Attractions and Places To See around North Key Largo - Top 5
Best attractions and places to see around North Key Largo highlight its diverse natural beauty and unique ecosystems. This region, the northernmost and largest of the Florida Keys, offers a range of experiences from vibrant coral reefs to lush botanical parks. Visitors can explore significant natural features and engage with marine life, making it a destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The area is characterized by its tropical hardwood hammocks, mangrove forests, and Atlantic Ocean waters.
Best attractions and places to see around North Key Largo
- The most popular attractions is John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, an other natural site that is the first underwater park in the United States. It offers opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, diving, and glass-bottom boat trips to observe marine life and coral formations.
- Another must-see spot is Wild Tamarind Trail, a trail. This is a 0.6-mile lightly trafficked loop trail located near Key Largo, suitable for a short hike.
- Visitors also love North Beach, a beach. This area is home to the Key Largo Kampground and Marina and can be busy with tourists due to its enjoyable atmosphere.
- North Key Largo is known for its coral reefs, botanical parks, and hiking trails. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from underwater parks to natural beaches and scenic pathways.
- The attractions around North Key Largo are appreciated by the komoot community, with 8 upvotes and 37 photos shared.
Last updated: May 12, 2026
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
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It is also possible to rent canoes or book snorkelling tours on the reef 10km offshore
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Wild Tamarind Trail
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Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail - Key Largo
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As you continue, the trail is shaded by the tropical flora of a hardwood hammock, featuring plants and trees that are native to the West Indies. The formation of the Keys, influenced by wind, water, and birds that carried seeds, contributed to the development of these forests and is a welcome escape from the sun, especially on hot summer days.
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Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trailhead
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Alternatively, there is a transit stop at the corner of Sexton Cove and Linda Drive, 1.25 miles south of the trailhead on the opposite side of the Overseas Highway (the trail runs on both sides of the road). There is no restroom or water available here, but there are plenty of places along the trail where you can stop to refill your water bottle.
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North Beach
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Popular around North Key Largo
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This section of the trail offers fantastic views of the Atlantic and the Gulf and is a flat pathway with a combination of mixed surfaces, including asphalt, crushed stone, and loose gravel. It runs along John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the island of Key Largo—with plenty of souvenir shops and delicious local dining options. As you continue, the trail is shaded by the tropical flora of a hardwood hammock, featuring plants and trees that are native to the West Indies. The formation of the Keys, influenced by wind, water, and birds that carried seeds, contributed to the development of these forests and is a welcome escape from the sun, especially on hot summer days.
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This trailhead is the official northern access point for the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail (FKOHT), a multi-use pathway that spans 106 miles through some of Florida's most scenic small seaside communities. Parking is available at the Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park, a small lot that can fill up quickly, so it's best to arrive early in the day. Alternatively, there is a transit stop at the corner of Sexton Cove and Linda Drive, 1.25 miles south of the trailhead on the opposite side of the Overseas Highway (the trail runs on both sides of the road). There is no restroom or water available here, but there are plenty of places along the trail where you can stop to refill your water bottle.
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The North Beach of Key Largo is an area that is home to the Key Largo Kampground and Marina, as well as a few super markets and cafes. It is an area that can get busy with tourists because it is beautiful and enjoyable year-round.
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John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is a state park with an entry fee, featuring a large saltwater aquarium, Molasses Reef, trails, beaches, and more. Visitors can enjoy swimming and snorkeling, canoe rentals, and glass-bottom boat trips. Encompassing approximately 70 nautical square miles of Atlantic Ocean waters, the park was listed on the National Register of Historic Places on April 14, 1972.
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The beaches were heavily overgrown with seaweed when we visited. It is also possible to rent canoes or book snorkelling tours on the reef 10km offshore
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Paid state park with a large saltwater aquarium. There is the opportunity for swimming and snorkeling. Glass-bottom boat trips are also available.
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Wild Tamarind Trail is a 0.6 mile lightly trafficked loop trail located near Key Largo, Florida.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore in North Key Largo?
North Key Largo offers a variety of natural features. You can explore the vibrant coral reefs and marine life at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, which is the first underwater park in the U.S. The Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail - Key Largo provides scenic views of both the Atlantic and the Gulf. For lush tropical hardwood hammocks, visit Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park, a critical habitat for protected species. Additionally, Angelfish Key offers another natural area to connect with the outdoors.
Where can I go snorkeling or diving in North Key Largo?
The premier spot for snorkeling and diving is John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Here, you can explore tropical fish and coral formations, including the famous Christ of the Abyss statue. Far Beach also offers a shallow, calm swimming area ideal for snorkeling, where you might spot various wildlife near the mangrove roots.
Are there hiking or walking trails in North Key Largo?
Yes, there are several trails. The Wild Tamarind Trail is a lightly trafficked 0.6-mile loop perfect for a short hike. The Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail - Key Largo offers a flat pathway with mixed surfaces, shaded by tropical flora, providing excellent views. Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park also features over 6 miles of walking and biking trails through dense greenery.
What kind of marine life can I expect to see?
At John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, you can observe vibrant tropical fish and diverse coral formations, often via glass-bottom boat tours or by snorkeling and diving. Near the mangrove roots at Far Beach, visitors can spot various wildlife, including fish, crabs, and sometimes even iguanas and barracudas.
Are there family-friendly attractions in North Key Largo?
Many attractions are suitable for families. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park offers glass-bottom boat tours, swimming, and snorkeling. The Wild Tamarind Trail is an easy loop for a family walk. Both North Beach and Far Beach provide calm waters for swimming and relaxation. Island Dolphin Care also offers unique human-dolphin interaction experiences for children with special needs.
Which beaches are best for swimming or relaxing?
North Beach is a popular and enjoyable spot, though it can be busy. Far Beach offers a shallow, calm swimming area with minimal waves, making it perfect for relaxing and snorkeling, especially near the mangrove roots.
What cultural or historical sites can I visit in or near North Key Largo?
While North Key Largo is primarily known for its natural beauty, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park itself has historical significance, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Nearby in Islamorada, you can visit The Keys History & Discovery Center to learn about the region's past, or the History of Diving Museum, which showcases the evolution of diving technology.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
Beyond exploring the attractions, you can enjoy various outdoor activities. For running, there are several routes available, such as a running loop from Angelfish Key or a North Beach loop. You can find more details on these and other running trails in the Running Trails around North Key Largo guide.
Are there any less crowded attractions to visit?
For a quieter experience, consider exploring Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park, which offers extensive trails through tropical hardwood hammocks. The Wild Tamarind Trail is also a lightly trafficked loop, ideal for a peaceful walk. While North Beach can be busy, Far Beach might offer a more serene swimming and snorkeling experience.
Can I see American crocodiles or other unique wildlife in North Key Largo?
Yes, North Key Largo is home to unique wildlife. Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge protects critical habitats for several threatened and endangered species, including the American crocodile, Key Largo woodrat, and Schaus' swallowtail butterfly. While the refuge itself is generally closed to the public, a visitor station with a butterfly garden is accessible.
What do visitors enjoy most about North Key Largo's attractions?
Visitors particularly enjoy the diverse natural beauty and unique ecosystems. The opportunity to swim, snorkel, and dive among tropical fish and coral formations at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is a highlight. Many appreciate the scenic views from the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail and the relaxing atmosphere of beaches like North Beach and Far Beach.
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