Key Largo is the longest island within the Florida Keys archipelago. As among the best locations to go to in Florida, it has that idyllic attract – with palm bushes, tiki bars, and coral reefs that may widen even probably the most skilled diver’s eyes. Key Largo sights are largely associated to marine life and the underwater world. Nevertheless, there are additionally loads of historic and cultural issues to do in Key Largo. The Florida island is a hotspot for native artists and is captivated with preserving its historical past.
High Issues to Do in Key Largo, Florida
This information will cowl the easiest issues to do in Key Largo. Key Largo is certain to tick many containers, from seashores to scenic highway journeys. Let’s get began.
1. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park was the primary underwater park within the US. The state park covers 70 sq. miles with stunning coral reefs and marine life galore. One unbelievable factor about Key Largo is how arduous it really works alongside the opposite Florida Keys to protect its underwater habitat. Whereas guests can take pleasure in John Pennekamp State Park, there are laws and restrictions on actions like fishing. The state park is a phenomenal ode to Key Largo residents’ shut relationship with the ocean.
We suggest a glass backside boat tour, snorkeling tour, or scuba diving expertise to take pleasure in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park to the fullest. We’ll cowl these actions individually because the state park is such an icon and attraction in its personal proper. However maintain them in thoughts as intelligent methods to get probably the most out of this attraction. There’s additionally the Mangrove Nature Path, the place you possibly can admire the state park from an overwater boardwalk – greatest for these much less assured swimmers.
If you’re into snorkeling then that is the perfect tour to soak up Key Largo. You get to go to 2 completely different reef methods and it contains mainly the whole lot. We extremely suggest it.
2. Scuba Diving
Contemplating Key Largo’s nickname of the ‘scuba diving capital of the world’, seeing this exercise in our information is hardly shocking. Among the best issues we did in Key Largo was to get underneath the water and take a look at the marine life. We noticed sea turtles, manatees, and sharks and have been shocked to be taught that Key Largo additionally has the world’s largest synthetic dwelling coral reef – the USS Spiegel Grove wreck. Spiegel Grove is an enormous ship sunk in 2002 and is the world’s third largest deliberately sunk boat.
Apart from the USS Spiegel Grove wreck, scuba diving excursions go to Canon Patch Reef and John Pennekamp Coral Reed to expertise extra of the underwater world and sea life. Key Largo even has an underwater statue of Jesus Christ. Key Largo is the place to understand the perfect of the state’s underwater habitats.
3. Florida Keys Nationwide Marine Sanctuary
Talking of underwater worlds, a enjoyable truth about Florida is that its residence to the one coral barrier reef within the US. Florida Reef, which is within the Florida Keys Nationwide Marine Sanctuary is an enormous reserve that’s residence to a ton of mangroves, shipwrecks, and coral reefs. The famed Molasses Reef additionally lies throughout the sanctuary’s boundaries. The sanctuary is likely one of the greatest Key Largo sights if you happen to fancy a day journey by boat.
You don’t must scuba dive to benefit from the Florida Keys Nationwide Marine Sanctuary. Simply seize your fins and snorkel as a result of you possibly can actually see the whole lot from the floor. We suggest leaping on one of many many snorkeling excursions operating from the Florida Keys mainland. You’ll be able to spot the whole lot from tiny sea urchins to massive lobsters, and chances are you’ll even catch a glimpse of a dolphin or two.
4. Harry Harris Seashore and Park
Harry Harris Park is a phenomenal sheltered seashore. The park is a 10-minutes south of Key Largo by automobile, and it’s the excellent day journey for a peaceable seashore day. For those who really feel like a problem, you too can bike to Harry Harris Park – it’s a 45-minute bike journey. With white sand and palm bushes, it’s that postcard model of Key Largo. However Harry Harris Park isn’t simply someplace to snap photos for social media; its shallow waters are family-friendly and superb for the much less assured swimmer. Locals and handfuls of vacationers congregate on the seashore to swim, eat, and socialize.
Harry Harris Park has picnic areas, public barbeques, and sports activities services. Seize some substances and head all the way down to cook dinner up a storm. Tavernier is far much less busy than Key Largo. Visiting Harry Harris Park is definitely among the best issues to do in Key Largo. It’s excellent for simply stress-free and having fun with a seashore day. And who doesn’t want a calming day every so often?
