Alex is the author of the travel books A Long Weekend in Ulaanbaatar and Running the Milk. Between writing, he currently splits his time between the UK & U.S. expanding his knowledge of city escapes, small town USA and regional differences whilst researching his next books.
113 swampy mangrove islands stretch from bustling Miami to the southernmost point of the continental United States. Together, they make up one of continent’s most unique and diverse ecosystems. From Key Largo in the north to Key West in the south, every one of these islands is special in its own way.
In a bizarre stunt, on April 23, 1982, Key West’s mayor declared the city an independent micronation. Dubbing it the Conch Republic, he struck a U.S. naval officer on the head with a stale loaf of bread, in doing so waging war with the U.S. In what may be considered the world’s shortest war, one minute later he surrendered and demanded Washington pay the city – or nation – $1 trillion in foreign aid.
Conch (or sea snail) shells are in found all over the Florida Keys (Credit: Javardh)
This is just one example of the weird and wonderful which set the Keys apart from mainland Florida, and even more so, the rest of the U.S. From wildlife to Caribbean-like beaches, Cuban delicacies to American comfort food and Spring Break raves to blissfully peaceful boat rides, the Florida Keys really do have it all.
But, running 110-miles along the Atlantic Ocean, the pressing question is which key to visit. The two largest, and most popular with travelers, are Key West and Key Largo. As we run through the pros and cons for both, you can decide who wins the age-old Key West vs Key Largo battle.
It goes without saying that the only honest answer to the Key West vs Key Largo question is that you should visit them both. We know only too well, though, that time is the biggest luxury and sometimes, you just can’t do it all.
Just 93-miles north of Cuba, Key West is home to the southernmost point of the U.S. (Credit: Jametlene Reskp)
We’ll look at the ease of access, accommodation, food scene and things to do to help you decide which of the Florida Keys is right for you.
Getting There
Key West
At the very end of the Florida Keys, Key West is the furthest from Miami and some 98-miles beyond Key Largo. Despite this, it’s actually the quickest key to reach from the U.S. mainland. This is thanks to Key West International Airport (EYW). With frequent services from all the major U.S. hubs, you can reach Key West with just one connection from anywhere with direct flights to the U.S.
The views on departure from Key West are breath-taking (Credit: Alex Johnson)
If you prefer to travel overland, U.S. Highway 1 runs the length of the Keys from Miami to Key West. The drive takes around four hours non-stop. Though with the views along the way, you’ll definitely want to make a pit stop or two. You’ll pass right through Key Largo, giving you the perfect opportunity to answer the Key West vs Key Largo question for yourself.
Travel Tip: Around holidays, especially Spring Break, traffic can be horrendous. Journey times will be much longer, so plan a few stops and make a day of it.
The drive from Miami to Key West is a scenic one (Credit: Chase Baker)
For those who prefer to leave the driving to someone else, it is possible to reach Key West by bus. Flixbus and Greyhound offer several daily departures from Miami. If you’re pushed for time, consider taking this day trip from Miami. It’s a long day, but you’ll enjoy six hours to explore the Conch Republic without the expense of a hotel.
Key Largo
Just 60-miles from Downtown Miami, Key Largo is the closest key to the mainland. Traffic dependent, the drive time is between 90 minutes and two hours. Until you reach Florida City, the drive is mostly along suburban highways. Once you break out of the city, though, the views won’t disappoint.
There’s no airport in Key Largo; the only public transport option is the bus. These depart three times daily from Miami Intermodal Station, near Miami International. Currently, the only organized day trip option from Miami is a luxurious private tour. It’s worth keeping your eyes peeled though, as group trips often run during the summer months.
Buses between Miami and Key West make a stop in Key Largo (Credit: Alex Johnson)
Places to Stay
Key West
On the face of it, this aspect of the Key West vs Key Largo question is the easiest to answer. Key West has more hotels than you can shake a stick at. From backpackers hostels and motels to adults-only guesthouses and five-star resorts, whatever your style, you’ll find it in Key West.
