Veracruzano Coral Reef System National Park, Marine national park in Veracruz, Mexico

Veracruzano Coral Reef System National Park is a marine protected area in the Gulf of Mexico off Veracruz, Mexico. It consists of two polygons: one off the port of Veracruz with seven reefs and two islands, and one off Antón Lizardo, 20 km southwest, with twelve reefs and four islands. The reefs rise from depths of 50 m as an underwater ridge, and the park also contains over 350 shipwrecks.

The reef system was decreed a national marine park on 24 August 1992 by President Carlos Salinas de Gortari, following proposals from Sedesol, Sepesca, Sedemar and SCT. Earlier protection efforts began in 1975, when La Blanquilla reef was considered a refuge zone for marine flora and fauna. The system is about 10,000 years old.

The park's fishing communities maintain traditional harvesting methods in designated areas, keeping local practices alive while supporting reef conservation. This work shapes daily life in the nearby port towns and connects people's livelihoods directly to the health of these waters.

The park lies in two polygons: one off the port of Veracruz and another off Punta Antón Lizardo, about 20 km southwest. Boat trips leave from Veracruz and Boca del Río. The reefs rise from depths of 50 m, and the system holds more than 350 shipwrecks. Check sea conditions before setting out.

The park is administratively divided into two distinct sections, each containing its own separate collection of reefs and islands. This dual structure allows managers to apply different protection strategies based on the specific needs of each zone.