A protected underwater paradise, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is home to a variety of coral and other forms of aquatic life. Snorkeling, diving, glass-bottom boat tours, and sailing expeditions are popular here, offering recreational and educational adventures. The park also has a beach, picnic areas, and large saltwater aquariums. The park also features a network of nature trails that are ideal for birdwatching, wildlife observation, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. Overnight camping is also available here.
In a safe, well-controlled environment in Key Largo, swim and interact with Atlantic bottlenose dolphins for the experience of a lifetime. The facility features a natural lagoon on the Gulf of Mexico, where these gentle creatures live and thrive. Get into water under the supervision of trained staff, and enjoy fun encounters with its finned occupants.
Whether you're discovering Key Largo, which sprawls across more than 10 miles or just passing through on your way to one of the other Keys, a stop at Harry Harris Park makes for a pleasant visit. At this waterfront park, you can walk the beach, give the children a break in the playground, join a game at the sports field or enjoy lunch on a picnic table for a lazy afternoon of sun, sand, wine and cheese.
The History of Diving Museum has much to offer for all water babies. This speciality museum has a collection items including, diving equipment from around the globe and different eras, the famous Mark V diving helmet used by the military, archives and artefacts depicting the origins of marine biology, and a special exhibit dedicated to Jules Verne’s popular adventurous saga, 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. Take a look at the timeline of diving, or an exhibit dedicated to a local treasure hunter and the lost fortunes he recovered on his diving quests. Their interactive displays and the collection of diving suits and helmets is particularly interesting.
Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park is one the few places where you can see a coral reef that isn't underwater. This one rose to the surface eons ago and here it sits, in its fossilized splendor. Railroad entrepreneur Henry M. Flagler's construction crews quarried the rock from this site. Today, you can visit the Environmental Education Center, where regional history is chronicled. Nature trails wander through mangrove hammocks and in the quarrying area, you can take rubbings of ferns and coral.
A wonderful alternative to the vehicular U.S.Highway 1, this well-developed network of heritage trails allows those visiting the Florida Keys to navigate between Key West and Key Largo in a relaxed, recreational manner. These heritage trails are built over old railroad bridges, allowing for the use of a splendid pedestrian- and biking-only facility. Stroll through one of these bridges and take in the beauty of the Keys, or cycle through the coastal scenery and discover a unique way of exploring the islands.
Beat the Florida heat by visiting this house beer brewing bar in Islamorada. They offer different types of beer depending on the color, bitterness and composition. Some beer on the menu include Iguana Bait, Honey Bottom Blonde and Weed Line White. An event calendar is planned every month with live music shows performed by local artists. On their website one could shop their merchandise, bottle openers, tap handlers and t-shirts.
Florida Keys Wild Bird Center is dedicated to the conservation of wild bird species. Established by Laura Quinn, it rescues, rehabilitates and releases native and migratory birds who have been injured or displaced. It creates public awareness with educational programs on the significance of conservation and coexistence with nature.
Gain insight into the fascinating history and heritage of the Florida Keys, and explore the beauty of its breathtaking coral reefs, all at this premier museum and discovery center in Islamorada. Located nearly half an hour away from Key Largo, this museum features a host of exhibits. From seafaring history on the first floor, to a research library and movie theater on its second floor, the museum covers all significant aspects of the islands' existence.
This kitschy shop, colored in pastel hues of turquoise and baby pink is an important Key Largo landmark for those who want to take a piece of the island home. Shop here for all kinds of quirky and cool items, from T-shirts and island jewelry, to interesting souvenirs and of course, shells of all kinds!