Have you ever wanted to run away and escape to a tropical island? Key Largo in the Florida Keys is the perfect place to escape. The island is one of the most famous Keys for clear waters, coral reefs, and marine life. Key Largo has something for everybody — from families with children to newlyweds, lonely travelers and foodies. It's time to pack, bring your swimsuits and snorkeling gear, and jump right into the Key Largo experience.
01 Snorkeling at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
Explore an underwater paradise at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the first U.S. underwater park. The park covers around 70 nautical square miles of Atlantic Ocean waters, stretching 25 miles and extending 3 miles into the ocean. Snorkelers can enjoy vibrant reefs and expansive ocean habitats.
Start from Christ of the Abyss, an iconic statue in the coral reef. For enthusiasts, Grecian Rocks has lively reefs with tropical fishes.
Don't worry if you're new to snorkeling. The park provides gear and safety instructions. Guided tours offer expert insights and show you the best spots. Book ahead, as spots fill up fast.
02 Diving the Spiegel Grove Wreck
Certified divers, don't miss the Spiegel Grove wreck. This big old 500-foot Navy ship, now an artificial reef, is home to lots of marine life.
The wreck sits 60 feet deep, ideal for intermediate divers. Expect colorful corals, schools of fish, and possibly a shark, eagle ray or a barracuda. Dive in summer for calm waters and good visibility. Book a trip with local operators to visit Spiegel Grove. Have your diving certifications ready, and check sea conditions before you go.
03 African Queen Canal Cruise
Experience history aboard the African Queen, the steamboat from the 1951 film with Humphrey Bogart and Katharine Hepburn. Now restored, it offers canal cruises through Key Largo's scenic waterways. Enjoy lush mangroves, charming waterfront homes, and the authentic steam engine's chugging thrill.
The African Queen offers different tours, like dinner cruises and private charters. It's a unique way to see another side of Key Largo. Check the schedule and book your cruise ahead, especially during peak seasons.
04 Key Largo Undersea Park
Explore the beautiful marine life in Key Largo Undersea Park. Take breathtaking swims with pretty fish and corals and sea turtles. Known for the Christ of the Abyss statue, it provides tours, snorkeling, scuba diving and underwater walking tours They also have educational programs about marine conservation. Pro tip: bring a waterproof camera and water shoes.
05 Kayaking and Paddleboarding in the Mangroves
For a blend of calm and excitement, try kayaking and paddleboarding in Key Largo's mangroves. Tavernier Creek is a great spot. Join a guided tour or explore solo for unique wildlife views, including manatees, birds, and sunbathing iguanas.
Join a 2-hour guided kayak tour through the mangrove islands of Geiger Key. Discover the tropical ecosystem and learn how mangroves and sea grass beds nurture Key West's marine life. Each tour offers unique experiences as you explore nature's touch tank and encounter unusual sea creatures with your guide.
Wear a life jacket and bring a map if you go alone. Florida Bay Outfitters offers great rentals and tours.
06 Fishing Charters and Trips
Key Largo is a fishing lovers' paradise. Try deep-sea fishing, reef fishing, or backcountry fishing with companies such as Sailors Choice or Sea Horse Charters. Depending on the season, reel in mahi-mahi, grouper, tarpon or bonefish. Booking is simple, and you check what is covered within the services (bait, tackle, licenses). Sunscreen, a hat and lots of water should not be forgotten.
07 Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center
Bird lovers should check out the Florida Keys Wild Bird Center. This place rescues and heals hurt birds. The Laura Quinn Wild Bird Sanctuary hosts over 100 birds, including hawks, owls, pelicans and songbirds. They also teach folks about bird conservation and ecosystems. Open daily and running on donations, it's a great cause to support. Bring your camera for some fantastic photos as the birds are ready to pose.
08 Sunset Cruises and Sailing Trips
Key Largo's sunsets are a must-see. Hop on a sunset cruise or sailing trip to experience them. Picture yourself gliding on turquoise waters, the sky lit up in pinks and oranges.
