to Sand Key Lighthouse, which is about six miles from shore. Here, the reef comes up to about two fee from the surface in some areas! There are many types of coral here, and resident barracuda, nurse sharks (don't worry, they are the friendly kind), and tons of little colorful reef fish darting about will make your snorkeling experience the memory of a lifetime.

Don't forget sunscreen on the backs of your legs. All that floating and looking down means your back side will be exposed to the strong Florida sun. And back of neck and ears, too! Some people bring along a hood to protect themselves from the sun. You can pick one up at a local dive shop in Key West for under $20 if you want.

With the two worlds of Key West to explore, you can't go wrong on vacation here. It's just going to be one of the most memorable vacations you'll take, simply because of the coral reef. Definitely make an effort to go snorkeling while in Key West, and you will see a whole new world under the surface of the sea.