DESTINATION

What the Keys are Made From
Soaking Up Sun and Fun in Key Largo
Key Largo History
Enjoy the Nature
Surrounding Key Largo and The Florida Key
Experience Key Largo and The Fabulous Florida Keys
History of PenneKamp State Park






Soaking Up Sun and Fun in Key Largo
Key Largo History
Enjoy the Nature
Surrounding Key Largo and The Florida Key
Experience Key Largo and The Fabulous Florida Keys
History of PenneKamp State Park
As you approach the first of the Florida Keys, prepare for an incredible sight – Key Largo, the Atlantic Ocean and Florida Bay from the top of the Jewfish Creek Bridge, soaring 65 feet above the water. Welcome to the island of Key Largo, your first key in paradise where you can kick off your shoes and leave the cares of the world behind.
The draw has always been the sea – its beauty and its bounty sounding the siren song. Clear waters beckon you to explore the only living coral reefs in the continental U.S. at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.
In 2020 Pennekamp, the first underwater park in the United States, is celebrating their 60th anniversary. Be sure to check out their 30,000-gallon saltwater aquarium.
Scuba diving and snorkeling the fragile reef reveals a Technicolor explosion of tropical fish and calming coral “gardens”. Visitors flock to the Christ of the Deep statue, which resides north of the 510-foot U.S.S. Spiegel Grove artificial reef.
For fishermen, nothing beats the rewards of a day spent hooking snapper, grouper, and amberjack or landing tarpon or one of the area’s gray ghosts – the elusive bonefish, found on the shallow-water flats.
Watersports abound for the adrenaline enthusiast and nature lover alike – rent a Jet Ski or a kayak and chart your own course. Or leave the “driving” to any of our qualified eco-tour operators, who can show you manatees, brilliant roseate spoonbills as they roost and soar overhead, pods of playful wild dolphins and more.
For Land-based enchantment, nature trails at Pennekamp Park and Everglades National Park offer a glimpse into South Florida’s unique hammock and marshland ecosystems.
When night comes, island living means dining on fresh-caught seafood at a waterfront restaurant and then relaxing to the sounds of waves lapping softly at the shore or enjoying live entertainment at area venues. But don’t worry about a dress code – Key Largo is laid back and casual, even at its most formal. However, if the urge to dress up overcomes you, go for it! Virtually anything goes here!
From first-class resorts to luxurious oceanfront estates, to charming beach bungalows and small boutique hotels, you’ll find your own slice of paradise to call home.
If island time fits the rhythm of your life, Key Largo is sure to please, whether you choose to fill your days with activities or relax in the glow of our spectacular sunsets.
Open 365 days a year! Park hours are
Where can a family spend a full day interacting with dolphins, sea lions, sharks and rays, enjoy a few hours relaxing on the beach, and go on a bottomless boat ride?
Theater of the Sea has been welcoming visitors to the Florida Keys since 1946. Besides being a fun place to take the family, it serves as a sanctuary to many aquatic residents such as four different varieties of endangered sea turtles. In addition, it is the home to several parrots who were turned over by private owners, and “Toby” a dolphin that was attacked by a shark.
Although not a rescue animal, visitors will “ooh” and “aah” over an adorable new baby sea lion.
Upon approaching the park, visitors will notice the beautiful fountains, giant conch shell, and award winning landscaping.
After purchasing their tickets, visitors leave the chaos and havoc of their daily lives and step into a world filled with beautiful
green foliage, clearly paved paths, and an amazing menagerie of animals. It is certainly not part of the concrete jungle with wide open spaces. Like a good glass of wine, Theater of the Sea is not something to be rushed, but to be savored slowly over a period of time in small, enchanting sips. With intimate vignettes visitors meander along its lush paths and watch sea turtles being fed by hand, or stop to experience a thrilling dolphin show similar to those first seen in the 1940’s. As they stroll about, guests will see two distinct eco systems and also have opportunities to watch a sea lion show, parrot show, and observe crocodilians. Visitors will be delighted to know that this is not a zoo and can expect to get up close and personal with many of the animals.
Children and adults of all ages will have ample opportu nities to interact with the animals while visiting Theater
of the Sea. Dolphin lovers, for example, will delight in the antics of these loving, social creatures while snorkeling beside them. Included in this experience are dorsal tows, hugs, and kisses. Those a little less daring can do a dolphin wade, which entails interacting with the dolphins while standing in three to four feet of water. Want to join the fun but don’t want to get wet? Even land lovers can interact with the dolphins and get a few kisses too! Many encounters are also available with sea lions.
After a stroll around the park, visitors can enjoy a quick bite to eat at Nicky’s Grill, and relax on the beach at the lagoon.
As a timeless tradition of the Florida Keys, Theater of the Sea is something you will not want to miss. For more information or to make reservations, go to theaterofthesea.com, or call 305-664-2431. Article credit
The Florida Keys are a chain of limestone islands that extend from the southern tip of the Florida mainland southwest to the Dry Tortugas, a distance of approximately 220 miles. They are island remnants of ancient coral reefs (Upper Keys) and sand bars (Lower Keys) that flourished during a period of higher sea levels approximately 125,000 years ago (a period of geologic time known as the Pleistocene Epoch).
During the last ice age (100,000 years ago) sea level dropped, exposing the ancient coral reefs and sand bars which became fossilized over time to
form the rock that makes up the island chain today. The two dominate rock formations in the Keys are Key Largo Limestone and Miami Oolite.
During this time of lower sea levels, the Florida land mass was much larger than it is today and the area now referred to as Florida Bay was forested. As glaciers and polar ice caps started melting 15,000 years ago, flooding of land combined with tidal influence changed the geography of the Keys and their surrounding areas.
Credit: Florida Keys Marine Sanctuary NOAAEducation
Coral Shores High School
89901 Old Highway, Tavernier 305-853-3222
Florida Keys Community College
89901 Old Highway, Tavernier 305-852-8007
Island Christian School
83400 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, 305-664-4933
Key Largo School
104801 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, 305-453-1255
Montessori Island School
92295 Old State Road, Tavernier 305-852-3483
Plantation Key School
100 Lake Road, Tavernier 305-853-3281
Treasure Village Montessori
8673 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada 305-852-3482
Emergency Services
Ambulance, Fire, Police 911
Mariners Hospital 305-434-3000
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission 305-956-2500
Key Largo Recompression Chamber Emergencies 911
Information 1-800-NO-BENDS
Sheriff’s Office (non-emergency) 305-853-3211
Safeway Restoration. 305-741-4335, 13275 S.W. 136th St. #16 Miami. www.safewayrestoration.com
Licenses
Driver’s Licenses 305-853-3562
Fishing Licenses 305-852-7150
Marriage Licenses 305-852-7145
Monroe County
Building, Planning & Zoning 305-453-8800
Clerk’s Office 305-853-7456
Code Enforcement 305-453-8806
Key Largo Library 305-451-2396
Tax Collector 305-852-7150
Voter Registration 305-453-8740
Utilities
Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority 305-853-1996
Florida Keys Electric Cooperative 305-852-2431
Key Largo Wastewater Treatment District 305-451-4019
Key’s Sanitary Service (solid waste) 305-451-2025
South Florida Water Management District (561) 686-8800
Mosquito Control: 305-453-1290
U.S. Post Offices
Key Largo 305-451-3155
Tavernier 305-853-1052
Hurricane Information
National Hurricane Center
NOAA: 305-852-7717
Nhc.noaa.gov
Monroe County Rumor Control 800-955-5504
Monroe County Emergency Management 305-289-6018
Federal Emergency Management Administration 800-621-3362
Law Enforcement
Florida Highway Patrol: 800-358-3298
U.S. Coast Guard: 305-664-4404
U.S. Customs: 305-664-2955
Courts
Clerk of the circuit (State) Court 305-853-7456
Clerk – County Courts 305-853-7456
County Court Judges 305-852-7155
Monroe County Jail 305-853-3266
Probation and Parole Office 305-853-3262
Public Defender’s Office 305-852-3232
State Attorney’s Office 305-852-7170
Parks
Harry Harris County park, MM, 92.5 305-852-7161
Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge, CR 905 • 305-451-4223
Jacobs Aquatic Center, MM 99, 305-453-7946
Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock, CR 905 • 305-451-1202
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, 305-451-1202
Everglades National Park 305-242-7700
Key Largo Community Park (YMCA) 305-453-3422
Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary 305-852-7717
Key Largo is known for its laid-back lifestyle with a cozy impression of a summer vacation between the Atlantic Ocean and Florida Bay, all through the year. Get ready to plunge yourself into our slice of Paradise.
Key Largo is recognized as the Diving Capital of the World and offers dive and snorkel services to the continental United States’ only living coral barrier reef, the Spiegel Grove shipwreck, and much more. We have many experienced dive companies to take you on memorable dive trips to the reef. They can also teach you to dive and help get you certified.
There are also many other ways to appreciate and partake in water sports here in Key Largo and the fabulous Florida Keys...
Snorkeling is a magnificent way to unite with the aquatic underworld. As you float gently on the surface, you may see snappers, parrotfish, starfish, tarpon, and schools of silversides swim among colorful corals and sponges.
You don’t have to be a world-class swimmer to enjoy snorkeling in the Keys. The water surrounding the Florida Keys is shallow and normally calm,
even on the reef, even rookie snorkelers can quickly and safely get the hang of the sport. Our dive and water sports companies know the best places to go for the most dramatic viewing of marine life in the sparkling clear ocean waters surrounding the reef system.
If you would like to venture out on your own, rental shops can point out the best spots for snorkeling from shore, and the best views of the most stupendous undersea life at the reef.
Paddleboarding is another way to add water to your vacation. Being on a paddleboard is like walking on water. The shallow, calm waters off Key Largo make this an ideal place to take up this easy to learn sport. Our local waters are so clear, you can see right down to the bottom and watch fish swimming by.
Just like paddleboarding, Kayaking is another easy, peaceful way to get out on the water. For a simpler, gentler paddle, explore the narrow, winding mangrove trails of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park or those off Garden Cove Park. Watch herons, egrets, and ibis take flight as you round the
“S” curves in another twist in the mangrove trails.
Being on the open bay waters and having the opportunity to see manatees and playful dolphins splashing around is a wonderful experience. You can even dock at one of our waterfront restaurants for a bite to eat.
Next up is swimming. Swimming in warm waters around Key Largo is a year-round delight. Most of the waterfront hotels have small swimming beaches. Also, John Pennekamp and Harry Harris parks have beaches as well.
The best thing to do —And a locals’ favorite form of swimming— is jump into the ocean (or bay) from the deck of an anchored boat. But before you do, make sure you have a swim ladder over the side of the boat for easy access back aboard. And always be mindful of currents that could take you away from the boat.
If a pool is your idea of a good place to swim, Jacobs Aquatic Center in Key Largo has a lap pool, low and high dive boards, and a kiddie pool with a pirate ship and waterfalls. Many hotels also have their own swimming pools, fresh and saltwater.
If you are more of a thrillseeker, try soaring about the bay attached to a parasail. Once you are strapped into a harness, the motorboat pulls forward, your chute begins to fill, and then you climb into the air, way above the surface of the bay. While soaring overhead, you will be treated to a view of Key Largo, something you will never forget.
