The Florida Keys are an archipelago of more than 200 islands, all linked by the Overseas Highway. A road trip down this stretch of road is an experience in itself.
If you’re planning a trip to the Keys, you’ll soon realize there are many different islands to choose from. Two of the most popular are Key Largo and Key West. Key Largo, the first key in the chain, is known as the “Dive Capital” and has a chill, laid-back vibe. Key West, the southernmost point in the continental US, is famous for its vibrant nightlife, rich history, and unforgettable sunset celebrations.
So, which key is right for you? This guide offers a detailed comparison of Key Largo versus Key West, looking at factors like activities, atmosphere, budget, and how easy they are to get to. We hope to help you choose the perfect Florida Keys getaway.
Of course, if you have the time, you could always visit both!
Key Largo: The “Diving Capital” and Relaxed Gateway
Key Largo, often called the “Diving Capital of the World,” offers a different experience than Key West. As the first key in the Florida Keys archipelago, it’s closer to Miami and boasts a more laid-back, local vibe.
Overview of Key Largo
Stretching about 33 miles long, Key Largo is easily accessible and less crowded than its southern counterpart. It’s a great choice for families with older kids and anyone who loves outdoor adventures.
If you’re looking for a less touristy experience, Key Largo might be a better fit than Key West. The atmosphere is generally more relaxed, and you’ll find a stronger sense of local community.
Key Largo Highlights
One of Key Largo’s biggest draws is the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. This underwater park is famous for its incredible snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities. You can even see the iconic Christ of the Abyss statue submerged beneath the waves.
The waters around Key Largo are calm and protected, making it an ideal place to learn about marine life and try out water sports. There are plenty of dive shops ready to help you explore the underwater world.
Beyond the reef, you can check out the SS Benwood wreck, a popular dive site, or explore the abandoned Port Bougainville housing project, a quirky piece of local history.
Key Largo Considerations
While Key West is very walkable and bike-friendly, you’ll likely need a car to get around Key Largo. However, it’s an easy drive from Miami International Airport, making it a convenient destination.
Key West: History, Nightlife, and Southernmost Charm
Key West is the southernmost city in the continental United States. Just 4.2 square miles, it sits 113 miles southwest of Key Largo and feels very different.
Key West is a bustling, city-like island with a vibrant nightlife and plenty of tourist attractions. It’s geared toward people who want a more active and social experience.
Key West Highlights
Here are a few of the things that make Key West a popular destination:
- Duval Street: This famous street is known for its nightlife and bar scene. If you’re looking for a party atmosphere, this is the place to be.
- Historical Sites: History buffs will enjoy visiting Hemingway’s Home and the Truman Little White House. Key West has long been associated with famous figures like Ernest Hemingway and President Harry Truman.
- Sunset Celebration: Every evening at Mallory Square, locals and tourists gather to watch the sunset. It’s a festive atmosphere with street performers and vendors, all celebrating the “sinking sun.”
Key West Considerations
Keep these things in mind as you plan your trip:
- Transportation: Key West is more pedestrian-friendly than Key Largo. You can easily walk around the downtown area. Key West also has its own airport with direct flights from many major cities.
- Tourist Focus: Key West caters to tourists, so you’ll find plenty of tourist-centric spots and activities. If you’re looking for a more authentic and less crowded experience, you might prefer Key Largo.
Snorkeling and Diving: Underwater Adventures
Both Key Largo and Key West offer snorkeling and diving, but they have slightly different strengths.
Key Largo’s Superior Snorkeling
If snorkeling is your priority, Key Largo has a slight edge. The big draw is John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, a protected area with calm, clear waters perfect for beginners. Popular spots like Grecian Rocks and Molasses Reef are teeming with colorful fish and coral.
Key West Snorkeling Opportunities
Key West offers day trips to Dry Tortugas National Park, which includes snorkeling. While snorkeling is available directly from Key West, most people agree that Key Largo has better snorkeling in general.
Diving Experiences
For diving, Key Largo also has a slight advantage. You’ll find more dive shops there, and the area offers more educational opportunities to learn about marine life.
Beaches: Sand, Sun, and Relaxation
If you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation, here’s how Key West and Key Largo stack up.
Key West Beaches
Key West is generally considered to have the better beaches. Smathers Beach boasts imported white sand from the Bahamas. Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park also has a beach, but it requires an entrance fee.
Key Largo Beaches
Key Largo has beaches, but they tend to be smaller and less of a focal point.
