What months are the best times to visit John Pennekamp Reef? We want to stay in our RV and do some snorkeling.

We have always gone in November and have had great snorkeling. I can't say that Novemeber is the best time as we had no choice. However we were very pleased each time we went.

If you can pick a time for snorkeling, summer is best, because the water will be more comfortable and there will be less chance of windy weather (which can stir up sediment and decrease visabilty on the reef). That being said, even during the winter you can have warm temps and clear water, and during the summer you can have cloudy water. Bottom line, chose your time to come down based on something else and take your chances with the snorkeling conditions. Actually, if you stay in the Keys for about a week you can check conditions daily and go out when it is favorable.

Be aware of the tides when you go. If it's low tide, it is very difficult to snorkel due to the shallow water. We went once during high tide and another during low. Low tide was not a good experience.

Joyce,

The first time I visited John Pennekamp was in the summer and found it truly wonderful. We went out in a boat and snorkled for over an hour and I didn't want to leave. The next time I went it was Feb. I still loved it but the water temp. was just cold enough to make me come in to warm up and then go back out again....so less time looking at the beautiful marine life. I'd go in the summer if I had a choice.