San Pedro Underwater Archaeological Preserve State Park

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Last Updated: December 5, 2025

San Pedro Underwater Archaeological Preserve State Park, located in the state of Florida, is a unique and fascinating destination for history and diving enthusiasts.


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Summary

It offers visitors a chance to explore the remains of the Spanish shipwreck San Pedro, which sank in 1733 during a hurricane.

There are several compelling reasons to visit this underwater preserve. Firstly, it provides an exceptional opportunity to witness and learn about maritime archaeology firsthand. The site is carefully preserved, allowing visitors to observe the submerged wreckage and gain insight into the lives of 18th-century sailors.

Among the notable points of interest at San Pedro Underwater Archaeological Preserve State Park are the scattered remnants of the ship, including cannons, anchors, ballast stones, and other artifacts. Exploring the wreckage provides an immersive experience, making visitors feel like they are discovering a hidden treasure themselves.

Interesting facts about the area include the fact that San Pedro is one of the oldest Spanish shipwrecks found off the coast of Florida. The ship was part of a fleet en route from Havana, Cuba, to Spain when it encountered the devastating storm. Today, the site is considered an important archaeological treasure, shedding light on Florida's colonial history.

The best time of year to visit the park is during the summer months, specifically between June and September. This period typically offers better visibility underwater, allowing divers to fully appreciate and explore the shipwreck. However, it's essential to note that weather conditions and water visibility can vary, so it's advisable to check with local authorities or dive operators for the most updated information.

To ensure accuracy, it is recommended to verify the information across multiple independent sources such as the Florida State Parks website, archaeological publications, or reputable diving websites dedicated to the area.

       

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Park & Land Designation Reference

National Park
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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