Davis Reef
Davis Reef is one of only a handful of Florida Keys reefs formally protected as a Sanctuary Preservation Area, designated specifically to safeguard its exceptional gorgonians. At 15 to 30 feet, it's accessible to all levels, offers some of the richest soft coral diving in the Upper Keys, and comes with one of the more unusual dive site traditions in Islamorada: rubbing Buddha's Belly for luck.
About Davis Reef
Resource managers made Davis Reef, in 15 to 30 feet of water, a Sanctuary Preservation Area to protect its unusually dense gorgonian and soft coral cover. Sea fans, sea rods and sea plumes sway across the top of the reef, and the shallow depth means bright light, long bottom times, and an easy dive for newly certified divers and snorkelers alike.
The reef's best-known resident is a small bronze Buddha statue placed on the bottom decades ago. Local tradition says rubbing Buddha's Belly brings good luck, and most divers who visit make a point of finding it. Around the statue, French and bluestriped grunts school in the hundreds, nurse sharks rest under ledges, and green moray eels peer out from the coral heads.
FKDC visits Davis Reef on our Afternoon Scuba & Snorkel trip. It is one of the easiest sites we run and a favorite for Discover Scuba students, Open Water checkout dives, and snorkelers.
Marine Life
- French Grunt
- Bluestriped Grunt
- Nurse Shark
- Green Moray Eel
- Sea Turtle
- Parrotfish
- Angelfish
- Yellowtail Snapper
- Sea Fans
- Gorgonians
Best Conditions
Best Season
Year-round; calmest seas in summer
Ideal Conditions
Light wind and calm seas — a sheltered, shallow site that dives well most days
Current
Light to none
Water Temp
75–85°F depending on season
Trips That Visit Davis Reef
Book Your Charter Online
Morning and afternoon charters run year-round from Three Waters Marina. Whether you're booking a charter, a course, or just have questions — we're here.