Named by early Spanish colonizers, Key Largo literally means “long key,” the island being the largest of the Florida Keys.
That only means this island is home to a plethora of fun-filled activities and enchanting tropical scenes for vacationers young and old.
Expect an abundance of Floridian wildlife, outstanding diving sites, tropical cottage aesthetic, and thrilling watersports — basically everyone’s idea of an amazing island getaway.
Here are the best things to do in Key Largo, FL to hype you up!
1. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
102601 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
(305) 451-6300
Founded in 1963, this 25-mile-long state park captivates adventurers with its underwater treasures.
Why You Should Go
This park’s beach may be a little small, but its magical underwater world is filled with jaw-dropping gems.
As you dive deep into crystal clear water, you’ll discover scores of tropical fish and a Spanish shipwreck with an encrusted anchor and cannons.
What to Do
Spend some time exploring the visitor center and admire numerous saltwater aquariums filled with sea creatures.
There’s also a theater where you can watch informative videos about nature.
Afterwards, get ready for the underwater dive to see the park’s hidden wonderland.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Key Largo Bay Marriott Beach Resort
2. African Queen Canal Cruise
Marina Del Mar
Key Largo, FL 33037
(305) 451-8080
Built in 1912 as the S/L Livingstone, this vessel was renamed the African Queen for the 1951 film starring Humphrey Bogart.
Why You Should Go
The African Queen today takes adventurers on a sightseeing cruise around Key Largo’s Port Largo Canals for an hour and a half, departing from Marina del Mar.
What to Do
Book a cruise to embark on a journey from the marina to the Port Largo Canal until you reach the ocean and head back.
Make sure your cameras are juiced up for the scenery.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Baker’s Cay Resort Key Largo, Curio Collection By Hilton
3. Island Dolphin Care
150 Lorelane Pl
Key Largo, FL 33037
(305) 451-5884
Island Dolphin Care is an organization that looks after marine mammals that cannot survive in the wild.
Why You Should Go
Island Dolphin Care offers rescue dolphins happy and meaningful lives through nonprofit therapy programs with special needs children and veterans with PTSD.
Exciting experiences like tours, touch tanks, the dolphin float, dolphin yoga, and more await at the facility!
What to Do
Reserve a tour to see dolphins up close, experience the touch tanks, hang out in the garden, and view aquariums.
Other experiences include feeding the dolphins, getting a kiss from them, floating on a raft with them around, painting with a dolphin, and more!
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Anchorage Resort
4. Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center
92080 Overseas Highway, Tavernier
Key Largo, FL 33070
(305) 852-4486
Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center opened in 1991 as an organization dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of harmed and displaced birds.
Why You Should Go
Looking for free things to do in Key Largo?
The Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center is a sanctuary for several species of birds, including hawks, owls, vultures, pelicans, gulls, songbirds, and more — all free for viewing!
What to Do
Learn about the birds at the sanctuary and the fragile ecosystems of the Florida Keys when you drop by the visitor education center.
You can also show your support by donating or purchasing from their gift shop.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Coconut Palm Inn
Related: Best Things to Do in The Florida Keys
5. Spiegel Grove Wreck
100 Ocean Drive
Mile Marker 100
Key Largo, FL 33037
(800) 457-4354
USS Spiegel Grove was first launched in 1955 and was sunk in 2002 to make an artificial reef off Key Largo.
Why You Should Go
Exploring Spiegel Grove is like taking on a surreal first-person mystery video game adventure, as much of the ship is well cleaned up for divers to tour through its main features.
If you have advanced certifications, you can enter the upper decks!
What to Do
Rainbow Reef Dive Center offers diving expeditions to Key Largo’s extensive coral reefs and wrecks including this one.
Be amazed by the marine life that now makes this ship their home as you float around this huge ship.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn Key Largo
6. Kingdom Escape Games
102670 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
(305) 741-7640
In the middle of the island vibes of Key Largo is a medieval-themed castle featuring one of the unique fun things to do in Key Largo, Florida.
Why You Should Go
Looking for fun indoors?
Kingdom Escape Games immerses you in medieval fantasy mysteries which you and your family or squad will solve together in a limited amount of time to escape.
What to Do
Choose whether you want an escape room involving dragons and eggs or voodoo and supernatural forces.
Discover clues, solve puzzles, accomplish tasks, and unravel the mystery at hand in an hour!
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Bayside Inn Key Largo
7. Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail
3 La Croix Court
Key Largo FL 33037
(305) 853-3571
Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail stretches for more than 90 miles of paved trails along Key Largo’s lush tropical landscapes.
Why You Should Go
This extensive trail strings many attractions in Key Largo together, including parks, wildlife sanctuaries, historic rail bridges, fishing bridges, canopied roads, mangroves, and so much more.
