Key Largo Travel Information
Headed south on US-1 from Miami, Key Largo, home to the first underwater hotel, is the first key off the mainland of Florida. The largest and longest of the Florida Keys, it packs a punch in terms of outdoor activity. The island became famous with the 1948 filming of the movie "Key Largo" starring Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall. Today, little similarity remains between the movie portrayal and the actual island. Distances in the Florida Keys are measured in terms of mile markers (MMs), and Key Largo falls between MM 90 to MM 106. A mere 18 miles from the Florida mainland, it is the only place in North America where living reef exists. The greater part of Key Largo remains in the natural state, serving as a sanctuary for wildlife and a breeding ground for the American crocodile. In protected areas, such as Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge, admission is prohibited. Fishing is exceptional. There is a wide range of game available including the marlin, sailfish, yellowtail snapper, mutton and tarpon. The Keys are known for being an angler’s paradise, and Key Largo is no exception. Diving and snorkeling are a big draw to the area. Some of the underwater wonders include the Duane shipwreck, Molasses Reef and French Reef, and the Christ Statue. Swimming with the dolphins is an exciting and unique program offered in the waters off Key Largo. At the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, patrons enjoy diving, snorkeling and take lazy rides in glass-bottom boats, viewing the 78 square miles of living reef and about 450 different species of fish. Key Largo, an underworld paradise, is 18 miles south of Miami on US-1.
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