We will be staying a few days at Two Harbors, Catalina Island. Although youll need to carry in your own gear or rent it elsewhere, the area, known by locals as Cat Harbor is the most protected cove off Catalina. Kayak rentals: Available year-round from Wet Spot Rentals by advance reservation. Keep in Mind. Of course, Santa Catalina is also an awesome place for snorkeling. Pricing starts at $8 for 2 hours of snorkel and mask rental, $6 for fins, and $15 for a 3mm wetsuit. When spending a weekend in South Lake Tahoe, head to Emerald Bay State Parkthis is one of the best places to snorkel in California. Scotts Cheap Flights FREE flight deals alert, works best if you can be flexible2. Bedroom2; Baths2; Property typeCondo; Max Sleeps5; Min Stay30 Nights; 2 master suites townhome (1700 SqFt), Incredible ocean/port view, top of the hill, fully furnished, Brand new all wood flooring throughout the living-room and dining room, remodeled kitchen, 2 car attached garage, Balcony overlooking the Long Beach port and ocean. Avalon is the main resort city on the island with daily ferries/boats that come from the mainland of California. Doctor/Physician. Anyone have experiences to share? Whether you are riding an underwater scooter or just wandering on your own, you are guaranteed to have the time of your life. However, if you live in California or just kind of get the ick with borrowing wetsuits that other people have worn, here are some good standard options that I use to swim year-round in the California ocean. Fresh water Most of the island is owned by the Catalina Island Conservancy, a non-profit that [], Santa Catalina Island has many options for overnight travelers from hotels and bed and breakfasts to vacation rentals and cottages. The good news is that [], High above the main port city of Avalon on Catalina Island there are five long zip lines that will challenge your fear of heights. Nope! With today's high-speed ferries, that distance can be crossed in about an hour. Diving Catalina Power, Night, or Traditional Snorkel Tours, Where to Rent Snorkeling Gear on Catalina Island, Top 3 Best Spots to Snorkel in Catalina Island, Best Time of Year for Snorkeling in Catalina Island. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Catalina is located about 22 miles off the coast of southern California near Los Angeles. The CO2 builds up inside your mask until it becomes toxic. High-speed ferries from the mainlanddock at the Cabrillo Mole boat landing, just a short walk to the main part of town. Learn The History Of Walking, Types of Pranayama (And Benefits) To Fuel The Beginner Yoga Practice, Other great snorkeling is to be had along the many little coves and tiny beaches of Catalinas coastline, of course, but youll either need to access a public beach by traversing private land, or by boat. Kayaks can also be dropped off at Little Harbor Campground. Sam is currently preparing to sail to . We get a visit from our marina neighbor Sam of SV Yardbird who sailed up and dropped his hook at sunset. Avalon itself is on southeastern tip of the island, which is also the closest part of Catalina to the mainland. Lessons, rentals and guided dive trips are available. Option one: Catch the Catalin Express to Avalon and then take the . We'll deliver your cooler with a bag of ice to Little Harbor for $40. 4 photos. Check out SingleDivers.com or PM me! The Trans Catalina Trail backpacking route passes by Little Harbor CG which is about the mid-point of the route. Winter averages 59F (15C), spring 60F (15.5C), summer 66F (19C), and autumn 65F (18C). Are There Coral Reefs in Catalina Island? The best place to keep your phone, wallet, and cash dry and protected from the elements. There are also airplane rides available. Pick up a single-use cooler from the Two Harbors General Store and stock up on groceries like fresh fruit and vegetables, hot dogs, sandwich items, beer, wine, and more! Located about seven miles east of Two Harbors and 19miles from Avalon, Little Harbor is a sandy, beachfront campground with lots of opportunities for recreation. The Little Harbor: This spot is perfect for beginners because it has gentle waves and clear water. It covers some medical as well, which is important in the U.S. due to the high cost of health care. Most discussion of snorkeling seems to center around Avalon. Just make sure to purchase your snorkeling gear from a dedicated retailer so you can stay safe underwater. Located in Avalon at the Boat Landing, open daily from April through September. Gear hauls are available for $16.00 one way or $31.00 round trip per item or bag. On this episode we awake under hook at Santa Barbara Island. Viajes Alertas Iniciar sesin So even though you will be away from the city, you can bring a couple of beach toys and enjoy sunbathing after