5. African Queen Canal Cruise
One of the vital enjoyable issues to do in Key Largo is to cruise down the Port Largo canals. The Florida Keys are undoubtedly greatest skilled from the water. And what’s extra stress-free than crusing down the Port Largo canals to sightsee the attractive area?
The preferred cruise firm has a ship that has turn into a star. African Queen Canal Cruise makes use of a restored steamboat from 1912 featured within the movie ‘The African Queen’. This firm affords completely different cruise sorts, together with dinner cruises to the Pilot Home Marina. African Queen Canal Cruise operates from the Marina del Mar. Every day cruises run at 10 am, 12 pm, 2 pm, 4 pm, and 6 pm. You’ll be able to at all times request a personal dinner or lunch cruise in case you have at the very least 4 individuals.
6. Historical past of Diving Museum
What would the dive capital of the world be and not using a museum to commemorate its historical past? The Historical past of Diving Museum is likely one of the weirdest and most fantastic issues to do in Key Largo. The attraction is completely devoted to the historical past behind diving – showcasing the whole lot from relics and historical gear. The helmet assortment is probably the most spectacular. It nearly seems like some nod to area journey and affords a much-needed perspective on scuba diving as a type of historic exploration.
Entrance costs are comparatively modest, at $15 for adults as of 2023. Youngsters, veterans, and present navy get to enter without cost. On a wet day, it’s best to make the Historical past of Diving Museum high of your to-do checklist. There are only a few high-quality indoor actions in Key Largo, so maintain this one in thoughts.
7. Everglades Nationwide Park
Everglades Nationwide Park is likely one of the most well-known nationwide parks within the US and a chosen world heritage website. Spanning a staggering 1.5 million acres of wetlands, the Everglades are most well-known for his or her mangroves and resident crocodiles. If you’re fortunate, you too can spot leatherback sea turtles, dolphins, Florida panthers, and manatees. Everglades Nationwide Park is run by the animal kingdom – which is inconceivable to not love.
In Everglades Nationwide Park, you possibly can hike the Anhinga Path, take a ship or kayak journey, and even be part of a ranger-led tour. And when it comes to reaching the Everglades from Key Largo, it’s a complete breeze by automobile. It’s only a 45-minute drive alongside the scenic overwater freeway and alongside the Southern Glades Wildlife and Environmental Space.
8. Key Largo Artwork Gallery
Key Largo Artwork Gallery is an absolute should for artwork fanatics. It affords a platform for native artists and a channel of tradition that balances out the island’s deal with ocean-related actions. The paintings comes from a set of round 30 native artists and has loads of vary. You’ll be able to browse the items on show. And in case you are feeling frivolous, you possibly can head to the ‘on the market’ part to deal with your self to some paintings. A lovely sketch or portray is a beautiful memento from Key Largo.
Whereas there is no such thing as a official tour, Key Largo Artwork Gallery workers are rumored to be very educated. You must discover them joyful to reply your questions and provides a superb perception into among the paintings.
9. Coral Restoration Basis Exploration Middle
Coral Restoration Basis Exploration Middle is run by just a few locals formidable about ocean conservation. The not-for-profit restores coral reefs and educates on the significance of the ocean. Its passionate volunteers rigorously monitor coral reefs’ well being and help development the place mandatory. You’ll be able to go to the middle to be taught extra by reveals and academic lectures. It is likely one of the most significant issues to do in Key Largo.
In case you have a bit longer in Key Largo, think about volunteering with the Coral Restoration Basis Exploration Middle. You’ll be able to assist partake in dive applications and perform scientific outreach actions. The work is massively rewarding and important for the survival of Key Largo’s reefs.
10. Florida Keys Wild Hen Rehabilitation Middle
Florida Keys Wild Hen Rehabilitation Middle is Key Largo’s nearest animal hospital. Situated only a 10-minute drive away on the neighboring island of Tavernier, it’s a straightforward half-day exercise from Key Largo. And whereas the wild chicken hospital is simply too busy with wildlife emergencies to cater to guests, the adjoining sanctuary and rehabilitation middle welcomes company year-round.
