It's that special time of year in the Florida Keys when the transition to summer delivers exceptionally calm water with near perfect visibility. There are few places in the State of Florida more suited to enjoy these conditions than Alligator Reef Lighthouse. The pristine waters which surround this iconic structure are teaming with billions of glass minnows this month, which affords visiting snorkelers and photographers an unprecedented opportunity to dive into an otherworldly realm where life radiantly shimmers in afternoon light beams, creating a dazzling spectacle unlike any other.

I was joined by none other than Capt. Sassy Sara to document the massive shoals of bait fish which have taken refuge among the rusted beams of iron and steel which support the lighthouse. Barracudas arrived by the dozens to feast upon the limitless supply of glass minnows and pilchards which form huge clouds which literally block out the visibility.

If the view from above and below appears surreal - I assure you it is! None of this footage is color corrected - it's all straight out of the camera(s). In water this shallow, light penetrates easily and illuminates the extraordinary ecosystem which calls Alligator Reef Lighthouse home. There are few pleasures on this earth more fulfilling than gliding through crystal clear water while watching billions of bait fish swirl about in the wildest formations you can imagine.

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