With so many beautiful beaches in Florida, it’s hard to decide where to go. While Key West and Miami Beach are top tourist destinations, many travelers prefer to branch out to the road—or islands—somewhat less traveled. So the choice in the Florida Keys may come down to Key Largo or Islamorada.

Just because these destinations (Islamorada vs Key Largo) are not quite as popular does not mean they are any less fun. They offer some of the best scenery, attractions, and outdoor activities in the Sunshine State. Any vacationer looking for fun in the sun, whether for an entire vacation or simply a fun day trip, should consider these Key Largo or Islamorada in the Florida Keys a must-see spot for plenty of things to see and do. While it may seem hard to choose, below is some information that will give anyone with wanderlust something to think about.

UPDATE: 2023/05/09 16:59 EST BY AARON SPRAY

Islamorada vs Key Largo: More Reasons Why The Islands May Be The Perfect Destination

Those planning to visit the Florida Keys may be tossing with the options of Islamorada vs Key Largo. Both are great options and it comes down to personal choice. This article was updated and expanded with more information on why visitors should choose Key Largo or Islamorada - or just visit both of them.

Key Largo

Key Largo is the largest and northernmost of the Florida Keys and is the self-proclaimed "Diving Capital of the World." Close to the Florida Everglades, it is a popular tourist spot for those looking to experience a dazzling array of landscapes—everything from tropical hardwoods to the only living coral barrier reef in the continental United States.

  • How to get there: Key Largo is the perfect first stop when visiting the Florida Keys. The island is around an hour and 15-minute drive away from the Miami International Airport.

RELATED: Diving With Sharks: Here Are The Best Places For The Ultimate Underwater Thrill

Key Largo, Florida Keys
Shutterstock
A beautiful beach in Key Largo, Florida Keys

Things To Do In Key Largo

There's no shortage of things to do in Key Largo (one reason to choose Key Largo over Islamorada). Known for its eco-tourism, it boasts several state parks and underwater activities for those who want to explore both land and sea—but its water-based activities are definitely where it's at.

Wild Water Adventures

Key Largo's location is ideal for those who enjoy water sports. Here are just some of the fun things to see while you're kicking it in this beautiful key.

The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary is a top spot for those who want to explore the beautiful underwater scenery by diving, snorkeling, and many other recreational activities. A world of underwater treasures awaits anyone who wants a glimpse of diverse marine wildlife, jaw-dropping corals, and even historic shipwrecks. Swim with the dolphins or learn more about the area's native plants and animals at the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center, or learn about boating opportunities if you'd rather stay above water.

  • Tip: The sanctuary does not host snorkel or dive trips; however, visitors can book trips with Blue Star Operators, a program committed to safe and sustainable underwater activities whose goal is to protect and maintain the area's diverse ecosystem. Check out the list of participating fish guide operators and dive operators here.
palm trees on a beach in key largo

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is a unique experience for anyone visiting Key Largo. A diverse area that includes mangrove swamps and tropical regions, it is the coral reefs that are the main attraction. Scuba diving, snorkeling, canoeing, and kayaking are some of the park's most popular activities. Visitors can also take a glass-bottom boat tour to experience the wonders of the reefs. There are also plenty of activities on land for those wishing to take a short hike or have a picnic.

  • Tip: The Spirit of Pennekamp is available for glass-bottom boat tours that last approximately 2 1/2 hours. Adult: $32.00 Age 4-11: $19.00 Age 3 and Under: Free

Be sure to make a reservation ahead of time to plan your trip.

Key Largo: Island Profile

Key Largo is the largest of the Keys and stretches for 33 miles. It is connected to the Florida mainland by two roads - the Overseas Highway (US Highway 1) and Card Sound Road.

  • Population: 13,850
  • Highest Point: 15 feet (4.6 m)
  • Length: 33 Miles

Like other Florida Keys, Key Largo is a popular tropical tourist destination. People come from far and wide for diving in its stunning coral reef (the second-largest reef in the world is in the Caribbean and is called the Mesoamerican Reef just off the coast of Belize). Because Key Largo is close to the Everglades, it is popular for kayakers and ecotourists (pop over to Key Largo if visiting the Everglades National Park).

Sunset at Key Largo, Florida
Shutterstock
Sunset at Key Largo, Florida

Key Largo Wrap-Up

Its myriad of water-based (both above and below) activities make Key Largo an ideal destination for those who want to enjoy the unique and diverse marine wildlife, colorful coral reefs, and hidden treasures of this spectacular key.

  • Key Largo is family-friendly, with many activities geared toward entertaining those of all ages.
  • There is plenty to do on land, too! Check out the History of Diving Museum, The Crane Point Museum and Nature Center, and The Hemingway Home and Museum.
  • There are plenty of places to stay in Key Largo—everything from large resorts and motels to more modest B&Bs and family-owned vacation rentals.
  • The restaurant scene in Key Largo is varied and vibrant, with plenty of options for waterfront dining.