What to Do
If starting your day by burning off some calories sounds like a great idea, one of the best places to visit in Key Largo is the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail.
You can bike, hike, jog, or skate this scenic stretch or stop by at some spots to fish or even camp!
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Lime Tree Bay Resort
Related: Fun Places to Go in Florida
8. Keys’ Meads
99411 Overseas Highway Unit 6
Key Largo, FL 33037
(305) 204-4596
Jeff Kesling Jr. loves honey so much that he established a meadery. Keys’ Meads opened its doors in 2017.
Why You Should Go
Keys’ Meads combines the ancient techniques of fermenting honey with the tropical flavors of Florida.
Mead flavors range from coffee and holiday spice to strawberry, blueberry, Jamaican cherry, and more.
What to Do
Whether you want to pick up a bottle or sample all their 10 varieties, you’re assured of a tasty homemade flavor with a Floridian twist, as well as a conversation regarding the ancient history of mead.
Perfect when it’s raining or cold!
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Key Largo
9. Jacobs Aquatic Center
320 Laguna Avenue
Key Largo, FL 33037
(305) 453-7946
Jacobs Aquatic Center consists of three world-class pools for fitness, lap swimming, lessons, and family entertainment.
Why You Should Go
Need a change of pace and scenery?
One of the top things to do in Key Largo with kids is having a blast at Jacobs Aquatic Center’s pirate ship, water slides, and fun water features.
If the little ones need a break, the center’s concession desk offers snacks and ice cream.
What to Do
Brush up on your swimming skills while the kids splash the hours away at the waterpark area.
You might also want to check out the therapy pool and activity spray gym!
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Waterside Suites and Marina
10. Miss Chief Fishing Charters
1313 Ocean Bay Drive
Key Largo, FL 33037
(305) 393-2430
The consistently five-star-rated Miss Chief Fishing Charters is run by locals who know Key Largo’s waters by heart.
Why You Should Go
With Key Largo being largely dependent on the beauty of its waters, it comes as no surprise that fishing trips are huge in the city.
Among the best fishing excursions is offered by Miss Chief Fishing Charters, where you’re assured big catches fast!
What to Do
Sail with Miss Chief Fishing Charters and get ready to catch sailfish, marlin, swordfish, wahoo, mahi mahi, tuna, sharks, kingfish, cobia, amberjack, and a whole lot more!
After the trip, the crew will be more than happy to fillet your catch, and you can enjoy grilling the fillet afterwards.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Courtyard by Marriott Key Largo
Related: Best Restaurants in Key Largo
11. Harry Harris Park
50 E Beach Road
Tavernier, Key Largo, FL 33070
(305) 852-7161
Harry Harris Park is a man-made beach, with imported sand shipped to the shore every few years.
Why You Should Go
Looking for a cheap, quick beach getaway this weekend with the family?
Harry Harris Park features clean white sand, a stone jetty to protect swimmers from wild waves, a playground, picnic tables, grills, and baseball fields.
What to Do
Pack picnic lunches, bring your furry family member, and come early for the gentle sun and breeze!
The little ones will love wading in the water, while teens can enjoy snorkeling to explore the world beneath.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Drop Anchor
Also See:
Things to Do in Naples, FL
Things to Do in Marco Island, FL
12. Cruisin’ Tikis Key Largo
99470 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
(800) 941-7080
Departing from the dockside of Snook’s Bayside, Cruisin’ Tikis Key Largo takes you on a cruise on board a floating open-air hut!
Why You Should Go
If you brought your significant other along and are looking for things to do in Key Largo for couples, why don’t you sail away on a cruising hut with friends as you listen to music and feast on food and booze?
What to Do
Bring your own beer and snacks and ready your playlist!
Tours aboard the hut can be done in the morning sun, during the sunset, or beneath the Floridian moon.
You can stop in the middle of the ocean for a swim!
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Azul del Mar
13. Everglades National Park
40001 State Road 9336
Homestead, FL 33034
(305) 242-7700
About 45 minutes from Key Largo, Everglades National Park already feels like another world.
Why You Should Go
With a mosaic of ecosystems and a wealth of wildlife, Everglades National Park is one of the most enigmatic things to see in Key Largo.
It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and the country’s largest subtropical wilderness, home to several endangered and rare species.
What to Do
For a memorable visit, take kayak tours or eco tours.
These tours offer you endless opportunities for wildlife sightings such as the Florida panther, Florida crocodile, dolphins, and egrets!
