5 Best Beaches in Key Largo
Last Updated on November 17, 2025 by Boatsetter Team
Key Largo is more than just the first stop in the Florida Keys — it’s a tropical escape with calm waters, coral reefs, and endless ways to explore the coast. Known as the “Diving Capital of the World,” it’s also one of the best places in South Florida to spend the day by the sea. Whether you’re looking to swim, snorkel, or drop anchor near the sand, here are five Key Largo beaches you’ll want to add to your list.
Before you pack the sunscreen, consider seeing the shoreline from a different view. With Key Largo boat rentals, you can explore hidden coves, reefs, and islands that you simply can’t reach from land.
There are many beautiful beaches in Key Largo, and deciding which ones to visit can be challenging. To help narrow down your choices, we’ve compiled a list of the best beaches in Key Largo. Here are our 5 favorite beaches in Key Largo:
- John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
- Cannon Beach
- Far Beach
- Harry Harris
- Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park
Read the entire blog post for any potential Pro Boatsetter Tip and our list of top Key Largo resorts (with private beaches!)
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1. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park comprises more than 70 acres; much of it is underwater.
Florida’s first undersea park is famous for its protected coral reefs and crystal-clear waters. The park’s beaches are ideal for snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding, and the marina makes it easy to launch for a day on the water.
Boatsetter Tip: Book a snorkel trip in Key Largo to explore the famous Christ of the Abyss statue — one of Florida’s most iconic underwater sights.
The marina has a boat ramp available for use for a small fee. Moorings and boat slips are also available for rent.
- Park Hours: 8 a.m until sunset, daily.
- Park Website: pennekamppark.com
2. Cannon Beach
Cannon Beach is located inside John Pennekamp park. It’s one of the most popular beaches in Key Largo, and for a good reason.
Named for the 17th-century cannons resting just offshore, Cannon Beach is a local favorite for snorkeling and history lovers alike. The beach has picnic areas, clear water, and easy access from the parking lot.
For an unforgettable day, pair your beach stop with a fishing charter in Key Largo to experience both sides of the Keys — underwater exploration and on-the-water adventure.
Cannon Beach, which gets its name from the 17th-century cannons sitting on its shores, is located at mile marker 102.5, so it’s just a short drive from most major hotels and resorts in Key Largo. The beach is public. However, there is a $9 fee to access it.
This spot is well known for its active marine life. It’s a favorite for snorkelers and divers. You can often find turtles, nurse sharks, and stingrays here!
- Address: Mile Marker 102.5 Overseas Highway
Key Largo FL 33037 - Beach Hours: 8 a.m. until sunset, 365 days a year
- Fees: $8 per vehicle, plus 50 cents per person
3. Far Beach
Located inside John Pennekamp State Park, Far Beach is known for its tall palms, shallow water, and peaceful feel. It’s one of the best spots in Key Largo for swimming or floating close to shore. Entrance is $9 a day unless you are also camping at the state park and paying the $43-a-night fee. There is a nature trail where you can find animals living on the island.
Boatsetter Insight: The calm waters near Far Beach make it a great launch point for beginners booking small boat rentals.
4. Harry Harris
Harry Harris, located in Tavernier’s small beach town, has 11 pavilions with grills and picnic tables. Pets are allowed in the park but not on the beach. This family-friendly beach features a protected swimming area, picnic pavilions, and calm shallows perfect for young children. Locals love it for its easy access and low-key atmosphere.
If you’re looking for a full-day adventure, rent a pontoon boat in Key Largo and cruise the coastline before stopping here to relax and refuel.
The park also has a tide pool where children love to observe marine life. There is a boat ramp at this park available to Boatsetter.
- Beach Website: https://www.monroecounty-fl.gov/facilities/Facility/Details/250
- Weekend Fees: Adults (18-64): $8
Youth (3-17): $5
Seniors (65 & up): $5.00
Child (under 3): Free
Boat Ramp: $40 - Beach Hours: 7:30 a.m. to sunset
5. Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park
Lignumvitae Key is a small island off the coast of Key Largo. The island is home to a beautiful botanical garden made up of exotic plants from around the world. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy nature.
A discrete beach is also perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. You can often find turtles, nurse sharks, and stingrays in the water.
History buffs come here to explore the historic house built in 1919 by William Matheson on Lignumvitae Key.
- Park Website: floridastateparks.org/LignumvitaeKey
- Park Hours: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Thursday through Monday
- Fees: $2.50 per person visitor fee.
4 Resorts With Private Beaches
Florida is home to some of the best resorts in our nation, resorts that bring paradise to you. Many resorts in Florida have private beaches for their guests only. Visit any one of our top Key Largo resorts with private beaches:
- Playa Largo Resort has more than 170 rooms, including bungalows and suites. You’ll have three fine restaurants to experience while here and cocktails and appetizers at the Sand Bar. This resort was ranked #1 by Conde Nast.
- Bungalows Key Largo is a 12-acre resort made up of 135 bungalows, all providing guests with a unique view of Key Largo. Besides the beach, you may enjoy yoga, the spa, or Bungalows’ special events.
- Coconut Palm Inn, located in Tavernier, is unique because it has its own marina. Make sure to languish at Coconut Palm’s beach. Tavernier is uniquely situated at the southern tip of Key Largo, often referred to as “The Diving Capital of the World” and the northern tip of Islamorada, often called “The Sport Fishing Capital of the World.”
- Sunset Cove is a charming seaside resort with tiki huts on the shore. Sunset Cove’s private beach is great for you and your partner or the kids to spend some quiet quality time together. Also, the family dog is welcome at this beach!
Discover more destinations like Key Largo, Alcatraz, and the Lanier Islands at Boating Resources.
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