snorkeling. The only downside is that there is not a sandy beach, so it may not be the best spot if you wanted to include beach activities on the days itinerary. Located just 26 miles off of Los Angeles southwestern coast, this scenic island will give you a memorable snorkeling experience. While you can go on your own if you have snorkeling experience, the local tour companies go out of their way to offer unique adventures. This snorkeling location is a good spot for both family and couple trips, with the roped-off area keeping things safe, and the underwater garden boasting colorful sea life and even shipwrecks. Seite auswhlen. The airport is managed by The Catalina [], Open daily from 9 to 5 year-round, the Two Harbors Dive and Recreation Center is a key to the adventure that the west end of Catalina Island offers. As the name hints, Casino Point Dive Park is right next to the islands massive casino. Parsons Landing is the last campground on the Trans Catalina Trail (TCT) and is the most beautiful campground that you will stay at. The village of Catering to the Little Harbor Camper, we set you up with kayaks for the day or the weekend. Campers can check in at the Two Harbors Visitor Service Center in Two Harbors. Listed on 2023-03-03. are all magnificent and teeming with marine life. 3/27/2022. This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity. Catalina Island is definitely a place worth snorkeling in. 4. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page.. Protects your phone by land and by sea! Lovers Cove is situated off of Avalon, the largest town in Catalina. Some parts of the state get June Gloom where it can be cloudy during the morning and burn off by mid-day.Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) are cooler and have the potential of rain, but you will beat some of the crowds and see some incredible wildflowers (spring)/greenery (fall). The harbor, a popular yacht anchorage, is funnel-shaped, open to the S, and easy of access. This beautiful campground is the only one on Catalina's remote backside." if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'californiabeaches_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_3',663,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-californiabeaches_com-medrectangle-4-0');This campground offers potable water which makes staying longer much easier. Pulau Hantu. From Avalon, transportation is available via theCatalina Island Conservancy Wildlands ExpressShuttleor Catalina Taxi & Tours taxi service (310.510.0025). You will cruise around Catalina 5 feet underwater to take in the sea life without having to get wet. Rentals are due back by 30 minutes before close. Most snorkeling is done off the shore of Isthmus Cove, on the northern side of the isthmus. We depart Long Beach at 8 am and return by 4 pm. Ship Rock: 1.00 miles. And depending on the time of the year you are visiting, you may even bump into a monster black sea bass. CATALINA HARBOR, TWO HARBORS Catalina Harbor is one of only two U.S. Coast Guard "Year-round Safe Harbors" in Southern California. Rated "One of the Best Campgrounds in the West" by Sunset Magazine, Little Harbor Campground is perfect for campers who enjoy playing on the beach or in the water. A perfect spot for families and newbies, visibility is great and the surf is usually calm. Little Harbor is the site of a great sandy beach and one of the best campgrounds on Santa Catalina Island. Log in or Register now! How Much Does It Cost to Snorkel in Catalina Island? 1. Recognized by. Located on the northern end of Avalon Bay, this dive park is a haven for marine life and sea adventures. Ability to post and comment on topics and discussions. Two Harbors relative seclusion and geographic protection make the water on this part of the island particularly clean. The Shark Caves . $399 $379. Located on the more remote northern end of Catalina Island, this snorkeling sanctuary offers a peaceful escape from Avalon and is a worthy destination thats worth the trip. MOST POPULAR POSTS:A Guide to Working Remotely Abroad For a U.S. CompanyJobs in Ireland for Americans: How to Find Work as an Expat57 Best Things to Do in South Bay, LA, Copyright 2023 Make the Trip Matter | Privacy Policy, Stroll around the Wrigley Memorial & Botanical Gardens. as The Worlds Healthiest Marine Environment, with underwater visibility of up to 100 feet, there are impressively large sections of kelp forests, along with abundant fish and invertebrate life. Also known as the Avalon Dive Park, this marine preserve caters to snorkelers and scuba enthusiasts, with easy-access stairs into the water, as well as booths and shops offering equipment rental and guided tour possibilities. Nash. We use cookies to improve your experience and to analyze the use of our