Yes, you can absolutely snorkel on your own in the Florida Keys, but your experience will differ significantly depending on whether you stay at the shore or rent a boat. Most of the famous coral reefs, such as those in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, are located 3 to 6 miles offshore and require a boat to reach. However, there are several excellent "shore snorkeling" spots where you can simply swim out from the beach. Bahia Honda State Park and Fort Zachary Taylor in Key West offer rocky areas and seagrass beds where you can see tropical fish, crabs, and occasional rays. Another popular spot is Cannon Beach in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, which features a replica of an early Spanish shipwreck just offshore. When snorkeling on your own, safety is paramount: you must use a "diver down" flag to alert boaters of your presence, as boat traffic is heavy in the Keys. You should also be mindful of tides and currents, which can be surprisingly strong. While shore snorkeling is convenient, it rarely offers the crystal-clear visibility and massive coral structures found at the outer reefs.