Key Largo

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Beautiful Florida sunset

Key Largo is an island located in the upper Florida Keys archipelago and is the largest section of the Keys, at 33 miles (53 km) long. It is one of the northernmost of the Florida Keys in Monroe County, and its earlier Spanish name was Cayo Largo, meaning long islet. Key Largo is a popular destination for kayaking, scuba diving, and snorkeling, with its proximity to the continental United States making it a convenient gateway for tourists seeking to explore the natural beauty of the Keys.

Geography

Key Largo is situated between the watery wilderness of the Everglades National Park to the west and the fish-covered coral formations of North America's only living coral barrier reef to the east. Despite its name suggesting a singular entity, Key Largo is made up of two major islands, Key Largo and the adjacent Tavernier, which are separated from the mainland by Florida Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.

History

The history of Key Largo is rich and varied, with evidence of pre-Columbian Native American inhabitants, such as the Calusa and the Tequesta tribes, who were the early dwellers of the area. Following Spanish exploration, the island saw periods of use for farming, fishing, and salt production. In the 20th century, Key Largo gained fame through the 1948 film Key Largo, starring Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall, which, although not filmed on the island, brought significant attention to the area.

Economy

The economy of Key Largo is heavily reliant on tourism, with numerous hotels, restaurants, and tourist attractions catering to visitors interested in the island's natural environments and outdoor activities. The John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, established in 1963, is a significant draw, offering an array of water-based recreational activities and conservation education opportunities.

Ecology

Key Largo's ecological significance is highlighted by its coral reef and marine habitats, which are home to a diverse range of species, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and various bird species. Efforts to protect and preserve these natural resources are ongoing, with several areas designated as protected zones, including the aforementioned John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the adjacent Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.

Transportation

Access to Key Largo is primarily via the Overseas Highway (U.S. Highway 1), which runs from Miami to Key West, connecting all the main islands of the Florida Keys. The highway is a key component of the area's infrastructure, supporting both local and tourist travel needs.

Culture

Key Largo's culture is a blend of its maritime heritage, tropical lifestyle, and the influence of its diverse visitors and residents. The island hosts several events and festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from the local seafood to underwater music concerts designed to raise awareness of coral reef conservation.

See Also

• Florida Keys
• Coral reef
• Everglades National Park
• Tourism in Florida