22 Best & Fun Things To Do In Key Largo, FL

Things To Do In Key Largo, FL

 

The first of the beloved Florida Keys, Key Largo is well-known as the Dive Capital of the World.

Along with many other interesting places to explore, historical buildings to see, and other amazing sights to feast your eyes on, it is home to the largest artificial reef in the world.

It’s a lovely location with lots of water sports options and a breathtaking ocean atmosphere.

With its lengthy history of calm, excitement, and energy, as well as its tropical weather and crystal-clear blue waters, Key Largo has something to offer everyone.

The reason it’s such a well-liked tourist destination is probably due to its many nearby islands, fascinating museums, and lush natural attractions.

Uncertain of where to go or what to do in this amazing place?

Here are our recommendations for the top 23 enjoyable activities in Key Largo, Florida, to assist you.

 

1. Gallery of Kona Kai

Located inside the well-known Kona Kai Resort in Key Largo, Florida, the Gallery of Kona Kai is one of the more unusual attractions.

It promotes pieces by well-known artists from across the world and includes pieces by a variety of local artists, giving you an idea of the local art scene.

Similar to the Kona Kai Resort, the Gallery of Kona Kai is owned by two ardent art collectors, Joe and Veronica Harris.

They opened the resort in the mid-1990s, started building their collection in the 1980s, and eventually opened the Gallery in 1996.

It’s an entertaining and intriguing method to stay up to date with the local artistic scene.

Address: 97802 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037, United States

2. Key Largo Parasail

Have you noticed how many of the attractions in Key Largo are situated on water?

Key Largo Parasail is a great place to take advantage of the beautiful beaches and surf in Florida.

This business has been providing customers with an amazing and thrilling sport for almost 20 years.

This parasail firm offers flights for one person, two people, and three people.

All crews are certified to administer first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if needed, and the minimum age to parasail alone is 14.

Observers are welcome to accompany if they fit, but boats are only authorized to carry six persons each without reservations!

The wonderful expanse of Key Largo is beautifully viewed from above when parasailing.

You will have the impression that you are actually flying when viewed from this aerial perspective!

Address: 103900 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, Florida 33037, United States

3. Dolphins Plus Bayside

A five-acre lagoon known as Dolphins Plus Bayside sits in stunning perfection at the northmost point of Key Largo.

It is among the most entertaining tourist destinations in the city, particularly for families with children or dolphin enthusiasts!

You will have the opportunity to swim alongside dolphins in the lagoon at Dolphins Plus Bayside.

But choose the natural swim if you want something even more unique.

A half-hour boat ride across wilderness waters is the first part of any travel experience.

In the process, you will discover some facts about dolphins and what to anticipate when you are with them.

An optional but highly recommended Natural Swim dolphin encounter follows the ride.

You will swim with dolphins who aren’t accustomed to interacting with people during this trip, so you can expect a rather genuine experience in a somewhat open but enclosed oceanic setting.

Address: 101900 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, Florida 33037, United States

4. Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary

Most of the dive sites in Key Largo are located within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.

The 2,900 square nautical mile protected area was initially established in 1990 to safeguard coral reefs and aquatic life.

It was established as a partnership between the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the state of Florida.

Off the shore of Key Largo are some of the most popular dive sites and attractions in the National Marine Sanctuary.

They include several shipwrecks close to the coast that are ready for exploration, as well as French Reef, Grecian Rocks, and Molasses Reef.

You’ll adore Grecian Rocks for its numerous teeming fish and pristine waves, and Molasses Reef for its shallow water snorkeling.

To arrange and plan dives, one can get in touch with local third-party dive shops.

Booking a diving or snorkel tour through an operator approved by Blue Star is usually advised.

Address: 95230 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037, United States

5. Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge

A visit to the Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge is among the top activities in Key Largo for those who enjoy large, snapping reptiles.

It was initially established in 1980 with the goal of safeguarding and enabling the peaceful coexistence of crocodiles in America.

Unfortunately, unless you are a volunteer, you will not be able to access the area where the crocodiles actually reside if you visit the Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

But even without that, the refuge is an interesting place to visit because you can learn about the condition of the local crocodile habitat and how to help it.

For additional enjoyment, visit the Butterfly Garden, which serves as a pollinator garden and is home to more than fifty native plant species.

It’s a very peaceful and well-kept spot; it’s not one of the typical tourist destinations found in a crocodile sanctuary, but it’s still a fantastic option!

