Key West vs Key Largo: We searched for the same thing on our first family trip to the Keys. This guide will sail you through the best of both worlds, helping you navigate the perfect vacation, and see which option we chose.
Key West or Key Largo? Both islands offer a treasure trove of experiences. Key West may offer history, culture, and a lively atmosphere (and maybe too lively for many families). But if you're seeking a more relaxed family vacation, Key Largo is the place to be.
However, the beauty of the Florida Keys is that you don't have to choose. The scenic Overseas Highway connects the islands, making it easy to hop from one to another. So why not explore both and make the most of your family vacation?
In the end, we picked Key Largo and were glad we did. Key Largo and Baker's Cay Resort made for a great vacation, and we made day trips to other Keys while returning to Key Largo in the afternoon.
Read on to find out more, including our favorite resort that features a beach that's as nice as the Caribbean!
Key West: The Southernmost Point of Fun
Picture a place where the sun always shines, the palm trees sway in the breeze, and there's a whiff of adventure in the air. That's Key West for you. This island city at the southernmost tip of the continental United States is a treasure trove of fun, excitement, and memories waiting to be made.
From the moment your family steps off the plane at Miami International Airport, the Key West adventure begins. As you drive along the famous Seven Mile Bridge, you'll marvel at the azure Atlantic Ocean on one side and the serene Gulf of Mexico on the other.
You'll find that Key West is a kaleidoscope of activities. There's something for everyone, from exploring historical sites to relishing local cuisine.
Historical Exploration
Key West is a treasure trove of historical landmarks. A visit to the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of the Nobel Prize-winning author. You can also take a stroll down the street to the former residence of Tennessee Williams, another celebrated author. These journeys into the past are sure to captivate adults and kids alike.
Beach Bliss
While Key West may not have an abundance of beaches like some other Florida Keys, the ones it does have are top-notch. The white sandy beaches are perfect for building sandcastles and collecting seashells. Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty with its Civil War-era fort and scenic beach. The calm, shallow waters are safe and enjoyable for kids to splash around in.
Culinary Delights
Food is an adventure in itself in Key West. From enjoying a slice of key lime pie at the historic Kermit's Key West Key Lime Shoppe to tucking into conch fritters at the bustling Duval Street, your taste buds are in for a treat.
Sunset Spectacle
No trip to Key West is complete without watching the sunset from Mallory Square. It's not just about the breathtaking view; it's the spirit of the place. Street performers juggle fire, musicians play, and artists sell their creations. It's a celebration of life that's sure to leave a lasting impression on your family.
Duval Street: The Heartbeat of Key West
The famous Duval Street is a bustling city within a city. It's a mile-long feast of live music, delicious food, and a party atmosphere that runs deep into the night. The street offers an array of beach bars, restaurants, and shops that cater to every taste. The famous Sloppy Joe's bar, an original location and a favorite haunt of Ernest Hemingway is a must-visit. And if you're a fan of live music, the Green Parrot is a local institution offering top-notch performances.
Beach Bars and More
Key West's beach bars offer more than a place to quench your thirst. They're popular attractions in their own right. From watching the sunset with a cocktail at Sunset Pier to enjoying fresh seafood at Half Shell Raw Bar, these beach bars offer a unique blend of relaxation and revelry. Plus, many offer free parking, making them easily accessible for those with a rental car.
Adults-Only Activities
Key West is a small town, but it offers a big selection of activities that are perfect for when the kids are at the kids' club. The options are endless for Scuba diving, fishing boats, luxury resort spas. You could even visit Ernest Hemingway's home, now a museum, where the famous author penned many of his works.
Key Largo: A Family-Friendly Paradise
On the other hand, Key Largo is a perfect place for families seeking a more laid-back vacation. It's a small community that offers a tranquil environment, a stark contrast to the party atmosphere of Key West.
Beach Days and Sunny Rays
Key Largo boasts some of the best beaches in the Florida Keys. Sombrero Beach is a family favorite with its soft white sand and warm waters. The Bahia Honda State Park offers a slice of paradise with its beautiful beaches, picnic tables, and nature trails.
Wildlife Wonders
Key Largo offers a wealth of outdoor activities for nature-loving families. Head to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park to marvel at the colorful marine life.
