Key Largo, Florida Vacation Rentals
Explore 530 rental homes and villas in Key Largo, Florida for your next vacation or business travel. With private vacation home rentals, enjoy a more personalized stay and a wide range of amenities such as Homes with Pools, Air Condition Homes and Pet-Friendly Homes. With a wide range of homes to offer, pricing can start as low as $55 per night with homes containing as many as 8 bedrooms and 7 bathrooms. However you're looking to experience your stay, Homes and Villas by Marriott has your next vacation home waiting.
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Key Largo Overview
Nestled at the northernmost tip of the Florida Keys, Key Largo is a tropical haven that seamlessly blends aquatic adventures with serene relaxation. Renowned as the "Diving Capital of the World," this enchanting island invites you to immerse yourself in its underwater marvels, including the spectacular John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Here, the vibrant coral formations and abundant marine life create a diver's paradise, while glass-bottom boat tours offer a window into this mesmerizing world for those who prefer to marvel at the depths from above.
Key Largo's aquatic allure extends to the iconic Christ of the Abyss, an awe-inspiring underwater bronze statue that beckons divers, and the Spiegel Grove shipwreck, a colossal artificial reef that promises an unforgettable dive. For those who wish to explore the island's natural beauty on the surface, kayaking through the tranquil mangrove swamps is a delightful way to connect with the local ecosystem.
The island's shores are lined with private homes that offer an unparalleled experience, complete with the luxury of having a personal retreat all to yourself. Many of these homes boast swimming pools, providing a private oasis where you can bask in the sun or enjoy a refreshing dip. With a variety of pet-friendly options, your furry companions can join in on the fun, making for a truly inclusive vacation.
Key Largo's beaches and waterfronts are the heart of its charm, offering a picturesque backdrop for days spent lounging on the sand or partaking in water sports. The Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park is a treasure trove for nature enthusiasts, with its rich birdlife and unique flora and fauna, while the historic African Queen steamboat adds a touch of nostalgia with its leisurely canal cruises.
As the sun sets, the island's culinary scene comes alive with waterfront dining that showcases the freshest seafood. Indulge in the local flavors as you dine al fresco, with the gentle sea breeze and the captivating sunset painting the perfect evening.
Key Largo is more than just a destination; it's a personal sanctuary where adventure meets tranquility. Whether you're seeking an adrenaline-fueled dive or a peaceful retreat in a private home by the water, this island paradise is sure to provide an unforgettable escape into the heart of the Florida Keys.
Cultural Attractions in Key Largo
Key Largo, Florida, may be renowned as a premier destination for diving and snorkeling, but it also offers a unique cultural experience for those who seek the arts, history, and local customs. This northernmost island of the Florida Keys is not only a gateway to the underwater marvels of the coral reefs but also a place where cultural enthusiasts can indulge in their passions.
Begin your cultural journey at the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, where you can learn about the local marine environment and the history of the area's shipwrecks. The Sanctuary is not only a natural wonder but also a living museum beneath the waves, where the stories of maritime heritage come to life.
For a taste of local history, visit the African Queen, the original vessel from the classic 1951 movie. This piece of cinematic history offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience a bygone era of film. The boat is available for canal cruises and dinner cruises, providing a blend of cultural nostalgia and local charm.
Art enthusiasts will find solace in the local art galleries that dot the island, showcasing the works of local artists inspired by the stunning natural beauty of the Keys. The Key Largo Art Gallery, for instance, is a collective of artists whose works range from paintings and photography to jewelry and pottery, reflecting the vibrant and diverse culture of the region.
Live music is an integral part of Key Largo's cultural scene, with many restaurants and bars hosting local musicians. The island's laid-back atmosphere is the perfect backdrop for enjoying live performances, ranging from island tunes to jazz and blues. The annual Key Largo Original Music Festival celebrates songwriters and performers, offering a mix of musical genres that resonate with the island's eclectic vibe.
Key Largo also celebrates its local customs through various events and festivals throughout the year. The Humphrey Bogart Film Festival pays homage to the golden age of Hollywood, while the Island Jubilee brings together the community for a celebration of local food, crafts, and entertainment.
