Build. Protect. Explore. LEARN MORE

Creating Artificial Habitats to Preserve Natural Treasures.

SWFL Reefs is a nonprofit foundation that works to enhance the marine environment and protect natural reef ecosystems. Through the creation of artificial habitats, we help to provide safe haven and food for more than 250 different reef fish species from the shallow waters of Charlotte Harbor to more than 30 miles offshore. From our base in Sanibel, Florida, SWFL Reefs works with other marine conservation nonprofit organizations, corporations and government agencies to ensure the sustainability of our underwater wildlife.

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Punta Rassa Crane Apron Barges
Punta Rassa Crane Apron Barges

Creating Artificial Habitats to Preserve Natural Treasures.

Lee Reefs is a nonprofit foundation that works to enhance the marine environment and protect natural reef ecosystems. Through the creation of artificial habitats, we help to provide safe haven and food for more than 250 different reef fish species from the shallow waters of Charlotte Harbor to more than 30 miles offshore. From our base in Sanibel, Florida, Lee Reefs works with other marine conservation nonprofit organizations, corporations and government agencies to ensure the sustainability of our underwater wildlife.

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Let the reef surround you!

Experience a part of Southwest Florida’s reef in this 360º video. Just click on the video and drag the sceen in the direction that you would like to look. We hope that your experience doesn’t end here. There are so many beautiful reefs to explore. Here are some resources that will have you on your way to explore these reefs in person.

360º Video Picture

WANTED! REEF RAIDERS!

The Lionfish Pterois Sp.
Although the Lionfish is a fascinating addition to aquariums, this exotic specias is not such a delight for Lee County’s artificial reefs. The Indo-Pacific native has only inhabitied waters of the Earth’s Western Hemisphere since the 1980s, when fish keepers unwittingly released them into the wild. Lionfish are considered a culinary delicacy, and its presence in Lee County has encouraged spearing and trapping. Think you have what it takes to capture this deadly reef raider? Be careful! Lionfish come fully equipped with venomous spines capable of delivering painful stings upon any unwary predator.

Goliath Grouper

SWFL Reefs Featured Fish

Goliath Grouper Epinephelus Itajara
Weighing in at 800 pounds, the Goliath is the largest of the Grouper family and is protected from harvest by law. The fish has unusually small eyes, its head and fins are covered with small black spots, and dark bars are prominent on its sides. These fish dwell near shore around docks, in deep holes, and on ledges. Click here to see more of our SWFL local fish species.

More Local Favorites

(Click here to see them all)

Cobia_1
Cobia
Rachycentron Canadum
Great Barracuda
Sphyraena, Barracudas
Permit
Permit
Trachinotus Falcatus
Sheepshead
Sheepshead
Archosargus Probatocephalus

Reef Locations

Click on the location icons on the map to see the latitude & longitude of the artificial reef location. Included in these links are more details that pertain to the artificial reef locations that may help you as you explore our SWFL reefs.