website. http://www.visitcatalinaisland.com/twoHarbors/acti_snorkeling.php. For novice snorkelers, going on a guided tour is always a good first step. The most commonway to getto and from the island is on theCatalina Expressferry with year-round boat transportation and up to 30 departures daily. The $9.25 booking fee is non-refundable. In addition, check out nighttime snorkeling tours, which gives you a close-up view of the more sunlight-shy sea life. A rocky outcropping known to locals as the Whale's Tail shields Little Harbor from breaking Pacific waves . Tuesday through Thursday -closed for rentals Human beings inhale oxygen and breathe out carbon dioxide. Cold-water, outdoor showers Renting a golf cart is recommended. *Firewood, fire starters, charcoal & propane can be added to your reservation by calling Two Harbors Visitor Services. Snorkeling is a great way to explore the undersea wildlife around Catalina Island with many protected areas to safely swim, snorkel, and play in the Pacific. So crooned the 1950s pop band The Four Preps in their hit song, "26 Miles.". Saltar hasta el contenido principal. 1 Green Pleasure Pier P.O. Snorkel in the waters of South Lake Tahoe's Emerald Bay to discover a sunken forest and large barges. more. The same goe. Casino Point Dive Park is located just off Avalon, Catalina's largest town. The California sun is making its glorious return to the city of Angels, and we have all the best ways to celebrate LA springtime to its fullest. Small and bare Pin Rock, close inside the E head of the harbor, is 150 yards offshore and . It has 117 moorings and anchorage for over 200. A stunning island located off the coast of southern California, Catalina is known for its spectacular marine life and stunning views making it an ideal destination for anyone looking to explore a unique and diverse environment from beneath the waves. If you need an affordable and quaint beach-style place to stay in Catalina, Seacrest Inn will work great for you. Personalized travel planning & custom itineraries from a local. Located just west of Avalon, Descanso Beach Club offers a few different snorkeling opportunities including snuba, a popular combination of snorkeling and scuba that does not require certification like scuba diving, allowing you to snorkel to greater water depths. Overall, we feel that Santa Catalina diving spots have a lot to offer. 5% off. For the purpose of this Catalina Island itinerary article, I will mainly discuss exploring the side of Two Harbors. They are [], The Safari Bus is how you get around on Catalina Island if you plan to leave the towns. Play at the casino, enjoy your favorite seafood, and watch movies til dawnall while enjoying a cool breeze from the sea. Learn more about Little Harbor rentals The crystal clear waters around Catalina Island are known as great spots for snorkeling. Two Harbors Dive & Recreation Center Rent Your Toys Here. No matter your budget or diving style, you will be able to get out and enjoy the beautiful waters of Catalina Island! Please plan multi-day rentals accordingly as our rentals must be returned during business hours. Kayaking and snorkeling are easy and fun ways to experience the natural beauty of Catalina Island. Catalina Island Snorkeling: Southern California has it allsun, sand, surf and some of the best snorkeling in the world. (239)633-3391. To get to the island, ferries from several points off the California coastline are available, as are airplane rides. Expect to see tons of marine life such as senorita, garibaldi, sheepshead, sea cucumbers, sea stars, sea urchin, and bass, just to mention a few. Continue with Recommended Cookies. To get to the island, ferries depart regularly from several points off the California coast. While temperatures may not reach the same heights as in summer, the kelp will be coming back to life and sea critters will start to be more active again. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Some ppl put their scuba gear on their kayak and paddle to the destination (wing fully inflated as you wouldn't want to have it fall over and sinkmaybe even remove the ditchable weight). Trans-Catalina Trail Itinerary. Marine life: Schooling fish, sea urchins, sea cucumbers, spiny lobsters, horn sharks, tree fish, black sea bass, mackerel,and colorful Garibaldi. History buffs will love learning the unique history of the Catalina Island Casino with this brief tour. The minimum water temperature in Santa Catalina Island is 56F (13C) and happens in January, the maximum is 69F (20.5C) and happens in June. while visiting Long Beach, Newport Beach, LA, or other SoCal destinations. All other supplies & equipment are available on a walk-up only basis. Excellent snorkeling around the Harbor Reefs marker. Guided and self-guided tours are available. