Dream escape: Key Largo
Crystal-clear waters, sun-kissed beaches and warm ocean breezes are what await you on this tropical oasis
The first in the picturesque 1,700-island archipelago of the Florida Keys is the beautiful Key Largo. Surrounded by turquoise waters so clear that you can see right to the bottom and colorful reefs full of marine life, it’s been aptly nicknamed “the diving capital of the world.”
And with lush landscapes, delicious dining, summer festivals and smalltown hospitality, this close-to-home destination makes for the perfect Independence Day escape!
Start your trip by basking in the sun at Harry Harris Park, a spot composed of two calm bays that offer a variety of amenities for visitors. “There are plenty of picnic tables here, with lovely, old-growth trees providing lots of shade,” says Brooklynite_ Abroad on TripAdvisor.com. “There are also shower and bathroom facilities. Grills are available, as are swings and a big playground for kids.”
To discover the wonders that await below the water, book a snorkel tour ($52 per person) with Florida Keys Dive Center to explore two different reefs. Says Alainna_Goes on TripAdvisor.com, “We spotted dolphins, nurse sharks and two turtles!”
After you towel off, see more of the island’s wildlife with a visit to the Florida Key Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center. “You can get within feet of species of birds that you don’t normally get a glimpse of—great horned owls, birds of prey, even a masked booby!” says a reviewer from Iowa. “Plus, there’s great signage about each bird’s habitat and how it found its way to the sanctuary.”
End your day by hopping aboard M. V. Key Largo Princess for a 2-hour sunset cruise ($35 per adult, $20 per child). Raves a reviewer from Vermont, “The sky colors were breathtaking!”
Don’t miss: Key Lime Festival
Take the scenic 100-mile drive to
Key West for the annual Key Lime Festival, held July 4–7. Visitors can participate in a number of themed activities celebrating the birthplace of the Key lime pie. Participate in a pieeating contest, sample Key lime rum, learn the secrets of Key lime cooking and, of course, try the best Key lime pies the island has to offer!
Great day trip: Marathon
Head an hour south to spend the day in the island community of Marathon. There, you can relax on Sombrero Beach, tour the Turtle Hospital, learn about dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center and discover history at the Crane Point Museum.