Point of Rocks is a series of limestone rock formations located on the southern end of Crescent Beach on Siesta Key, at 6900 Point of Rocks Road. It is known as one of the best areas for Siesta Key snorkeling, even for beginners, as the water is calm and relatively shallow up to around 100 yards offshore.
Local snorkelers will tell you that it’s one of the most exciting Siesta Key activities because you’ll be able to see schools of small to medium sized fish including various crustaceans, crabs, snook, red sponges, various types of algae, and shells of all kinds.
You might also get lucky and see some manatees during the summer months and there’s a good chance you’ll see dolphins no matter when you visit. You’ll also get to view a variety of different resident and migrant shorebirds.
A good time to visit is the early morning
Visibility in the water can range up to 20 feet in the deeper areas. Water depths closer to the rocks vary up to around 6 feet and increase the further you go out from the shore.
Visibility will vary depending on the wave action. A good time to snorkel the area is during the early morning where you’ll have the best chance of having clear visible water and also grabbing a parking spot.
Parking is available at Beach Access 12
If you plan on driving, you may be able to get lucky and find some parking at Beach Access 12, which is a short hike south to the Point of Rocks. There are about 20 parking spots here, and you may be able to snag one if you get there early in the day.
If not, there are some other options available to you as well, including taking a trolley or taxi to the location or walking if you are within a reasonable distance.
Suggestions for equipment
It’s recommended to at least bring a mask, snorkel, fins, and a diver down flag. Winter snorkeling will usually require a wetsuit.
Put your diver down flag up before you enter the water which will let other divers know that you’re in the area. You should also expect to be swimming in up to 18-20 feet of water depending on the tide and where you snorkel.
Be sure to never remove or disturb anything you find in the water which is against local laws and can result in fines.
Check out Point of Rocks even if you’re a beginner
Even if you’ve just started snorkeling recently, you’ll find Point of Rocks to be more than suitable for one of your first ocean adventures. Its stable shallow water and often good visibility will make it easy for you to navigate. However, it’s always recommended to go with a more experienced snorkeler if you’re just starting out.
It’s one of the best snorkeling adventures that you’ll find on the Gulf Coast where you’ll get a close-up view of some of the region’s most interesting and exciting sea life. It’s also a great place to collect a variety of different shells along the shore for souvenirs.
Plan Your Visit
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A short distance from Tropical Breeze Resort
Located just a short distance from Tropical Breeze Resort, visiting Point of Rocks is a must for any snorkeling or scuba diving enthusiast hoping to see an ecologically diverse and thriving Siesta Key ocean habitat.
Whether you’re looking for Siesta Key hotels, Siesta Key pet-friendly rentals, or beachfront hotels on Siesta Key, Tropical Breeze Resort has everything you’re looking for!
Tropical Breeze Resort can answer any questions that you may have about Siesta Key snorkeling at Point of Rocks and also help you find the perfect accommodations in Siesta Key to experience the outdoors and other Siesta Key activities to the fullest! Call us today at 941.256.2686 to learn more.
