Is there? We'd like to find a place where you can go snorkeling off the shore as opposed to having to go out in a boat all the time. Also, what are some moderately-priced, decent places to stay where you're not in the middle of traffic and maybe w/some beach?

Jamie , in my experience no, your post sounds as if you have enjoyed good snorkeling elsewhere and I believe you would be disappointed. The only exception is in the lower keys where you can rent a small boat or take one of the many snorkel excursions out to a marine sanctuary known as Looe Key . Hope this helps some . Adios !

Jamie, there are very few beaches in the Keys. One of the very best (voted one of the best in the world)is at Bahia Honda state park which is in the southern keys. You can do some snorkeling there and you will see some small fish but you will not see any coral reef formations. The only way to the reef is on a charter boat and if you want to see marine life and coral formations at their finest you have to see the reef. The best snorkeling for me, an amatuer, is John Pennecamp State Park in Key Largo. The boats, which are in the park will cost you about $30 for a 4 hour snorkel trip which includes mask and fins. As far as lodging, it will be expensive unless you go in the off season which is between labor day and thanksgiving.

I second a previous post re Bahia Honda Beach. About 30 miles north of Key West. Gorgeous beach, clear blue water and wonderful off-shore snorkeling. Bring your own gear, no rentals. Best snorkeling though is boat charter, I would recommend a catamarand, to the reefs. Key Largo, John Pennekamp, best spot for this. But for beach snorkeling, you will love Bahia Honda.

No, there is absolutely No good snorkeling in the Keys! We tried at all of the above mentioned spots and were disappointed. If you have never snorkeled anywhere outside of a swimming pool don't bother. Go to the Bahamas or Carribean instead.

Bahia Honda was recommened to us for snorkeling and we were told there is a small island within the park that you can wade to during low tide. We tried it last June but did not quite make it. As soon as we got out of the car, we were attacked by huge bloodthirsty mosquitoes! We jumped back in to the car with a few unwanted guests. Maybe nex year. Anyone with mosquito avoidance advice?

Looe Key for snorkelling. More towards Key West than Largo. It is the closest you'll find to Caribbean type snorkelling. Re Mosquitoes: This is the State Bird of Florida. Big as brickbats some years. Skintastic or Skin So Soft should take care of most of the problem though.