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. And since few of the islands visitors get far from the main port city of Avalon, [], Santa Catalina Island is unique in many ways, but especially when it comes to land ownership. Whichever season you ultimately choose, you can look forward to beautiful views and abundant marine life! Purchase your favorite food and drinks from the Two Harbors General Store and have your items delivered directly to your campsite at Little Harbor. You can arrange to pick up your gear from their two locations: Casino Point DiveParkand/or theGreen Pleasure Pier. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. An adjacent beach provides post-snorkeling fun, as do nearby eateries and shops and the Casino itself. (sorry, no bungee cords allowed on gear for gear haul transport!). OCTOBER 6 - 8, 2022 - Buccaneer Days. Here are five of the best places to snorkel on Catalina: 1. I really like the areas in and around Emerald Cove but you need transport. and affordable lodging options, Catalina is a great destination for watersport lovers on any budget. The beach is small, with a few tables in the sand and a couple more, along with a vault toilet, on the road leading down to the beach. Joining is quick and easy. Your browser is not supported for this experience.We recommend using Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari. If you are looking for a serene snorkeling destination in LA, you know where to start. Make sure to save this post to refer back to when youre ready to book your Catalina Island trip! Built-in foam padding and 2 layers of high-quality PVC-plastic provide maximum protection against pressure, puncture and penetration, making it the only case that's not only drop, scuff, and waterproof, but the only one that keeps your phone floating above water! Here is the most common Trans-Catalina Trail itinerary: Day 1: Avalon to Black Jack Campground (10.7 miles) Day 2: Black Jack to Little Harbor Campground (consider neighboring Shark Harbor for more solitude) (8.2 miles) Day 3: Little Harbor to Two Harbors Campground (5.3 miles) Here are a few of the best things to do: This tour is perfect if you were hoping to snorkel, but cant go during the warmest months of the year. Other guides will throw bait from the boat, drawing plenty of marine life around you once you jump in. Make sure to reserve your ferry tickets in advance! Open daily from 8am to 4pm. (For a truly remote beach camping experience, check out Little Harbor Campground, about seven miles east of Two Harbors.) If reservation is cancelled within 72 hours of the reservation start date the camping fees will be refunded. Below are three of the best places for seeing underwater life at Santa Catalina. Snorkelers can wade into waist-deep . I'll bring the reel. $500 deposit required. ** Tents and 2-burner stoves will require a $50.00 deposit that will be refunded once the tent or stove is returned to Two Harbors Visitor Services in the same condition it was when it was checked out. 3. You are using an out of date browser. Friday through Sunday - 8:00 AM-4:30PM The village offers two restaurants, two bars, general store, marine repair, PADI certified SCUBA . Catalina Harbor Catalina Harbor, the other of the "two harbors" in Two Harbors, has a public dock and a small spit of land from which snorkelers and divers enter the water.Although you'll need to carry in your own gear or rent it elsewhere, the area, known by locals as "Cat Harbor" is the most . Massive Black Grouper. Additional snorkeling destinations including Gallagher Beach, Emerald Bay, Moonstone Cove, and Whites Landing are all magnificent and teeming with marine life. An unforgettable proposal on a salt-sprayed overlook. If you are an experienced snorkeler, its a great way to take a dramatic look at the reef under the moonlight, while guided by an experienced instructor. But Casino Point Park is a public sanctuary, and therefore, it is not exclusively for snorkelers. Whether you're catching waves, or just catching some rays, the CaliCase Sand-Free Towel is perfect for days at the beach and summers by the pool. In this configuration, offered either as part of a guided group or on your own, special dive-kayaks allow you to paddle out to the ideal location, then enter the water to snorkel. Medical Doctor, Surgeon, Medical Specialist, Healthcare Consultant. Of course, it also depends on how sensitive you are to the cold as well. Unlike the Hawaiian Islands where you can rent a Jeep and drive [], If you visit the town of Two Harbors chances are that youll be looking for a store and this is pretty much your only option. August 8, 1778 - French . We will do some kayaking and check out some of those spots. Catalina Island Airport in the Sky is located at an elevation of 1602 feet