Islamorada

Islamorada is a village of six islands located between Miami and Key West. Though a tourist destination, Islamorada is smaller than Key Largo, which may appeal to vacationers who want plenty to do without too much hustle and bustle. Known as the "Sport Fishing Capital of the World," Islamorada is an ideal spot for those who want to experience lovely scenery, great recreational activities, and a quaint, charming, small-town atmosphere.

RELATED: Fishing On The Fly: Trips That Should Be On Everyone's Bucket List

Parks, Beaches, And Preserves

Enjoy the beauty of Islamorada at one of its many parks and beaches.

The Big Betsy spiny lobster sculpture in Islamorada, Florida, USA
Shutterstock
The Big Betsy spiny lobster sculpture in Islamorada, Florida, USA

Anne’s Beach

A great place for the entire family—including dogs (provided they are leashed). With 300 feet of boardwalk and six pavilions, this beach is quaint but offers the opportunity for swimming (perfect for kids, as there is little to no wave action), picnicking, and relaxing.

  • Hours: Sunrise To Sunset

Plantation Hammock Preserve

A relaxing park with a great view and nature trails to explore. No dogs are permitted.

  • Hours: Sunrise To Sunset

Plantation Tropical Preserve

This park is also great for families as it has a Children’s Memorial Garden, a nature trail, and a kayak launch. Pack a lunch to enjoy at one of the picnic tables. Dogs permitted but must be leashed.

  • Hours: Sunrise To Sunset
Islamorada Dock Pier, Florida Keys
Shutterstock
Sunrise panorama from Islamorada Dock Pier, Florida Keys

Founders Park

Known as "The Gem of Islamorada," this large park is excellent for those who want it all: aquatic sports, outdoor activities, and fun, family-friendly events. Dogs are not permitted on beaches or in picnic areas.

  • Park Hours: Sunrise To Sunset
  • Pool Hours: M-F 8 AM-6 PM, Sat./Sun. 10 AM-5 PM

Go Fish!

Any trip to Islamorada would be incomplete without taking advantage of the area's many recreational fishing guides. After all, backcountry sport fishing and saltwater fly fishing were introduced here! The fishing options are incredibly diverse and can be enjoyed by the entire family.

People who don't like fishing can try snorkeling. The island features the best spots for this activity, and people can practice snorkeling easily anywhere in the waters around Islamorada.

Robbie's Of Islamorada

Anyone visiting Islamorada must head to Robbie's, an iconic destination on the island, featuring a full restaurant and bar, a local souvenir market, and a working marina offering fishing charters and boat rentals.

Robbie's is also known for its world-famous tarpon feedings, where people can feed the hungry creatures fish bait.

Islamorada Island Profile

Like Key Largo, Islamorada (or Islas Morada - "Purple Island" in Spanish) is part of Monroe County, Florida. It is a village that is made up of five islands with a population of around 7,000. So in some ways it is a bit of an odd comparison with Key Largo as Key Largo is one island while Islamorada is made up of five islands.

Five Islands Of Islamorada:

  • Tea Table Key
  • Lower Matecumbe Key
  • Upper Matecumbe Key
  • Windley Key
  • Plantation Key

Like the other islands in the Florida Keys, it is connected to the mainland by the US Route 1 or Overseas Highway. It is also about midway between Miami (74 miles) and Key West (80 miles). See all the Florida Keys on a stunning Caribbean road trip.

  • Population: 7,000
  • Area: 6.4 sq miles

The islands have everything anyone needs to relax and unwind.

Scuba Diving in Islamorada
Image by Jason Taylor from Pixabay 
A scuba diver diving in Islamorada in the Florida Keys, USA

Islamorada Wrap-Up

Islamorada is a fun, family tourist destination—however, it is smaller and more laidback than many of the surrounding areas. Visitors looking for a more low-key trip can enjoy plenty of activities here without sacrificing relaxation and will be sure to enjoy the small-town atmosphere.

  • Take a bite out of the area’s local cuisine with a ton of fresh, tasty options. Beer lovers can also rejoice as Islamorada hosts the Upper Keys' first microbrewery: the Florida Keys Brewing Company.
  • Check out the Theater of the Sea for an opportunity to get up close and personal with dolphins, sea lions, alligators, and sea turtles. Admission from $65.00 and up.
  • Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park is a lush tropical hideaway with beautiful views, boat tours, and kayak/boat rentals. Hours: 8 AM-5 PM M-Thurs. Fees: $2.50/person, $2/person tour fee.
  • Plenty of places to stay including campgrounds, luxe resorts, and smaller motels, vacation homes, and rental properties.
Cheeca Lodge & Spa
Photo by Carsten Vollrath On Pexels
Cheeca Lodge & Spa, Islamorada, Florida Keys

There's plenty to do for the entire family in Key Largo and Islamorada. Both locations have outdoor and marine activities that can't be beaten, gorgeous scenery, and memorable experiences on both land and sea. For those wishing for a more laid-back, small-town vibe, Islamorada is the way to go; and for those wanting a more bustling, high-energy spot, Key Largo is where it's at. Either way, travelers will find a fantastic vacation destination that showcases the best of the beautiful Florida Keys.

NEXT: How You Can Make Vacation Planning Fun For The Entire Family