If you’re looking for other adventures, hire one of our fishing guides, or just drop in a line from the shore. Rent a personal watercraft, a paddleboat, or a sailing catamaran – they are all readily available around town.
For details on equipment purchasing or rentals, sunrise or sunset guided tours, scuba or snorkeling lessons, check the “On the Water” section in this issue. Also, we have direct links to all our chamber members at www.keylargochamber.org.
Key Largo offers so many ways to get out on the water and enjoy an extended summer. Come to Key Largo, and just add water!
Carefree vacationer or Conch-to-be, here’s what you need to know to get around Key Largo. Have you decided to plan your special event in our lush tropical setting? Great! Now all you have to do is leave it to area professionals. We have event and wedding planners to help you book a venue, travel agents and transportation services to get you and your guests there on time, arts and entertainment to make your event lively and memorable, and photographers to capture the magic.
Of course, there are services for just about everything in between for those just looking to escape. Key Largo is great for fun in the sun, and just as handy for the basics, too.
A Harris Services LLC
Tavernier, FL 33070
305 209-2395
Anita M. Garmon, Inc.
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-942-6903
Keys Accounting & Tax Service
99411 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-3464
www.keysaccounting.com
Pribramsky and Company
Certified Public Accountants
81990 Overseas Highway Islamorada, FL 33036
305-735-4325
www.pribramskycpa.com
Tolley & Hill, PLLC
102411 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-852-9898
www.facebook.com/TolleyandHill
Verdeja De Armas & Trujillo & Alvarez, LLP.
255 Alhambra Cir. #560
Coral Gables, FL 33134
305 446-3177
www.vdtacpa.com
Southernmost Leadership Network
Islamorada, FL 33036
305-393-0236
Effectv
5555 Biscayne Blvd
Miami, FL 33137
954-995-4067
www.effectv.com
Florida Keys Free Press
3420 Northside Drive
Key West, FL 33040
305-451-7060
www.keysnews.com
Keys Life Magazine
90773 Old Hwy Unit 3 Tavernier, FL 33070
305-453-6674
www.keyslifemagazine.com
The Florida Villager Miami, FL 33256
786-505-1817
www.thefloridavillager.com
Ocean Reef Press
1 Dockside Lane
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-367-5806
www.oceanreef.com
Time Out Magazine
Marathon, FL 33050
305-289-3936
www.TimeOutMagazine.com
Upper Keys Weekly Newspaper
9709 Overseas Highway
Marathon, FL 33050
305-743-0844
www.keysweekly.com
Alternative Medicine
Harmony Healing Center
97840 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037 305-852-3232
www.harmonyhealingctr.com
Apartment Leasing
Playa Largo Ocean Residences
4651 Sheridan Street, Suite 480
Hollywood, FL 33021
305-600-3380
www.oceanresidencesvacations.com
Art By Lee
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-331-0525
Florida Keys Community Concert Band
Long Key, FL 33001
305-451-4530
www.keyscommunityconcertband.org
Florida Keys Concert Association Inc.
Marathon Shores, FL 33052
800-324-6982
www.floridakeysconcerts.com
Florida Keys Council of the Arts
1100 Simonton St, #2-263
Key West, FL 33040
305-295-4369
www.keysarts.com
Key Players, Inc.
Tavernier, FL 33070
305-942-4339
www.thekeyplayers.org
Seminole Theatre
18 North Krome Avenue
Homestead, FL 33030
786-650-2073
www.seminoletheatre.org/
Key Largo Art Gallery
103200 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-0052
www.keylargoartgallery.com
All American Towing and Tire Inc.
100850 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-0714
www.towingfloridakeys.com
Keys Westys Campervan Rentals
88785 Old Highway Tavernier, FL 33070
786-326-6763
www.keyswestys.com
KWJA Inc. – Key West Adventures
3424 N. Roosevelt Blvd.
Key West, FL 33040
305-293-3555
www.keywestadventures.com
Largo Honda
554 NE 1st Avenue
Florida City, FL 33034 786-545-1200
www.largohonda.com
Petersons Harley-Davidson South
19825 South Dixie Highway
Cutler Bay, FL 33157 786-373-1393
www.petersonsharley.com
Sunshine Gasoline Distributors
724 South Flagler Ave
Homestead, FL 33030 305-247-7249
www.sunshinegasoline.com
Wheaton’s Service Center
101500 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-3500
www.keylargoautorepair.com
Centennial Bank
100280 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-676-3122
www.my100bank.com
First Horizon Bank
91980 Overseas Hwy
Tavernier, FL 33070
305-852-9500
www.firsthorizon.com
First State Bank of the Florida Keys
97670 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-852-2070
www.keysbank.com
Keys Federal Credit Union
91200 Overseas Highway, Suite 15 Tavernier, FL 33070
305-809-1208
www.keysfcu.org
SouthState Bank
91390 Overseas Hwy
Tavernier, FL 33070
305-852-0516
www.southstatebank.com
Action Marine & Dive, Inc.
102125 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-1840
www.boats.iboats.com/action-marinedive-inc-boats
Riva Motorsports & Marine
102550 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-451-3320
www.rivamm.com
Yacht Works
98150 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-912-3162
www.yachtworks.com
The Stradgy Group LLC, Key Largo, FL 33037
www.stradgy.com
Keys Smartphone Repair
91831 Overseas Hwy, Suite E, Tavernier, FL 33037 305-896-1675
www.KeysSmartphoneRepair.com
American Legion Post 145 Islamorada, FL 33036 786-942-0689
American Legion Post 333
2 Seagate St Key Largo, FL 33036 305-451-0307
Art Guild Of The Purple Isles
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-853-5938
www.agpi.us
Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR)
Tavernier, FL 33070 305-619-0237
www.fssdar.com/FloridaKeys
Florida Keys Elks Lodge No 1872 Tavernier, FL 33070 305-852-1872
floridakeyselks.com
Friends of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park & Dagny Johnson
Key Largo Hammock Botanical Park Inc.
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-215-2504
www.pennekampparkfriends.org
Garden Club of the Upper Keys, Inc.
Tavernier, FL 33070
www.gardenclubupperkeys.org
Habitat for Humanity of UK
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-453-0050
www.habitatupperkeys.org
Key Largo Chamber of Commerce
106000 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037 (305) 451-4747
www.keylargochamber.org
Key Largo Civic Club
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-9833
Mark Sorensen Youth Sailing Program
100 Ocean Bay Dr.
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-747-2600
www.msysp.org
Ocean Reef Chamber of Commerce
31 Ocean Reef Dr., Suite C101 PMB 179
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-367-3646
www.oceanreefchamber.org
Ocean Reef Community Association
24 Dockside Lane
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-367-3067
www.orcareef.com
Rotary Club of Key Largo
Key Largo, FL 33037
www.keylargorotary.org
Rotary Club of Key Largo Sunset, Inc.
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-776-0643
www.keylargosunsetrotary.org
The Salvation Army Key Largo
99510 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-2882
www.salvationarmy.org
United Way of Collier and the Keys
9015 Strada Court, Suite 204 Naples, FL 34109
239-261-7112
www.keysunitedway.org
Upper Keys Business & Professional Women
Tavernier, FL 33070
305-767-3928
www.upperkeysbpw.org
Upper Keys League of Women Voters
567 Lagoon Lane
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-393-0722
www.upperkeyslwv.org
Upper Keys Post 10211 Veterans of Foreign Wars
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-731-3393
www.facebook.com/ UpperKeysVFWpost10211
Upper Keys Rotary Inc. Tavernier, FL 33070
www.keysrotary.myevent.com
Upper Keys Sailing Club
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-451-9972
www.upperkeyssailingclub.com
Upper Keys Sons & Daughters of Italy
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-451-0781
Wesley House
Family Services, Inc.
1304 Truman Avenue
Key West, FL 33040 305-809-5000 Ex 386
www.wesleyhouse.org
YMCA
500 Saint Croix Pl
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-453-3422
www.ymca.org
KCS Technical Solutions
5409 Overseas Highway, #263
Marathon, FL 33050
305-396-6320
www.mykcs.com
Construction & Remodeling
Bayview Homes
89240 Overseas Highway, Suite 6 Tavernier, FL 33070
305-453-4521
www.bayviewhomes.biz
Berry’s Paint Wallpaper & Flooring Inc.
102870 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, Fl 305-451-0077
www.berryspaint.com
CBT Construction & Development
Tavernier, FL 33070
305-852-3002
www.cbtconstruct.com
Cottrell Welding & Fabricating Inc.
101801 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-522-6932
Florida Keys Contractors Assoc.
Marathon Shores, FL 33052
305-743-9409
www.fkca.org
J.A. LaRocco Enterprise Inc. & All Keys Concrete, LLC
101075 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-453-0368
www.allkeysconcrete.com
Key Deck and Dock Supply
100151 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-8001
www.keysdecksanddocks.com
Keys Cabinets Inc
99353 Overseas Highway, Suite 5
Key Largo, FL
786-256-7025
www.KeysCabinetsInc.com
Keys Life Builders
34 S. Bounty Lane
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-894-3442
www.keyslifehomes.com
NC Tile & Marble
100680 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-5638
www.nctilekeylargo.com
Reef Pool Builders
100 North Krome Ave
Florida City, FL 33034
305-901-1505
Robert Barnes & Associates
Architects
221 N Krome Ave
Homestead, FL 33030
305-247-6150
www.robertbarnesassociates.com
SBI Windows & Doors
100990 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
786-287-6664
www.sbiwindows.com
Southeast Marine Construction
131 Ellis Drive, Unit 1 Tavernier, FL 33070
305-853-5300
www.southeastmarineconstruction.com
SPF Contracting Group LLC
4900 SW 63 Ave
Miami, FL 33155
305-778-8417
ST Sparks Construction Inc
87847 Overseas Highway
Islamorada, FL 33036
305-522-4167
www.stsparks.com
The Structure Group, LLC
815 N Homestead Blvd, Homestead, FL 33030
786-601-9313
www.structuretsg.com
Upper Keys Marine Construction
97674 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-853-2644
www.upperkeysmarine.com
Dunn Electrical Service, Inc. Tavernier, FL 33070
305-360-7576
Protech e2, Inc.
103375 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-453-0010
www.proteche2.com
Wire Nuts Electric
98310 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-0939
www.wirenutselectricsfl.com
Key Largo Volunteer Ambulance
98600 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-2766
www.keylargoems.com
Sheriff’s Office – Plantation Key
50 High Point Road Plantation Key, FL 33070
305-853-3211
www.keysso.net
Express Employment Professionals
10491 N. Kendall Drive, F202 Miami, FL 33176 786-323-6813
www.expresspros.com
W.F. McCain & Associates Inc.
Vero Beach, FL 32961
305-735-8282
HNO Productions Inc.
