From Adventure to Relaxation: Exploring Key Largo and Islamorada, the Ultimate Playgrounds of the Upper Florida Keys

Sunset, Key Largo Florida

This article appeared in the July Issue of Up and Away Magazine It is reprinted here with permission. Click here to see the original version: Up and Away.

Welcome to the ultimate playgrounds of the Upper Florida Keys, Key Largo and Islamorada. Nestled amidst crystal-clear waters and abundant beauty, these two captivating destinations offer the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. Whether you're a thrill seeker or seeking serenity, these islands have something for every kind of traveler.

Key Largo, known as the "Diving Capital of the World," boasts an underwater wonderland that beckons avid divers and snorkelers from around the globe. Immerse yourself in the vibrant coral reefs, explore iconic shipwrecks, or simply bask in the sun on the stunning beaches.

Just a short drive south, you'll find Islamorada, known as the “Sport Fishing Capital of the World." With its world class fishing charters and abundant marine life, anglers have the opportunity to reel in the catch of a lifetime. And if fishing isn't your thing, the tranquil beaches, relaxing spas, intriguing state parks, funky shops and art galleries in Islamorada provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Essential Online Links For Booking Your Trip to The Florida Keys

Logistics:

 There are 2 airports that service The Florida Keys, Miami and Key West: Uber and Taxis are available, although you need to drive, take a shuttle service or take a bus from the airports to The Florida Keys. Multiple Passenger Transfers are available from Miami Airport: ☆Transportation Service - Miami International Airport

Visit BusBud for information on taking a bus to the Upper and Middle Florida Keys from Miami or Key West.

 Top-rated Key Largo Tours and Experiences:

☆Key West Mangrove Kayak Eco Tour (one of my favorite Florida Keys experience)

☆Snorkel Tour from John Pennekamp State Park (the best snorkeling tour)

☆Sunset Cruise (most romantic tour)

☆Glass Bottom Boat Tour (undersea life viewing for non-swimmers)

Top Places to Stay in Key Largo: 

☆Playa Largo Resort (Luxury)

☆Reefhouse Resort (luxury)

☆Waterfront Cabanas (Budget Friendly)

☆Baker's Cay Resort (Luxury)

 Top-rated Islamorada Tours and Experiences:

☆Key West Mangrove Kayak Eco Tour (one of my favorite Florida Keys experience)

☆4 Hour Private Ecotour and Snorkeling Boat Tour (the best snorkeling tour)

☆Islamorada Florida Keys Sunset Sightseeing Cruise(most romantic tour)

☆Night Tour Glass Bottom Boat in Islamorada (undersea life viewing for non-swimmers)

Top Places to Stay in Islamorada: 

☆Amara Cay Resort (Luxury)

☆Hadley Resort & Marina (Budget Friendly)

☆Islander Bayside Villas & Boatslips (Luxury)

☆Cheeca Lodge & Spa (Luxury)

My favorite Guidebook for The Florida Keys: Fodor's Florida Keys  

My favorite Novel about The Florida Keys: The Last Train to Key West  

Don’t forget to pack: Crossbody Bag for Sightseeing,  Sun Screen, Comfortable Walking Shoes, My Favorite Packable Hat.

Adventure Awaits in Key Largo

Waterfront Cabanas, Key Largo Florida

If you're a fan of adventure, Key Largo is the place to be.  This island is surrounded by an underwater paradise, thrilling divers and snorkelers. With its vibrant coral reefs and iconic shipwrecks, there's no shortage of excitement beneath the surface.

Dive into the crystal-clear waters and discover a whole new world beneath the surface. Key Largo offers a variety of snorkeling and scuba diving spots, each with its own unique marine life and coral formations. Swim alongside colorful fish, explore stunning coral gardens, and get up close and personal with majestic sea turtles. Head to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park to dive or snorkel Molasses Reef and the Christ of the Abyss statue. Check their website for details and reservations. You can also snorkel from Cannon Beach, where you will see a Spanish shipwreck about 100 yards offshore. Private dive shops in Key Largo offer trips to the USS Spiegel Grove, a massive military transport ship sunk intentionally to create an artificial reef. 

