San Pedro Underwater Archaeological Preserve State Park

San Pedro is a shipwreck lying in 18 feet of water, marked by a large pile of ballast stones measuring about 90 feet long and 30 feet wide. The remains form a distinct underwater formation that is accessible to divers.

This Dutch-built vessel was part of a Spanish flotilla and sank during a hurricane in 1733. It carried a cargo of silver Mexican coins and Chinese porcelain, reflecting the valuable goods traded on this colonial route.

The preserve displays seven replica cannons, an authentic eighteenth-century anchor, and plaques explaining Spanish maritime trade in colonial Florida. Visitors can observe these objects and learn how ships connected this region to the wider world.

The site has five permanent mooring buoys that allow boats to anchor safely without disturbing the archaeological remains. Visitors should plan their dives during calm weather conditions for the best experience.

The wreck functions as an artificial reef where marine life inhabits the ballast stones, merging history and nature into a single ecosystem. This blend allows divers to experience both archaeological remains and living coral and fish habitats.

Location: Florida

Inception: 1989

Website: https://floridastateparks.org/SanPedro

GPS coordinates: 24.86333,-80.67944

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:08