One thing Key West is lacking in the hotel department is value. Popular year-round, despite the abundance of accommodation, hotel rooms rarely sit empty. If possible, have some flexibility around dates and avoid major holidays and peak season to get the best deals.
Travel tip: If you’re set on visiting during Spring Break, book well in advance. Demand and prices will be sky-high.
Where to stay in Key West
Despite being a small island, Key West is surprisingly spread out. Downtown Key West, around Duval Street, is the place to stay to be in the heart of the action. Although the prices tend to be highest here, you’ll save time and the expense of taxis. For the ultimate bargains, if such a thing exists in the Conch Republic, the area around the airport and Poinciana Plaza is the place to look.
Duval House is a sanctuary amidst the hustle and bustle of Duval Street (Credit: Alex Johnson)
My all time Duval Street favorite is Duval House. A relaxed, family-run guesthouse, it’s the epitome of an urban oasis. The beautifully landscaped gardens, complete with outdoor pool, are the perfect place to relax after a hard day’s exploring. For a little bit of luxury, check out the U.S. southernmost hotel. The Mansion on the Sea has stunning ocean views, luxurious rooms and an excellent cocktail bar.
If you’re on the hunt for bargains out of town, our top pick is Havana Cabana. This adults only spot comes with a lagoon-style outdoor pool complete with a pool bar. Their restaurant serves Cuban-inspired fayre, whilst the Havana-style Floridita food truck is ideal for light bites. Just across the bridge on Stock Island, Oceans Edge is perfect if you’re craving peace and solitude. This upscale resort comes with six restaurants and its own private marina.
Key Largo
At the other end of the scale, proving just why Key West vs Key Largo is such an important question, what Key Largo lacks in variety, it makes up for in value. Even more spread out than Key West, the best areas to stay here are around Atlantic Boulevard and Playa Largo.
Sunset Cove’s name speaks for itself (Source: Expedia)
Unequivocally the number one choice around Atlantic Boulevard is Sunset Cove. Sitting on a private sandy beach, this friendly resort has a relaxed, family-friendly vibe. Hit the waves with complimentary kayak and paddleboard rental, or cook up a treat in your own charcoal pit. Another excellent option, Marina Del Mar offers a great full-service alternative. Their marina views are unmatched, whilst the two on site restaurants serve up a taste of the Keys.
Playa Largo is ideal for escaping the hustle and bustle. Seafarer Key Largo is our top pick here. A friendly and welcoming, unpretentious beachfront hotel, it comes with a private beach and free breakfast every morning. If you’re craving the luxury the Florida Keys are famous for, Kona Kai Resort and Gallery won’t let you down. The price tag is hefty, though a fraction of Key West prices, but the views, solitude and unwavering service are worth every cent.
The Food Scene
Key West
With influences from American, Cuban and Caribbean cuisines, Key West’s food scene is as varied as they come. Whilst there’s no shortage of high-end restaurants, Key West also has street food aplenty. Don’t miss the fresh seafood at The Conch Shack. A ramshackle hut at the northern end of Duval Street, their shrimp, mahi mahi and conch are cooked in front of your eyes.
The Conch Shack’s Seafood Sampler is a Key West must (Credit: Alex Johnson)
Another Key West food highlight are the Sloppy Joes from Sloppy Joe’s Bar. The birthplace of the iconic ground beef sandwich, whenever you visit, you’ll have to fight off the crowds for a table. It’s well worth it though, and the live music sets in the evening are always a crowd pleaser. If you find yourself in need of a late night snack, Chubbs hot dog cart has been a Key West institution for decades.
Travel Tip: To try as many Key West favorites as possible, book your place on thisseafood-centric food tour. It comes with five tasters, plus insights from a local expert.