For those who prefer to stay dry, Key Largo also offers opportunities to explore the underwater world without getting wet. Hop aboard a glass bottom boat at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park or take a canal tour aboard the actual African Queen or a sunset cruise on a deck boat for a unique perspective of the coral reefs and marine life. It is a great way to experience the wonders of the ocean without getting your feet wet.

Key Largo is not just about the underwater world. It also offers incredible opportunities to explore the diverse wildlife on land. Embark on an eco-tour through the Everglades National Park the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States. Immerse yourself in the unique landscape of sawgrass prairies, mangrove forests, and freshwater marshes. Keep an eye out for the iconic American alligator, as well as an abundance of bird species, including the majestic great blue heron and the colorful roseate spoonbill. Captain Sterling’s Everglades Tours offers daily excursions into this UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

You can also kayak or paddle board through the miles of mangroves at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park or hike the trails at Dangy Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park.  You will witness the beauty of this unique ecosystem up close and at your own pace. 

For a truly immersive wildlife experience, visit the Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center. This sanctuary provides a safe haven for injured and orphaned birds, as well as non-releasable birds. Explore the center's lush gardens and observe various bird species up close. Visitors can learn about conservation and rehabilitation efforts while observing these magnificent creatures. 

Where to stay in Key Largo

If you are looking for all the amenities offered by a beachfront resort, check out Playa Largo Resort and Spa.  Situated on 4.5 acres of breathtaking Florida Bay beachfront, Playa Largo offers a resort style swimming pool with a pool bar and a hot tub, private cabanas, fire pits, a full service marina, racket sports and on site dining options.  Another great option is Reefhouse Resort and Marina offering similar amenities. 

Prefer something smaller, check out the very affordable Waterfront Cabanas.  This 1950's style motel was recently renovated into small contemporary apartments with a full kitchen, tiled shower, and outdoor patio with a grill, on a canal that opened up to the to ocean. At the end of the canal is a working marina which is home to the delicious Key Largo Fisheries and the Pilot House Restaurant.  It was great fun to watch the boats going up and down the canal. You can paddle board or kayak in the canal as well.

Sunsets and Supper In Key Largo

Shrimp-cargo at Sundowner's, Key Largo Florida

Sunset viewing is a major event in the Keys. It involves sipping a cocktail and watching the sun paint the sky and sea oranges and reds at the end of the day.  Check out Bayside Grill and Sunset Bar with cocktails in hand, you will witness a gorgeous sunset complete with the blowing of a conch shell. Another option is  Sundowners, where cocktail hour, sunset viewing on the patio rolls right into a  delicious dinner.  Don’t miss the Shrimp-Cargot. Hungary for Italian food, dine on the authentic Italian flavors at the locally owned Italian Food Company.

Islamorada: Sport Fishing and so Much More

If fishing for your own dinner is what you seek, look no further than Islamorada. Known as the “Sport Fishing Capital of the World," this island offers the thrill of sport fishing with a healthy dose of tranquillity.  With its luxurious spas, pristine beaches, and world-class dining options, Islamorada is the perfect place to unwind and rejuvenate after a day of trolling for Sailfish or Black Fin Tuna.

Check out Full Day Fishing Charter or Snap Em Up Fishing for day fishing charters. If you would like to do some snorkeling of sandbar hopping, check out Wild Dolphin Tours. Captain Kevin and his wife will show the the best the keys have to offer. If you have people in your group that want to do different activities, head to the iconic Robbies. Some people can catch a fishing charter, others can head out on a glass bottom eco-tour, others can rent kayaks or paddle boards. Everyone can meet back the Hungry Tarpon for lunch, the on-site restaurant. Don’t miss their pan seared mussels or their Bloody Marys.

