If you wish to have an beautiful trip stuffed with each adventurous and stress-free moments, Key Largo, Florida may be the proper vacation spot. It’s the first and most simply accessible of the Florida Keys and it guarantees unforgettable moments for all types of vacationers.
It’s no secret that Key Largo and the larger Florida Keys are one among our favourite locations on the earth and we’re excited to share this beautiful place with you.
This information is in depth and dives deep into all one of the best Key Largo sights, actions, and eating places, providing the final word itinerary for anybody that wishes to see one of the best of this superior island vacation spot.
We’ve spent hours placing this collectively to be able to go, have enjoyable, and relish in all one of the best that Key Largo has to supply.
If you happen to’re planning to go to extra of the Florida Keys, make sure to test these out too:
Don’t depart residence with out: Lonely Planet Miami & the Keys (Journey Information)
22 Distinctive & Enjoyable Issues to do in Key Largo, FL
1. Discover John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
Established in 1963 to protect the one dwelling coral reef within the nation, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is a part of the Florida Keys Nationwide Marine Sanctuary and is the primary underwater Park in america. It gives guests and locals a mess of experiences that can not be missed.
Relying in your private wants and wishes, you’ll be able to snorkel, dive or kayak in an effort to admire the coral reefs, the seagrass beds, and the mangrove swamps.
You may discover this magnificence independently or be a part of one of many scuba, snorkel, or glass-bottom boat excursions.
One of the simplest ways to see the underwater treasure is by diving however if you happen to discover this intimidating snorkeling is at all times an amazing thought. The clear waters will let take pleasure in the great thing about the coral reefs in each methods.
On land, there are many picnic areas with picnic tables to loosen up and luxuriate in this distinctive tropical paradise.
Our day at John Pennekamp began with a visit out to the reef by boat for a morning of snorkeling on the reef. The visibility was unbelievable and we noticed a considerable amount of sea life.
As soon as again onshore, we spent a few hours strolling the paths, hanging out on the seashores, and kayaking.
2. Take pleasure in a Fascinating Dive: The USS Spiegel Grove Wreck
If you happen to take pleasure in scuba diving you’ll have an incredible time exploring the USS Spiegel Grove wreck. It has the size of two soccer fields giving passionate divers the prospect to have a novel expertise within the heat waters off of Key Largo.
Get misplaced on this breathtakingly huge wreck and let the multitude of fishes that “name it residence” amaze your eyes.
Admire the furry coat of corals and observe the barracuda and horse-eye jacks of their pure habitat whereas exploring the well-known USS Spiegel Grove.
There are numerous dive operators that may give you unforgettable excursions of the wreck. Simply be sure you e-book your journey early as a result of everyone who visits Key Largo desires to catch a glimpse of this underwear landmark.
3. See the Crocodile Lake Nationwide Wildlife Refuge
A large American Alligator – sure, not a crocodile, these are uncommon to see!
Whereas most of Florida gives straightforward viewing of the American alligator, the Crocodile Lake Nationwide Wildlife Refuge gives the chance to see the a lot rarer American crocodile.
The refuge was established in 1980 and is one among 4 nationwide wildlife refuges within the Florida Keys. It preserves the native habitat environments of tropical hardwood hammocks, mangrove forests, and salt marshes.
The refuge shouldn’t be open to the general public, however they do supply quite a lot of academic applications that may get you behind the scenes. The Crocodile Lake Nationwide Wildlife Refuge is situated at 10750 County Highway 905, Key Largo, Florida, 33037.
4. Keep on the Jules Undersea Lodge
If you happen to’re a scuba diver, this is among the most unusual issues you are able to do on the earth! The Jules Undersea Lodge permits you to spend the night time underneath the water in comfy lodging. The one catch, it’s a must to really dive right down to your room.
Visitors can select from quite a lot of packages, together with some that supply PADI specialty certifications. They even serve you pizza throughout your keep and supply companies akin to WIFI and computer systems to reside stream your keep.
5. Strive Birdwatching on the Laura Quinn Wild Hen Sanctuary
The Laura Quinn Wild Hen Sanctuary is a well-established pure refuge for non-releasable birds. They’ve over 90 birds that decision this refuge residence and characterize roughly 40 species.
If you’re a chicken nerd, like me, it is a unbelievable place to each study extra about particular species and {photograph} them.
Entrance to the refuge is free, however if you happen to’re in a position to make a $10 donation whenever you go to, this goes an extended solution to sustaining the refuge and its inhabitants.
6. Take an African Queen Canal Cruise
One of the distinctive issues to do in Key Largo is to take a canal cruise on the African Queen, a totally restored 1912 steamboat. To not point out, this very steamboat was seen within the 1951 Humphrey Bogart movie The African Queen.
The cruises function each day leaving from the Marina Del Mar at mile marker 100. They final 1.5 hours and journey down the Port Largo Canals to the Atlantic Ocean earlier than turning round. You may view the each day schedule and e-book your expertise right here.
7. Take pleasure in a Sundown Drink at Sundowners
One of the enjoyable nights we had in Key Largo was at Sundowners. Situated proper on the seashore, this restaurant is called ‘the place to be’ on Key Largo for drinks, meals, leisure, and unforgettable sunsets.
