Discover what makes Key Largo famous, from its stunning coral reefs and diving spots to its laid-back tropical vibes and outdoor adventures.

Key Largo, the first and northernmost of the Florida Keys, serves as a tropical gateway for millions of visitors each year. This elongated island, stretching over 33 miles, welcomes a significant portion of the more than five million tourists who flock to the Florida Keys annually. They are drawn by the promise of turquoise waters, lush subtropical landscapes, and an atmosphere of laid-back escape. While many come for the world-class diving and fishing, a growing number of visitors are discovering Key Largo as the perfect backdrop for life's most special moments. It has become a premier destination for weddings, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and romantic seclusion that is hard to find anywhere else.

The allure of a Key Largo wedding is undeniable. Couples are drawn to the idea of exchanging vows with a warm sea breeze and a stunning sunset as their witness. The island's accessibility from the mainland makes it a convenient choice for guests, while its distinct island culture provides a true sense of getting away from it all. Venues like Dream Bay Resort have perfected the art of the beachfront wedding, offering private, picturesque settings that turn a special day into an unforgettable experience. From intimate elopements to grand celebrations, Key Largo provides a versatile and breathtaking canvas for couples to begin their new life together.

Before we get to our topic on what is Key Largo known for, we hope to share a little information about what makes Dream Bay Resort the perfect beach front resort for diving enthusiast. Stunning sunsets, sandy beaches, tiki huts, and swaying palms come together to create a serene, peaceful experience. If you’re searching for the ideal Key Largo resort experience and Dream Bay seems like the perfect fit, we’d be delighted to assist you. Feel free to contact us to arrange a virtual or in-person tour. Explore our resort accommodations and cabins, wedding packages, cozy cottages, and availability calendar for all the details you need to begin planning your adventure. We look forward to welcoming you.

30 Things That Make Key Largo Famous

While its reputation as a wedding destination is growing, Key Largo's fame is built on a diverse foundation of natural wonders, historical significance, and unique cultural quirks. Here are 30 things the island is known for.

The Dive Capital of the World: This isn't just a catchy slogan; Key Largo is home to the third-largest barrier reef in the world and offers unparalleled underwater exploration.
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park: As the first undersea park in the United States, it’s a protected marine paradise for snorkelers and divers.
Christ of the Deep Statue: This iconic 9-foot-tall bronze statue of Jesus Christ rests in 25 feet of water and is one of the most famous underwater sites globally.
The movie Key Largo: The classic 1948 film noir starring Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall forever cemented the island's name in Hollywood history.
The African Queen Steamboat: You can take a ride on the actual, restored boat used in the 1951 movie of the same name, starring Humphrey Bogart and Katharine Hepburn.
Spiegel Grove Wreck: This massive, intentionally-sunk Navy ship is now an artificial reef and a bucket-list dive for advanced scuba enthusiasts.
Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary: Key Largo is a crucial part of this federally protected area, which safeguards the delicate marine ecosystem.
World-Class Sportfishing: Anglers from around the globe come here to chase marlin, sailfish, tuna, and mahi-mahi in the deep sea or bonefish and tarpon in the backcountry.
Dolphin Encounters: Facilities like Dolphins Plus Marine Mammal Responder allow visitors to swim with and learn about these intelligent creatures.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding: The calm, clear waters of the bay side are perfect for paddling through mangrove forests and spotting wildlife.
Stunning Sunsets: Watching the sun sink into the Florida Bay is a daily ritual and a spectacular event that draws crowds to the western-facing shores.
Fresh Seafood: From waterfront shacks to upscale dining, Key Largo is famous for its fresh-off-the-boat fish, lobster, and stone crabs (in season).
Key Lime Pie: While claimed by the entire Keys, Key Largo has perfected its own versions of this legendary sweet and tangy dessert.
The Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center: A sanctuary where you can see and learn about the rescue and care of native and migratory birds.
The Overseas Highway: Key Largo is Mile Marker 106 on this famous scenic drive, offering the first taste of the iconic journey "down the Keys."
Manatee Sightings: These gentle "sea cows" are often spotted in the canals and nearshore waters, especially during cooler months.
Hammock Botanical State Park: Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park protects one of the largest tracts of West Indian tropical hardwood hammock in the United States.
Laid-Back "Keys Disease" Attitude: The island is famous for its relaxed, unhurried pace of life that encourages visitors to slow down and unwind.
Glass-Bottom Boat Tours: A perfect way for non-divers to witness the vibrant coral reefs and marine life of the sanctuary.
Proximity to the Everglades: Its location makes it an easy starting point for exploring the unique ecosystem of Everglades National Park.
The Coral Restoration Foundation: A pioneering organization leading the charge to restore and protect the world's coral reefs, with its headquarters in Key Largo.
Abundant Marine Life: Beyond the reefs, the waters are teeming with sea turtles, sharks, rays, and countless species of colorful fish.
Tiki Bars: These open-air, waterfront bars are an essential part of the Key Largo social scene, serving tropical drinks with stunning views.
The Original Caribbean Club: Established in 1938, it's one of the oldest bars in the Upper Keys and a filming location for the movie Key Largo.
Houseboat and Liveaboard Culture: The marinas are filled with a community of people who live on their boats, adding to the island's nautical character.
Private Waterfront Wedding Venues: Key Largo is renowned for its exclusive, beautiful resorts that specialize in beach weddings.
Filming location for Bloodline: Several scenes from the popular Netflix series were filmed on the island, showcasing its darker, more mysterious side.
An "Easy" Getaway: As the closest Key to the mainland and Miami, it's the most accessible for a quick weekend escape.
Reef Environmental Education Foundation (REEF): This marine conservation organization, headquartered in Key Largo, engages divers in citizen science.
Year-Round Warm Weather: Its subtropical climate makes it a desirable destination any month of the year.