101425 Overseas Highway #166
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-383-8245
www.hnoproductions.com
Key Destination Weddings & Events
97665 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-916-5571
www.keydestinationevents.com
Froggy’s Fitness
91812 Overseas Highway Tavernier, FL 33070 305-852-8623
www.froggysfitness.com
Keys Core Fitness
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-394-1227
www.keyscorefitness.com
Florists
Sara’s Flowers
Key Largo, FL 33037
786-553-1195
Foundations
Coastal Conservation Association
Keys Chapter
4061 Forrestal Avenue, Suite 8 Orlando, FL 32856
305-522-4868
www.ccaflorida.org
Community Foundation of the Florida Keys
300 Southard Street, Suite 201
Key West, FL 33040
305-292-1502
www.cffk.org
Coral Restoration Foundation
89111 Overseas Highway Tavernier, FL 33070
305-453-7030
www.coralrestoration.org
Key Largo Community Preservation Foundation
Key Largo, FL 33037
904-463-0513
www.klcpf.org
Marine Resources Development Foundation
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-1139
www.mrdf.org
Monroe County Education Foundation
Key West, FL 33045
305-293-1546
www.monroecountyedfound.com
National Marine Sanctuary Foundation
33 East Quay Road
Key West, FL 33040
305-809-4751
www.floridakeys.noaa.gov
The Ocean Reef Community Foundation
35 Ocean Reef Drive, Suite 148
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-367-5963
www.orfound.org
Reef Environmental Education Foundation
98300 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-852-0030
www.reef.org
Florida SBDC at FIU
1101 Brickell Avenue Penthouse, South Tower Miami, FL 33131
305-779-9230
www.business.fiu.edu/centers/sbdc/ index.cfm
Key Largo Public Library
101485 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-451-2396
www.keyslibraries.com
Monroe County DAC 5 Commissioner
102050 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-453-8787
www.monroecounty-fl.gov
Monroe County Tax Collector Office
1200 Truman Ave, Suite #101
Key West, FL 33040 305-302-6920
www.monroetaxcollector.com
Representative Jim Mooney House District 120
Murray Nelson Government Center
102050 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037-2763 305-453-1202
Largo SaveCoin Laundry Inc
99605 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33036 305-451-4575
Maid in the Keys
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-453-0963
Tints “N” More
104535 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-233-3600
www.tintsnmore.com
Cusano Air Conditioning & Heating Inc
Key Largo, FL 33037
305 453-6774
www.cusanoairconditioning.com
Houston Air Tavernier, FL 33070 305-852-2960
www.houstonair.com
Irwin’s Air, Inc
Key Largo, FL 33037 305 423-0400
www.irwinsair.com
Insurance
Aetna, Inc.
Key Largo, FL 33037 954-649-5337
www.aetna.com
Borland & Associates
103400 Overseas Highway #288
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-451-0090
www.borlandandassociates.com
Brown & Brown/T.R. Jones & Co.
1780 North Krome Avenue
Homestead, FL 33030
305-247-5121
www.trjones.com
Double Angel Insurance
Trustee Member
Islamorada, FL 33036
786-449-9415
www.Doubleangelinsurance.com
DTRT Insurance group
102920 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33037
786-472-2786
www.DTRTINSURANCE.com
Otto Insurance Group
9141 Overseas Hwy
Marathon, FL 33050
305 849-2131
www.otto-ins.com
Regan Roth Insurance Agency
90144 Overseas Highway
Tavernier, FL 33070 305-852-3234
www.reganinsuranceinc.com
Simply IOA
98840 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-537-2779
www.ioausa.com
The Porter Allen Company, Inc.
513 Southard Street
Key West, FL 33040
305-294-2542
www.progressive.com/agent/local-agent/flo
Janitorial Services & Supplies
Key Largo Kleaners
101551 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
617-633-8520
www.keylargokleaners.com
Beach House Gardens
104475 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-453-9377
Blue Seas Lawn Care
Key Largo, FL 33037
786-907-5531
www.blueseaslawncare.com
CONTINUED
Gautier Tree & Landscape
Tavernier, FL 33070
305-735-4668
www.gautiertreelandscape.com
Juan Velizaroff Lawn Service
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-901-1409
La Isla Tree Care Company
81001 Overseas Hwy Islamorada, FL 33036
305-853-6849
www.laislatree.com
Reef Landscaping
100 N Krome Ave
Florida City, FL 33034
305-901-1409
www.reeflandscaping.com
Albert L. Kelley, P.A.
926 Truman Ave
Key West, FL 33040 305-296-0160
www.alkelley.com
Florida Keys Law Group
101425 Overseas Highway, #63
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-783-5937
www.flkeyslawgroup.com
Hershoff, Lupino & Yagel
88539 Overseas Highway
Tavernier, FL 33070
305-852-8440
www.hlylaw.com
K&L Gates LLP
Southeast Financial Center, Suite 3900
200 South Biscayne Boulevard Miami, FL 33131
305-539-3300
www.klgates.com/Miami-United-States-ofAmerica
Law Office of Andrew M. Tobin, P.A.
Tavernier, FL 33070
305-852-3388
www.tobin-law.com
Montle Law
11701 127th Street, Suite 3074 New York, NY 10018
929-571-8470
Russo Law and Mediation, P.A.
88101 Overseas Hwy
Islamorada, FL 33036
561-310-1537
www.russolawandmediation.com
Schirmer Law
888 SE 3rd Ave
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
754-201-4155
www.schirmerlaw.com
The Arcia Law Firm
3350 SW 148th Ave #110 Miramar, FL 33027
954-437-9066
www.arcialawfirm.com
Marinas & Marine Services
A. R. Marine Electronics
105960 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-240-7081
www.ar_marine.com
Detailing the Keys, LLC
Key Largo, FL 33037
786-273-5248
www.detailingkeys.com
Eric’s Outboard
Key Largo LLC
98750 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
786-652-0955
www.ericsoutboard.com/KeyLargo
Haven Marina Management
100410 Overseas Hwy #201
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-664-8886
www.havenmm.com
M&M Boat Services, LLC
101425 Overseas Hwy #51
Key Largo, FL 33037
786-610-5100
www.mmboatservices.com
Markey Marine Service, Inc.
98250 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-852-3337
www.markeymarine.com
Neptune Atlantic Boat Lifts
94401 Overseas Highway Tavernier, FL 33070
305-853-9400
www.neptuneatlanticboatlifts.com
Sea Tow Key Largo
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-3330
www.seatow.com
Tow Boat U.S.
Key Largo/Tavernier
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-3922
www.towboatuskeylargo.com
Harbor Management Services
9800 Dockside Dr
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-246-5867
www.harborms.com
Marketing & Public Relations
Market Design Connect
with Nikki Dunn Cullen
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-587-9256
www.marketdesignconnect.com
Nada Khalaf-Jones
Photography Film Drone LLC
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-853-6878
www.nadakhalafjones.com
Newman PR
2140 South Dixie Highway, #203 Miami, FL 33133
305-461-3300
www.newmanpr.com
My Town A 2 Z
101425 Overseas Hwy Suite 165
Key Largo, FL 33037
888-341-4211
www.mytowna2z.com
YuzzBuzz
1711 Washington Street
Key West, FL 33040
305-393-0606
www.yuzzbuzz.com
Advanced Urgent Care of The Upper Keys
100460 Overseas Highway, Unit 1
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-294-0011
www.urgentcarefloridakeys.com
AIDS Help of Monroe County
1434 Kennedy Drive
Key West, FL 33040
305-296-6196
www.ahmonroe.org
Boilini Eye Care
99696 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-1481
www.optometristkeylargo.com
Chapters Health Hospice
11400 Overseas Hwy, Suite 203 Marathon, FL 33050
305 396-8100
www.chaptershealth.org
Community Health of South Florida, Inc. (CHI)
91200 Overseas Highway Tavernier, FL 33070
305-546-3716
www.chisouthfl.org
Crystal Health and Rehabilitation Center
48 High Point Road Tavernier, FL 33070
305-853-0799
www.crystalhrc.com
Doc on the Rock
102901 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33037
305- 600-5469
www.docontherock.com
Everyone Loves a Gentle Dentist
102965 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-2616
www.traviswbennettdmd.com
Florida Keys Dentists
91750 Overseas Highway
Tavernier, FL 33070
305-852-3219
www.floridakeysdentists.com
Florida Keys Orthopedic Center
100210 Overseas Highway, Ste 3
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-453-3633
Florida Keys Pediatric & Adolescent Center
91550 Overseas Highway, #209 Tavernier, FL 33070
305-853-0558
Good Health Clinic
91555 Overseas Highway Tavernier, FL 33070
305-853-1788
www.thegoodhealthclinic.org
Keys Mobile Medical Services, LLC
102900 Overseas Hwy Suite 2
Key Largo, FL 33037
305 907-7550
www.keysmobilemedical.com
Kinder in the Keys Treatment Center
6 Ocean View Blvd.
Key Largo, FL 33037
800-545-4046
www.kinderinthekeys.com
Largo Smiles
Dental Center
103071 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-8005
www.keylargosmiles.com
Mariners Hospital
91500 Overseas Highway Tavernier, FL 33070
305-434-3000
www.baptisthealth.net/en/pages/home.asp
Overseas Dental
103400 Overseas Highway, Suite 234
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-453-9105
www.overseas-dental.com
Paul E. Berger, DDS
103400 Overseas Highway #229
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-453-1811
www.floridakeysdentalimplants.com
Providence Homecare
10250 SW 56 ST. STE D-101
Miami, FL 33165 305-220-1088
www.providence-homecare.com
Susana May, M.D., Keys To Wellness
103400 Overseas Highway, Suite 241
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-852-8670
The Keys to Nutrition
101425 Overseas Highway #45
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-330-1933
www.thekeystonutrition.com
Merchant Services
One Payment
5300 NW 77th Ct
Doral, FL 33166 786-255-5699
www.floridakeysmerchantservices.com
Profit Is Simple
Tavernier, FL 33070 305-735-3881
Secure Pay
8950 SW 74th Court Suite 2201 Miami, FL 33156
305-307-8530
www.securepayservice.com
Allen-Beyer Funeral Home
101640 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-1444
www.allenbeyer.com
Notary
Your Conchcierge to the Keys & the Seas/Notary Niche
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-394-3467
Painters
PGA Painting & Power Washing
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-849-8032
www.pgapaint.com
Charter Pest Control
101425 Overseas Hwy Suite 165
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-451-3389
www.charterpestcontrol.com/
Mitchell Pest Services - Florida
Key Largo, FL 33037 844-234-7378
www.mitchellpestflorida.com
Truly Nolen Pest Control
100105 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-451-9900
www.trulynolen.com
Keys Kritters
100636 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-451-2627
www.facebook.com/KeysKritters
Mobile Pet Doctors
600 English Avenue, Suite A
Homestead, FL 33030
305-587-7493
www.mobile-petdoctors.com
Humane Animal Care Coalition
105951 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-0088
www.humaneanimalcoalition.com
MarrVelous Pet Rescues
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-453-1315
www.mprescues.org
Pawsitive Beginnings Inc.
