Key Largo is the very first and largest island of the majestic Florida Keys, as well as a gateway to a world of underwater wonders. As the self-proclaimed Dive Capital of the World, Key Largo boasts some of the most spectacular coral reefs and marine life in the country. Travelers can explore these must-see sights at locations such as the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, which was the first undersea park in the United States and covers 25 miles of pristine ocean.
Here, you can snorkel, scuba dive, or kayak among colorful fish, turtles, dolphins, and more. You can also visit the world’s largest artificial reef, the USS Spiegel Grove, a former Navy ship that was intentionally sunk to create a habitat for marine life.
But Key Largo is not only about diving. It’s also a place where you can enjoy the wonders of nature above the water. If that sounds like something that’s up your alley, you can visit Everglades National Park, which spans 1.5 million acres of wetland across South Florida and is home to alligators, crocodiles, manatees, panthers, and hundreds of bird species.
Key Largo also has a rich history and culture that you can discover. To experience this, you can visit The African Queen Boat Museum to see the original vessel used in the classic movie starring Humphrey Bogart and Katharine Hepburn. Additionally, you can also visit The Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center to see rescued birds such as pelicans, hawks, owls, and ospreys. And if you’re craving a little more excitement in your life, you can enjoy live music and nightlife at venues such as Snook’s Bayside Restaurant & Grand Tiki Bar or Jimmy Johnson’s Big Chill.