Sadly, some birds by no means recuperate sufficient to be launched. These are stored in pure enclosures, and it falls to volunteers to ensure their each day enrichment. Different birds within the sanctuary and rehabilitation middle are ready to be match for launch. The spacious environment, stuffed with greenery, are the right place for birds to recuperate earlier than returning to the tougher wilderness. Guests stroll alongside an enormous boardwalk and might take part in each day actions like pelican feeding.
11. Florida Keys Brewing Firm
Florida Keys Brewing Firm is an excellent microbrewery positioned in Islamorada. The microbrewery is only a 25-minute drive away – or 45 minutes by bus if you happen to plan on consuming. Florida Keys Brewing Firm has a beer backyard, funky multi-colored decor, and brewery merch, and it’s canine pleasant. Actually, what extra may you ask for? It’s a far cry from the stiff-lipped breweries and distilleries you discover worldwide. Florida Keys Brewing Firm is wholeheartedly enjoyable, and visiting is likely one of the greatest issues to do in Key Largo.
Guests, get able to pattern an enormous vary of craft beers on faucet. There may be tons to attempt, from mild and fruity IPAs to heavy darkish ales. Florida Keys Brewing Firm’s bartenders are at all times all the way down to information you thru the choices with their experience. It’s a enjoyable day trip, particularly for these occupied with brewing craft beer.
12. Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park
Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park is a phenomenal 2,421-acre park. The paths embody over 80 protected crops and animals – from wild cotton to crocodiles. The park is mountain climbing and biking-friendly, so select your mode of exploration. A lot of the trails are paved, with only some rougher paths with uncovered tree roots and the odd stumble-sized rock.
Situated within the middle of Key Largo, the park is simple to squeeze into your itinerary. It’s named after Dagny Johnson, a poignant environmental activist within the Florida Keys area. Visiting is a phenomenal morning exercise. Attempt to get there early so that you beat the noon solar. And produce some binoculars for the perfect probabilities of wildlife sightings.
13. Fishing
Key Largo is much from simply someplace to fish; it’s a fisherman’s dream. Deep sea fishing is equally fashionable on Key Largo; you possibly can catch some monstrous-looking fish. Tarpon, sailfish, sea trout, and mahi mahi are all honest sport.
To take pleasure in fishing in Key Largo, head to a chosen fishing spot alongside the shore. Sure areas exist in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and Lengthy Sound. Alternatively, you possibly can splash out on a deep-sea fishing tour. In order for you deep-sea fishing, stick with the offshore season – November to March.
14. Glass Backside Boat Excursions
A glass-bottom boat tour is likely one of the most enjoyable issues to do in Key Largo. The underside of the boat is completely clear, which means passengers get a front-row seat to the tropical fish and different stunning marine life. Even higher, you see all of the animals of their pure habitats – a way more moral encounter than an aquarium affords. Glass backside boat excursions are beautiful methods to expertise the underwater world with out swimming. As such, aged guests, youngsters, and non-swimmers will lap up this exercise in Key Largo.
These excursions are throughout Florida Bay, together with from Marina del Mar, however that is the one we suggest. It’s normally solely an hour or two’s lengthy expertise. Enable round half a day for a glass boat expertise, together with all of the embarking and disembarking.
15. Have A Drink At Cruisin’ Tikis
Cruisin’ Tikis is the best factor ever. This can be a bar that you simply’ll keep in mind. The tiki bar is a tiny boat with a working bar within the middle and seating on the surface. You float alongside the water – partying, snapping pictures, and admiring the surroundings with a drink in hand. Neglect paying extortionate cash to take heed to dwell music on a personal seashore; Cruisin’ Tikis has an intimate and extra unique environment. Simply six passengers are allowed on Key Largo’s most particular vessel.
Mix sightseeing and joyful hour by reserving an expertise at this tiki bar. Bar cruises final between an hour and two hours. And for an much more memorable expertise, reserve the bar for sundown.
16. Feed Tarpon
Do not forget that Discovering Nemo quote, “Fish are mates, not meals”? The Tarpon Feeding Deck in Key West means that you can channel the identical sentiment in actual life. Right here, locals and guests flock to feed the native tarpon. Tarpons know the rating, and teams of as much as 200 can hover across the deck at a time. These fish are big and generally attain 150 lbs – making feeding tarpon one of the crucial thrilling issues to do in Key Largo.