Address: 10750 County Rd 905, Key Largo, FL 33037, United States

6. PADDLE!

Thanks to the serene waters of the many healthy, verdant mangrove locations in Key Largo, Florida, paddleboarding is an excellent way to pass the time.

For boarders of all ability levels, gulfs and oceans provide varying degrees of difficulty, and many resorts provide paddleboarding facilities as extra complimentary activities while you’re visiting.

PADDLE! is one of the Key Largo attractions you should check out if you’re searching for a more thrilling method to participate in paddle boarding.

In addition to being the greatest eco-tour in the Upper Keys, PADDLE! specializes in teaching novice paddleboarders the sport. They provide two-hour eco-adventures twice a day.

Additionally, there are SUP yoga classes and special paddles that take place on lit-up boards at night!

Take a kayak eco-tour, rent your own kayak or boards, or even rent and use a skateboard to try your hand at other sports while you’re at PADDLE!.

Address: 90773 Old Hwy #1, Tavernier, FL 33070, United States

7. Island Dolphin Care

An intriguing and distinctive experience is Island Dolphin Care.

Through a small program called dolphin therapy, it offers adults and children with special needs educational, emotional, and physical support.

The organization’s mission is to make animal-assisted therapy available to everyone in need, fostering stronger ties between medical services and underprivileged families while also attaining therapeutic success.

It is one of the most fascinating points of interest in the city because it is unique.

If you want to include a fun-filled day at Island Dolphin Care in your trip plans to Key Largo, Florida, you must organize a guided tour in advance.

You can also enter and observe the dolphins from a balcony if you don’t want a complete tour, but if you can, try to get on the tour so you can see a therapy session up close, find out more about the programs, and even get to touch the tank.

Additionally, Island Dolphin Care has a gift shop where the money raised goes toward funding scholarships.

Address: 150 Lorelane Pl, Key Largo, FL 33037, United States

8. Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center

The Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center is a must-see for any bird lover looking for exciting activities in Key Largo!

The center’s straightforward goal is to rescue injured, neglected, or damaged birds, rehabilitate them, and, if feasible, return them to the wild. It is located just 7 miles from the center of Key Largo.

The Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center has two facilities.

The first is the animal hospital, where all of the rescued and injured birds are housed.

The other is the Laura Quinn Wild Bird Sanctuary, which houses over 90 birds from 40 species that are too injured or chronically injured to be released.

The Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center is a rescue-focused organization that makes sure all birds live in humane, natural habitats and enjoy a reasonably comfortable life.

Birds like herons, owls, vultures, hawks, pelicans, and more may be seen if you visit and take a tour of it, which is one of the free activities in the city.

Please be aware that visitors are not permitted to enter the animal hospital.

Each cage at the Laura Quinn Wild Bird Sanctuary contains informational cards with the narrative of each bird that was rescued by the Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center.

If you see any birds outside of their cages, they are wild ones because this sanctuary frequently attracts free-wandering birds as well!

You can see live feedings, and the staff is informed, kind, and helpful.

There isn’t a charge, although donations are always appreciated.

Address: 92080 Overseas Hwy, Tavernier, FL 33070, United States

9. Snorkel Key Largo

An organization called Snorkel Key Largo specializes in offering snorkeling trips from their USCG-certified Reef Roamer and Quicksilver sailer catamarans.

With sea stairwards, sun decks, shaded cockpits, and onboard restrooms, each catamaran, which is roughly 50 feet long, is specifically built to support snorkeling activities.

Snorkel Key Largo will take you to the many locations in the city where you may have a fantastic snorkel.

More than 600 marine species and 50 coral species can be seen overall at John Pennekamp State Park, Canon Patch Reef, White Banks, and Mosquito Bank.

As long as they can swim, beginners are more than welcome to check snorkeling out this manner.

There are also sunset cruises available.

You can attempt diving and exploring by yourself if you don’t want to go with Snorkel Key Largo, although this is not advised for novice snorkelers.

Nevertheless, Snorkel Key Largo offers comparable services to many charters and eco-tours, and the city’s stunning, pristine waves are ideal for offshore beach snorkeling.

Address: 90311 Old Highway & Plantation Dr, Tavernier, FL 33070, United States

10. Harry Harris Park & Beach

Harry Harris Park & Beach is a fantastic place to go for a stroll and some sightseeing.

It takes advantage of some of the city’s greatest beach experiences, like many other Key Largo attractions, and despite its modest size, its tranquility more than makes up for its lack of acres.

