Key Largo is the first island you reach on the Overseas Highway and is often known as the diving and snorkelling capital of the Florida Keys. Located just over an hour south of Miami, it is an easy first stop on a Florida road trip and a great place to begin exploring the islands. Surrounded by clear turquoise water, coral reefs and mangrove forests, Key Largo offers a more laid-back atmosphere than Miami, with plenty of opportunities to get out on the water.
Whether you want to spend your days snorkelling over colourful reefs, kayaking through peaceful waterways or relaxing beside the sea, Key Largo has something for different types of travellers. It also makes a convenient base for exploring the Upper Keys before continuing south along the Overseas Highway towards Islamorada, Marathon and Key West.
Much of Key Largo's appeal lies beneath the water, with coral reefs and marine life attracting divers and snorkellers from around the world. However, you don't need to be an experienced diver to enjoy the island's natural beauty. Boat trips, kayaking and waterfront dining all offer ways to experience the Keys at a slower pace.
Key Largo has accommodation to suit a range of budgets, from simple hotels to waterfront resorts with swimming pools, marina facilities and direct access to the water. Reefhouse Resort & Marina is a good option for travellers looking for resort facilities and a base for boat trips, snorkelling and diving. For a more straightforward stay, Hampton Inn Key Largo offers comfortable accommodation, complimentary breakfast and convenient access to local attractions.
For couples seeking a more indulgent escape, Bungalows Key Largo is an adults-only, all-inclusive resort with private waterfront bungalows and a peaceful tropical setting. It is particularly suited to a relaxing few nights at the start or end of a Florida road trip. Our travel specialists can help you choose the right hotel and combine Key Largo with other destinations across the Florida Keys.
The easiest way to reach Key Largo is to fly into Miami International Airport and collect a hire car. From Miami, the drive takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic and your starting point. Having a car gives you the freedom to explore the island, visit nearby nature reserves and stop at scenic viewpoints along the Overseas Highway.
Key Largo works well as a first overnight stop after arriving in Florida, allowing you to settle in before continuing your journey south. If you have time, allow two or three nights to enjoy the water-based activities and explore the surrounding area without feeling rushed.
Continue south along the Overseas Highway to Islamorada, approximately 20 minutes further down the road. Known for its fishing, waterfront restaurants and relaxed island atmosphere, Islamorada makes a natural next stop on a Florida Keys itinerary. You can split your stay between the two islands or continue towards Marathon and Key West for a longer road trip.
Yes, we can arrange a tailor-made Key Largo fly-drive holiday from the UK, including flights to Miami, car hire and your choice of accommodation. You can stay in Key Largo for a few nights or include it as part of a longer Florida Keys road trip, with hotels and stops chosen to suit your budget and travel plans.
Key Largo is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes by car from Miami International Airport, depending on traffic. We can include car hire in your fly-drive holiday, allowing you to collect your vehicle at the airport and drive south along the Overseas Highway. Having a car makes it easy to explore Key Largo and continue to other islands in the Florida Keys.
We recommend spending two or three nights in Key Largo to enjoy its coral reefs, snorkelling trips, boat excursions and waterfront restaurants. If you're planning a longer Florida Keys fly-drive holiday, you could split your stay between Key Largo, Islamorada and Key West. Our travel specialists can help you decide how long to spend in each destination.
Yes, Key Largo is easy to include in a tailor-made Florida itinerary. You could spend a few nights in Miami before driving to Key Largo, continue along the Overseas Highway to Key West, or combine the Florida Keys with Orlando's theme parks. We can arrange your flights, car hire and hotels to create a multi-centre holiday around your interests and available time.
The cost depends on your travel dates, flights, hotel choice, length of stay and car hire requirements. A simple hotel stay in Key Largo will usually cost less than a luxury waterfront resort, while combining several destinations can affect your overall budget. Contact Charter Travel for a tailor-made quote, and our specialists can help you compare options and create a Florida Keys fly-drive holiday to suit your budget.
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