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-376-1887
www.pawsitivebeginnings.org
Beach Church Key Largo
104700 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-451-1642
www.keylargobaptistchurch.com
Coral Isles Church
90001 Overseas Highway
Tavernier, FL 33070 305-852-5813
www.coralisleschurch.org/
First Baptist Church of Key Largo
99001 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-451-2265
www.fbckl.com
Florida Keys Church of the Nazarene
100390 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-809-6173
www.floridakeysnazarene.org
Keys Jewish Community Center
93095 Overseas Hwy
Tavernier, FL 33070
305-852-5235
www.keysjewishcenter.com
Lighthouse on the Rock
99339 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-451-6212
www.facebook.com/Lighthouse-onthe-Rock
St. James the Fisherman Episcopal Church
87500 Overseas Hwy
Islamorada, FL 33036 305-852-8468
www.stjamesthefisherman.org
St. Justin Martyr Catholic Church
105500 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-1316
Bayside Plumbing & Maintenance
10504 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-453-5435
www.baysideplumbingandmaintenancefl. hibuwebsites.com
Nationwide Plumbing
97671 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-853-1848
www.nationwideplumbing.business.site
CMYK Printing Solutions
Homestead, FL 33035
305-562-1142
Keys Imaging
92300 Overseas Hwy Tavernier, FL 33070 305-853-1712
www.keysimaging.com
Printing Plus
99353 Overseas Highway, #6
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-451-4414
www.printingplusfl.com
Vital Signs
103400 Overseas Highway, Suite 103
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-451-5133
www.vitalsignskeylargo.net
Keystalk 96.9/102.5 FM - Party
105.7 FM - Magnum Broadcasting
Little Torch Key, FL 33042 305 296-9968
www.keysnewstal.com
American Caribbean Real Estate–
Christie’s International Real Estate
99900 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-4078
www.americancaribbean.com
Apex One Home Inspection Miami, FL 33184 305-390-0440
www.apexoneinspections.com
Barbara Eads Realty, Inc.
91770 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-853-5982
www.keysforsale.com
Berkshire Hathaway
Home Services
85992 Overseas Hwy
Islamorada, FL 33036
305-664-4444
www.bhhsfreewheeler.com
Better Homes and Gardens
Real Estate Destinations
99353 Overseas Highway, Suite 9
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-1020
www.flkeys-realestate.com
Century 21 Affiliated
101925 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-1500
www.c21islandlife.com
Clear Sky Lending
99353 Overseas Hwy. Suite 12
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-780-7914
www.clearskylending.net
Coastal Title & Closing Services, Inc.
88101 Overseas Hwy
Islamorada, FL 33036
305-852-1477
Coldwell Banker Schmitt
Real Estate
100430 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-453-7525
www.realestatefloridakeys.com
Coral Reef Title Co.
100750 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-6200
www.coralreeftitle.com
Element Home Loans
91760 Overseas Hwy Suite 201
Tavernier, FL 33070
305-249-1449
www.elementhl.com/cmontang
Engel & Völkers Islamorada
90773 Old Highway, Suite 5 Tavernier, FL 33070
305-393-4061
www.nancyhershoff.evrealestate.com
Florida Keys Board of Realtors
97670 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-852-9294
www.flkeysboardofrealtors.com
Henry Quintana Realty, Inc
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-243-6043
REMAX All Keys Real Estate
98880 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-451-0060
www.remaxallkeysrealestate.com
RESF Island Properties
93997 Overseas Highway Tavernier, FL 33070 305-525-2580
www.resf.com
Rojewski & Rebl Group
101925 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-942-7755
www.TheFLKeysForSale.com
Sally Stribling, Realtor
100430 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-283-2002
www.keysbestproperty.com
Tavernier Business Center
91760 Overseas Highway Tavernier, FL 33070
The Andrew Burr GroupColdwell Banker Realty
12300 Southshore Blvd Wellington, FL 33414 561-324-8914
www.theandrewburrgroup.com
The Title Station, Inc
91760 Overseas Hwy #204 Tavernier, FL 33070 321-266-7607
www.TheTitleStation.com
Tropical PropertiesYvette Doherty Realtor
Key Largo, FL 33037 786-236-8158
www.ysfloridakeys.com/
Vanessa J Chamizo, Realtor –LoKation Real Estate Tavernier, FL 33070 786-302-8007
www.TheKeysR4Me.com
Cirque Salon Studios
101401 Overseas Highway (Tradewinds Plaza)
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-800-2477
www.cirquesalonstudios.com
Linda Lee’s
Hair Port
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-451-0099
Ooh La La
97000 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-852-3143
www.oohlalaorc.com
Trinity Aesthetics & Spa
101401 Overseas Hwy Suite 103
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-901-9395
www.facebook.com/trinityaestheticsandspa
Schools
Carpe Diem Academy Corporation
11025 SW 84th St. #8
Miami, FL 33173 305-971-1230
www.carpediemacademy.org
Coral Shores High School
89901 Old Highway Tavernier, FL 33070 305-853-3222
www.keysschools.com/cshs
Early Learning Coalition of Miami Dade/Monroe
1111 12th Street
Suite 206
Key West, FL 33040
305-296-5557
www.elcmdm.org
FIU Aquarius Program
85932 Overseas Highway
Islamorada, FL 33036 305-335-0113
www.aquarius.fiu.edu
Key Largo School
104801 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-453-1255
www.keysschools.com
Ocean Studies Charter School
100360 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-852-7700
www.oceanstudiescharterschool.org
The College of the Florida Keys 106040 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-809-3165
www.fkcc.edu
Treasure Village Montessori
86731 Overseas Highway
Islamorada, FL 33036
305-852-3482
www.treasurevillagemontessori.com
Gun Range
Island Arms & Indoor Range
105910 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-0043
www.islandarms.com
Social Services
16th Judicial Guardian ad Litem Program
50 High Point Road, Suite 102 Tavernier, FL 33070
305-304-0231
www.guardianadlitem.org
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Miami
550 NW 42nd Ave
Miami, FL 33126
www.bbbsmiami.org
Center for Independent Living of the Keys
103400 Overseas Highway Suite 243
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-453-3491
www.rehabworks.org/cil_map.shtml
Domestic Abuse Shelter
305-743-5452
www.domesticabuseshelter.org
Florida Keys Children’s Shelter
73 High Point Road Tavernier, FL 33070 305-852-4246
www.fkcs.org
Florida Keys Outreach Coalition, Inc.
305-295-7741
www.fkoc.org
Forgotten Soldiers Outreach
3550 23rd Avenue South #7
Lake Worth, FL 33461
561-369-2933
www.forgottensoldiers.org
Just Older Youth, Inc. Tavernier, FL 33070
305-850-8449
www.justolderyouthinc.org
Maria’s Hope & Prosperity Islamorada, FL 33036 305-509-1106
www.Mariahopeandprosperity.org
Monroe Association for ReMARCable Citizens Tavernier, FL 33070
305-852-3282
www.marchouse.org
Companies & Parking
Castle Services, Inc.
957 NW 3rd Avenue, Bay #1 Florida City, FL 33034
305-242-0536
www.castleservicesinc.com
Compass Self Storage
900 N Krome Avenue Florida City, FL 33034
305-248-0101
www.compassselfstorage.com
The Davis Group
Outdoor Storage
98700 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-853-7077
Travel,
Fantastic Endeavors Inc.
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-453-9208
www.bucketwishtrip.com
Key West International Airport
3491 South Roosevelt Boulevard Key West, FL 33040
305-809-5209
www.eyw.com
Up The Keys Tours
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-587-5575
www.upthekeys.com
Voyage Blue Travel
458 Lime Drive
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-998-8348
www.voyageblue.com
Utilities
Florida Keys Electric Cooperative (FKEC)
91630 Overseas Hwy Tavernier, FL 33070
305-852-2431
www.fkec.com
Florida Keys Mosquito Control
18 Aquamarine Drive
Key West, FL 33040
305-292-7190
www.keysmosquito.org
Florida Solar Partners
Miami, FL 33156
877-326-1110
www.FloridaSolarPartners.com
Key Largo Wastewater Treatment District
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-4019
www.klwtd.com
Keys Sanitary Service
Tavernier, FL 33070
305-451-2025
www.keyssanitaryservice.com
Two Oceans Digital
Key West, FL 33040
305-393-4079
www.twooceansdigital.com
First in Photo
Hollywood, FL 33021
305-766-9120
www.firstinphoto.smugmug.com
Fox LED Lighting
Princeton, FL 33032
888-999-6660
www.foxled.lighting
Zuma & Sons Distributor Corp.
10800 N.W. 100th Street, Suite 1
Miami, FL 33178
305-887-0089
www.zumaandsons.com
Cathy Brewer
Andy Griffiths
David Kay
Wayne T Leahy
Robert Lockwood
Darling Nelson
Beverly Newman
Wil Peña
Linda Popp
Robert Stuart
Alexandria Suarez
Bob Thomas
Jackie Velazquez
Dennis Ward
Casey Watkins
Sue Woltanski
Here are tips on how you can help protect our valuable coral reefs:
• Support organizations like Coral Restoration Foundation and REEF; they both work to protect coral reefs. In your area find other groups and volunteer to keep the oceans, rivers, lakes or other waters in your area clean. Clean water is important everywhere. All watersheds affect the oceans and eventually, the coral reefs.
• Safeguard our coral during diving and snorkeling by wearing sunscreen that does not contain oxybenzone and octinoxate. These chemicals may harm the reefs.
• Also, don’t touch, stand, or anchor your boat on the reef.
• Organize a beach clean-up.
• Conserve water – using less water, means less runoff and wastewater that resolve in polluting our oceans.
• Use only environmental safe or organic fertilizers. All chemicals and pollutants eventually flow into our oceans.
• Learn more about the vital importance of coral reefs.
• Get your family, friends and community involved…
Key: MM=Mile Marker, B/S=Bayside, O/S=Oceanside, M=Median.
The road to Key Largo tempts with unique diversions. Tour the Majestic River of Grass on a guided boat tour into Everglades National Park, skip across the waves on a WaveRunner® or fly high above the water on a romantic tandem parasail flight. Discover that man has more than one best friend as you play with dolphins. Watch a brilliant orange sun dip into the water on a sunset cruise. Parks offer a host of activities in Key Largo, including the Jacobs Aquatic Center in the Key Largo Community Park.
