- Published Date: January 22, 2026
- Fishing
- Key Largo
Summary
Explore Molasses Reef, one of Key Largo’s most popular dive sites, known for clear water, coral formations, and abundant marine life.
Discover Molasses Reef Diving in Key Largo
Molasses Reef is one of the most well-known and frequently visited dive sites in the Florida Keys. Located just offshore of Key Largo, this reef is protected as a Sanctuary Preservation Area and is prized for its clear water, healthy coral formations, and excellent accessibility for divers of all experience levels.
With its mix of shallow and deeper sections, Molasses Reef offers rewarding dives for beginners, certified divers, and snorkelers alike.
What Makes Molasses Reef Special
Molasses Reef features a classic spur-and-groove reef system, where coral ridges alternate with sandy channels. This structure provides shelter for a wide variety of marine life and creates beautiful underwater landscapes ideal for exploration and photography.
The reef is maintained with multiple mooring buoys, allowing boats to tie in without anchoring, which helps preserve the coral and keeps diving conditions safe and organized.
Marine Life at Molasses Reef
Divers and snorkelers at Molasses Reef often encounter colorful reef fish, angelfish, parrotfish, barracuda, rays, and sea turtles. The healthy coral environment supports vibrant marine ecosystems, making every dive slightly different depending on conditions and season.
Shallow sections of the reef also make Molasses Reef an excellent site for snorkeling and relaxed, extended bottom times.
Who Is Molasses Reef Best For
Molasses Reef is ideal for:
- Beginner and newly certified scuba divers
- Experienced divers looking for relaxed reef dives
- Snorkelers seeking shallow, clear-water conditions
- Underwater photographers and marine life enthusiasts
Its accessibility and variety make it one of the most versatile dive sites in the Upper Keys.
Dive Molasses Reef with BlueWater Divers
BlueWater Divers offers guided scuba diving and snorkeling trips to Molasses Reef aboard a U.S. Coast Guard–inspected dive boat. Our experienced local team selects dive sites based on conditions to ensure safe, enjoyable experiences for every guest.
Whether you’re exploring Molasses Reef for the first time or returning to enjoy its beauty again, our small-group approach allows for a personalized and memorable dive.
Book a Molasses Reef Dive in Key Largo
Ready to experience one of the Florida Keys’ most iconic dive sites? Join BlueWater Divers for a guided dive or snorkeling trip at Molasses Reef and explore the underwater beauty that makes Key Largo famous.
Molasses Reef Dive Site
Coral formations, marine life, and underwater scenery from Molasses Reef dives in Key Largo.
Molasses Reef Dive Site
Coral formations, marine life, and underwater scenery from Molasses Reef dives in Key Largo.
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