We’ll always remember the colours that painted the sky whereas we listened to island-tuned music, drink in hand, and the palm tree silhouettes swayed. You may go to for drinks, dinner or each.
With the ambiance, it’s a place to simply spend a whole night having fun with the nice and cozy tropical air of the Florida Keys.
8. Bike or Stroll the Florida Keys Abroad Heritage Path
The Florida Keys Abroad Heritage Path is a 90-mile paved path that stretches from Key Largo to Key West. The longest steady part of this path occurs to reside in Key Largo. Beginning at mile marker 106, it stretches with out interruption till mile marker 72 in Islamorada.
It’s open and accessible for non-motorized actions together with, mountain climbing, bicycling, skating, fishing, paddling, and sightseeing. So it’s an effective way to take pleasure in some quiet whereas soaking within the sunshine and island life.
9. Take a Key Largo Deep Sea Fishing Journey
Fishing within the Florida Keys is a enjoyable solution to spend a day!
You’ll be on an island and that has a direct correlation with good fishing! If you happen to can consider nothing higher than being out on the ocean and reveling within the thrill of the catch, then we extremely suggest you constitution a fishing boat and just do that.
Fishing is among the finest issues to do in Key Largo and also you’ll have an opportunity to study and luxuriate in ocean fishing at its most interesting. It’s attainable to e-book each personal and shared charters, relying in your choice.
Size additionally is dependent upon your choice, starting from a few hours to all day. Most fishing journeys embrace drinks and a crew of professional boatmen that may take you to all the new spots they will discover.
You can even e-book sportfishing journeys if you happen to’re after a extra adrenaline-fueled expertise and the prospect to land a marlin.
10. Get within the Water Wherever to Snorkel
The Florida Keys are residence to the one dwelling reef accessible from america. Which means among the best issues to do in Key Largo is to hop within the water and do some snorkeling.
It’s attainable to snorkel from the seashore in nearly any location on the island. You may lease snorkel gear out of your resort or the native outlets.
Nonetheless, if you wish to snorkel immediately over among the good reefs, we suggest a snorkel tour in John Pennekamp State Park.
These journeys take you out into the ocean and anchor close to accessible coral reef areas. That is one of the best snorkeling you are able to do in Key Largo. We noticed a big number of fish on our journey together with barracuda and lobster.
11. Get in Contact with the Native Artwork
There are numerous wonderful issues to do in Key Largo for nature lovers, however the beautiful island additionally welcomes artwork fans who wish to get in contact with the native artwork.
Situated within the Kona Kai Resort, the Gallery of Kona Kai is a particular place that gives guests the prospect to admire fascinating creations signed by native artists, in addition to sleep amongst them. So, if sleeping surrounded by artwork is your dream, now it might come true!
The resort and the gallery are owned by Veronica and Joe Harris who’re extraordinarily keen about artwork, not solely does their assortment embrace native creations, but in addition lovely artistic endeavors signed by famend artists all over the world.
Different nice native artwork galleries to peruse round Key Largo are Our Place in Paradise and Key Largo Artwork Gallery.
12. Go to Harry Harris Park and Seaside
Whether or not you might be touring with your folks or exploring the Florida Keys with your loved ones, spending a day at Harry Harris Park and the seashore is at all times an amazing thought.
The good little park is ideal for a leisurely picnic and it has a unbelievable view. As well as, adventurous vacationers can’t solely swim within the calm waters of the ocean but in addition snorkel and discover the underwater magnificence.
13. Go Dolphin Watching in Key Largo
Situated on the northernmost level of Key Largo, there’s a fascinating lagoon that gives guests the prospect to observe and work together with charming dolphins and manatees.
By taking a Florida Keys Eco Tour you’ll take pleasure in a ship experience by the crystal-clear waters whereas trying to find the resident dolphin pod. Alongside the way in which, you’ll find out about dolphins and their pure habitat.
As soon as they’re situated, your time might be spent observing them with alternatives for pictures and up-close encounters, if they permit!
14. Go to the Historical past of Diving Museum
With Islamorada so near Key Largo, you’ll be able to simply base your self on Key Largo and luxuriate in each islands.
This contains the unbelievable Historical past of Diving Museum. Even if you happen to’re not a scuba diver, this museum is enjoyable and interactive.
It takes you on a journey from the very starting, as man makes good points in exploring the oceans. Be taught concerning the evolution of respiration underwater and all that comes with that. I promise you’ll discover it fascinating.
15. Feed the Tarpon at Robbie’s
Robbie’s is the stuff of legends in the case of visiting the Florida Keys. No journey to Key Largo can be full with no cease right here to feed the large tarpons that collect underneath the docks.
Fish is offered on the entrance to the dock. Make your solution to the top and prepare for a thrill like no different.
Simply make sure to hold a unfastened grip, you don’t wish to lose a finger! That stated, I feel the pelicans are much more harmful than the tarpon.
16. Seize a Brew at Florida Keys Brewing
If you happen to love craft beer, and who doesn’t!?, you’ll wish to head to Florida Keys Brewing to pattern some distinctive island-infused flavors.
