Top Key Largo activities
Explore by category
Beyond Key Largo
Tours in nearby places
Explore USA tours
Tours in similar places
Key Largo trip ideas
The northernmost of the chain of islands known as the Florida Keys, Key Largo is much more than a place to drive through on the way to Key West. In fact, what this island lacks in sandy beaches it makes up for in things to do—from kayaking in mangroves and paddleboard excursions, to wildlife tours focused on dolphins, manatees, and birds. And, in addition to its convenient location within an hour’s drive of south Florida airports, Key Largo is also a top destination for scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing, and eco tours.
Pack extra sunscreen if you want to visit during the summertime—this season proves why Florida is called the Sunshine State. Many locals and longtime visitors know that mid-spring and mid-fall are much more comfortable times to visit Key Largo, as visibility for diving is still clear and the water is refreshingly cool. In September, the annual Lionfish Derby encourages visitors to catch, cook, and chow down on this invasive species. Spring, meanwhile, is preferable for divers and snorkelers who want to see more coral than crowds.
Key Largo is a long, narrow island accessible only by car or boat. Technically, one could bike from the mainland to the key, but simplicity serves you best on this island. Places like John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and endless seafood joints are easily accessible with a private car. Cabs and rideshares are available, too, affording the perfect excuse to park your ride and find a bar with sunset views.
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is perhaps the most famous attraction in Key Largo—but be sure to venture below the water to discover some lesser-known treasures. Aside from hundreds of species of tropical fish and coral, divers can encounter a 9-foot-tall (2.7-meter-tall) statue called “Christ of the Abyss.” As its name suggests, the bronze statue—which sits under 25 feet (7.6 meters) of water—depicts Jesus Christ standing with his arms outstretched towards the surface. Creepy? Kind of. Worth visiting? Absolutely.
Local Currency US Dollar ($) | Time Zone EDT (UTC -5) | Country Code +1 | Language(s) English | Attractions 0 | Tours 61 | Reviews 6,663 |
Key Largo is known as the gateway to the Florida Keys. It connects the archipelago to Florida’s mainland via US Route 1 and is a popular spot for diving, glass-bottom boat tours, and fishing. It’s also home to the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, which extends three miles into the ocean.
...MoreMost people spend a day or less in Key Largo, particularly if they’re visiting other Florida Keys. You could spend upwards of three days there, savoring the slow-paced island life, fishing, or snorkeling the coral reef. Some South Florida locals will spend a weekend swimming and relaxing on the beach.
...MoreYes, Key Largo is a family-friendly place to spend your vacation or stop for rest during a drive down the Overseas Highway. Along with beaches, Key Largo offers great activities for kids and adults such as visiting the Dolphins Plus Bayside aquarium, golfing, and snorkeling the coral reef.
...MoreNo, Key Largo does not have a traditional boardwalk. Key Largo is a low and narrow key, so what it lacks in a boardwalk it makes up for with plenty of other waterside features. There are restaurants, charter boats, beaches, nature preserves, and more along both sides of the island.
...MoreYou can find a break from the crowds on the north end of Key Largo. Most visitors head south towards the other Florida Keys, allowing you to explore the local restaurants and fisheries throughout the island. Two popular local hangouts are The Hideout Restaurant and Kawama Yacht Club.
...MoreNo, Key Largo isn’t what you would consider a party town, especially compared to Key West. Although there are a handful of bars along the island, there isn’t much else by way of nightlife. That said, the area has a laid-back vibe and no one would bat an eye at you for day drinking.
...More