Dive Into Adventure
Key Largo is often touted as the 'Dive Capital of the World', and for good reason. The John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is a divers' paradise, with its stunning coral reefs teeming with marine life. From colorful tropical fish to graceful loggerhead turtles, the underwater world here is truly magical. If your family isn't into diving, worry not! The park offers glass-bottom boat tours, providing a window into the spectacular sea life.
Nature's Bounty
Key Largo's natural wonders aren't just limited to the underwater world. The island has a unique ecosystem of mangrove forests and seagrass beds. Kayaking through these calm waters is a great way to get up close and personal with the area's rich biodiversity. A trip to the Everglades National Park offers bird lovers a chance to spot rare and exotic bird species.
Fun On The Beach
Though Key Largo is famous for its underwater attractions, it also boasts some beautiful beaches. Canon Beach is a great place for a family picnic, with picnic tables and barbecue grills. Plus, snorkelers can explore a Spanish shipwreck just 100 feet off the shore. Far Beach, with its shallow waters and calm waves, is perfect for small kids.
Foodie Haven
Key Largo offers a range of delectable dining options to satisfy the pickiest of eaters. From fresh fish at the iconic Fish House Restaurant to key lime pie at Mrs. Mac's Kitchen, your family is in for a culinary adventure.
Best Resorts in Key Largo
Here's our favorite resort in Key Largo, Bakers Cay. For more resorts, check out our guide on the best resorts in Key Largo.
Keys Road Trip
Exploring the Florida Keys: Family Adventures from Key West to Key Largo
The Florida Keys, extending from the southern tip of Florida and reaching out into the Gulf of Mexico, are a string of tropical islands each boasting unique attractions. As you journey along the Overseas Highway, from Key Largo to Key West, there are a multitude of family-friendly activities that will make your trip a memorable one.
Let's look at some of the stops along the way.
Miami Beach: Sun, Surf, and Sand
Start your Florida Keys adventure at Miami Beach, a popular destination known for its beautiful beaches, art deco architecture, and vibrant nightlife. For families, Miami Beach offers a host of water activities, including surfing, paddle boarding, and snorkeling. Visit nearby Everglades National Park for some Aligator spotting!
Big Pine Key: Nature's Playground
Next, head south to Big Pine Key, a small island in the lower Florida Keys. Here, children can get up close and personal with the local fauna at the National Key Deer Refuge, home to the endangered Key Deer.
Bahia Honda State Park: An Island Paradise
Continue your journey to Bahia Honda State Park, known for having one of the best beaches in the Florida Keys. It's a great place for a family picnic, with easy access to beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. This is the perfect spot for snorkeling, where you can marvel at the vibrant marine life, from tropical fish to majestic sea turtles.
Dry Tortugas National Park: A Historic Jewel
As you journey further south, a visit to Dry Tortugas National Park is a must. Accessible only by boat or seaplane, it is one of the most isolated and therefore best-preserved forts in the United States. A guided tour of the Civil War-era fortresses, along with snorkeling in the surrounding coral reefs, makes for an unforgettable experience. Bromleighs may blend into one another. It is possible that these expected bromleighs will be longer than the others. Its long, slender neck is pink. It was first described by the naturalist Johann Friedrich Gmelin in 1789.
He was educated at the University of Tübingen, where he studied medicine and natural sciences. He later moved to London, where he became a member of the Royal Society. He was known for his work in the field of ornithology and was the author of several books on the subject. He died in 1804. The exact cause of his death is not known. The combination of historical exploration and water-based adventure makes this an exciting destination.
Key West: The Southernmost City in the US
Your journey ends at Key West, a bustling city packed with various activities for the whole family. Visit the Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, the aquarium, or take a glass-bottom boat tour to see the beautiful marine life. The Truman Little White House, a popular historical site where President Harry Truman spent many of his winters, is also worth a visit.
Traveling from Key West to Key Largo offers many experiences that families can enjoy together. From the historical sites to the natural beauty of the Keys, your family is sure to have an unforgettable adventure. If you plan a trip to the Florida Keys, don't miss out on these wonderful destinations.
Key West vs Key Largo Recap
So pack your bags, load sunscreen, and prepare to embark on an unforgettable Florida Keys adventure. Whether you choose Key West, Key Largo, or both, one thing's certain: your family will have the time of their lives. Safe travels!