African Queen
257 Atlantic Boulevard
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-451-8080
www.africanqueenflkeys.com
Coral Reef Park Company
John PenneKamp State Park
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-6300
www.pennekamppark.com
Dolphins Plus
101900 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-4060
www.dolphinsplus.com
Dolphins Plus
Marine Mammal Responder
31 Corrine Place
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-453-4321
www.dpmmr.org
Florida Keys Swim with Dolphins Tour
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-501-4898
www.floridakeysswimwithdolphins.com
Florida Keys Wild Bird Center
92080 Overseas Highway Tavernier, FL 33070
305-852-4486
www.keepthemflying.org
Island Dolphin Care
150 Lorelane Place
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-451-5884
www.islanddolphincare.org
Jacobs Aquatic Center
320 Laguna Avenue
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-453-7946
www.jacobsaquaticcenter.org
Kingdom Escape Games
102670 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-741-7640
www.kingdomescape.com
Mote Marine Lab
103800 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33037 941-504-6057
www.mote.org/keylargo
Islamorada
Florida Keys Brewing Company
200 Morada Way
Islamorada, FL 33036
305-916-5206
www.floridakeysbrewingco.com
Florida Keys History & Discovery Center
82100 Overseas Highway
Islamorada, FL 33036
305-922-2237
www.keysdiscovery.com
History of Diving Museum
82990 Overseas Highway Islamorada, FL 33036
305-664-9737
www.divingmuseum.org
Islamorada Brewery & Distillery
82229 Overseas Highway Islamorada, FL 33036
305-508-9093
www.islamoradabeerco.com
Robbie’s of Islamorada
77522 Overseas Hwy Islamorada, FL 33036
305-664-8070
www.robbies.com
Theater of the Sea
84721 Overseas Highway Islamorada, FL 33036
305-664-2431
www.theaterofthesea.com
Grassy Key
Dolphin Research Center
58901 Overseas Highway
Grassy Key, FL 33050
305-289-1121
www.dolphins.org
Marathon
Aquarium Encounters
11710 Overseas Highway
Marathon, FL 33050 305-407-3262
www.floridakeysaquariumencounters.com
Big Pine Key
Florida Keys
Wildlife Society
Big Pine Key, FL 33043
305-872-0774
www.floridakeyswildlifesociety.org
Homestead
Coral Castle
28655 South Dixie Highway
Homestead, FL 33033
305-248-6345
www.coralcastle.com
Everglades Alligator Farm
40351 SW 192nd Avenue
Homestead, FL 33034
305-247-2628
www.everglades.com
Everglades Outpost
Wildlife Sanctuary
5601 SW 192 Ave
Homestead, FL 33034
305-247-8000
www.evergladesoutpost.org
Key Largo and the Florida Keys provides visitors and residents year-round entertainment. No matter when you visit the Florida Keys, there are several special events and festivals monthly that focus on our history, culture and our Keys character. We also have events that celebrate our underwater paradise, outdoor adventures and Florida Keys cuisine.
From underwater egg hunting with the Easter Bunny, and celebrating the 4th of July, to ice skating (well almost) in December along with a taste of culinary delights in January, there is an adventure around every corner in Key Largo.
While you’re here, make sure you treat your taste buds to the unusual tastes of Keys cuisine.
Stone Crab: Pictured above, Florida stone crab seasons runs from mid-October to the end of May. For the principled eaters out there, stone crab is considered a renewable food source. Crab claws are harvested and then the crab is returned to the ocean so the claws can regenerate. The claw meat is flaky and white, with a sweet taste. Best served cold, with a sharp-tasting mustard sauce.
Conch: Conch meat tastes like an exotic kind of clam. Though native conch (a large marine snail) is no longer served in the Keys due to overharvesting in the past, imported conch provides the meat for crunchy fritters, “cracked” conch (pounded conch meat breaded and fried), spicy conch chowder or raw, marinated served in salads.
Dolphin: Don’t worry, that’s not Flipper you’re about to sink your teeth into! This firm, white-fleshed, delicious fish really is a fish, and not to be confused with the mammal of TV fame. It’s delicious grilled, Cajun-style or blackened.
Florida Lobster: In season, August 6 – March 31, Florida lobster has no claws like the Maine variety, and is often referred to as the “spiny lobster”. Florida lobster can be broiled and served with lots of melted butter, but there are a lot of recipies out there.
Key Lime Pie: This delicious dessert originated in Key West. But don’t be fooled by bright green concoctions – real key lime pie is yellow.
Key West Pink Shrimp: Very popular here in the Keys and the best shrimp to eat (not farm raised). These sweet shellfish are impeccable when steamed and served with cocktail sauce, sautéed, battered and fried, on top of a bed of greens or pasta.
Hogfish: One of the best fish you will ever eat. Hogfish is mild with a light texture, and a scallop-like flavor. Hogfish is delicious fried, blackened, broiled or baked. Try it with a panko macadamia crust, topped with a tropical fruit salsa… Yum!
Key: MM=Mile Marker, B/S=Bayside, O/S=Oceanside, M=Median.
Whether you’re famished after a day of island activities or fueling up for a fun filled itinerary, Key Largo’s eateries serve up fine and varied fare. Of course, you can’t leave the Keys without having fresh fish at an exceptional area fish house. Snapper, Mahi-mahi, Grouper and Tuna are among the area’s fresh-caught specialties.
This is your chance to try a warm, fresh conch fritter. And to top it all off, nothing but key lime pie will do. Most dining establishments in Key Largo double as entertainment venues, so be sure to linger over cocktails to listen to the sounds of the island. Dancing the night away is part of the island experience!
Restaurants, Catering and Private Chefs
Key Largo
A Dinner in Paradise
Private Chef
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-905-7732
www.adinnerinparadise.com
Arthurs Island Kitchen
102255 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-394-4445
www.arthurs-island-kitchen.business.site
Bayside Grill
99540 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-3380
www.keylargo-baysidegrill.com
Buzzards Roost Restaurant
21 Garden Cove Drive
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-453-3746
www.buzzardsroostkeylargo.com
Cafe Largo
99530 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-4885
www.key-largo-restaurants.com
Denny’s Key Largo
97630 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-440-2023
www.locations.dennys.com/fl/key-largo
Doc’s Diner
99696 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-451-2895
www.docsdinerkeylargo.com
Italian Food Company
98070 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-440-2700
www.italianfoodcompany.com
Jimmy Johnson’s Big Chill
104000 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-453-9066
www.jjsbigchill.com
Key Largo Chocolates & Ice Cream
100470 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-453-6613
www.keylargochocolates.com
Key Largo Conch House
100211 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-453-4844
www.keylargoconchhouse.com
Key Largo Fisheries
1313 Ocean Bay Drive
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-3782
www.keylargofisheries.com
Lazy Lobster Restaurant
102770 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-0565
www.lazylobsterinthekeys.com
McDonald’s
100970 Overseas Highway
305-451-5861
www.mcdonalds.com
Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen I
99336 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-3722
www.mrsmacskitchen.com
Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen II
99020 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-6227
www.mrsmacskitchen.com
Pilot House Restaurant and Marina
13 Seagate Blvd
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-3142
www.pilothousemarina.com
Sal’s Ballyhoo’s
97860 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-852-0822
www.ballyhoosrestaurant.com
Señor Frijoles
103900 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-1592
www.senorfrijolesrestaurant.com
Sharkey’s Pub & Grill
522 Caribbean Drive
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-453-1905
www.sharkeysgalley.com
Skipper’s Dockside
528 Caribbean Drive
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-453-9794
www.skippersdockside.com
Snappers Oceanfront
Restaurant & Bar
139 Seaside Avenue
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-852-5956
www.snapperskeylargo.com
Snooks Bayside
Restaurant & Grand Tiki
99470 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-453-5004
www.snooks.com
Sparky’s Sweet Treats
99625 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-998-4103
www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=100063775481457
Sundowners Restaurant
103900 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-4502
www.sundownerskeylargo.com
The Catch
102041 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-204-4143
www.thecatchrestaurantkeylargo.com
The Fish House Restaurant & Seafood Market
102401 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-4665
www.fishhouse.com
Tower of Pizza
100600 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-1461
www.towerofpizzakeylargo.com
We Sell Restaurants
101425 Overseas Hwy #293
Key Largo, FL 33037
708-574-4194
www.wesellrestaurants.com
Italian Food Company Islamorada
82779 Overseas Highway
Islamorada, FL 33036
305-786-7127
www.italianfoodcompany.com
Mangrove Mike’s Cafe
82200 Overseas HWY
Islamorada, FL 33036
305-664-8022
www.mangrovemikes.com
Marathon
Porky’s Bayside
Restaurant and Marina
1400 Overseas Hwy
Marathon, FL 33050
832-332-5393
www.porkysbaysidebbq.com
The Island of Key Largo is situated between Everglades National Park (to the northwest) and John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park (to the east). The Coral Reef State Park is the first underwater park in the United States and protects part of the Florida Reef, the only living coral barrier reef in the continental United States. Key Largo’s proximity to the Everglades also makes it a premier destination for kayakers and ecotourists.
Key Largo is not only known for its beauty but for its rich history, as well. Not long after Christopher Columbus discovered the New World in 1492, adventurer Ponce de Leon, in search of that illusive fountain of youth, sighted the Florida Keys on Sunday, May 15, 1513. There is no record
that any of the ships even came ashore, but later other visitors did. The Spanish Explorers named the island CAYO LARGO, the “long rock shoal.”
While most of eastern North America has had continuous development for the past 200 years, the Florida Keys, although discovered much earlier, remained mostly undeveloped until the middle of the twentieth century.
Pirates came and went, chased by a fledgling U. S. Navy Pirate Fleet, established here in 1822. Settlers followed while the native Indian population, the Caloosa Indians, and other mainland tribes died out. Those early settlers farmed in Key Largo and the Upper Keys, and productive groves of Key limes, tamarind, and breadfruit were common, as well as fields of pineapples. The lower part of
Key Largo became known as “Planters,” which is now the town of Tavernier.
Henry Flagler’s “railroad that went to sea,” which started in 1902 and was completed in 1912, did little for Key Largo communities except to shift transportation centers from the ocean (where coastal schooners had provided the only mainland contact) to railroad stops. This ceased with the destruction of the railroad by the Great Hurricane of 1935. The state
then purchased the railroad property for the new highway, known ever since as Highway U.S. 1 or the Overseas Hwy.
The island gained fame as the setting for the 1948 film Key Largo, but apart from background filming used for establishing shots, the film was staged on a Warner Brothers sound set in Hollywood. After the film’s success, pressure from local businesses resulted in a change in the name of the post office serving the northern
part of the island, from “Rock Harbor” to “Key Largo” on June 1, 1952.
On August 25, 1965, the Christ of the Deep or Abyss (depending on who you talk with) was placed in approximately 25 feet water, this is one of the most requested sites in the National Marine Sanctuary, the statue is just off the coast of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. This spectacular bronze sculpture symbolizes peace of mankind from its unusual setting. A must see when you come to Key Largo.
On June 13, 2001, the decommissioned Naval ship USS Spiegel Grove was transferred to the State of Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission in Key Largo. The reason for this transfer, was for the vessel to be sunk and used and an artificial reef.
Red tape and financial problems delayed the sinking of ship for several years, but it was finally moved in May 2002. The total preparation cost was $1 million. On May 17, 2002, the ship sank prematurely, during preparation forcing workers to abandon ship and their equipment. Sinking several hours ahead of schedule, the USS Spiegel Grove came to rest upside-down on the sea bottom, leaving her bow bulging slightly out of the ocean and her stern resting on the ocean floor.
At an additional cost of $250,000, on June 10, 2002, the ship was rolled onto her starboard side by Resolve Marine Group. On June 26, 2002, the wreck was finally opened to recreational divers. Over a thousand divers visited the site during the first week. There were 50,000 dives a year done on the ship during just the
first two years.
In July 2005, Hurricane Dennis shifted the former USS Spiegel Grove onto her keel, right-side-up, which was the position originally intended.
So now you have a taste of Key Largo and our history.
The island of Key Largo is so close to the mainland yet
so isolated from the amenities of “civilization,” that it gives its residents a strong sense of self-reliance. Most of our businesses are locally and/or family-owned and operated — Charter boats, dive shops, restaurants, lodging, shopping and more.
