Where to stay

Villas, campgrounds, and low-key resorts are among the most convenient places to stay near John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, where the pristine and gently sloping Far Beach is one of Key Largo's finest. The park's other beach, Cannon Beach, is also suitable for those with kids looking to paddle in the shallows. Book a hotel near Harry Harris Park, farther south toward Plantation Key, for a busier stretch of sand with more facilities, including a picnic area and tidal pool for little ones. Those looking for watersports should reserve a hotel with a private beach and organized activities such as kayaking and parasailing.

Diving and snorkeling are two of the biggest reasons to take a vacation in Key Largo. Stay near the beaches in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, which are ideal for both novice swimmers and experienced divers. Cannon Beach has an interesting Spanish shipwreck hidden offshore. All accommodations in Key Largo will be able to recommend local dive shops, which run trips to sites such as Molasses Reef and the wreck of the USCGC Duane, purposefully sunk for use as a dive site. Anyone looking for swimming lessons should consider reserving a room near Jacob's Aquatic Center. This pool complex has a lap pool and kids' water park as well as a summer camp.

In addition to its diverse underwater plants and animals, Key Largo has much to discover on shore. Those curious about Florida's famous wildlife should book a hotel in the north near Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park. Over 80 species of plants and animals-including the endangered American crocodile-are protected here, with self-guided tours mapped out for bird-watchers. There are also some great places to stay near the Florida Keys Wild Bird Center, where non-releasable birds such as ibis and spoonbill are attentively cared for. Arrange accommodations near Dolphins Plus Bayside to swim with dolphins. The 3-day Dolphin Exploration Lab program lets students learn more about their care.