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Key Largo - World Diving Capital
The northernmost of the Florida Keys and approximately one and a half hours from Miami International Airport, Key Largo is reknown for its sport-fishing and diving. Here charter captains can guide you to the best spots for sailfish, tarpon, or bonefish.
If arriving by car, simply go to the Florida Turnpike near the airport and continue on to U.S.1. There are shuttle buses from both the Miami and the Ft. Lauderdale Airports which travel throughout the Keys. Visitors arriving by Amtrak train, can take a shuttle from Ft. Lauderdale. Greyhound Lines (bus) has regular service from Miami International Airport. Yachtsmen can arrive via the Intracoastal Waterway which runs the length of the Keys.
The proximity of Key Largo to the Everglades National Park makes it a favorite for kayakers, birders, and other eco-tourists.
Key Largo has long been involved in marine conservation with the creation of the country´s first undersea preserve, the John Pennecamp Coral Reef State Park in 1960 and the Key Largo National Marine Sanctuary in 1975. As a part of this 2,800 square nautical mile sanctuary, Key Largo has six Sanctuary Preservation Areas (SPA´s) which prohibit all fishing, including hook and line. The result is a virtual paradise for the underwater photographer.
Spiegel Grove - a 510-foot Navy transport sunk in 2002 is the most recent addition to the artificial reef program.
Statue of Christ of the Abyss - located in the coral formation of Key Largo Dry Rocks, this famous statue is in only 25 feet of water and can be viewed by snorkelers as well as divers.
Molasses Reef - an area of coral heads and an abundance of marine life.
Benwood Wreck - Dating from WWII, a favorite habitat for schools of grunt and pork fish.
The Elbow - several shipwrecks are at this site as well as amiable moray eels and barracuda.
Bibb and Duane - intentionally sunk in 1987, these two 327-foot Coast Guard cutters are enveloped in colorful coral and gorgonian.
Children, as well as adults, will enjoy a trip to the Everglades National Park where flamingos, alligators, and birds can be seen. At mile marker 99.6 the children will enjoy the Water Park at Jacob´s Aquatic Center and the nearby Key Largo Community Park with facilities for basketball, baseball, tennis, and volleyball.
Getting around Key Largo is easy -- bicycle, moped, motor bike, taxi, bus, rental car -- whatever you prefer is available.
Attractions on the Key are many and varied -- golf, tennis, eco-tours, art galleries, and of course the superb fishing and diving mentioned above. There are hotels for every price range and a host of restaurants featuring local fare as well as international cuisine.
Key Largo -- a delight for sport and relaxation!
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