The beach is also a prime nesting area for loggerhead, green and leather-back turtles. Nature trails and a visitor center are available. The first underwater state park in the United States, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park covers about 70 nautical square miles of coral reefs, sea-grass beds and mangrove swamps. The park offers swimming, snorkeling, picnic areas, camping, fishing and boat ramp access. Glass-bottom boat tours, a snorkeling tour, scuba lessons and tours.
Boat rentals are available.
Jonathan Dickinson State Park 16450 SE Federal Hwy. An observation tower on Hobe Mountain stands 87 feet high. In October 1998, Hurricane Georges tore through Indian Key, knocking out the island's boat dock. It has since been rebuilt. Lignumvitae Key is the site of the Matheson House and the State Botanical Site, home to many trees native to tropical forests, while the Fossil Reef State Geological Site is located on Windley Key.