Great Florida Reef
By: Jack Seykora
Overview
Description
Along the northern extension of the Florida Reef Tract, the reefs generally occur in a series of one to three discontinuous reef lines (terraces) that parallel the shoreline, extending north from Miami-Dade County to Martin County.
Different reef organisms characterize the type of habitats found along Florida reefs, typically transitioning from a cover of algae and small octocorals nearshore to numerous octocorals and varied hard coral populations at the outer reefs. The various reef architectural and compositional components create an environment that is ecologically diverse and productive, one that supports many other aquatic plants and animals that make southeast Florida reefs their home.
Activities
Deep Sea Fishing $30 per hour
Rental of Jet Skis $25 per hour
Boat Tours $18 per hour
Cost
American Airlines $327, Delta $275, & United Airways $318
Lodging
Cheeca Lodge & Spa- $243 a night
Sands of Islamorada an Ocean Hotel- $165 per night
Days Inn and Suites Key Islamorada- $195 per night
Restaurants
The Ocean Room
Reef Lounge
Islander and Pelican Bar
Palm Court
Restrictions
- Gulf of Mexico Federal Regulations - Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council
- Atlantic Federal Regulations - South Atlantic Fishery Management Council
- Highly Migratory Species - NOAA Fisheries Office
- Fisheries Management in Federal Water