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.
Visitors to Key Largo acknowledge why it is named as the "Diving Capital of the World." Just a short drive from mainland Florida, Key Largo meaning "Long Key," is a perfect getaway for scuba divers, snorkelers and sportfishing enthusiasts. A popular tourist destination, its proximity to the Everglades National Park makes it great for kayaking, bird-watching and eco-tourism as well. This island is the first state park in the nation to be underwater and is a wonderful hub of more than 600 varieties of coral and tropical fish. Explore the underwater treasures of colorful, tranquil marine life in the clear, tepid, azure waters.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Take a trip around the Florida Keys with Pirate's Choice Sailing and Snorkeling. Sail around in a pirate themed vessel and be amazed the vibrant hues of blue and the magnificent Florida sunset.
Since the beginning of time mankind been fascinated with birds in flight. If you have ever wondered what it must be like to soar above all others and view the world from the eyes of a bird, then Key Largo Parasail is just what you've been looking for. Allow yourself to be amazed as your feet leave the ground and you are carried high above the sparkling blue waters by gentle gusts of wind. As you rise higher and higher you will have the chance to enjoy a bird's eye view of Key Largo, the Atlantic Ocean and even the John Pennekamp State Park. The ride lasts for about 8 to 10 minutes and can be enjoyed alone, in tandem or with two others. Care has been taken to ensure safety, with a dry take-off and soft landing to help make the experience more comfortable for participants of all ages. Timings vary depending on weather conditions so be sure to call ahead.
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.
Learn everything about the Everglades National Park with a visit to Royal Palm Visitor Center. Surrounded by the park's pristine verdure and a placid pond, it provides interesting information about the history and ecology of this Floridan gem. Sign yourself up for a ranger-led walk through which you can look at alligators and other wildlife, learn more about local flora and fauna, go boating or fishing, or simply take a stroll to soak in the pleasant atmosphere. Royal Palm Visitor Center is also home to a small bookstore and a few vending machines.
Dolphins have long been considered man's closest ocean-dwelling friend. Here you can swim with one. First you participate in an hour-long educational session, then you swim with the dolphins for about 30 minutes. In a more structured opportunity, you spend 45 minutes with a dolphin trainer and then enter the pool where the creatures push you through the water and dance with you. The cost for that is $150. Reservations are required for both activities, and you can also tour the facility where research is done.
The Nike Missile Site HM-69 was a Nike-Hercules missile base established in 1964. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This national park encompasses of a Battery that is open daily for touring visitors, as well as a missile assembly building, barracks, three missile shelters and a guard dog kennel.