Take a break from the water and while away a pleasant day shopping in Key Largo! From art galleries to T-shirt shops, there’s an amazing selection of island treasure to be discovered. Shop for unique souvenirs, cigars, pottery, nautical-themed jewelry, colorful island décor for your home, gifts, gourmet goodies and local specialty foods, fun and funky island wear and more.
All Keys Cycles
103400 Overseas Hwy, Suite 105
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-453-6221
www.allkeyscycles.com
Anthony’s Clothing Store
98200 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-852-4515
www.anthonysfla.com
Divers Direct
99621 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-0118
www.diversdirect.com
Florida Bay Outfitters
104050 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-451-3018
www.floridabayoutfitters.com
Island Smoke Shop
103400 Overseas Highway #106
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-453-4014
www.islandsmokeshop.com
KLI - Shell Lumber
102265 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-0311
www.klishell.com
Phantom Fireworks
106150 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-1198
www.fireworks.com
Publix
Supermarkets Inc.
101437 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-451-0808
www.publix.com
Royal Furniture
98950 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-451-5700
www.keysfurniture.com
Sandal Factory Outlet/ T-Shirt City
102411 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-453-9644
www.sandalfactory.com
Shell World
97600 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-852-8245
www.shellworldflkeys.com
The Leaf Health
100650 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-854-9909
Tom Thumb
Food Stores, Inc.
97950 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33035 305-852-7339
Tradewinds Liquors
101441 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-451-5958
Tavernier
DePaula Jewelers
91200 Overseas Highway Tavernier, FL 33070 305-852-4881
www.depaulas.com
Sandbar Books
91272 Overseas Hwy Tavernier, FL 33070 214-676-6432
www.sandbarbookstore.com
Tavernier ACE Hardware
91900 Overseas Highway Tavernier, FL 33070 305-852-2511
www.tavernierhardware.com
Islamorada
Flying Fisherman Islamorada, FL 33036 305-852-8989
www.flyingfisherman.com
Southern Tide
81610 Overseas Highway Islamorada, FL 33036
305-307-8530
www.southerntide.com
Key West
Baby’s Coffee LLC
3180 Overseas Highway
Key West, FL 33040
305-744-9866
www.babyscoffee.com
Online Shopping
Stream2Sea
Wauchula, FL 33873
866-960-9513
www.stream2sea.com
The Keys Salt Scrub Tavernier, FL 33070
305-852-9499
www.thekeyssaltscrub.com
You may be here for the sea, sand and sun. But we’re here to care for you if you have an unexpected healthcare need while enjoying the fun. Baptist Health Mariners Hospital offers a full range of services, including diagnostic imaging, emergency care and hyperbaric medicine.
Key Largo Everglades National Park
The park encompasses the freshwater wetlands at the southern tip of the Florida peninsula and the shallow waters of Florida Bay. Visitors enjoy a view of Everglades National Park on the west side of the Florida Keys Scenic Highway (US highway1) in the vicinity of mile marker 110. Here, where freshwater from the Everglades wetlands mixes with the marine waters of the Florida Keys, mangrove forests line shorelines and form islands. Guided boat tours into Florida Bay are available through the Key Largo Chamber at 305-451-1414 or www.keylargochamber.org
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
The renown attraction is 70-square-nautical-miles of coral reefs, mangrove islands, and shallow waters. The park’s land base is located at mile marker 102.5 on the ocean side of the Florida Keys Scenic Highway. Glass-bottom boat/ dive/snorkel tours are available from the Park’s concessionaire and local operators in Key
Largo. For more, call the park office at 305-451-1202 or visit www.floridastateparks.org/park/ Pennekamp.
Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock State Park
The park includes the largest contiguous tract of West Indian Mahogany tropical hardwood hammock in the U.S. and offers approximately 6 miles of trails to explore. The tropical hardwood hammock is critical habitat for the Schaus’ swallowtail butterfly, the Key Largo woodrat, and other protected animals and plants. Some park trails are paved, making them accessible to bicyclists and wheelchairs. To reach the park’s entrance, travel north on County Road 905, one-half mile beyond the intersection of CR905 and the scenic highway (US 1) at mm 106.5. For more information, call the park office at 305-451-1202 or visit www.floridastateparks.org/ park/Key-Largo-Hammock. (Entrance fee required.)
Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge
Located in North Key Largo, the
refuge protects approximately 6700 acres of tropical hardwood hammock, mangrove forest, salt marsh and shallow open waters. Refuge habitats support several threatened and endangered species, including the American crocodile, Key Largo woodrat, and the Schaus’ swallowtail butterfly. Although the refuge is closed to the public, a public visitor station with a butterfly garden is located at its headquarters on County Road 905, 1.8 miles north of the intersection of the scenic highway at mm 106.5 and CR 905. Visit www.fws.gov/ nationalkeydeer/crocodilelake for more information.
Florida
The sanctuary protects 2900 square nautical miles of marine waters surrounding the Florida Keys island chain. Designated by Congress and administered by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and is jointly managed with the State of Florida. The sanctuary protects an extensive coral reef ecosystem and a variety of historic shipwrecks
and other archaeological resources. Views of sanctuary waters can be seen from bridges and overlooks throughout the entire length of the Florida Keys Scenic Highway from Manatee Bay at mile marker 108 to mile marker 1 in Key West. The sanctuary’s main office and the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center are located at the Dr. Nancy Foster Florida Keys Environmental Complex in Key West. For more information, visit floridakeys.noaa.gov or call 305-809-4700.
Located in the Gulf of Mexico about 70 miles west off Key West, the park consists of a cluster of seven islands and surrounding shallow corals reefs, sandy shoals and seagrass beds. Fort Jefferson, a civil war brick fort, and the park’s visitor center are located on Garden Key. The 100-square mile park is accessible only by boat or seaplane through concession operators. For more info call the park’s headquarters 305-242-7700 or visit www.nps.gov/drto/index.htm.
Anchors Away Boat Rental
137 Severino Dr
Islamorada, FL 33036
305-896-2219
www.boatrentalfloridakeys.com
Reef Marine Inc.
85501 Overseas Hwy
Islamorada, FL 33036 305-684-9031
www.skithekeys.com
Captain Slate’s Scuba Adventures
90791 Old Highway, Unit 1
Tavernier, FL 33070
305-451-3020
www.captainslate.com
Caribbean Watersports
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-852-4707
www.caribbeanwatersports.com
Conch Republic Divers
90800 Overseas Highway #9
Tavernier, FL 33070 305-852-1655
www.conchrepublicdivers.com
Horizon Divers
105800 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-453-3535
www.horizondivers.com
Key: MM=Mile Marker, B/S=Bayside, O/S=Oceanside, M=Median.
The are endless activities to do on and in the water in Key Largo. Cast a line in our pristine water and you’re sure to hook a fish or dawn a mask and explore our world famous, beautiful coral reefs or the unique Spiegel Grove artificial reef. No matter the activity you seek, there are nearly an endless number of charters at your service in Key Largo to help you live out your adventure.
Hyperbaric & Undersea Diving Medicine
522 A Caribbean Drive
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-451-2551
www.hyperbaricsinternational.com
Lucky Fish Scuba LLC
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-766-2166
www.luckyfishscuba.com
Sea Dwellers Dive Center
105 Laguna Avenue
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-3640
www.seadwellers.com
Snorkeling by Sundiver
102840 Overseas Hwy
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-451-2220
www.snorkelingisfun.com
Eco-Tours
Adventure to Zen
Key Largo, FL 33037 703-969-0302
www.adventuretozen.com
Captain Sterling’s Everglades & Ecology Tours
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-394-7422
www.captainsterling.com
Everglades Airboat Tours
Homestead, FL 33031
305-247-3274
www.evergladesairboattoursmiami.com
Miami Everglades Connection
Airboat Tours
18424 SW 88th Court
Miami, FL 33157
888-428-6770
www.miamievergladesconnection.com
PADDLE! the Florida Keys
90773 Old Highway, Unit 1
Tavernier, FL 33070
305-434-5930
www.paddlethefloridakeys.com
Allergic To Land Charters
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-393-0842
www.allergictolandcharters.com
Bamboo Charters
81576 Overseas Highway
Islamorada, FL 33070
305-394-0000
www.bamboocharters.com
Cap’n Larry Jarboe Wavewalk Adventures
43 Garden Cove Drive
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-680-8841
www.floridafishingkayaks.com
Captain Experiences Key Largo
Fishing Charters
21 Garden Cove Dr
Key Largo, FL 33037
833-227-8246
www.captainexperiences.com/locations/ florida/key-largo
C & C Aqua Adventures LLC
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-731-5611
www.candcaquaadventures.com
Conch City Charters
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-771-4133
www.conchcitycharters.com
Let It Ride Charters
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-432-6570
www.letitridecharters.com
Nautical Quest Adventures
21 Garden Cove Dr
Key Largo, FL 33037
404-925-3733
www.nauticalquestadventures.com
Sailors Choice Fishing Charters
Holiday Inn Marina MM 100 Oceanside
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-451-1802
www.sailorschoicefishingboat.com
Leisure Cruise
Cruisin’ Tikis Key Largo
Two Locations
Sundowners & Snooks
Key Largo, FL 33037 800-941-7080
www.cruisintikiskeylargo.com
Key Largo Princess
Holiday Inn Marina MM 100 Oceanside
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-451-4655
www.keylargoprincess.com
My Keys Tours
Islamorada, FL 33036 305-360-1731
www.mykeystours.com
A Family Fun Boat Tour Company
MM85.9 Bayside at IslaMarina Islamorada, FL 33036 | 305-896-2915
www.familyfunboattours.com
Calypso Watersports & Charters
257 Atlantic Blvd., Key Largo, FL 33037 305-896-8004
www.calypsosailing.com
Florida Keys Kayak and Ski
77522 Overseas Hwy Islamorada, FL 33036 305-664-4878
www.kayakthefloridakeys.com
JSK Watersports of Florida Keys
90311 Old Highway Tavernier, FL 33070 305-998-9373
www.jskwatersports.com
Key Largo Parasail
103900 Overseas Highway
Key Largo, FL 33037
305-747-0032
www.keylargoparasail.com
Parasail The Keys/ Sundance Watersports
77522 Overseas Highway Islamorada, FL 33036
305-664-9510
www.parasailthekeys.com
Tiki Water Sports, Inc.
Key Largo, FL 33037 305-852-9298
www.tikiwatersports.net
From deluxe accommodations to mom-and-pop casual, there’s a place in Key Largo to suit you! Enjoy a bayside bungalow with watersports included, or an upscale resort with restaurant, spa and all the amenities.
Key: MM=Mile Marker, B/S=Bayside, O/S=Oceanside, M=Median All phone numbers are 305 area code unless otherwise stated.