You’ll be able to feed tarpon most bait sorts. Purchase the bait whenever you attain Key West since it’s a 2-hour and 20-minute drive south from Key Largo. For those who plan to drive the size of the Florida Keys, plan to feed the tarpon on the finish. The feeding deck is true on the finish of the keys, however fortunately it’s a worthy highway journey with loads of issues to do en route.
17. Keys Historical past and Discovery Middle
Keys Historical past and Discovery Middle is positioned a 30-minute drive away from Key Largo on the island of Islamorada. So, what precisely makes it among the best issues to do in Key Largo? Straightforward. The historical past and native data it supplies wholly justify a day journey. The middle whisks guests by reveals on the whole lot from hurricanes to indigenous tradition and an aquarium. If you wish to go to Key Largo and perceive the island, Keys Historical past and Discovery Middle is your greatest exercise choice.
The middle makes use of basic reveals and artifacts. It additionally incorporates a movie show the place documentaries are performed on a schedule. Some discovery facilities could be so primary or bland that they make historical past off-putting. There isn’t a likelihood of this with Keys Historical past and Discovery Middle. The place is alive with its historical past and a unbelievable day trip – whether or not visiting as a household, or a single traveler.
18. Seashore Hop
When in Rome, like they are saying. And when on Key Largo, seashore hopping is a should. There are tons of lovely seashores in Key Largo. A number of the greatest embrace Cannon Seashore, Far Seashore, and Harris Seashore and Park (which we talked about earlier). Key Largo’s expanse of white sand makes up among the island’s most luxurious pure wonders. Pack a seashore towel and loads of water and hit one of many seashores for a day of sunshine, sunbathing, and swimming.
Cannon Seashore is positioned inside John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Far Seashore is close to mile marker 120, and Harris Seashore and State Park are in Tavernier. Harris Seashore is probably the most family-friendly, with loads of sports activities services.
19. Dolphin Watching Tour
Dolphin watching is likely one of the dreamiest experiences in Key Largo. You at all times keep in mind your first dolphin. And recognizing wild dolphins is likely one of the most therapeutic and memorable experiences of a lifetime. The waters round Key Largo are teeming with wild dolphins. Our recommendation is to keep away from all of the dolphin encounters that contain holding dolphins in captivity and head out to the wild. As an alternative, head out on an moral boat journey.
Dolphin-watching excursions embark from all around the Florida Keys. Most excursions depart from Islamorada or Key West. It’s value touring the additional distance since Key Largo has a number of unethical dolphin exhibits that use animals stored in captivity. Plus, seeing a pod of wildlife dolphins is a lot extra thrilling because it has the ingredient of suspense.
20. Crocodile Lake Nationwide Wildlife Refuge
Slightly than operating a zoo-like refuge, Crocodile Lake Nationwide Wildlife Refuge runs solely for the advantage of the animals. This operations mannequin implies that the refuge is closed to the general public. As an alternative, it runs day and evening to supply pure habitats for crocodiles and different native animals. The refuge is an enormous personal, protected land the place animals are assured peace.
Nevertheless, guests can go to the adjoining Neighborhood Butterfly Backyard. The specimen of butterflies is beautiful, and it is likely one of the most enjoyable issues to do on the Florida Keys if you need a calming exercise. You’ll be able to stroll amongst the colourful butterflies and flowers, lapping the pure magnificence. In case you have further time, you possibly can additionally volunteer on the Crocodile Lake Nationwide Wildlife Refuge. This is a superb option to expertise the habitats not open to the general public, and you possibly can do something from python patrol to habitat restoration.
21. Parasailing
Parasailing is likely one of the hottest water sports activities, and it’s straightforward to see why. You’re launched off the again of a dashing boat, rising till BAM. You attain the rope’s finish and are suspended lots of of ft above the ocean. The panoramic views you get are unmatched. For those who thought Key Largo was stunning earlier than, wait till you see it from the sky.
Parasailing is likely one of the greatest methods to get a vantage level of Key Largo and the Florida Keys. Additionally it is the right adrenaline rush for an journey seeker.