and contains a 3250 ft. runway for small planes. It depends on the time of the year, but yes, its likely you will want to snorkel in a wetsuit. I've never done it, but I hear you can rent a kayak and cruise to some locations just outside of Two Harbors. Trans Catalina Trail itinerary: Summer 2017. Keep the memories, but leave the sand at the beach where it belongs. It is also one of the campgrounds along the popular 38.5 mile Trans-Catalina Trail hike. If youre looking for the island to be a little less busy, try coming in the spring (April to May) instead. Dont worry about sharks while snorkeling on Catalina because they very rarely come close to the island. Sitting on the beachfront, Little Harbor is one of only two protected harbors on the backside of Catalina Island. Snorkeling near Two Harbors and/or Little Harbor? Purchase your favorite food and drinks from the Two Harbors General Store and have your items delivered directly to your campsite at Little Harbor. Glass-bottom boat tours and divers with heavy tanks also use the marine park, so its important to keep your eyes open to avoid bumping into them. We stopped at Airport in the Sky for a drink (or two) and had lunch at Little Harbor. Please watch the weather. Sure, full face snorkel masks are fancy but being new in the market, they have some limitations too. Two Harbors is the closest place for supplies and in the morning is generally a qu Eighteen campsites are tent-only and 11 can accommodate tents or trailers. Written byDavid Hamburg, Founder and Chief Editor of Globo Surf. A bus called the Safari Bus takes campers to Little Harbor from the ferry dock in either Two Harbors or Avalon, however its closer to Two Harbors where backpackers often walk the seven miles to camp via roads and trails. Casino Point Dive Park. It's too cold now (December) but we may come back later. French Key is near French Harbor. Single or Buddyless? There are plenty of cheap accommodation and things to do, which makes the island an excellent vacation spot on any budget. With large sections of underwater gardens and a wide variety of fish species, Two Harbors is considered the healthiest marine environment and most serene spot for snorkeling in Santa Catalina. You can also find sea turtles here! Get answers to your questions about Catalina Island, Current estimate- Uber from lax to Long Beach? You must log in or register to reply here. Guestscomingfrom San Pedro on the mainland typically arrive via a high-speed ferry, but there are more than 700 moorings for rent to dock private boats. Holidays include Memorial Day, Independence Day and Labor Day. Day 2: Black Jack to Two Harbors (roughly 13 miles). Its extremely likely you will see some dolphins on the boat ride as well. Members who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers' questions. This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register. This tour company is best for those looking to add a unique flare to their snorkeling whether thats going at night or adding on an underwater hand scooter. 310-510-1520. CAMPING SUPPORT SERVICES. This is the second major village of the island behind Avalon, but dont expect much hustle and bustle from a town that boasts only a hotel and restaurant or two, along with a general store and tiny school. Re: Snorkeling near Two Harbors and/or Little Harbor? The Casino in Avalon on Catalina Island. William. snorkeling little harbor catalina. Recommended for individuals and couples traveling without kids. Getting There is Easy. Theres also lots of post-snorkeling activities to explore on the nearby beach. I know in Catalina Island, we can rent a golf cart, if we want to tour a bit. For experienced snorkelers, nighttime snorkeling tours provide a great way to take a dramatic look at the reef under the moonlight and get a close-up view of the more sunlight-shy sea life. During the summer, when the water has warmed up and its warm out you will be fine swimming without a wetsuit. Our Ocean Safari puts you in the middle of Pacific Dolphins pods that are playful, curious and ready to . The closest point on the island to the mainland is the town of Avalon, Catalinas largest town thatwraps around Avalon Bay on the southeast end of the island. The average annual water temperature off Santa Catalina Island is62F (17C). Camp Chairs are now available as an add on to your kayak reservation. Box 217, Avalon, CA 90704 310-510-1520 -Ed.]