KEY LARGO
Anchorage Resort & Yacht Club
Key: MM=Mile Marker, B/S=Bayside, O/S=Oceanside, M=Median
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Atlantic Bay Resort
MM 92.5 B/S, 160 Sterling Rd., Tavernier. 305-852-5248. Directly on Florida Bay. Enjoy the seclusion and intimacy of this resort-motel built on a 3-acre private homestead with over 500 feet of waterfront. Heated pool. www.atlanticbayresort.com • • D,R P
Baker’s Cay Resort Key Largo
MM 97 B/S, Key Largo. 305-852-5553 or 888-871-3437. Handicap rooms available. 2 pools, beach, dock and marina, tennis courts, Jacuzzi, watersports, workout room. 3 restaurants, tiki bar and lounges. Weekend kids’ activities. www.bakerscay.com
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MM 97.7 B/S, 97702 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo. 305-852-5695 or 800-385-0986. Tropical bayfront resort with paddleboat, kayaks and heated freshwater pool. Tastefully appointed cottages, efficiencies and rooms. Fishing pier, dock, BBQ grills, WIFI. Dive and wedding packages available. www.bayharborkeylargo.com • D,R P
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MM 99.5 B/S, 99490 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo. 305-451-4450 or 800-242-5229. Waterfront hotel with sandy beach, heated pool. Walk to dining and shopping. Beach area offers incredible sunsets; onsite weddings. All rooms w/refrigerator & microwave Complimentary continental breakfast, parking and WiFi. www.baysidekeylargo.com • • • D,R P
Bungalows Key Largo
Coconut Bay Resort
MM 97.7 B/S, 97770 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo. 305-852-1625 or 800-385-0986. Villa, efficiencies, and rooms set among lush tropical beachfront. Heated freshwater pool, kayaks and paddleboat. BBQ grills, dock, WIFI, refrigerators, microwaves. Dive, wedding packages available. www.bayharborkeylargo.com
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Zip codes: Florida City 33034 • Homestead 33030 • Islamorada 33036 • Key Largo 33037 • Tavernier 33070 Marathon 33050 • Key West 33040
Key: MM=Mile Marker, B/S=Bayside, O/S=Oceanside, M=Median
Every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, but please check with the businesses listed to verify information and availability.
Coconut Palm Inn
MM 92 B/S, 198 Harborview Dr., Tavernier, 305-852-3017. Rated top 40 Secret Beach Hideaways by Travel + Leisure 2010. 19 rooms and suites and just the right amenities. Wi-fi, alfresco breakfast, kayaks, dockage, boat ramp and pool. www.coconutpalminn.com
Courtyard by Marriott Key Largo
MM 99.7 O/S, Key Largo. 305-451-3939 or 800-272-6232. Oversized rooms with refrigerators, coffee makers, private balconies, pool, Jacuzzi, covered parking, dock, marina and on-site Bistro offers breakfast. www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/mthcy-courtyard-key-largo/overview
Dolphin Point Villas
MM 102 B/S. Key Largo. 305-451-0315. For a true taste of Florida Keys living, artfully designed and decorated. Soaring vaulted ceilings, wrap around porches, Villas provide a gourmet kitchen. Open floor plan living space & laundry room. Special events, romantic getaways, family vacations, reunions & weddings. www.dolphinpointvillas.com
Drift
MM 95.3 B/S, Key Largo. 305-852-8114. Modern beach motel. Private beach, dock, flat screen TVs, fire pits, kitchen facilities, coffee maker & mini fridge in all rooms. Service Animals Only Friendly, clean and quiet. Boat & trailer space under 25 ft. www.drifthotelkeylargo.com
Holiday Inn Key Largo
MM 100 O/S, Key Largo. 305-451-2121 or U.S.: 866-733-8554. Refrigerators, coffee maker, hair dryer, dock, ramp, marina, freshwater pool, exercise room, playground, diving, snorkeling, glass-bottom boat, restaurant and tiki bar, and entertainment. Dive packages and meeting rooms available. www.ihg.com/holidayinn/hotels/us/en/key-largo/kylfl/hoteldetail
Jules Undersea Lodge
MM 103.2 O/S, 51 Shoreland Dr. Key Largo. 305-451-2353. CC: Major. Includes breakfast and dinner. Underwater hotel and diving specialties. Mini Adventure and Marine Lab Excursions offered. www.jul.com
Key Largo Cottages @ Key Lime Sailing Club
MM 99 B/S, Key Largo. 305-451-3438. Each cottage includes its own 22-foot sailboat at no extra charge. Small pets OK. www.Keylimesailingclub.com
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132 • • DRM PJ
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10
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Key: MM=Mile Marker, B/S=Bayside, O/S=Oceanside, M=Median
Every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, but please check with the businesses listed to verify information and availability.
Kona Kai Resort, Gallery & Botanic Gardens
MM 97.8 B/S, 97802 Overseas Hwy., Key Largo. 800-365-STAY (7829) or 305-852-7200. On the waters of Florida Bay, Kona Kai is a tropically landscaped sanctuary of Floribbean-style accommodations reserved exclusively for adults. This refined, island-style oasis is romantic, quiet and carefree. Regularly recommended by leading travel publications, Kona Kai Resort is the perfect alternative to the crowds and formality of a big resort. 2010 Fodor’s Choice recipient. www.konakairesort.com
Marina Del Mar Resort & Marina
MM 100 O/S, 527 Caribbean Dr., Key Largo. 305-451-4107 or 800-451-3483. Rooms and suites located on a deep-water marina. Dockage available, dive charters, snorkeling, fishing, parasailing, boat rentals, freshwater heated pool, ramp, sundeck, Jacuzzi, Nautilus fitness center, laundry & 2 lighted tennis courts. 2 restaurants on site. www.marinadelmarkeylargo.com
Ocean Pointe Suites
500 Burton Dr., O/S, Tavernier. www.opsuites.com. Call for rates, 305-853-3000 or 800-882-9464. 60-acre oceanfront mangrove preserve, all suites with kitchens, most with whirlpool tubs, marina, tennis courts, Olympic size pool, Jacuzzi, café and lounge, private beach, BBQ and picnic areas, volleyball, kayak rentals. www.providentresorts.com/ocean-pointe-suites-at-key-largo
Playa Largo Resort & Spa
MM 97.5 B/S Key Largo. 305-853-1001. Luxury rooms, suites and private bungalows on 14 secluded beachfront acres. Resort pool, fire pits, tiki bars, boating, watersports, private marina, restaurants, full service spa, salon and fitness center. Kids activity and Nature Learning Center. Wedding, banquet and conference facilities. www.playalargoresort.com
Reefhouse Resort & Marina
MM 103.8 B/S, Key Largo. 305-453-0000 or 866-928-2729. Call the toll-free number for rates. Hotel rooms and suites. Beach, pool, Jacuzzi, spa, dockage available, ramp, kitchen facilities, restaurant, lounge, tiki bar, shops, fitness center and meeting rooms. Dive packages available. www.reefhousekeylargo.com
Rock Reef Resort
MM 98 B/S, Key Largo. 305-852-2401 or 800-477-2343. Enjoy the causal charm and unique atmosphere of a family-owned and operated resort in Key Largo. Clean, comfortable rooms, efficiencies, family suites and beachfront cottages are non-smoking, AC, flat screen TV, maid service and Wi-Fi. Property now has temperature controlled pool. Free use of kayaks & paddle boat. www.rockreefresort.com
Sunset Cove Beach Resort
MM 99.5 B/S, Key Largo. 305-451-0705 or 800-451-0705. Large tiki hut for entertaining, BBQ grills, dock and ramp, 30-foot white sand beach, kitchen facilities, kayaks, paddle boards and bike rentals. Free continental breakfast. www.sunsetcovebeachresort.com
The Pelican
MM 99.3 B/S Key Largo, 305-451-3576. Their vacation cottages are ideally located in Key Largo directly on Florida Bay – approximately one hour from Miami International Airport and two hours from Key West. Free Kayaks, Beach, Complimentary WIFI, BBQ Area, Docks/Boat Ramp, and Washers/Dryers. www.pelicankeylargo.com
Waterside Suites & Marina
MM 100 O/S, 201 Ocean Drive, Key Largo. 305-451-5081 or 800-462-6079. Bi-level newly renovated suites, all waterfront, screened patios, kitchen facilities, freshwater pool, dock, fishing and sailing nearby. Handicap rooms available. www.watersidesuitesandmarina.com
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Every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, but please check with the businesses listed to verify information and availability.
Amara Cay Resort
MM 80 O/S, Islamorada. 305-664-0073 or 877-783-2124. Comfortable rooms with king or queen beds to luxurious oceanfront suites. Complimentary breakfast, beach, pool, tiki bar, fitness room, business center, playground, high speed Internet in each room. Oltremare Ristorante on site. www.amaracayresort.com
Breezy Palms Resort
MM 80 O/S, Islamorada. 305-664-2361. Freshwater heated pool, kitchen facilities, boat dockage, ramp, beach, snorkeling, grills, shuffleboard, volleyball. Private island available. Handicap accessible. www.breezypalms.com
Key Lantern Motel
MM 82.1 B/S, Islamorada. 305-664-4572. One of the lowest-priced motels in the FL Keys and close to everything. Nothing fancy, just clean, friendly and laid back. For the person who is always on the go and needs a place to sleep, clean up and relax, you have found the place. www.keylantern.com
La Siesta Resort & Marina
MM 80.2 O/S, Islamorada. 305-664-2132 or 800-222-1693. The perfect family oriented getaway on 6 acres of tropical ocean front. 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom villas and suites. Fully equipped kitchens, cable TV, fresh water pool, walking paths, and children’s playground. www.lasiestaresort.com
Pelican Cove Resort
MM 84.5 O/S, Islamorada. 305-664-4435 or 800-445-4690. Sandy beach, dock, ramp, freshwater pool, Jacuzzi, tennis, charter trips, suites, watersports rentals, cabana bar and café, meeting space. www.pelicancovehotel.com.
