Key Largo, Florida Keys
Discovering the Best of Key Largo: A Guide to the Island’s Top Attractions, Culture, Food, and Activities
Key Largo is the largest of the Florida Keys and is known for its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and unique culture. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the island’s top attractions and landmarks, explore its rich culture and cuisine, and recommend some must-try activities.
Attractions and Landmarks:
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park:
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the island’s rich marine life. The park features coral reefs, sea grass beds, and mangrove swamps, and is home to a variety of marine species.
Key Largo Hammocks State Botanical Site:
The Key Largo Hammocks State Botanical Site is a protected area that offers visitors a chance to explore the island’s unique plant and wildlife. The site features hiking trails, picnic areas, and guided tours.
African Queen Canal Cruise:
The African Queen Canal Cruise is a historic landmark that offers visitors a chance to experience the iconic vessel from the classic 1951 film “The African Queen”. The cruise takes visitors through the island’s scenic canals and waterways.
Culture and Food:
Key Largo has a unique culture that reflects its history and diverse population. The island’s cuisine is a blend of local and international flavors, featuring fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and local spices.
Local Cuisine: Key Largo is known for its fresh seafood, including conch, lobster, and fish. Other popular dishes include key lime pie (a local specialty made with key lime juice), conch fritters, and fish tacos.
Art and Music: Art and music are an important part of Key Largo’s culture. The island is home to a vibrant arts community, featuring galleries and studios that showcase the work of local artists. The island’s music scene features a variety of styles, including jazz, reggae, and rock.
Beaches, Scuba Diving, and Snorkeling:
- John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park Beach: The beach at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying water sports. The beach offers stunning views of the island’s clear waters and marine life.
- Molasses Reef: Molasses Reef is a popular spot for scuba diving and snorkeling. The reef is home to a variety of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and coral.
- Cannon Beach: Cannon Beach is a secluded beach that offers visitors a chance to relax and unwind. The beach is known for its clear waters, soft sand, and historic cannons that date back to the Spanish-American War.
Architecture and Things to Do:
Coral Castle Museum: The Coral Castle Museum is a unique landmark that showcases the work of a Latvian immigrant named Edward Leedskalnin, who built the castle entirely out of coral. Visitors can explore the castle and learn about the fascinating history behind it.
Key Largo Lighthouse: The Key Largo Lighthouse is a historic landmark that dates back to the early 20th century. Visitors can explore the lighthouse and take in stunning views of the island and surrounding waters.
Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center: The Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center is a nonprofit organization that rescues and rehabilitates injured birds. Visitors can learn about the center’s mission and see the birds up close.
Conclusion
Key Largo is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the beauty and culture of the Florida Keys. From its stunning landmarks and cultural attractions to its unique cuisine and picturesque beaches
Top ten sights in Key Largo
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park – This park is home to one of the largest living coral reefs in the world, making it a popular destination for snorkelers and scuba divers. Visitors can also enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and hiking trails through the mangrove forests.
Christ of the Abyss – This underwater statue of Christ is located within the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and is a popular spot for divers and snorkelers. The statue was placed in the park as a tribute to divers who lost their lives in the area.
Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary – This protected area covers more than 2,900 square nautical miles of coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove forests. Visitors can explore the marine life and shipwrecks through snorkeling and scuba diving tours.
Molasses Reef – This popular diving site is located within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary and is home to a diverse array of marine life, including sea turtles, sharks, and colorful fish.
Dolphin Research Center – Visitors can interact with dolphins and learn about their behavior and habitats through various educational programs and interactive exhibits. The center also offers dolphin swims and encounters.
Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park – This state park covers 84 acres of rare tropical hardwood hammock and is home to a variety of plant and animal species. Visitors can hike the trails and learn about the unique ecosystems of the Florida Keys.
Harry Harris Park – This park offers a beach area, picnic facilities, and a playground for visitors to enjoy. It is also a popular spot for swimming and snorkeling in the clear waters.
African Queen Canal Cruise – Visitors can take a tour on the historic boat, the African Queen, made famous in the classic film of the same name. The cruise takes visitors through the canals of Key Largo, offering scenic views and historical information.
