Key Largo Quick Facts & Travel Logistics (How big, Distance, Drive Times, Size, Map)

Sunsets in Key Largo are spectacular. We took this picture at the Reefhouse Hotel in Key Largo. One of the more budget-friendly resorts.

How Big is Key Largo Florida 

Key Largo, the first island in the Florida Keys, is a gem worth exploring. With a population of approximately 10,000 residents, this tropical paradise offers a perfect blend of tranquility and adventure. 

Key Largo is about 33 miles long from its northern tip near Card Sound Bridge to its southern end near Tavernier—but the US-1 mile markers most visitors use (roughly MM 106 down through the low 90s) only describe the main Overseas Highway corridor, not the entire island. 

It includes over 33 square miles along the Overseas Highway. Key Largo island includes both the Bayside and Oceanside land.

Key Largo boasts breathtaking coral reefs, diverse wildlife, and a relaxed atmosphere that captures the essence of island living. 

Comparative Size of Key Largo with Other Florida Keys

When comparing Key Largo to other major Florida Keys:

1. Islamorada: Smaller than Key Largo, known for fishing and water sports.
2. Marathon: Similar in size to Key Largo, popular for its beaches and marine activities.
3. Key West: Larger than Key Largo, famous for its vibrant nightlife and historical sites.
4. Big Pine Key: Smaller than Key Largo, renowned for its natural beauty and wildlife.

   

Where is Key Largo in Florida

The island is situated 65 miles south of Miami on US Route 1. It begins at approximately Mile Marker 106 and continues to about Mile Marker 92.

Key Largo is 100 miles from Key West and about 40 miles northeast of Marathon, Florida.

Best Ways to Get to Key Largo

Key Largo is easily accessible by car, bus, or even by boat, but the most popular way is driving from Miami. Here are the best ways to get there, along with specific driving directions:

1. Driving from Miami (Most Popular)

   • Route: Take US-1 South (Overseas Highway), the only road leading into the Florida Keys.
   • Directions:
     1. Start from Miami International Airport (MIA) or Downtown Miami.
     2. Take FL-836 West (Dolphin Expressway) to FL-826 South (Palmetto Expressway).
     3. Merge onto US-1 South in Kendall and continue through Homestead and Florida City.
     4. Once in Florida City, follow US-1 South for about 22 miles until you reach Key Largo.
   • Drive Time: About 1.5 hours (depending on traffic).

2. Driving from Fort Lauderdale

   • Route: Take I-95 South or Florida’s Turnpike, then connect to US-1 South.
   • Directions:
     1. Take I-95 South or Florida’s Turnpike South toward Miami.
     2. Merge onto US-1 South in Homestead, following signs for the Florida Keys.
     3. Drive about 22 miles on US-1 South until you reach Key Largo.
   • Drive Time: Around 2 hours.

3. By Bus (Affordable Option)

   • Greyhound and FlixBus offer direct routes from Miami and Fort Lauderdale to Key Largo.
   • The Keys Shuttle provides shared shuttle services from Miami and Fort Lauderdale airports to Key Largo hotels.
   • Drive Time: 2-3 hours, depending on stops.

4. By Boat (Scenic Route)

   • Private boats can dock at Key Largo’s many marinas, including Gilbert’s Resort Marina and Marina del Mar.
   • If you’re coming from Miami, you can cruise down Biscayne Bay and Card Sound.

5. By Air (Fastest, but Requires a Car Rental)

   • Fly into Miami International Airport (MIA) or Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), then rent a car or take a shuttle.
   • Key Largo does not have a commercial airport, but private charters can land at nearby small airstrips.

Insider’s Tip:

• • If you prefer a scenic drive, consider taking Card Sound Road (Toll Road) with it’s water views. While it can be busy, the 15-mile trek is worth the drive.

The 3 Most Popular Attractions in Key Largo

Key Largo is packed with natural beauty and adventure, but three attractions stand out as must-visits:

1. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

• • Why Visit? It’s the first underwater state park in the U.S., famous for its snorkeling, diving, and glass-bottom boat tours. The park features vibrant coral reefs, marine life, and the iconic Christ of the Abyss underwater statue.
  • Best Activities: Snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, and taking a boat tour.
  • Tip: Book a snorkeling or diving tour in advance, as they fill up quickly!

2. Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary & Molasses Reef

• • Why Visit? One of the top diving and snorkeling sites in the U.S., Molasses Reef offers crystal-clear waters, colorful coral formations, and abundant marine life, including sea turtles, sharks, and rays.
  • Best Activities: Scuba diving, snorkeling, and underwater photography.
  • Tip: If you’re not a diver, opt for a guided snorkeling tour to get the best views.

3. Dolphins Plus Bayside

• • Why Visit? A top spot to swim with dolphins and learn about marine conservation. This facility allows for interactive experiences with Atlantic bottlenose dolphins in a natural lagoon setting.
  • Best Activities: Dolphin encounters, trainer-for-a-day experiences, and educational programs.
  • Tip: Book your dolphin encounter early, as availability is limited.

Best Time to Visit Key Largo in the Florida Keys

The best time to visit Key Largo is from December to May, when the weather is warm but not overly humid, and rainfall is at its lowest. During these months, temperatures range from the mid-60s to the low 80s (°F), making it perfect for outdoor activities like snorkeling, diving, and boating.

Winter and early spring also bring clearer waters, ideal for exploring John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher hotel rates and busier attractions.

If you’re looking for fewer crowds and better deals, consider visiting in the shoulder months of late spring (May) or early fall (September to early November). While summer (June to August) is great for water activities, it can be extremely hot and humid, with a higher chance of afternoon thunderstorms. 

Hurricane season runs from June through November, with the most active months typically from August to October. If you visit during this time, be sure to check the weather forecast and consider travel insurance.