5 Best Beaches in Key Largo
Last Updated on May 3, 2024 by Boatsetter Team
Key Largo is the first and northernmost of the Florida Keys and is often called the “Diving Capital of the World.”
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.
The park has a 10,000-gallon saltwater aquarium in the visitor center. There is also a visitor center and movie theater that plays nature documentaries.
This recreational park is ideal for snorkelers and divers. There is plenty of fish and other marine life to see. Here’s a Pro Destination Tip: Make sure to bring your underwater camera or GoPro to capture shots of the stunning coral reef.
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.
The beach is beautiful with its white sand and turquoise waters. It’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars in the area, so you can stay refreshed and refueled throughout the day.
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
Far Beach is a tiny beach that can be found inside John Pennekamp. 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.
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 beach has designated swimming areas for those looking to practice their breaststroke.
The park also has a tide pool where children love to observe marine life. There is a boat ramp at this park available to Boatsetters.
- 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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