Harry Harris Park & Beach is a little park with a stunning view of the surrounding area of Key Largo, Florida.

Picnic spots are ideal for family-friendly or romantic settings.

Here, the gentler ocean waves roar against the coast, perfect for swimming, fishing, and snorkeling.

Young children can benefit greatly from the offered tide pool because it is secure.

Address: Mile Marker 92.5 Oceanside, Tavernier Key, Key Largo, FL 33037, United States

11. Jules Undersea Lodge

You can’t go wrong with Julies Undersea Lodge if you’re searching for some of the most stunning locations in the United States!

Jules Undersea Lodge is more than just a well-known lodging choice in Key Largo.

It’s also among its most distinctive tourist destinations.

After the first wetness of getting to the lodge, you may enjoy the peace and quiet of the land beneath the waves while remaining dry and clean if you’re interested in having some underwater fun but aren’t much of a snorkeler or scuba diver.

The Jules Undersea Lodge was originally an underwater dwelling and research facility before being transformed into what it is today.

It was eventually transformed into a kind of mangrove lagoon.

You can certainly stay at night if you choose, but there are other three-hour Mini Adventures available.

The renowned novelist Jules Verne, who passed away, is honored with the moniker Jules Undersea Lodge.

To get to your goal, you will need to put on a dive gear and descend two fathoms below the surface.

The lodge offers a tranquil and restful escape from the outside world because it is isolated from the activity of the rest of the Florida city.

It’s kind of like sleeping in a submarine when you stay at the Jules Undersea Lodge.

The remoteness of it is a little unsettling, but for the daring, it’s a fantastic chance.

Barracuda, parrotfish, tropical angelfish, and other coral fish are visible through 42-inch windows.

Address: 51 Shoreland Dr, Key Largo, FL 33037, United States

12. Robbie’s Dock

One of the must-see sights for everyone traveling to the Florida Keys is Robbie’s Dock, which is located on the shore of Islamorada, close to Key Largo.

You just have to take the day excursion from Key Largo if you have some free time this weekend to see it for yourself!

Robbie’s Dock is an amazing location with plenty to do!

You can browse at the many different stalls of the outdoor market, hire parasails or jet-skis to ride the waves, enjoy some delectable fresh seafood, or purchase some fish to take home with you.

The tarpons, a very huge species of fish that likes to congregate in the docks, are Robbie’s Dock’s main draw.

Pelicans glide jealously overhead as people travel great distances to feed them various fish.

Often called Silver Kings, tarpons are often amiable.

They jump out of the surf to loosely grasp whatever food you are offering.

Seeing a hundred or so of these fish dart back and forth is quite amusing!

Address: 77522 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036, United States

13. History of Diving Museum

Although the History of Diving Museum is located in Islamorada, its intriguing concept and close proximity make it one of the most popular attractions in Key Largo.

Because it’s interactive, it’s a fun location to check out even if you’re not a big diver.

You can travel back in time and discover everything there is to know about the origins of ocean exploration, from the earliest steps into the enigmatic underwater realm to the present, at the History of Diving Museum.

You’ll discover how underwater breathing equipment has evolved throughout time, who were the original industry pioneers, how scuba diving rose to prominence as one of the most popular water activities worldwide, and what kind of technology preceded the contemporary equipment we use today.

You may also view a variety of antiquities from shipwrecks at this museum located just outside of Key Largo, Florida.

However, its most interactive exhibit—which lets you see how long you could hold your breath underwater—is probably its most well-liked feature.

Address: 82990 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036, United States

14. Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park is a popular day trip destination for sightseeing and is among the top locations to visit close to Key Largo, Florida.

Numerous swamps, mangrove forests, grasslands, marshes, rivers, and other biomes can be found within this World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve.

Ecologically speaking, it’s one of the most varied regions in the nation, with a distinctive scenery that will be enjoyable to explore this weekend.

In Everglades National Park, a wide variety of wildlife can be found, including manatees, crocodiles, panthers, and other birds.

These fascinating animals are not usually easy to notice, but if you enjoy observing wildlife, you may be fortunate enough to get a peek of them!

Everglades National Park can be explored in a variety of interesting ways.

With the help of knowledgeable instructors, you may go on full-day kayak excursions in double or single kayaks through mangroves and see sharks, alligators, manatees, sawfish, and dolphins.

You can enter Shark Valley and the River of Grass on two-hour tram rides.

As you go to an observation tower for a breathtaking view of the surroundings, naturalist guides give you information about the wetland environment.