For a deeper dive into the history of the area, the Keys History & Discovery Center provides insights into the rich cultural and ecological history of the Upper Keys. Exhibits cover topics from the indigenous people of the Keys to the development of the Overseas Railroad.
While Key Largo may be a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, it also offers a serene and inspiring setting for cultural activities. From its art galleries and historic vessels to its music festivals and historical centers, Key Largo invites travelers to immerse themselves in a cultural experience that is as rich and diverse as the coral reefs that surround it.
Family friendly activities in Key Largo
Key Largo, Florida, is a tropical paradise that offers a treasure trove of activities for families traveling with children. Known as the first of the Florida Keys and the self-proclaimed Dive Capital of the World, Key Largo provides a unique blend of outdoor adventures and educational experiences that kids will love.
One of the top attractions for families is the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Here, children can get up close and personal with the vibrant underwater world through glass-bottom boat tours, snorkeling, and scuba diving trips. The park also offers kayak and paddleboard rentals for families looking to explore the mangrove swamps and tranquil waters at their own pace.
For an unforgettable marine life encounter, visit the Dolphin Research Center on nearby Grassy Key. The center offers interactive programs where children can learn about and swim with dolphins in a responsible and educational setting. It's not only fun but also an excellent opportunity for kids to gain an appreciation for marine conservation.
The Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center is another must-see for families. Children can learn about the importance of wildlife rescue and rehabilitation while observing a variety of local bird species. The center's efforts to care for injured birds and release them back into the wild is both inspiring and educational.
For a day of relaxation, families can enjoy the sandy beaches at Harry Harris Park. The park features a tidal pool, which is perfect for younger children to swim in safely, as well as playgrounds and picnic areas for a leisurely family day out.
If your kids are interested in history and pirates, take them to the Shipwreck Treasure Museum in Key West. The museum showcases artifacts from shipwrecks around the Keys and offers interactive exhibits that will transport children back to the era of swashbuckling pirates and sunken treasures.
Lastly, no trip to Key Largo would be complete without a visit to the iconic African Queen, the actual boat from the classic movie of the same name. Families can take a canal cruise on this piece of Hollywood history, making for a memorable experience for both kids and adults.
Key Largo's blend of natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and family-friendly attractions make it an ideal destination for those traveling with children. Whether your family is seeking adventure on the water or a peaceful day surrounded by nature, Key Largo has something to delight every young traveler.
Outdoor activities in Key Largo
Key Largo, Florida, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering a wealth of natural wonders and activities that make it a premier destination for those seeking to connect with the great outdoors.
As the self-proclaimed "Diving Capital of the World," Key Largo boasts the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the first undersea park in the United States. Here, snorkelers and divers can explore the vibrant coral reefs and their myriad of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even shipwrecks. Glass-bottom boat tours are also available for those who prefer to stay dry while observing the underwater spectacle.
Adjacent to Pennekamp, the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary further extends the underwater playground, offering exceptional diving and snorkeling experiences. The sanctuary protects the waters surrounding the entire archipelago, including the world-famous Spiegel Grove wreck, a 510-foot Navy ship intentionally sunk to create an artificial reef.
For a more relaxed pace, kayaking and paddleboarding through the mangrove swamps provide a serene way to explore the backcountry waters and spot wildlife such as manatees, dolphins, and a variety of bird species. The intricate network of tidal creeks and trails offers a unique perspective on this delicate ecosystem.
Fishing enthusiasts will find Key Largo to be an excellent base for both backcountry and deep-sea fishing. The surrounding waters are teeming with sport fish like bonefish, tarpon, and sailfish, making it a thrilling destination for anglers of all levels.
On land, the Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park is a haven for nature lovers. This park features one of the largest tracts of West Indian tropical hardwood hammock in the United States. Visitors can walk the nature trails to observe the diverse flora and fauna, including some of the rarest plants in the country.
For those interested in wildlife rehabilitation and conservation, the Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center offers a chance to learn about and observe the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of local bird species.