Postcard Inn Beach Resort & Marina at Holiday Isle
MM 84.1 O/S, Islamorada. 305-664-2321 or 800-327-7070. Beach, dock, ramp and full service marina, 2 freshwater pools, restaurants, “World Famous Tiki Bar”, luxury suites, kitchen facilities, nightly live entertainment. www.holidayisle.com
Ragged Edge Resort
MM 86.5 O/S, 243 Treasure Harbor Dr., Islamorada. 305-852-5389. Motel rooms, 1- and 2-bedroom suites and efficiencies. A/C, TV, heated freshwater pool, laundry room, shuffleboard, free bikes, BBQs, picnic areas, fishing pier, reserved dockage with electric and freshwater, launching ramp, cleaning tables, bait freezer. www.ragged-edge.com
Lime Tree Bay Resort
MM 68.5 B/S, 305-664-4740 - Lime Tree Bay is a true island oasis that features a quarter-mile, white-sand sunning beach with tiki huts, hammocks, and barbecue grills; multiple heated swimming pools; a private fishing pier. Complimentary amenities include daily continental breakfast, in-room bottled water, parking, Wi-Fi, unlimited use of kayaks, paddle boards, bicycles, tennis and dockage for boats up to 21 feet. www.limetreebayresort.com
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Glunz Ocean Beach Hotel & Resort
351 E. Ocean Drive, Key Colony Beach. 305-289-0525 or 800-321-7213. Breathtaking sunrises just steps from the Atlantic Ocean on our private white sandy beach. Perfect for anyone looking for a Florida Keys vacation getaway with many adventures to fill your days. Drop a line off our fishing pier, snorkel in the ocean, sip on a cocktail from the adjacent Tiki Bar or just relax in our freshwater heated pool or hot tub/ spa. www.glunzoceanbeachhotel.com
Hawks Cay Resort
61 Hawks Cay Blvd., Duck Key. 305-743-7000 or 866-976-4624. Located on the tropical 60-acre island of Duck Key, Hawks Cay offers some of the world’s best fishing; exciting water sports; dolphin interaction programs; a saltwater lagoon; five gorgeous swimming pools; restaurants; a full service spa and a variety of luxurious accommodations, including guest rooms, suites and villas. www.hawkscay.com
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2905 N.E. 9th St., Homestead. 305-257-4333 or 888-236-2427. All guest rooms and suites have 32” flat screen TVs, micro waves, refrigerators & coffee makers. Near to Homestead-Miami Speedway, Biscayne & Everglades Nat. Parks, Everglades Alligator Farm. Bistro restaurant and lounge, Starbucks coffee. Fitness Center, Business Center and temperature controlled pool. www.courtyardhomestead.com Fairfield Inn & Suites
305-758-4770. 60 SW 352nd St, Florida City. Enjoy modern spacious guest rooms featuring free Wi-Fi, premium bedding, large 55-inch TVs, microwave, and a mini refrigerator. www.marriott.com/MIAFH
Hampton Inn & Suites-Miami South/Homestead
2855 N.E. 9th St., Homestead. 305-257-7000. 20 min. to the Florida Keys, 35 min. to Miami & beaches. 5 miles to Biscayne & Everglades Nat. Parks, 1 mile to Homestead Miami Speedway. Coffee makers, HD cable, 32” flat panel TVs, iron & ironing board. Fitness room, Business Center, comp. Breakfast & heated pool. Kid friendly. www.hilton.com/en/hotels/hstflhx-hampton
TownePlace Suites
935 N.E. 30th St., Homestead. 305-248-2001. TownePlace Suites is an extended-stay hotel. Relax and feel at home with a fully equipped kitchen and high-speed internet access. Free breakfast, complimentary on-site parking. www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/miatm-towne
Calusa Campground Resort & Marina
MM 101.5 B/S, Key Largo. 305-451-0232. Convenience store, rental units available. www.calusacampground.com
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Key Largo Kampground & Marina
MM 101.5 O/S, Key Largo. 305-451-1431 or 800-526-7688. Full hookup RV sites, limited waterfront; tent sites with or without electricity. Fish, 2 beaches, security gate and personnel, 2 bath houses, and TV lounge. www.keylargokampground.com • • DRM P
Keys Palms RV Resort
MM104.2 B/S, Key Largo. 305-440-2832. Luxury RV Resort with private sandy beach, Clubhouse, Community Center, Fitness gym, water, sewer & cable, private patios, dog walk area, washers & dryers & showers. www.keyspalmsrvresort.com
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Barefeet Rentals
103400 Overseas Highway # 203, Key Largo. 305-394-9787. Vacation rental homes and condos from modest to magnificent. www.barefeetrentals.com
Florida Keys Rental Store
MM 99.9, Key Largo. 305-451-3879 or 800-585-0584. Specializes in vacation rentals. Luxury to affordable private homes and condos. Weekly and monthly rates. www.floridakeysrentalstore.com
Freewheeler Vacations
MM 85.9 B/S, Islamorada, 85992 Overseas Highway, Islamorada. 305-664-2075 or 866-664-2075 Ocean and bayfront. Beach, tennis, BBQ, pool, dockage. www.freewheelervacations.com
Mangrove Marina & Resort
Marina. 305-852-8380. Aqua Lodge House Boats are available for vacation rentals, located in the northern end of Islamorada in Tavernier at MM 91.5 B/S. Also a full service marina on a 20-acre mangrove protected hurricane hole with 103 wet slips, rack storage, boat ramp, fuel dock, bathhouse and laundry facility. Tiki huts, large fire pit and beautiful sunsets. www.mangrovemarina.com/houseboats
Marathon Timeshare Rentals
877-815-4227. Rent or buy a timeshare for your next vacation. Call for rates. www.sellmytimesharenow.com/timeshare
Reef Rentals
305-367-4280. 31 Ocean Reef Drive. The finest vacation rentals on Ocean Reef. Offering exceptionally elegant and unique properties for both short and long term rentals. www.reefrentals.com
Star Properties Destinations
305-680-9852. 99353 Overseas Hwy. Suite 9, Key Largo. Full service vacation rental and property management company. Vacation rentals in Ft. Lauderdale, Islamorada, Key Largo and Tavernier. Homes, townhouses, villas and condos. www.starpropertiesdestinations.com
Upper Keys Rentals
98880 Overseas Hwy., Key Largo. 305-453-2221. From Key Largo to Islamorada. We offer private homes, condos, and townhouses available for rent by the night, week, month or longer. www.upperkeysrentals.com
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Come to Key Largo and the fabulous Florida Keys for your nuptials or next elegant event.
The Key Largo Chamber of Commerce is here to assist with your special day. We are going to share a few hints about planning a destination wedding here in Key Largo and the fabulous Florida Keys.
For those couples thinking about having a tropical island destination wedding, instead of traveling out of the country, think about coming to Key Largo and the Fabulous Florida Keys. The best thing about having your wedding here is we are in paradise, and no passport is required.
Coordinating travel for a destination wedding is never easy. By selecting Key Lago and the Florida Keys, travel is made more accessible, especially for elderly guests. From most cities, you can fly directly into Miami or even Fort Lauderdale and the Florida Keys are just an hour or so away by car.
Your choice of dates should be driven by your budget. Many resorts offer deals in the
off-season, September through mid-December, and part of January. May to August is the next season, and our high season is mid-January through April. Always ask your family and friends dates that work best for them. Just keep in mind, you will not be able to pick a date that works for everyone.
In the Florida Keys during the winter months, the temperatures are in the mid to high 70s, lows in the mid-60s. During April – June, temperatures begin to rise into the mid-80s and lows in the 70s. In July –September, we climb into the 90s and lows in the 80s. October – December, we begin to cool off with temperatures between the mid-80s and lows in the 70s. Besides just letting the weather guide your date, also let it guide what you wear. If hot during the ceremony, avoid heavier fabrics. Or hold the ceremony at night when it’s cooler out. Before exchanging rings, you’ll need
Florida marriage license. To apply for a marriage license in Monroe County, your fiancé and you must visit the Clerk of Court, (305) 852-7145. There is no residence or citizenship requirement in the Florida Keys. More details can be found at www.clerk-of-the-court.com/Other/ MarriageLic.html.
Next up, send out invitations early. Many of your invited guests will plan their vacation around your event. Make sure you send a “save the date” card once you have picked your date and location. Then, at least three months earlier, if not sooner, send out the invite.
Finding a location is very exciting, we have many hotels (small and large) and other beautiful venues located throughout Key Largo and the Florida Keys. It is always good to visit the location as often as you can or hire one of our chamber event planners. Visiting the venue allows you to meet vendors and inspect the venue in person. If that’s not a possibility, hire a planner who can facilitate on your behalf.
Before you book a wedding planner,
See more at www.keylargochamber.org/stay/wedding_services.aspx
make sure to look at our members. Our event planners have coordinated weddings at most, if not all, our venues, and they are familiar with the local laws and traditions. If a planner isn’t in the budget, consider booking a wedding package with your chosen location. That way, the venue will handle the finer details. You can find places and planners in this guide. Also, on our website there are links to all the businesses. Check them out at www.keylargochamber.org.
It is important to come down to Key Largo to ensure that the venue meets your expectations. Take pictures and let them show you the outdoor and indoor backup space in case of rain. It can also help to ask the venue if any other events will be taking place during your special weekend. If another big event is scheduled, you might want to find another facility or move your date. Also, visiting early is a great time to meet with our local vendors.
Before you meet with vendors in person, scope them out on our website. We have many great caterers, photographers, sound rental companies, and more. If you decide to hire vendors from out of the area, keep in mind that you’re responsible for paying their travel, food, and accommodations.
It’s expensive to travel to a destination wedding, so not every guest you invite is going to be able to attend. Treat your family and friends who have to turn down their invites with understanding.
Try and make all your purchases locally in Key Largo — shipping items can be a big hassle. You’ll want to research the logistics early on. We recommend not shipping items at all, pack and bring as much as you can on the airplane. If you are planning to ship other wedding supplies, make sure you have someone on the other side to receive it. Don’t just put the name of the hotel. Make sure to put the name of the onsite planner or pay the extra fees and bring the items down in suitcases to play it safe.
Always show your gratitude to your guests. Offer a welcome bag filled with items specific to Key Largo, like ocean friendly sunscreen, flip flops, local chocolates, even a nice bottle of
champagne. A warm welcome gets everyone in the wedding spirit. For guests who may stay over a few extra days consider organizing some fun activities, such as an eco-tour, paddleboarding, kayaking, or even an after-wedding lunch.
There are sacrifices that come with having a destination wedding, but what you will get in the end is a personal, distinctive destination event. One that people will be talking about for years to come.
With more than 200 separate islands and islets, the Florida Keys have the only living coral reef formations found in the continental United States. Dr. Gilbert Voss of the Marine Institute of the University of Miami first became aware of the extent of damage occurring to the reef structure during his studies of the marine species in the Keys. In 1957, a biological conference concerned with the preservation of the natural resources of South Florida was held in Everglades National Park. At this meeting, Dr. Voss described the extent of damage that was occurring to the reef structure that he had noted during his studies.
The tourist trade was taking its toll on the coral structures as souvenirs were collected by visitors. Seashells, corals, sponges, sea horses and marine life were being hammered, chiseled, and even dynamited to provide tourist knickknacks. The coral reefs that took thousands of years to form were quickly decimated by vendors. Dr. Voss then suggested that a nonprofit scientific project could be undertaken to protect the area.
Without some restrictions on the exploitation of the reefs, commercial interests
would easily bring about the extinction of the only hard coral reef formation in North America. Dr. Voss successfully recruited conservationists to support his contentions that the reef should be protected, but his most powerful ally would eventually become an assistant editor for the Miami Herald, John D. Pennekamp.
As legislative chairman of a state commission, Pennekamp had played a major role in the establishment of Everglades National Park. He was the first chairman of the Florida Board of Parks and Historic Memorials, and he was a member of a civilian team of consultants, which surveyed the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for the Department of the Interior in 1954. He also had received numerous state, local and national conservation awards.
When the two men joined forces, they were able to utilize the research of Dr. Voss and the journalistic effort of John Pennekamp to organize a coalition of conservationists that would undertake the project of protecting the valuable marine resources. The road ahead was not an easy one, but the efforts of Dr. Voss and Mr. Pennekamp were sufficient to
get the Florida Board of Parks and Historic Memorials to designate a 75-square-mile section of offshore Florida as a permanent preserve. For three years the advocates of the preserve struggled to win approval for the park and successfully resisted all opposition from the commercial interests that wished to leave the reefs open for pillage.
In the spring of 1960, President Dwight D. Eisenhower proclaimed the area as Key Largo Coral Reef Preserve. When the dedication ceremonies were held on Dec.10, 1960, Florida Governor Leroy Collins made a surprise announcement, naming the United States’ first undersea park as John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Governor Collins named the park after Pennekamp in appreciation of the continuous editorial support that he had given in the Miami Herald.