Key Largo

Key Largo is the northern most key in the island chain known as the Florida Keys as well as the name of an unincorporated town on that Key. The island stretches for 33 miles and is the longest in the Keys chain.

The north end of the island hosts an area known as Ocean Reef, an exclusive gated community with some famous residents and visitors.

Mangrove tree islands, clear water, and blue sky weather

Further down the island you’ll find the unincorporated town of Key Largo. This area was formerly known as Rock Harbor until a name change followed the success of a 1948 Bogart and Bacall film named—you guessed it—Key Largo.

With some of the clearest water in the Keys, several large wrecks, and numerous reefs to explore, the Key Largo area has earned a reputation as The Dive Capitol of the World.

Divers flock to the area to see Carysfort Reef, Elbow Reef, and Molasses Reef. A pair of retired USCG cutters, Bibb and Duane, located just a few miles offshore are also popular dive destinations.

In May 2002 members of the local dive community saw a long and tumultuous effort finally come to fruition with the sinking of the 510’ Spiegel Grove, at that time the largest man-made reef in the world.

The waters off here offer world class sportfishing for a variety of species. Most popular in winter is the aerobatic sailfish. To catch and release one of these game fish you’ll need to charter a boat locally or have your own boat.

Numerous other species, like black grouper, mutton snapper, and yellowtail snapper are available most times during the year. The variety of offshore fish you could catch here is unsurpassed anywhere in the U.S. and equaled only by other areas of the Florida Keys.

A number of charterboats homeport in Key Largo, Florida

Anglers who favor more tranquil inshore waters will find plenty of opportunity too. Oceanside flats in the area are a favorite for those in pursuit of bonefish, the grey ghost of flats.

Bayside you’ll find abundant opportunities to catch resident tarpon, snook, and trout.

Families will enjoy the opportunity to visit a variety of federal, state, and community parks located on or near the island.

At the southwest end of the island is Tavernier, a small community with numerous buildings dating back to the turn of the century, some of which have been restored to their former splendor.

Vacationers will find plenty of hotels, motels, and restaurants to serve your needs.