San Pedro Underwater Archeological Preserve State Park

Welcome to one of Florida's most unique state parks, San Pedro Underwater Archeological Preserve State Park. Home to a 1733 Spanish shipwreck and living coral reef, this completely submerged state park can only be accessed by boat, snorkel and mask. Whether you dive the site or just snorkel along the top, the living reef and underwater remains of the vessel are an amazing way to see this fantastic Florida Keys state park.

In April of 1989, Florida's second underwater Archeological Preserve was designated by the state. Of the flotillas 20 vessels that traveled together, all but one was lost to a hurricane. Spanish salvagers recovered much of the gold, silver and other treasures that were in route to Spain from South America. The ships were burned to the waterline to allow divers to enter the holds and gather all of the wrecks precious cargo.

In the 1960's the wreck was rediscovered in the Hawk Channel in nearby Indian Key. Major salvage efforts destroyed most of the vessel and recovered all of the remaining gold, silver and other treasures that were left behind. All that remains today are a series of stone ballasts. These old world river rocks form one of the states oldest artificial reefs.

Today the site has been enhanced by the placing of several replica cannons, an underwater memorial and an anchor. While the wreck may be gone, it doesn't mean that there is not plenty to see at San Pedro Underwater Archeological Preserve State Park.

The living coral reef is one of Florida's oldest artificial reef and contains some exotic coral and aquatic wildlife. Divers and snorkelers alike can expect to see a healthy reef ecosystem dotted with staghorn coral and 100 of tropical fish species.

Boating is the only way to reach San Pedro Underwater Archeological Preserve State Park, located just off of Indian Key a little over a mile to the south. It is located in just 18 feet of clear blue warm waters that can be explored year round.

Five mooring buoys ring the area of the wreck. Anchor your vessel outside of the dive buoys by tying directly to the buoys. Don't drop anchor to prevent damaging the reef below. A diver down flag is required when snorkeling or diving at this perfect underwater adventure in the Florida Keys.

For more information on directions to the park, hours of operation and other park information, visit the official Florida state park website here.