NW and SE of Cheeca Rocks, Alligator Reef Sanctuary Preservation Area (SPA) bridges the shallow reefs of the Upper Keys and the deeper reefs of the Middle Keys. This rectangular SPA is a small bank reef protecting a spur-and-groove system, reef crest, and a portion of the northeast rubble ridge.

A short boat ride away, this site offers a lot to see in a relatively shallow area, perfect for the second dive after the first deeper one of the day.

45′ – Named after a former Key Dives captain, Cindy’s Corner is soft sand meets a spur-and-groove reef at 45’. Look in the sand for stingrays and blue parrots at the edge of the reef.

50-90’ – Starting in a sand pit at 50’, follow the spur and groove coral structures to the drop off at 90’. Large coral structures with beautiful schools of grunts. Explore the west side of the pit where we frequently see a large school of Southern sennets, typically over 100 in the school.

18-25’ – This shallow sprawling reef is a great place to explore. Follow our guides to the best hot spots this reef has to offer. You will see beautiful schooling fish, sharks, several species of eels, turtles and more!

30-50’ – Not as deep as Crater but with similar features with a sandy area surrounded by spur and groove coral fingers. One of the few places we have seen batfish.

Built in Holland in 1962, the Eagle is 269 feet in length. The freighter was intentionally sunk in December of 1985 and can be found at 70-110 feet. Hurricane Georges split her hull in two in 1998.

18-20′ – If coral is what you’re after, this reef is for you. This shallow patch has absolutely incredible stands of stony coral. Massive starlet coral, symmetrical brain coral, knobby brain coral, elliptical star coral. This site was named after our in-house coral doctor, Dr. Kylie Smit

Huge schools of rainbow, midnight, and blue parrotfish off the west side. You will typically find green eels and nurse sharks under the ledges of this patch reef.

A deeper reef site with several uncommon species. 40-65’ (13-20m) with a nice range of coral. Located just off the southern tip of Islamorada. Suitable for all level of divers.