Key Largo's natural beauty extends to its sunsets, which can be enjoyed from various waterfront spots or during a peaceful evening cruise. The island's laid-back atmosphere is perfect for winding down after a day of adventure, with local seafood restaurants and tiki bars offering fresh catches and tropical drinks.
In Key Largo, the blend of exhilarating underwater exploration, peaceful backcountry retreats, and rich biodiversity creates an outdoor experience that is both diverse and deeply rewarding.
Weather in Key Largo
Key Largo, the first of the Florida Keys, offers a tropical climate that is influenced by the proximity of the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. This island paradise is known for its warm weather year-round, making it a popular destination for those seeking sun, sea, and outdoor adventure.
The temperature in Key Largo is generally warm throughout the year. The summer months, from June to August, are the hottest, with average high temperatures hovering around the upper 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (31-34°C). The humidity during these months can be quite high, often making it feel warmer than the actual temperature. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in the summer, providing a brief respite from the heat.
The winter months, from December to February, are the coolest, with average high temperatures in the mid-70s Fahrenheit (around 24°C). Lows can drop to the mid-60s Fahrenheit (around 18°C), but it rarely gets cold enough for a heavy jacket. Precipitation is lower during the winter, making it a popular time for visitors looking to escape colder climates.
Spring, from March to May, and fall, from September to November, are considered the best times to visit Key Largo. During these shoulder seasons, the temperatures are very pleasant, with highs typically in the 70s and 80s Fahrenheit (around 21-29°C). Humidity is also lower, and there is less rainfall compared to the summer months. These conditions are ideal for enjoying the island's outdoor activities, such as snorkeling, diving, and boating.
The most popular weather conditions are prevalent during the spring and fall when the temperatures are comfortable, and the chance of rain is less frequent. The island's tropical beauty can be fully appreciated during these times, with fewer crowds than the peak winter season.
While Key Largo can be visited year-round, travelers should be aware of the Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June to November. While direct hits are rare, it's always wise to monitor weather forecasts and plan accordingly during this period.
Overall, Key Largo's climate is conducive to a relaxing tropical getaway at almost any time of the year, with the spring and fall months offering the most idyllic weather conditions for visitors.
Transportation in Key Largo
Key Largo, the first island of the Florida Keys, is a paradise for snorkelers, divers, and outdoor enthusiasts. This tropical destination is accessible by various modes of transportation, ensuring a seamless travel experience for visitors.
Most travelers arrive in Key Largo by car, driving along the scenic Overseas Highway (U.S. Route 1) that connects the Florida Keys to the mainland. The closest major airport is Miami International Airport, located about an hour's drive north of Key Largo. From the airport, visitors can rent a car, take a shuttle service, or use ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft to reach the island.
For those who prefer not to drive, there are shuttle services that operate between Miami and the Florida Keys, offering convenient transportation options for travelers. These shuttles can be booked in advance and provide a comfortable ride to Key Largo with picturesque views along the way.
Once on the island, getting around Key Largo can be done in several ways. While the island is not particularly large, it is not considered highly walkable due to the spread-out nature of its attractions and amenities. Renting a car is the most flexible option for exploring Key Largo and the surrounding Keys, allowing visitors to travel at their own pace and visit off-the-beaten-path spots.
For those who prefer not to drive, local taxi services and ride-sharing options are available for short trips. Additionally, some hotels and resorts offer shuttle services to popular attractions and nearby areas, which can be a convenient option for guests.
Bicycling is another popular way to get around Key Largo. The island has bike-friendly roads and paths, making it easy for cyclists to enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Bike rentals are available at various locations, offering a fun and eco-friendly way to explore.
Boat rentals and charters are also a key part of the Key Largo experience, allowing visitors to venture out onto the water to explore the coral reefs, mangroves, and marine life that make the area famous.
In summary, Key Largo offers a variety of transportation options to suit different preferences. While the island itself is not highly walkable, the availability of car rentals, shuttles, taxis, and bicycles ensures that visitors can easily navigate and enjoy all that Key Largo has to offer.