Comparing Beach Experiences
If a sprawling, sandy beach for sunbathing and recreation is your priority, Key West is probably a better choice.
Food and Drink: A Culinary Comparison
The food and drink scenes in Key West and Key Largo reflect the overall vibes of the islands: Key West is diverse and exciting, while Key Largo is laid-back and comfortable.
Key West’s Diverse Dining Scene
Key West has a wider range of dining options, including more high-end restaurants. You’ll find everything from fine dining to quirky cafes. Some popular spots include Blue Heaven, known for its Caribbean cuisine and lively atmosphere, and Hot Tin Roof, offering waterfront dining with a focus on fresh seafood.
Key Largo’s Dining Options
Key Largo tends to be more casual, with restaurants like Snook’s Bayside Restaurant offering fresh seafood in a relaxed setting. You’ll find plenty of local spots serving up classic American fare and fresh catches of the day.
Nightlife: Dive Bars vs. Nightlife Hotspots
Interestingly, Key Largo has more dive shops, while Key West has more dive bars. Key West’s nightlife is definitely more vibrant and diverse, with a huge selection of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Key Largo offers a more low-key experience, with a few bars and restaurants staying open late.
Activities and Attractions: What to See and Do
Both Key West and Key Largo offer unique experiences and attractions, but they cater to different sensibilities. Key West is known for its lively atmosphere, while Key Largo is a bit more laid-back.
Key West
Key West has a ton of tourist attractions. Some of the most popular include:
- The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum: See where the famous author lived and wrote, and meet the descendants of his six-toed cat, Snow White.
- The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory: Walk through a tropical paradise filled with hundreds of butterflies.
- The Harry S. Truman Little White House: Tour the winter White House of President Truman.
Key Largo
Key Largo is all about nature and the water. The biggest draw is:
- John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park: Snorkel or dive in the only underwater park in the United States and see vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
Unique Experiences
One of Key West’s most popular attractions is its “sunset celebration.” Every evening, crowds gather at Mallory Square to watch the sun sink into the ocean. Key Largo, on the other hand, offers a more relaxed and intimate experience, with opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and simply unwinding on the beach.
Which key is better for families, Key West or Key Largo?
Both keys offer activities for families, but they have different strengths.
Key West for Families
Key West may be a better choice if you have younger kids, or kids with a wider range of interests. The city has more attractions specifically designed for families. The Key West Butterfly Conservatory, for example, is a popular destination for visitors of all ages.
Key Largo for Families
Key Largo is geared towards families with older children who enjoy outdoor activities and water sports. You’ll find plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and fishing.
Things to Keep in Mind
If you want a wider range of activities that appeal to all ages, Key West might be the better option.
Cost and Budget: Planning Your Trip Affordably
So, which destination is easier on your wallet?
Accommodation Costs
The cost of a hotel or rental is pretty similar in Key Largo and Key West. You can find off-season hotel rates in Key Largo for around $200 or less per night.
Transportation Costs
The cost of getting to your destination could be slightly different, depending on how you plan to travel. Key Largo is closer to Miami, so if you’re flying into Miami International Airport, you might save some money on transportation.
Overall Budget Considerations
If budget is your top priority, Key Largo generally comes out on top. But Key West also offers a range of accommodation, dining, and entertainment options to suit various budgets. You can tailor your Key West experience to be more affordable with a little planning.
Fishing: An Angler’s Paradise?
If you love fishing, both Key Largo and Key West have a lot to offer. However, most anglers agree that Key Largo tends to have more fishing opportunities overall.
Key West also has some great fishing spots. You can try the Edward B. Knight Pier or Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. Plus, Key West is home to a larger number of fishing charters, like Dream Catcher Charters, Gulfstream Fishing, and Key West Fishing Charters.
So, while Key Largo provides plenty of spots to cast a line, Key West has a wider variety of charters if you want a guided experience.
Summary
So, Key Largo or Key West? Here’s a quick recap to help you decide:
- Key Largo: Think relaxed vibes, a focus on incredible underwater adventures, and a slightly lighter impact on your wallet.
- Key West: Picture a place buzzing with activity, steeped in history, and definitely more on the touristy side.
If you’re all about snorkeling, diving, and a generally quieter vacation, Key Largo is calling your name. But if you crave nightlife, historical charm, and a more bustling atmosphere, Key West is the place to be.
Ultimately, the best way to experience the Florida Keys is to take a road trip and visit both! That way, you can soak up the unique personalities of each key and create the ultimate Florida Keys adventure.