Key Largo, Islamorada, Key West… these are all amazing locations. Each location in the Keys offers a different vibe and a different experience. Key Largo is the perfect place to start.. or end… your Keys trip. So much to do and see. But, one of the biggest questions I get is… what are things to do in Key Largo at night? Well, let’s find out.
First off, you will want to take full advantage of all of the activities you can do during the day. This is a great place to explore the outdoors and enjoy so many water sports. Like what you say?
The most popular places include:
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
Open 365 days a year until sunset, this one-of-a-kind State Park offers an amazing glimpse into the underwater world. This is the country’s first undersea park and has 70 nautical miles to explore. To really see and enjoy the marine life, go scuba diving or snorkeling. Don’t want to get wet? You can canoe or kayak the waters in the park. Or simply walk the trails, swim at the beach, or enjoy a snack at one of the picnic areas.
Interesting fact… Key Largo is considered the dive capital of the world. The area holds the world’s third-largest barrier reef.
Everglades National Park
The is the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States. Explore the park with guides, bird watch and so much more. Hike the nature trails to see over 300 species of birds. Here’s a quick tip…download the NPS app before you visit any national park. It will provide you with the latest programs and what you can expect to see during any season of the year.
Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary
This is one of 15 marine protected areas. The Sanctuary covers 3,800 square miles of waters surrounding the Florida Keys from south of Miami to the Dry Tortugas, not including the Dry Tortugas National Park. If you are in Key West, check out the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center. This place is amazing. First off, it’s free. But more importantly, you can learn all about the waters that surround the Keys.
Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail
Explore the 90 miles of trails and see a unique perspective of the Keys. If you love to bike, bring yours, or rent one, and in most places, up and down the Keys you can hop on the trail. Love to run or walk, and enjoy the trails on foot. The trails include 23 of the historic Flagler Railroad bridges.
African Queen Canal Cruise
Hop on board this restored 1912 steamboat seen in the Humphrey Bogart movie “The African Queen”. Spend some time exploring the Port Largo canals around Key Largo in a true piece of history. This is a boat ride filled with views and history.
Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge
While not open to the public you can explore this refuge by visiting the Butterfly Garden and visitor center (open during daylight hours), volunteering, or attending a special event. Check their website for a listing of events.
Glass Bottom Boat Tour
Want to see the waters around Key Largo but want to stay dry? I get it. Check out a glass bottom boat tour. These are offered up and down the Keys. Check out the most popular tours on Viator here.
History of Diving Museum
Looking for something to do on a rainy day? Or want to escape the summer Florida heat? Check out this place, just down the Overseas Highway in Islamorada.
Another option in Islamorada to visit… not on a rainy day is the …
Theater of the Seas
Home to dolphins, sea lions, sea turtles, fish, sharks stingrays, alligators, and birds. Plan to spend your day enjoying the shows and interactive programs at the Theater of the Sea.
The Keys – things to do and where to eat
Love to shop? Check out the many gift shops in Key Largo.
- Florida Keys Gift Company
- Largo Cargo Co.
- Shell World
- Island Treasures
- Sandy Dreamz Boutique
- Old Conch Harbor
- Sandal Factory Outlet
Want to fish the waters around Key Largo? Who wouldn’t right? Check out the many Key Largo Fishing Charters.
One of the best things to do in Key Largo? Or any Keys vacation? Plan time by the pool. Take time to soak in the sun and simply relax.
Now, that you have planned and explored the area by day, what is there to do at night?
The top things to do in Key Largo at night are:
Nightlife
Of course, we come to the Keys to escape. Spend time soaking up the sun, enjoying a few cocktails, and putting our toes into the sand. The options for nightlife in Key Largo will certainly fill that need. You can spend a leisurely time over dinner at an outdoor restaurant, enjoy live music and dance the night away.
Start the evening off with a relaxing and fun sunset cruise. Check out the many options available here.
Restaurants and Bars
Looking for an evening cocktail? A yummy dinner? Or a place to stop for dessert? Here ya go…
Caribbean Club
Opened in 1938 and is the oldest bar in the Upper Keys. Sunset views here cannot be beat. They offer live music Thursday through Sunday and karaoke every Wednesday night. Looking for some history? This is the place Key Largo was filmed.
Sundowners
Great food and sunsets. Enjoy fresh seafood or simply come over for Sunset Happy Hour.
Other Options?
- Mile Marker 88 – Great place for sunset views and food. However, at this time the place is temporarily closed.
- Pilot House – local hangout with great food and happy hour. Offers live music on the weekends.
- Key Largo Conch House – featured on Emeril’s Florida, Man vs Food, and the Food Network.
- Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen – opened in 1976 this is the longest-running restaurant in Key Largo.
- The Fish House – a Key Largo dining tradition since 1982. Winner of many, many awards.
- Harriette’s Restaurant – this is the place for breakfast after a night on the town in Key Largo
In the mood for dessert?
- Blond Giraffe Key Lime Pie Factory
- Key Largo Chocolates
- Pinecrest Bakery
- Mr. C’s Ice Cream
Local Brews
Love tasting local beer? Me too! These two are a must stop and try in the Florida Keys.
- Florida Keys Brewing Company
- Islamorada Brewing and Distillery
Nightclubs – Live Music
Some of these places are local hangouts, others offer a cool tropical vibe, and others offer great music and a place to just relax. The best places?
- Cactus Jack’s – located in Sundowners
- Breezer’s Tiki Bar
- Tiki Bar
- Kili Tavern
- Bayside Grille
- Sharkey’s Sharkbite
- The Catch
- REEF Lounge
- Shipwreckers
- Jimmy Johnson’s
- Blackwater Siren
Other Ideas
Stroll through the art scene of Key Largo. Check out:
- Kona Kai Art Gallery
- Our Place in Paradise (located in Islamorada) Closes at 5pm
- Key Largo Art Gallery
Epic Road Trip – Miami to Key West
Lodging
Looking for a cool place to stay? Check out Gilber’s Resort. The party vibe starts when you arrive. They have a great bar and offer water views and live music. This is the place to be day or night when in Key Largo. Take my advice, grab a room with a water front room. It’s an experience you won’t forget.
Want a more unique experience? Then book an overnight stay at the Jules Undersea Lodge. Imagine, staying underwater overnight! Learn more here. This underwater habitat offers day experiences as well.
Need a bit of luxury? Then Playa Largo resort is the place.
No matter where you decide to stay, Key Largo offers a lot of options. Biggest question will be bayside or Atlantic Ocean side? Sunsets, amazing sunsets, are on the bayside. As you can tell, I prefer bayside, but those places are usually in high demand. Go with what works best for you.
There is so much to see and do in the Keys, be it Key Largo or Key West, or any point in between. Plan a trip to explore the Keys. You will be planning a return trip before you even leave!
