Why Go to Key Largo
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
If Key West is the party, Key Largo is the deep breath. As the first of the Florida Keys you reach from the mainland, it trades late nights for slow days: beach picnics, manatees drifting past the dock and lazy canal cruises aboard the historic African Queen.
That easygoing pace doesn't mean there's nothing to do. Key Largo calls itself the Dive Capital of the World, and the reefs back it up. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park puts world-class snorkeling and scuba right at your doorstep, with dive sites that draw people year-round. Want more adventure? Everglades National Park and its vast wetlands are less than an hour away.
However you fill your days, end them the Key Largo way, with fresh lobster on the table and the sun sinking into the water. It's an easy getaway to plan, and I'll match you with the right rental or resort, line up your dive or snorkel trips, and leave you free to slow all the way down.
BEST FOR
Snorkelers, divers, boaters and nature-loving couples
BEST MONTHS
December–April for generally pleasant temperatures; late spring can offer warm water before peak summer heat
EXPLORE
Key Largo stretches along the northern Overseas Highway, with resorts and marinas spread across the island. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park anchors many reef outings.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Key Largo
North America › Southeast › USA › Florida
Florida Keys reefs and laid-back tropical escapes
Beach & Resort
Diving
Snorkeling
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Schedule the reef trip early in your stay so windy conditions leave room to reschedule; respect coral and use reef-safe practices in the sanctuary.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Check current construction impacts and sea conditions before booking; some facilities may be temporarily limited.
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
The nation’s first undersea park showcases coral reef habitat through snorkeling, dive and glass-bottom boat excursions, plus mangrove and shore activities.
Do not touch coral or wildlife, and choose a trip appropriate to your swimming ability.
Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Reefs
Protected offshore waters feature coral formations and tropical marine life best experienced with qualified operators.
Visibility and conditions vary; ask the operator whether the route includes the statue.
Christ of the Deep
This well-known underwater statue is a celebrated snorkeling and diving sight near the reef.
This is an advanced diving excursion; discuss depth, certifications and conditions with the operator.
Spiegel Grove Wreck
A major artificial reef attracts experienced divers interested in an imposing underwater shipwreck.
Bring insect repellent and water, and verify trail accessibility before visiting.
Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park
Protected tropical hardwood hammock habitat offers a quieter, land-based experience of the upper Keys ecosystem.
An upscale waterfront resort on the bayside of Key Largo, well suited to travelers seeking a resort-focused stay with easy access to the Overseas Highway. Confirm the beach setup, watersport arrangements, and any applicable resort charges before booking.
Playa Largo Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection
Florida Bay waterfront, central Key Largo
Hotel Tags
A tropical bayfront resort known for its natural setting and relaxed Keys atmosphere. It is a strong option for travelers who want to spend time on the property while exploring nearby snorkeling and boating opportunities.
Baker's Cay Resort Key Largo, Curio Collection by Hilton
Florida Bay waterfront, south-central Key Largo
Hotel Tags
A waterfront resort and marina convenient for visitors planning dive, snorkeling, or boating excursions in the upper Keys. Verify departure points for booked excursions, as not all trips leave directly from a hotel marina.
Reefhouse Resort & Marina
North Key Largo, near John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
Hotel Tags
An adults-only, all-inclusive bungalow-style resort for couples seeking a quieter, self-contained Keys getaway. Confirm the current inclusion list, age requirements, and reservation policies before purchase.
Bungalows Key Largo
Bayside Key Largo, near central Overseas Highway
Hotel Tags
A small, intimate waterfront property with botanical gardens and a gallery, appealing to travelers who prefer boutique accommodations over a large resort. Check current minimum-age and room policies before making reservations.
Kona Kai Resort, Gallery & Botanic Gardens
Florida Bay waterfront, central Key Largo
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Key Largo
High 81°F · Low 71°F · Rain 3.7 in
Drier patterns may return, making outdoor walking attractive. For a destination-specific November plan, consider Florida Keys waters.
December–April for generally pleasant temperatures; late spring can offer warm water before peak summer heat. Check the local forecast and individual attraction operations before travel.
Best Times to Visit Key Largo
WHEN TO GO
Where to Dine
DINING
Casual Keys seafood, dockside fish sandwiches and sunset restaurants define the food scene. Look for local fish specials and consider a waterfront dinner after a morning reef excursion.
06
Parks and Shore Access
John Pennekamp and other parks have designated parking, visitor rules and possible capacity limits. Check before departure.
05
Airport Transfers
Miami International and Fort Lauderdale airports are mainland gateways with road transfers to Key Largo. Arrange transport in advance.
04
Diving and Snorkel Boats
Reef outings leave from separate marinas. Confirm check-in deadlines, gear, weather cancellation policies and boat operator credentials.
03
Rental Cars and Overseas Highway
A vehicle is generally most practical for exploring the Upper Keys. Travel times can rise sharply during weekends and holiday traffic.
02
Local Travel Strategy
Schedule the reef trip early in your stay so windy conditions leave room to reschedule; respect coral and use reef-safe practices in the sanctuary.
01
Arriving and Getting Around
Most visitors drive south from Miami International Airport (MIA) along U.S. 1. A car is useful; book boat excursions ahead and allow for traffic on the Overseas Highway.
Most visitors drive south from Miami International Airport (MIA) along U.S. 1. A car is useful; book boat excursions ahead and allow for traffic on the Overseas Highway.
Getting Around Key Largo
GETTING AROUND
KEEP EXPLORING
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