Grecian Rocks Sanctuary Preservation Area

Grecian Rocks Sanctuary Preservation Area (SPA) is one mile to the south of the Key Largo Dry Rocks SPA, and within the boundaries of the Key Largo Existing Management Area, formerly Key Largo National Marine Sanctuary. Grecia Rocks contains stands of elkhorn coral (Acropora palmata) as well as soft corals that sway in the current. Grecian Rocks SPA varies in depth: parts of the reef crest are exposed at low tide and depths in this area range to around 30 feet. As you swim away from the reef crest you will find some scattered large coral heads and a thick seagrass bed with turtle grass (Thalassia testudinum).

Very high water temperatures in the summer of 2023 have caused widespread coral bleaching and mortality in the Florida Keys. Descriptions of coral cover or coral health on this page may not be accurate based on current conditions.

Special regulations apply here. Learn more about what activities are allowed in this type of zone.

A summary of all sanctuary regulations is available online. For the full text of sanctuary regulations, see 15 CFR 922 Subpart P.