The homeowners reside all the pieces Florida Keys and take delight within the brews, that they distribute all through the Keys.
You’ll discover fascinating blends just like the Hibiscus Kolsh, that fully embrace the island vibe. Your entire tasting room is adorned with enjoyable tie-dyed themes and also you’ll even stumble upon a couple of locals throughout your go to.
17. Eat Seafood at Marker 88
There isn’t any scarcity of nice locations to get seafood within the Florida Keys. Nonetheless, one of many prime issues to do in Key Largo is to take pleasure in a meal on the Marker 88 restaurant. For this place, it’s all concerning the location.
They’ve a beachfront, gulf-side property that serves up high-quality island seafood favorites. A go to right here is really useful for both lunch or dinner, they do have a personal seashore with loungers you could take pleasure in in the course of the day.
A night go to comes with reside music and a front-row seat to a spectacular sundown.
18. Seaside Hop Between Key Largo and Islamorada
Key Largo and Islamorada are so shut to one another you could take pleasure in all that they each supply whereas being primarily based in Key Largo. Each islands supply loads to do, however there are additionally a couple of uninhabited islands to take a look at between them too.
On these islands, you’ll discover lovely white sand seashores with only a few individuals. These areas make nice spots for sunbathing, picnics, snorkeling, and simply plain having fun with being within the Caribbean.
When it comes to with the ability to pull off and simply take pleasure in a seashore whereas within the Florida Keys, this stretch was by far probably the most spectacular.
19. Go to the Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park
The particular park is situated on a chunk of land that was shaped with limestone and fossilized coral. Within the early 1900s, it grew to become the property of the Florida East Coast Railroad. They used the stone from the land to construct the Abroad Railroad.
Following that mission, the land was then used to provide a novel product referred to as KeyStone till the Nineteen Sixties.
Whereas it’s not used for its sources, now you can go to the land and discover the quarry that holds some spectacular sections of historical coral.
A go to to the state park will educate you concerning the quarry, its operation and offer you some perception into part of Florida’s historical past.
20. Style Your Means Round Key Largo
As soon as you recognize one of the best issues to do in Key Largo, you can begin excited about the place they serve one of the best meals on this small paradise.
Fortuitously for foodies who can’t wait to style their manner round a brand new place, there are many eating places the place they will indulge within the scrumptious native delicacies.
Nearly all vacationers are desperate to style the contemporary native seafood and in case you are one among them it’s best to begin exploring the native delicacies on the Pilot Home.
Not solely is that this an incredible place to eat contemporary fish and different tasty meals from the ocean, however additionally it is an amazing spot for people who find themselves searching for a comfortable place with a novel family-friendly ambiance.
In case among the individuals you might be touring with don’t like fish, they’re very fortunate as a result of they serve scrumptious home steaks on the Pilot Home.
Conch, pronounced “konk”, is a giant factor within the Florida Keys so, you’ll be able to’t depart Key Largo with out attempting not less than one of many conch dishes.
Whether or not you wish to attempt the fritters, the cracked conch, or the ceviche, The Conch Home is the place for you.
Moreover scrumptious meals, this restaurant can also be recognized for its flawless companies and pleasant workers. And to fulfill your candy tooth, cease at Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen and order the well-known key lime pie. You’ll not remorse it. No person does!
High-rated Key Largo eating places by TripAdvisor:
- Pilot Home
- The Fish Home
- The Key Largo Conch Home Restaurant
- Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen
- Harriette’s Restaurant
High-rated dessert eating places in Key Largo by TripAdvisor:
- Blond Giraffe Key Lime Pie Manufacturing facility
- Key Largo Sweets
- Mr C’s Connoisseur Italian Ice Cream
- Pinecrest Bakery
- Mrs. C’s Do-it-yourself Ice Cream
21. Gradual Down and Take pleasure in Island Time the Key Largo Means
I do know that we’re telling you to remain busy and never miss any of those cool issues to do in Key Largo. That stated, it’s simply as essential that you just take the chance to decelerate in your trip too.
Seize a hammock or a seashore chair and simply sit. Let your self loosen up. Learn a e-book, nap, and simply take pleasure in your probability to be in such a wonderful place when you absorb the sunshine. It’s okay to do that too.
22. Take a Day Journey to Everglades Nationwide Park
The Everglades are lovely and price a day journey
Nature lovers might be very joyful in Key Largo. Not solely do they get to discover the clear waters and admire the coral reefs, however there are numerous different wonderful spots above water to be seen.
One in every of them is the Everglades Nationwide Park, a World Heritage Website, and an Worldwide Biosphere Reserve. Count on to see huge grasslands, wetlands, and fascinating swamps.
And in case you are fortunate you may even see crocodiles and panthers! You may discover the Everglades with an professional information on this full-day kayak tour. After a quick orientation, choose a single or double kayak and hit the water.
You can even discover the Shark Valley area of Everglades Nationwide Park on this guided, 2-hour tram tour. See the well-known ‘River of Grass’ and the wildlife inside it, like alligators, crocodiles, birds, and extra.
