How to Visit Key Largo, Florida

Key Largo, the northernmost island of the Florida Keys, is a water lover’s paradise. Just offshore Key Largo is the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, the largest living coral reef in the United States. Reefs and shipwrecks attract divers and snorkelers to Key Largo, while deep sea fishermen flock to the area in search of more than 200 varieties of fish found in local waters. Key Largo has plenty to do onshore too, with enough museums, beaches, shopping and restaurants to keep visitors busy.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Explore Key Largo’s underwater attractions. The Gulf Stream passes through the ocean off Key Largo, providing clear water that is perfect for scuba diving and snorkeling. The area’s shallow coral reefs attract new and seasoned divers alike, while experienced divers enjoy the challenge of exploring shipwrecks found deep below the ocean’s surface. You won’t have to look far to find a surf shop for a diving or snorkeling trip. Most dive shops also offer scuba diving lessons.

2. Pack your fishing rod and go deep sea fishing. Fishing is just as popular as scuba diving, thanks to the many varieties of fish that inhabit the waters off Key Largo. Marlin, dolphin fish and sailfish are the most common varieties of fish caught. Rent a boat or book a space on a fishing charter. Back country fishing tours are also available. A complete listing of fishing charters can be found in the Resources section below.

3. Spot an alligator at nearby Everglades National Park, the largest subtropical wilderness area in the country. The park offers guided tram and boat tours, trails, camping, boating and fishing (see Resources below).

4. Spend the afternoon visiting the Florida Keys History of Diving Museum. The museum displays artifacts, documents, antiques, photographs and books related to the history of diving.

5. Visit John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the first undersea park in the United States. The park offers campsites, picnic tables, swimming areas, saltwater fishing and boat rentals. The main attraction of the park is its coral reef, located 3 miles offshore. The park offers snorkeling, scuba diving and glass bottom boat tours to the reef (see Resources below).

6. Swim with dolphins and learn about their habitats. A variety of companies, including Dolphin World, Dolphins Plus and Dolphin Cove, offer visitors the chance to swim with dolphins and learn more about these fascinating mammals.

7. Take a break and relax at Harry Harris Park Beach. Sea grass and coral comprise many of the beaches in the Florida Keys, but Harry Harris features a man-made beach complete with soft, white sand. A coral rock barrier offshore keeps the water clear and calm and makes the park a perfect pick for families. Restrooms, showers, picnic tables, grills and boat ramps are available at the park.

8. Find the time to visit a local gift shop or stop at one of the area’s many and varied restaurants. While seafood restaurants are very popular, you can also find steak and pizza on the menu.

Tips & Warnings

• Most snorkeling tour operators require that participants know how to swim. If you are not a strong swimmer, a glass-bottom boat tour may be a better option for exploring the area’s coral reefs.
• Don’t forget to bring sunscreen. You will burn quickly in the Florida sun.

Resources

• Key Largo Chamber of Commerce
• Key Largo Fishing Charters
• John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
• Everglades National Park