Create Your Forever Moment at Dream Bay Resort

Among Key Largo’s many claims to fame, its emergence as a top-tier wedding destination is one of the most magical. At the heart of this romantic reputation is Dream Bay Resort, a venue that embodies the essence of a private island paradise. Hosting your wedding here means exchanging vows on a secluded white-sand beach, with the gentle lapping of the Florida Bay's turquoise waters providing a natural soundtrack. The resort is designed to feel like your own exclusive estate, offering complete privacy for you and your guests. This intimacy is what sets a Dream Bay wedding apart; it’s an experience, not just an event.

The true beauty of a Dream Bay Resort wedding lies in its blend of natural splendor and thoughtful luxury. The property boasts two distinct private beaches, allowing you to choose the perfect backdrop for your ceremony—whether you prefer the wide-open views of the bay or a more sheltered cove. As the sun sets, casting brilliant shades of orange, pink, and gold across the sky, your celebration can transition seamlessly from the beach to a starlit reception. With deluxe accommodations on-site, your wedding becomes a multi-day retreat for your closest family and friends. Choosing Dream Bay is choosing more than a venue; it's choosing a private piece of Key Largo's famous beauty to begin your forever.

Book your stay at Dream Bay Resort today! The tropical views (and your adventure of a lifetime) are waiting. Looking for inspiration or advice? Explore Dream Bay Resort as your ultimate proposal and wedding venue, and start planning this incredible chapter of your story. Contact Dream Bay Resort for more information. Featuring breathtaking sunsets, private accommodations, and personalized touches, we are here to help make your destination wedding truly unique.

From proposing at the water’s edge to enjoying the beauty of Key Largo, your wedding will be one to remember when you choose our Florida Keys Resort wedding venue. We invite you and your fiancé to visit Dream Bay Resort for a wedding venue tour or call us to inquire about pricing and availability.

Whether you’re planning a grand wedding, intimate ceremony, micro wedding, elopement, weekday celebration, or a full resort buyout for the ultimate private experience, we are here to accommodate your vision. For additional wedding inspiration, follow us on Facebook and Instagram. We look forward to helping you plan the wedding of your dreams. Fill out our contact form to learn more. Here’s to a beautiful celebration and a lifetime of love and happiness! 🌴💍

What is Key Largo Known For?