reef

Log This Dive

Eastern Dry Rocks

Eastern Dry Rocks is one of those places we always try to hit when we're in the Keys. It’s a proper spur-and-groove reef, where the coral formations just push up from the sand in these impressive fingers, creating lots of little nooks and crannies to poke around in. You’ll often drop in and find yourself drifting slowly over sandy patches, then suddenly you’re enveloped by schools of bluestriped grunt, almost shimmering as they move. We love watching the damselfish dart in and out of the stony corals, especially the lowridge cactus coral, which seems to glow a faint purple in the sun. Keep an eye out for the big pelagics too. We've seen Atlantic Spanish mackerel zip past, just silver blurs in the blue. The currents here can vary quite a bit, so it's a good spot for divers comfortable with a drift, or those who don't mind staying close to the boat if it’s ripping. It's really suited for divers who appreciate the subtle beauty of a healthy reef and enjoy observing fish behavior up close.