Join us for REEF Fest! October 16-19, 2025 in Key Largo, Florida

We are currently confirming details for this year's event. Stay tuned - registration will open at the end of June! In the meantime, check out the photo album from REEF Fest 2024 here and view the seminar recordings on YouTube.

REEF Fest includes diving, snorkeling, kayak eco-tours, ocean-themed seminars, and social events. Since 2015, REEF has hosted REEF Fest each fall in the Florida Keys. Divers, snorkelers, and ocean lovers attend REEF Fest to celebrate their love of marine life and learn about the latest in conservation.  If you have any questions, please contact events@REEF.org.

Weekend ScheduleFAQsTravel Info & Locations

Ocean SeminarsSocial EventsFlorida Keys Activities

Sponsors

REEF Fest 2025 Schedule

Wednesday, October 15
12:00-5:00 pm -- Ocean Exploration Center open
5:00-7:00 pm -- REEF Sustainers Gathering - Invitation Only - More details will be emailed to Sustainers (Click here for info about becoming a REEF Sustainer)

Thursday, October 16
12:00-5:00 pm -- Ocean Exploration Center open
5:00-7:00 pm -- Open House at REEF Ocean Exploration Center (98380 Overseas Hwy. Key Largo, FL 33037)

Friday, October 17
10:00-2:00 pm -- Ocean Exploration Center open
2:00-5:00 pm -- Ocean Seminars - Pre-seminar social at 2:00 pm, first seminar to begin at 2:30 pm
5:00-6:00 pm -- REEF Fest Happy Hour Social
6:00-7:00 pm -- Evening Ocean Seminar

Saturday, October 18
10:00-2:00 pm -- Ocean Exploration Center open
2:00-4:00 pm -- Ocean Seminars - Pre-seminar social at 2:00 pm, first seminar to begin at 2:30 pm
5:00-8:30 pm -- For the Love of the Sea Celebration at bayside property next to Quiescence Diving Services (103674 Overseas Hwy. Key Largo, FL 33037)

Sunday, October 19
Time TBA -- Walking Tour at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park - Meet outside visitors center (102601 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037)

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I participate in REEF Fest?

Everyone is invited to attend REEF Fest! Most events are free, but we kindly ask that you pre-register for planning purposes. Online registration will open at the end of June. When completing your online registration form, you may also choose to purchase tickets to the 'For the Love of the Sea' Celebration. Diving, snorkeling, and/or kayaking space should be booked directly with operators.

REEF Marine Conservation Intern Alumni who attend REEF Fest will receive a complimentary ticket to For the Love of the Sea Celebration. Are you a former REEF Marine Conservation Intern interested in attending REEF Fest? If so, please register online and contact Mead Krowka at mead@REEF.org to request your ticket to For the Love of the Sea.

What is the cancellation policy for those who purchase For the Love of the Sea tickets?

Due to the nature of REEF Fest and the large number of guests who attend, no refunds are available for For the Love of the Sea tickets unless the event does not take place. Eco-excursions (diving, snorkeling, kayaking) are not booked through REEF and are at the discretion of the operator; please refer to your dive, snorkel, or kayak tour operator's cancellation policy for more information.

I purchased tickets to For The Love of the Sea Celebration. When will I receive my tickets?

There are no physical tickets for the event. Your name will be on the list at the door.

Can I view the seminars virtually?

For those who are not able to attend in person, REEF Fest seminars will be livestreamed on the REEF Facebook page and YouTube channel.

Still have questions?

You may contact us by emailing events@REEF.org or calling the REEF office at 305-852-0030.

Travel Information, Event Locations, and Map

How do I get to Key Largo?

If you are flying, the closest airport is Miami (MIA - 63 miles to REEF Campus), but Ft. Lauderdale (FLL - 91 miles to REEF) and Palm Beach (PBI - 133 miles to REEF) are also options. There is not much in the way of public transportation or ride share services in Key Largo, so a rental car is recommended.

Where should I stay?

We do not have room blocks or partner hotels for REEF Fest. There are many lodging options in the area, from big hotels, to sailboat stays! To find the right place for you, we recommend you check out listings and reviews on Trip Advisor, Google, Airbnb, VRBO, etc. Locations in the Florida Keys are generally noted by mile marker (MM) along Highway 1. All of the REEF Fest activities take place in Key Largo, between MM104 and MM98.

Important Addresses

REEF Ocean Exploration Center: 98380 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park: 102601 Overseas Highway (MM 102.5) Key Largo, FL 33037