22. Cycle the Florida Keys Abroad Heritage Path
Earlier than leaving Key Largo, you could try the Florida Keys Abroad Heritage Path. This beast of a mountain climbing or biking path is 106 miles in size. It was as soon as an abroad railroad, however in January 2022, the path was remodeled right into a route for walkers and cyclists. Utilizing the Florida Keys Abroad Heritage Path, you possibly can discover all of the islands on two wheels and not using a automobile. Is it a problem? Sure. Is it value it? Undoubtedly.
In order for you a scenic cycle journey however aren’t up for 106 miles, think about splitting the route into little sections. You might full the entire path in every week or spend an hour or two biking your part of selection. It has the potential to be leisure or sensible as nicely. Take your choose.
23. Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park
Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park is a phenomenal pure attraction on the neighboring island of Islamorada. Only a 20-minute drive away, the limestone quarry affords cross-sectional views of fossilized coral. Key Largo could be the diving capital of the world. However the historical past Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park encapsulates in its rocks is unequalled in ocean historical past.
Strolling round Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park, you have got data boards describing scenes round you alongside the way in which. This considerate contact means which you could take unbiased excursions if you want. The mountain climbing trails are straightforward to comply with, with plenty of important particulars. In any other case, you possibly can e-book one of many ranger-led excursions for some further route.
Issues To Do in Key Largo: FAQs
Now that we’ve lined the perfect issues to do in Key Largo, let’s have a look at some important FAQs. Listed here are all the main points you want earlier than you go to Key Largo.
How To Get To Key Largo
The best option to attain Key Largo is by aircraft after which a rental automobile. You fly instantly into Miami Worldwide Airport after which choose up a rental automobile from the airport. It’s an hour’s drive from the airport throughout the attractive Abroad Freeway. This route is fast and straightforward. Plus, you get the liberty to cease wherever you need alongside the way in which – why not profit from the drive?
In any other case, you possibly can catch a shuttle bus to Key Largo. Shuttles run from important departure locations like Miami and the worldwide airport. You might additionally highway journey to Key Largo, relying on the place you depart. Key Largo is nicely mixed with different Florida sights like nationwide parks, barrier islands, and cities like Orlando and Tampa. This feature most accurately fits these with plenty of time and is an actual journey for these up for the problem.
Getting Round Key Largo
Getting round Key Largo requires a automobile. You need to use shuttles and taxis, however that may get costly and you’ll miss out on loads. We suggest renting a automobile both on the airport or reserving it beforehand.
If you’re nonetheless deciding whether or not to rent a automobile or spend cash on shuttles and taxis, think about getting a motorbike rental. This feature is greatest suited to people who find themselves in form however value a attempt in case you have the stamina.
The Finest Time To Go to Key Largo
The very best time to go to Key Largo is March. March is stuffed with festivities, together with St Patrick’s Day and Conch Republic Independence Celebration. The climate is heat however not exhaustingly sizzling, and it’s dry, so excellent for seashore hopping. On this space of Florida, December to April is the dry season.
For these on a price range, you possibly can go to in June, October, or November. These are throughout the hurricane season, so be aware of climate warnings. Nevertheless, these are the most cost effective and hottest months to go to Key Largo. It’s one thing to think about in case you are pinching pennies and might prepare the journey responsibly.
Enjoyable Issues to Do in Key Largo Florida
By now, you’ll really feel impressed and stuffed with concepts for issues to do in Key Largo. The ‘diving capital of the world’ is filled with issues, too, from recognizing crocodiles to snorkeling with manatees. Key Largo’s sights and actions are extremely fascinating for vacationers occupied with marine life. It’s ranked as an Worldwide Biosphere Reserve, formally recognizing its significance to the pure world.
If you’re questioning the place to remain within the Florida Keys, think about an underwater resort known as Jules Undersea Lodge. Visitors scuba dive to their rooms each day, and Jules Undersea Lodge is the one underwater resort within the US. If Jules Undersea Lodge sounds too restrictive, loads of trip leases exist for a self-catered lodging expertise.
By way of further inspiration, there are many day journeys which you could take to different islands within the Florida Keys. One of many predominant causes Key Largo is likely one of the greatest locations to remain within the Florida Keys is that it’s ideally positioned to discover different locations within the Keys. There are such a lot of issues to do in Islamorada and issues to do in Key West. Get pleasure from Key Largo’s greatest sights (and all its surrounding day journeys), and have a beautiful journey.