You’re spoiled for choice with so many choices!

Address: Florida, United States

15. Playa Largo Resort & Spa

After twenty years without any new resorts of its kind, the Playa Largo Resort & Spa was the first resort to be constructed in Key Largo.

The resort features stunning beaches, a sumptuous environment, and glamor and décor throughout the grounds and interiors.

If you’re wondering what to do in Key Largo for delicious dining, you should definitely visit Playa Largo Resort & Spa.

There are three tasty restaurants on campus.

Sushi rolls and ceviche are served at the unpretentious lobby bar Las Olas.

La Marea Steakhouse is well-known for its expertly prepared, locally sourced meats.

Sol by the Sea, an inventive and imaginative restaurant housed in a boathouse that has been refurbished on the shore, is the most well-liked dining option at Playa Largo Resort & Spa.

Its entertaining idea is complemented by a tranquil setting and stunning sunset views.

The perfect way to cap off a day at the beach is with delectable fresh seafood dishes and tropical handcrafted beverages.

Address: 97450 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037, United States

16. Mile Marker 88

Have you finished visiting the main sites in Largo and are you heading to Islamorada for the day?

Visit Mile Marker 88, a fantastic eatery that is well-known among both residents and tourists.

Most visitors to Key Largo believe that the trip is well worth it because it is well-known throughout the Florida Keys.

Mile Marker 88 is an excellent stop in part because of its location.

The majority of the tables here offer stunning sweeping views of the ocean, and a section of the restaurant that faces the beach allows you to quietly watch the sunset.

Additionally, live music is frequently performed in the nights.

Mile Marker 88’s menu features gourmet meals like lobster and mango guacamole, as well as unusual, palate-pleasing dishes like key lime seafood penne, as well as crispy, savory yellowtail.

Order a tart key lime baked Alaska or a decadent molten lava chocolate cake for dessert after your entrées!

Address: 88000 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, Florida 33036, United States

17. Florida Keys Brewing Company

Looking for more exciting activities in Key Largo?

Well, check out the Florida Keys Brewing Company if you want a fantastic craft beer!

Perfect for a day trip from Key Largo, the local enterprise is a microbrewery located on Islamorada.

With over 20 varieties of beers, it is renowned for its inventive flavors that draw inspiration from island life.

The beers have gained some recognition and are available across the Keys.

This brewing company’s tasting room is made to seem friendly.

A few locals are always present to contribute to the cozy mood, and tie-dye color schemes create a lively vibe.

Among the most well-liked beers are Bayside Coffee Blonde, Hibiscus Kolsh, and Grapefruit to be Alive.

Enjoy your preferred beer in the tropical beer garden in the backyard, where lawn games, picnic tables, and a view of the taproom create an exciting atmosphere!

Address: 81611 Old Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036, United States

18. Go On A Fishing Charter

It goes without saying that since fishing is so well-known in Key Largo, booking a fishing charter is one of the things you should do while you’re here.

These charters may take you to all the best locations to improve your fishing skills.

One of the best ways to make the most of your time in this city is to go ocean fishing. Depending on your preferences, a variety of shared and private charters with varying lengths, features, and knowledgeable crew are available.

Graceful Fishing Charters is one such charter that has frequently been in charge of assisting fishermen in catching “the big one.”

It makes use of a 40-foot Bertram sport fishing boat that Captain Matt owns and runs.

The skipper holds a USCG 100-ton master’s license and has worked in the field for the most of his life.

Reef charters go up to 7 miles and 280 feet from the coast, while coast charters go up to 20 miles, allowing you to fish down to 1000 feet.

Common catches include mahi-mahi, shark, marlin, mackerel, tuna, porgies, snapper, wahoo, grouper, and sailfish.

Miss Chief Fishing Charters is another such charter that offers services to fillet and bag any catches you land, as well as gear, bait, water, and license for fishermen of all ability levels.

The charter’s main goals include sharks, mahi-mahi, wahoo, and kingfish. You may bring the entire family because the charter is kid-friendly.

19. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

One of the top attractions in Key Largo for a long time has been the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.

Established in 1963 to preserve the remains of the nation’s last surviving coral reef, it bears the name of John D. Pennekamp, the former editor of the Miami newspaper.

He contributed to the creation of Everglades National Park and the preservation of the region.

There are many diverse areas to explore in the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, including tropical vegetation, marine life, and a variety of plants and animals to see and appreciate.