Relaxation Activities in Islamorada

Alligator Reef Lighthouse, Islamorada Florida

Picture yourself lounging on powdery white sands, with the gentle sound of waves lapping at the shore. Islamorada is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Florida Keys. Whether you prefer a secluded spot or a more lively beach scene, you'll find the perfect stretch of sand to relax and. Check out  including Anne’s Beach and Founder’s Park Beach, or the quiet Islamorada Library Beach.  All are perfect for lounging, water sports and soaking in the tropical sun. 

You can walk or bike to numerous art galleries and boutiques with unique and often funky offerings, or visit the nearby Theater of the Sea with its lagoons and lush gardens. These habitats are home to dolphins, sea lions, sea turtles, fish, sharks, stingrays, alligators, and birds. Their mission is to provide a safe home for their animals while sharing them with visitors in up close and personal shows and interactive programs. Scuba enthusiasts will love The History of Diving Museum, with its detailed and historic exhibits.

Multiple State parks are a short drive from Islamorada, offering interesting hiking opportunities. At Windley Key Geological State Park, you can hike through the remains of quarries where the coral rock was harvested to create the first elevated railroad.  You will see fossilized coral and shell plus abandoned mining equipment along the trails. At Curry Hammock State Park you can hike a nature trail that brings to life how the Keys were created and the fragile ecosystem they support. If you are looking for a longer trek, hiking or biking all or part of the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail will give you breathtaking views.

Treat yourself to a day of pampering and relaxation at Ciao Bella Salon and Day Spa or Cheeca Lodge Spa. From rejuvenating massages to invigorating facials, these spas offer a wide range of treatments to help you unwind and rejuvenate. Let the stress melt away as you indulge in a blissful spa experience.

The fun continues after dark where the vibrant nightlife scene ensures that there's never a dull moment. Lorelei Restaurant and Cabana Bar has live music every evening. Get there just before sunset, enjoy a cocktail and music as you watch nature illuminate the sky in color. Another favorite is the patio at Islamorada Brewery. Here you can sip on locally brewed beer, while enjoying a local band. 

Indulging in Culinary Delights in Islamorada

Beer Flight at Florida Keys Brewing Company with Bites from Tacos Jalisco 2 Food Truck, Islamorada Florida

Seafood is king on the menus in the Florida Keys with lobster, stone crab claws and fresh fish on the menu during their seasons. Many of these restaurants offer a “cook your catch” option for fisherman. Some of our favorite spots for seafood include Lorelei Restaurant, Wahoo’s Bar & Grill, and Lazy Days. For a splurge dinner try Chef Michael’s. If you enjoy Mexican cuisine do not miss the tacos at Tacos Jalisco 2 at the Florida Keys Brewing Company.

Where to Stay in Islamorada

The Hadley Resort and Marina, Islamorada Florida

The Hadley Resort and Marina is a newly renovated property located in the center of the Islamorada, this resort offers an “Old Florida” style escape with amenities like continental breakfast, marina with boat rentals and complimentary kayak and paddle board use and well as a heated swimming pool. For a luxurious stay, consider Cheeca Lodge & Spa, Amara Cay Resort or Topsider Resort. 

No matter which path you choose, Key Largo and Islamorada promise an unforgettable escape. From diving the vibrant coral reefs of Key Largo to indulging in the culinary delights of Islamorada, these Florida Keys' destinations have it all. Pack your bags, immerse yourself in endless adventures, or simply unwind amidst breathtaking beauty – the ultimate playgrounds of the Florida Keys are waiting to be explored. Get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Looking for more information on visiting The Florida Keys, check out these Blog Posts:

Your Ultimate Guide to Waterfront Vacation Cabanas in Key Largo, Florida

Hadley Resort and Marina, a Tropical Haven in Islamorada, Florida

Exploring the Natural Beauty of the Florida Keys

The Best Restaurants on the Florida Keys

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