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Alligator Reef

Alligator Reef, just off Islamorada, is one of our favourites in the Upper Keys. It’s got that classic spur-and-groove formation, really defined, making for some interesting swim-throughs and overhangs. We often find ourselves just drifting along the deeper sections, watching schools of snapper and grunt huddle under the ledges, or spotting hogfish digging in the sand. Keep an eye out for the smaller stuff too, the Notchtongue Gobies are always a treat if you take the time to look closely at the coral heads. The visibility here is usually pretty solid, often 20 metres plus, especially on an incoming tide. We like hitting it early in the morning before the day boats crowd the mooring balls, that's when you sometimes get lucky with a passing silky shark on the deeper edges. It’s a good spot for intermediate divers; the currents can pick up, but nothing too wild. Just keep an eye on your dive guide and enjoy the drift.