Things to do in Key Largo

Key Largo is the setting for that classic Humphrey Bogart film of the same name. It is the northernmost island that makes up the Florida Keys. It is also the largest at 33 miles (53 kms). The island itself is an exposed coral reef and easily accessible from mainland Florida.  It is just an hour, by road, from two airports.  That is probably why it is referred to as “the first of the Florida Keys.”

It is a really popular destination for thousands of visitors who come to enjoy its superb climate (especially during the cold winter months of continental America). The climate is tropical and best described as ‘balmy.’ Key Largo can be humid but the constant breezes make it tolerable.

Much of the activity, unsurprisingly, revolves around water. However, the island also offers plenty in the way of vegetation and birds. Key Largo has two state parks, a national park and a national marine sanctuary. The ecology and wildlife of the place is also a huge draw for eco-tourists and bird watchers. There is plenty to do in, on and around Key Largo.

The biggest attraction of Key Largo is the waters and what is in them. The crystal clear waters around the island are filled with living, thriving beautiful coral reefs, populated by an infinite number of fantastic and colourful fish. And they are not too far away from the island. 

Not far offshore, in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary lies a deliberately sunken ship, the Spiegel Grove. It was sunk so that it would become the base for a new coral reef. It has succeeded and spectacularly so.

All these factors contribute to Key Largo being the ideal place for scuba divers, snorkellers, kayakers, fishing and sport-fishing devotees. The island (or rather, its inhabitants) calls this place the “Diving Capital of the World.” 

These are some of the activities you can indulge in or participate when in Key Largo:

Boating
Diving
Snorkelling
Scuba Diving
Dolphin Encounters
Eco Tours
Fishing
Golfing
Water sports

There are also several popular events that take place every year.

•    South Beach Food & Wine Festival (February ever year)
•    Sony Ericsson Open Tennis Tournament (March 18 - 31, 2013)
•    Art Miami (Every December)
•    Art Basel Miami Beach
•    Stone Crab Festival In Key Largo (Every January)

The best time to visit is from October through April. However, this is the high season and tonnes of tourists descend on the place at this time. In March there is also the added hazard of hordes of college kids on their Spring Break.

Key Largo is an enjoyable and satisfying place to visit all year round. However avoid it during the hurricane season.