Choose from various cruises — from small sailboats to roomy catamarans. You might even spot dolphins or sea turtles. The top choices are Caribbean Watersports and Sail Fish Scuba. Book a few days in advance, especially during busy times.
Take a light jacket as it can get breezy. A camera for those stunning views and comfy shoes for moving around the boat is a good idea.
09 Dining at Key Largo's Best Restaurants
Foodies will love Key Largo. The area offers plenty of dining spots with fresh seafood and local flavors. Start at the Fish House for Key Lime Pie and blackened grouper. For waterfront dining with sunset views, try Sundowners.
Don't miss local dishes like conch fritters and stone crab claws. Reservations, especially for dinner, are smart. Dining during off-peak hours is more relaxing.
10 Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park
Nature lovers should visit the Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park. It boasts over 80 protected plant and animal species; it's a quiet, peaceful haven.
Explore trails like the popular Wild Tamarind Trail, perfect for birdwatching. While on the guided tours, you'll learn more about the park and the animals. Take comfortable shoes, water and insect repellent.
11 Dolphin Plus Marine Mammal Responder
For a unique adventure, visit Dolphin Plus Marine Mammal Responder. Experience unforgettable dolphin encounters while supporting marine conservation and education. Enjoy safe, ethical swims with dolphins.
The educational talks are a highlight. Staff explain their conservation efforts and the importance of protecting marine life. Book early, as spots fill quickly. Wear swimsuits under clothes; bring towels and sunscreen.
Your visit supports marine mammal rescue and rehabilitation. Enjoy your trip while aiding a great cause.
12 Glass Bottom Boat Tours
A glass-bottom boat ride in Key Largo is a perfect way to experience the marine life while staying dry. Sail on crystal-blue waters viewing fluorescent fish, and turtles and even experience the company of dolphins.
The tours of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park are famous and include highly skilled guides. It is recommended to book in advance and take sunscreen, a hat, and a camera for great photos.
13 Harry Harris Park
Excellent for a family day, Harry Harris Park has a sand beach, tidal pool, barbeque facilities, basketball court, picnic areas and playgrounds. Children are happy to swim in the knee-deep water, and parents sunbathe on the beach with palm trees.
Arrive early for a good spot and pack beach essentials. Nearby, visit the Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center for more fun.
The deep-water boat ramp offers easy access. Vehicle and trailer length is limited to 55 feet. There are 20 parking spaces for vehicles with trailers, available on a first-come, first-served basis. Fees apply for entry; check the website for pricing depending on the time of year.
14 Rowell's Waterfront Park
Visit Rowell's Waterfront Park for a beautiful surprise of natural beauty. Popular for barbecues and wildlife viewing, this park is accessible from dawn to dusk. This 8-acre dog-friendly park features a fishing area and swimming area. The park has picnic tables, benches and a kayak/paddleboard launch. Boats and personal watercraft are prohibited. Pack a pair of binoculars just in case you see the manatees, and take a blanket for a picnic.
15 Mrs. Mac's Kitchen
Don't miss out on the tasty food at Mrs. Mac's Kitchen. Famous for its special dessert, Key Lime Pie, and Bahamian delicacies such as conch fritters and seafood. The atmosphere is relaxed, and I have that feeling of being at home. Locals flock to this tiny eatery, adorned with license plates, to enjoy dishes ranging from blackened prime rib to crab cakes. Themed nights include Meatloaf Monday, Italian Wednesday, and Seafood Sensation on Fridays and Saturdays. The menu also features Angus beef burgers, sandwiches and famous chili. It's best to go on the weekends or during off-peak hours or call ahead to check if it's busy. The food is worth the visit.
Key Largo has a lot to do and activities that are suited to every kind of traveler. Ride a glass bottom boat for an exceptional view of the beautiful sea bed, enjoy quality time at family-friendly parks, and satisfy taste buds to get a feel of the exotic local cuisine. Pack your bags and get ready for the trip of your life.
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