Birds including warblers, white ibises, catbirds, and egrets abound at the state park’s all-natural beach area, which is a coral and rock structure.

There are many different activities available along the beach, such as boat trips, picnics, kayaking, canoeing, and snorkeling.

It’s also a terrific idea to arrive early in the summer to witness the sunrise.

Another reasonably well-liked feature of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is its hiking paths.

A boardwalk develops With educational plaques attached to trees, the Grove Trail and Wild Tamarind Trail, as well as the Mangrove Trail in the marsh region, take you on a roundabout through a hammock of tropical hardwood and other plants.

You can reserve nature walks led by Rangers in advance for your trip to Key Largo.

The John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park Visitor Center features a sizable saltwater aquarium with 30,000 gallons.

Information identifying fish, corals, and invertebrates is displayed, and the theater features one-hour nature documentaries about coral.

Additionally, there is an open camping at the camp.

Address: 102601 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037, United States

20. African Queen Canal Cruise

The African Queen Canal Cruise is a straightforward tour that takes you to the beginning of the Atlantic Ocean, through the Port Largo Canals, and back to Marina Del Mar, where it started.

Even while the cruise is enjoyable in and of itself, it is not the cruise itself that ranks among Key Largo’s top ten activities.

Its past is mostly what gives it such value.

Following her success in the 1951 film of the same name, starring Katharine Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart, the African Queen became well-known.

With its riveted steel and vertical boiler, the boat had been in service in the Belgian Congo since the 1910s.

It was used to move merchandise, hunting expeditions, and missionaries back then.

The film’s director, John Hutson, wanted it for his film the moment he saw it while hunting.

The African Queen returned to its original uses after being memorialized, although it was abandoned in the 1960s.

It wasn’t until 1968 that it was discovered in poor condition and partially submerged in Cairo, Egypt.

It discovered a new function in Key Largo in 1982 as a tour and cruise boat, a function it still fulfills today.

Address: U.S. Hwy 1 at mile marker 100 Holiday Inn Docks, Key Largo, FL, United States

21. USS Spiegel Grove Wreck

Are you trying to find tourist attractions in Key Largo that have to do with diving?

This is a great option: the USS Spiegel Grove Wreck!

The ship, which is 500 feet long, was used by the US Navy for dock landings from 1955 to 1989.

It sank in 2002, and it still lies beneath Key Largo’s seas, awaiting exploration.

Given the size of the ruin, there are plenty of chances to discover secret areas and nooks.

The USS Spiegel Grove Wreck is dotted with horse-eye jacks, corals, and barracuda, which have naturally sought refuge among the debris and remains of the ship.

Groupers and minnows also dart around.

You will have to descend around 70 feet into the ocean to reach the USS Spiegel Grove Wreck.

Only experienced divers should try to reach this location without a guide or instructor because of the strong currents that make it a perilous place for beginners.

Address: Key Largo, FL, United States

22. Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail

Why not take the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail if you’re seeking for free activities this weekend and feel like traveling and discovering a lot?

With 76 miles of trails spanning 106 miles from Key West to Key Largo, it’s a multipurpose track ideal for fun and relaxation, with areas for biking, skating, strolling, and more.

Known as one of the hip spots, the Overseas Heritage Trail is a great way to discover new destinations because it travels across numerous states and even national parks.

These consist of Biscayne National Park and Everglades National Park.

However, you don’t have to leave Key Largo to explore the path; there are many places to enjoy it inside the city, such as private nature walks, historic buildings, and lush gardens.

Address: Key Largo, FL 33037, United States

23. Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park

Bicyclists and hikers alike can explore six miles of pathways through natural settings at the Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park.

Dagny Johnson, a local environmental and green enthusiast, gave the park its name. It is home to an astounding 84 protected animal and plant species.

It’s interesting to note that one of the largest West Indian hardwood hammocks in the nation may be found at the Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park, a tropical location that is nearly unheard of elsewhere.

There are other interesting sections as well, such as areas with wild cotton, mahogany mistletoe, and even places where the American crocodile lives.

When deciding what to do, the Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park is a convenient location because it is open year-round.

Numerous activities make exploration convenient.

Well-placed trail signs lead you through the area while describing the various wildlife species found in each biome, and self-guided excursions are advised.

In addition, there are wheelchair-accessible paved pathways, a picnic pavilion, contemporary facilities, ranger-led tours, and alternatives for easy online price payment.

Address: County Rd 905 & Mile Marker 106, Key Largo, FL 33037, United States