Key Largo Fisheries – This fish market and restaurant offers fresh seafood caught right off the shores of Key Largo. Visitors can enjoy the local cuisine and learn about the fishing industry in the area.
Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge – This protected area covers more than 6,700 acres of mangrove forests, hardwood hammocks, and freshwater wetlands. Visitors can explore the refuge through hiking trails and observe the diverse array of plant and animal species, including the American crocodile.
Top ten restaurants in Key Largo
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Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen – Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen is a popular local spot known for its homemade American comfort food such as burgers, sandwiches, and seafood. Prices range from $10-20 per entree.
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The Fish House – The Fish House offers a variety of fresh seafood dishes, including their famous Key Lime Mustard Grilled Fish. Prices range from $20-30 per entree.
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Hobo’s Cafe – Hobo’s Cafe is a casual spot that offers American comfort food, fresh seafood, and vegetarian options. Prices range from $10-20 per entree.
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Lazy Lobster – Lazy Lobster offers a variety of seafood dishes, including their popular lobster bisque and fresh catch of the day. Prices range from $20-40 per entree.
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Key Largo Conch House – Key Largo Conch House offers fresh conch dishes and other seafood specialties. Prices range from $15-25 per entree.
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Snook’s Bayside Restaurant & Grand Tiki Bar – Snook’s Bayside Restaurant & Grand Tiki Bar offers a waterfront dining experience and a variety of seafood dishes. Prices range from $20-30 per entree.
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Key Largo Fisheries Backyard Cafe – Key Largo Fisheries Backyard Cafe offers fresh seafood dishes, including their popular fish sandwich and conch fritters. Prices range from $10-20 per entree.
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Sundowners – Sundowners offers a variety of seafood dishes and American cuisine with waterfront views. Prices range from $20-30 per entree.
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Sharkey’s Pub & Galley Restaurant – Sharkey’s Pub & Galley Restaurant offers a variety of seafood dishes, including their popular fish tacos and conch chowder. Prices range from $15-25 per entree.
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Ballyhoo’s Historic Seafood Grill – Ballyhoo’s Historic Seafood Grill offers fresh seafood dishes and American cuisine in a historic building. Prices range from $20-40 per entree.
Top ten distractions in Key Largo
Humphrey Bogart Film Festival (October): This annual film festival celebrates the life and work of actor Humphrey Bogart, with film screenings and special events. Location: various locations throughout Key Largo.
Key Largo Stone Crab and Seafood Festival (January): This annual festival celebrates the start of the stone crab season, with seafood dishes, live music, and family-friendly activities. Location: Key Largo Fisheries.
Underwater Music Festival (July): This annual event features a submerged concert performed by musicians in scuba gear, with snorkelers and divers watching from the surface. Location: Looe Key Reef.
Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center’s Bird Walk (Monthly): This monthly guided tour takes visitors through the rehabilitation center’s facilities, showcasing the birds and their stories. Location: Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center.
Key Largo Food and Wine Festival (January): This annual festival showcases the best of Key Largo’s culinary scene, with tastings, workshops, and events. Location: various locations throughout Key Largo.
Humphrey Bogart’s Birthday Celebration (December): This annual celebration honors the birthday of actor Humphrey Bogart, with film screenings, special events, and birthday cake. Location: various locations throughout Key Largo.
Fourth of July Fireworks Celebration (July): This annual fireworks display lights up the skies over Key Largo, with live music and family-friendly activities. Location: Rowell’s Marina.
PADI Women’s Dive Day (July): This annual event celebrates women in diving, with special dive trips and events organized by local dive shops. Location: various dive shops throughout Key Largo.
Key Largo Bridge Run (November): This annual run takes participants across the famous Seven Mile Bridge, with beautiful views of the ocean and surrounding islands. Location: Seven Mile Bridge.
Key Largo Pirates Fest (November): This annual festival celebrates the area’s pirate history, with pirate-themed events, live music, and family-friendly activities. Location: Key Largo Community Park.
