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Your Local Guide to Key Largo, FL

Find Exciting Things To Do in Key Largo

The Florida Keys is a string of islands comprised of the Upper, Middle and Lower Keys. The islands stretch for 110 miles connected by 42 causeways over the brilliant turquoise waters of Florida Bay and the Gulf of Mexico on one side and the Atlantic Ocean on the other. 

Whether you’re activity inclined or beach bound, Key Largo is a vacation destination rich in cultural heritage, natural wonders, world-class water sports, exhilarating family activities with a laid-back island tempo. Explore all that Key Largo has to offer with the help of Playa Largo Ocean Residences, and if you’re planning to visit Key Largo in the near future, be sure to check the availability of our pristine vacation rentals.

Exploring the Florida Keys

KEY LARGO & UPPER KEYS

Switch to island time as you leave the US mainland and cross onto Key Largo, the first of the Florida Keys. Home to world-class snorkeling and diving with the only living coral barrier reef in the US and the third largest in the world Key Largo offers unique shopping, water sports, dining, arts and historical interest.

Historic Key Largo Attractions

Located only an hour south of Miami, Key Largo is the first and largest island of the Florida Keys Archipelago, a sun-drenched paradise of tropical beauty, action-packed adventures and world-class diving and fishing in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. 

Whether you’re diving to historic shipwrecks amidst colorful coral reefs, swimming with dolphins, searching for alligators in the Everglades, chilling out in a Tiki Bar or simply immersing yourself in the laid-back vibe of Key Largo, our tropical getaway will warm your soul, lift your spirits and create life-long vacation memories.

Our Favorite Key Largo Activities

A vacation in Key Largo can be the perfect destination if you’re aim is the trip of a lifetime. From luxury experiences to maximum comfort and relaxation, this dream location has all you could want and more. There’s no shortage of adventures and fun vacation experiences in Key Largo. From trying local cuisines to glass-bottom boat tours, snorkeling and diving by the reefs, and picturesque sunset walks – the vacation destination has something for everyone.

When looking for things to do in Key Largo, take advantage of some one-of-a-kind specialty vacation packages and hit the water like never before. These inclusive sailing adventures teach you firsthand how to sail the Hobie way. You can spend the morning or afternoon learning how to land and launch boats directly from the beach with expert instruction. Discover the ways angles allow you to sail alongside the wind and soak up some sun before you head back home.

You’ll be seeing more than crystal blue waters from the sky when you book a seaplane tour. These tours can easily take you to and from neighboring cities and show you all-natural sights that you can’t access on the ground. Take in all of Key Largo’s natural beauty on a private charter with up to 6 guests, and look for the ocean’s wildlife as you coast above the waves. Scenic tours can take you on a journey to see everything from stingrays, sharks, and turtles to nearby lighthouses and the Dry Tortugas. For even more fun on your seaplane trip, spend the day island hopping and maximize the most out of your time by visiting some of the most well-known attractions in Key Largo.

After a day of catching some rays and working up an appetite, it’s time to eat like you’re royalty. Have you ever wanted to dine with a private chef? You certainly can on vacation in Key Largo. Indulge in mouthwatering dishes and delight your tastebuds as you get to know a local chef that’ll elevate your travel experience. Choose to learn from a pro and pick up a few foodie tricks to take back home and impress your friends, or sit back and relax as you eat some of the most delicious food you’ve ever tasted.

After a day of fun excursions and exploring all that Key Largo has to offer, wind down and simmer the adrenaline rush with a comfortable chimenea experience. Opt for a romantic night stargazing and sharing a bottle of wine as you keep warm, or toast marshmallows and make s’mores with the family. The elegant glow from the chimenea will keep your spirits high, and the natural oaky smells of burning wood will keep you feeling cozy well into the night.

 

Looking for more advice on the best things to do in Key Largo, don’t hesitate to call and speak with our Concierge today to start planning your ultimate Key Largo Vacation.

Key Largo is Home to the First Underwater Park in the United States

John Pennekamp State Park was the first underwater park in the United States. Stretching approximately 25 miles along the coastline and extending three miles into the Atlantic Ocean, this remarkable park is a sanctuary for marine ecosystems, most of which thrive beneath the waves. Established in 1963, the park was aptly named after John Pennekamp, a passionate advocate for South Florida’s natural environment. Pennekamp’s role as a newspaper editor was interwoven with his dedication to preservation. His efforts were instrumental in protecting Everglades National Park and the marine preserve that now bears his name.

Protecting Key Largo’s Marine Ecosystems

Pennekamp’s foresight recognized the urgency of safeguarding sensitive marine ecosystems. From intricate coral formations to vibrant marine life, shorebirds, and intricate natural systems, he understood the need to shield these treasures from unchecked development.

Adjacent to the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, John Pennekamp State Park collaborates to safeguard about 178 square nautical miles of vital marine ecosystems. These areas are a poignant reminder of the imperative to protect against loss and degradation. Within this protective haven, a rich tapestry of ecosystems thrives. From mangroves and coral reefs to seagrass beds, pristine beaches, and dynamic living shorelines, a harmonious balance between nature and preservation is palpable. If you have any more questions, please feel free to Contact Us. 

What to Know When Visiting Key Largo

Key Largo is the largest island in the Florida Keys archipelago in southern Florida. The island’s dimensions have sparked discussions, yielding varying figures. Key Largo has an approximate land area of 15 square miles, roughly 20,000 acres. Yet, historical records offer conflicting reports, with some suggesting an expanse of over 23,000 acres. The U.S. Census, meanwhile, states it’s 12.05 square miles, around 7,712 acres.

Key Largo’s climate seamlessly aligns with its fellow Florida Keys, offering a blend of warmth and natural beauty that beckons travelers year-round. In January, the island’s temperature drops to just below 70 degrees Fahrenheit, setting a mild tone for the year. As August rolls in, Key Largo enjoys daily highs around 85 degrees, welcoming visitors with open arms. The yearly average temperature hovers at a comfortable 77 degrees, providing an inviting backdrop for all seasons.

The island’s landscapes are painted with an average of 3,000 hours of sun annually to create a golden embrace, highlighting its vibrant flora and inviting waters. Summer brings rain showers to Key Largo, averaging 5 to 8 inches from June to October. These showers nurture the island’s lush greenery, adding a touch of nature’s artistry to its charm.

Positioned at the doorstep of the Upper Keys, Key Largo serves as your entry point to the Florida Keys paradise. Key Largo is also the northernmost town in the Florida Keys and is the first island found along the Overseas Highway.

The drive from Miami to Key Largo is approximately 69 miles. Under ideal conditions, the drive takes roughly 1.5 hours. However, traffic, bridge delays, and ongoing road construction can lead to varying travel times. While en route, the Overseas Highway treats you to picturesque vistas over glistening waters, enhancing the anticipation of your Key Largo experience.

Should your dreams lead you to the Florida Keys, your journey will likely commence at Miami International Airport (MIA), where you’ll begin your drive. From there, your drive will lead you beyond Florida City and onto the renowned Seven Mile Bridge, a gateway that introduces you to the distinct charm of the Keys. It’s worth noting that this one-lane bridge experiences heavy traffic, especially during popular weekends like Memorial Day, Fourth of July, and Labor Day. You can learn more with our FAQs.

Want More Information About Visiting Key Largo?

Do you have any more questions about Playa Largo Ocean Residences? Please make sure to Contact Us today!