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Gateway To The Keys – Florida City, Homestead, Everglades
Related: Places to Eat: Homestead, FL
Related: Best Things to Do in The Everglades
14. Caribbean Watersports
97450 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
(305) 852-4707
Caribbean Watersports has been offering adventurous wanderers five-star experiences around the Florida Keys for more than 35 years.
Why You Should Go
If your affinity for tropical waters is strong, Carribean Watersports has tons of stuff to do to keep you thrilled, from parasailing, fishing charters, and snorkeling to paddleboarding, wave runners, eco tours and more!
What to Do
Get wild, wet, and thrilled with Carribean Watersports’ exciting water activities!
Whether you choose to sail, fly, or swim with dolphins, you’re sure to have a blast.
You can also end the day with champagne on a sunset cruise!
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Playa Largo Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection
15. Sundowners
103900 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
(305) 451-4502
Sundowners has been serving sandwiches, steaks, and seafood amidst sunset views since 1985.
Why You Should Go
If you’re thinking of things to do in Key Largo tonight, Sundowners is the top place for excellent dinners with the backdrop of a setting sun and a rising moon.
What to Do
End your day with Floridian seafood, ribs, steak, pasta, sandwiches, cocktails, and more.
Drop by their back dock and feed the school of tarpon waiting in the waters!
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Key Largo Bay Marriott Beach Resort
Related: Best Things to Do in Florida
16. Kona Kai Resort, Gallery, and Botanic Gardens
97802 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
(305) 852-7200
Why You Should Go
While nature lovers find a limitless haven in Key Largo, art junkies also have spots in the midst of beaches and palms.
Kona Kai celebrates both local art and nature in a top-notch secluded resort setting.
What to Do
Enjoy the best amenities with your other half in a secret tropical paradise.
Browse local art, stroll through their tropical botanical gardens, soak in the sun at the pool or jacuzzi, and take in the adorable cottage-style architecture.
17. Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park
84900 Overseas Highway
Islamorada, FL 33036
(305) 664-2540
Just 20 minutes south of downtown Key Largo, Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park is an ancient stretch of land formed out of fossilized coral.
Why You Should Go
In the early 1900s, this area became a former quarry to build the Overseas Railroad and produce decorative stones.
Today the abandoned quarry is partly covered with nature’s overgrowth.
What to Do
Have a glimpse of Florida’s ancient past and modern history as you meander through the historic site.
Check out the machines preserved at the park, venture through nature trails, or wind down for a picnic.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Cheeca Lodge & Spa
Also See:
Cape Coral, FL Things to Do
Things to Do in Sanibel Island, Florida
18. Snooks Bayside Restaurant
99470 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
(305) 453-5004
Is it your loved one’s or your birthday? Snooks Bayside Restaurant kickstarts sunsets the tropical way with a horn sounding celebration!
Why You Should Go
If you’re craving an upbeat tropical party atmosphere, Snooks Bayside Restaurant is the place for you.
Featuring tropical dishes and drinks, live music and entertainment, and tropical native decor, Snooks offers every guest a grand and unforgettable night.
What to Do
Head over to Snooks Bayside Restaurant for the ultimate tropical party experience!
Sound the horn yourself if you’re celebrating, chow down on fresh seafood, watch fire dancers, and listen to live music!
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Marina Del Mar Resort and Marina
Related: Best Hotels in Key Largo
19. Shell World
97600 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
(305) 852-8245
For over 35 years, Shell World has been Key Largo’s beach-themed shopping emporium for tropical-themed merchandise.
Why You Should Go
After experiencing all the best things to do in Key Largo, FL, you just got to bring home something to remind you of the days you spent in this tropical paradise.
Whether functional or decorative, Shell World has anything that screams Key Largo just for you.
What to Do
From bags, shirts, jewelry, hats, scarves, and toys to books, mugs, clocks, handicrafts, tumblers, and everything in between, Shell World is the perfect place to browse and buy gifts and souvenirs.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Baker’s Cay Resort Key Largo, Curio Collection By Hilton
Related: Best Beaches in Key Largo
Also See:
Things to Do in Lakeland, FL
Things to Do in Tavernier, FL
Things to Do in Islamorada, FL
Map of Things to Do in Key Largo, FL
Key Largo Things to Do: The 19 Best Activities for 2023
- John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
- African Queen Canal Cruise
- Island Dolphin Care
- Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center
- Spiegel Grove Wreck
- Kingdom Escape Games
- Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail
- Keys’ Meads
- Jacobs Aquatic Center
- Miss Chief Fishing Charters
- Harry Harris Park
- Cruisin’ Tikis Key Largo
- Everglades National Park
- Caribbean Watersports
- Sundowners
- Kona Kai Resort, Gallery, and Botanic Gardens
- Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park
- Snooks Bayside Restaurant
- Shell World