. So here is an overview of the best spots for the sport as well as information on how to stay safe inside your snorkeling mask. Snorkeling Catalina is located approximately 26 miles off the coast of Long Beach, CA on beautiful Catalina Island. Take a Catalina Island Undersea Expedition, Take a Private Guided Golf Cart Tour of Avalon, Visit and Learn About the Catalina Island Casino, How to Get to Catalina Island From Long Beach, Incredible Things to Do on the Palos Verdes Peninsula, A Guide to Working Remotely Abroad For a U.S. Company, Jobs in Ireland for Americans: How to Find Work as an Expat. CLICK HERE FOR PHOTOS & TO CHECK AVAILABILITY. Photo by Elise Thompson. Welcome to ScubaBoard, the world's largest scuba diving community. Who Invented Walking? Little Harbor campground is located in a beautiful cove on the backside of Catalina Island. So if youre looking for a more private snorkeling experience, then Lovers Cove is the perfect spot! Answer 1 of 2: Hi, I am planning a trip to Catalina and would love to hear other users opinions about the quality of snorkeling near Two Harbors and/or Little Harbor. Hiking to Ben Weston Beach, one of the island's legendary destinations 11 were here . Please browse through our website and see what interests you. Also great snorkeling along the shallow shelf that extends northwest of Bird Rock. 2. Insider Tips for Snorkeling on Catalina Island. Located off Avalon Bay in the southeastern portion of Catalina Island lies the beautiful Lovers Cove Marine Preserve. Boats depart from San Pedro or Long Beach. 1 hour 15 minutes each way Day trips or overnights 2 pieces of luggage per person. The beach, hiking, and snorkeling make this place one of the best spots to spend a quiet weekend on Catalina. Listing for: The Medicus Firm. The new headquarters for the Catalina Island Conservancy, the Trailhead, is the perfect starting point for discovering the island's vast interior. Like Casino Point Diving Park, Lovers Cove is located off Avalon, in the southeastern portion of Catalina. Chemical toilets If you are calling about pricing, please refer to the pricingbelow. Find out HERE! Scheduled gear hauls leaveLittle Harbor for Two Harbors at 9:00 am daily, and leave Two Harbors forLittle Harbor at 1:00 pm daily. This gorgeous hotel overlooks Avalon Bay and is close to all the best things to do from the Descanso Beach Club to the best snorkeling spots and is just one minute from the Catalina Island Golf Course. The last part of the trail has you do an interior loop of the island that ends at Parsons . A Free photo gallery to share your dive photos with the world. 5000. It may not display this or other websites correctly. Additional snorkeling destinations including. WARNING: If Catalina Island is experiencing adverse weather there is a possibility of trail, road, and campground closures. A few things you might see while snorkeling here: No, there are some corals but not a coral reef. From January to April you might catch a humpback whale or grey whale and from May to September be on the lookout for blue whales and finback whales. We have snorkeled in the area by the Two Harbors campground and it was pretty good. Is There Good Snorkeling in Catalina Island? they do not frequently or consistently visit Catalina Island. Sites LH10, LH11, LH12, SH8, SH9 and SH10 are beachfront. Explore the Pacific on the Catalina Island Submarine. Play on pristine, white-sand beaches caressed by crystal-clear seas. The Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge in the province of Limn is one of the best places for snorkeling and scuba diving on Costa Rica's Caribbean coast. Enjoy! While snorkeling is definitely going to be a highlight of your trip, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy on Catalina Island! If youre looking for a good snorkeling experience, Catalina Island should definitely be on your radar. A nearby beach offers post-diving fun. Located just off Avalon, Casino Point is a mecca for underwater explorers. If youre brave enough to take the plunge youll find giant kelp forests galore along with some calico bass, garibaldi, and the occasional lobster. You certainly dont have to be a movie star to come to Catalina, however. Reservations are required for Little Harbor Campground so check the website for more information. The best part is that you dont need to drain your savings to make Catalina your holiday destination. The kelp forests in Catalina Island are some of the best in the world. Catalina Harbor Light (3325'24N., 11830'50W. Large flat bed truck for $400 one way. Selected camping equipment is available fromTwo Harbors Visitor Services. ). Boaters, swimmers, and scuba divers converge on this part of the world to get close to the elusive sea life. The crescent-shaped cove is a protected area, allowing for large swaths of giant kelp forests, along with sea life such as calico bass, orange Garibaldi fish, and lobster. The French Key reef is accessible either by the privately owned islands of Big French Key and Little French Key or by the Fantasy Island Resort. . Enjoy snorkeling and swimming at Little Harbor's cool waters with your young ones at the shallow waters.