Come to Sloppy Joe’s for the sandwiches, stay for the music (Credit: Alex Johnson)
For a sit-down meal, Blue Heaven is long-time favorite with tourists and visitors alike. Chicken and cats roam free amongst the tables as you enjoy American-Caribbean fusion in the courtyard. For Cuban classics, head to unassuming El Siboney.
Tucked away in a traditional keys’ house on Catherine Street, this local’s hangout has a real family vibe. If you need a break from seafood, Smoked BBQ is the place to go. All smoked in house, their meats are infused with their signature rub. It’s highly addictive, but luckily they sell jars to take home.
Key Largo
As is becoming a theme in this Key West vs Key Largo battle, smaller Key Largo doesn’t have the choice of restaurants that Key West does, but with fewer visitors, it doesn’t need them. One things for sure, there’s no risk of going hungry whichever key you visit.
You don’t have to go to Key West for a slice of Key Lime Pie (Credit: A S)
With a heavy focus on classic Florida Keys cuisine, seafood rules the roost in Key Largo. This may not be the Conch Republic, but there’s conch galore at Key Largo Conch House. From conch salad to cracked conch, if it has conch in it, they have it. Another seafood hotspot, The Fish House doubles as a fish market.
If you want to stray away from frutti di mare, Mrs Mac’s Kitchen do a hot dog to rival any. Their open-faced sandwiches, dubbed saucers, are so filling you won’t want to eat for the rest of the day. To indulge your sweet tooth with a piece of Key’s culture, head to Blonde Giraffe Key Lime Pie Factory. This multi-award winning dessert shop is celebrated the length of the Keys.
Things To Do
Key West
Even if just to get that coveted photo with the southernmost point buoy, a visit to Key West is on many of our bucket lists. I’m not usually one for hyped-up tourist attractions, but ever since setting foot on the U.S.’s slightly chillier northernmost point, I knew I had to visit. It’s this which gives the city an instant lead in the Key West vs Key Largo debate. That said, despite it’s fame, the buoy isn’t at the southernmost point of the contiguous United States. That’s actually Whitehead Spit, half a mile further along the shore.
Whitehead Spit juts out into the Atlantic (Credit: Alex Johnson)
The Conch Republic has long been a place of pilgrimage for literary fans. Two of the cities most famous residents, Ernest Hemingway and Tennessee Williams penned some of their finest pieces here. Don’t miss a visit to the Hemingway Home and Museum. Today, its only inhabitants are the descendants of Ernest’s six-toed cat.
President Harry S. Truman spent the winters of his term in office in Key West. After his first year of presidency, his doctor ordered him to vacation in a warmer climate. From then on, he’d make twice yearly visits to the city, where he lived and worked at the Little White House. Today, with many of the furnishings from Truman’s years, it’s open for guided tours.
A statue in the Little White House commemorates Harry S. Truman (Credit: Alex Johnson)
As daylight fades, there’s no better way to round off a day in Key West than an ocean cruise. Head out on a sailboat to watch the sunset with music and drinks, whilst gazing back on the U.S.’s southernmost city.
Key Largo
When it comes to things to do, Key Largo is true to its small town self. There are no big name attractions or major landmarks, just unspoiled beauty. And plenty of it. If you want to be at one with nature, Key Largo is the island paradise for you.
Key Largo is home to some of the U.S.’s best diving and snorkelling spots (Source: Florida Keys)
When you’re not ambling along the miles of white, sandy beaches, take the plunge into the crystal clear oceans. Don a snorkel and get up close with the U.S.’s only tropical coral reef on a fully guided snorkelling trip. Don’t worry if it’s your first time, your guide will take care of you every step- or stroke- of the way.
To learn even more about this precious ecosystem, head out to sea on an eco boat tour. This small group cruise gives you the chance to have face-to-face encounters with dolphins and manatees as you experience the region’s diverse marine life first hand. For a more leisurely cruise, hop aboard a sunset boat ride.
The Final Verdict: Who Wins the Key West vs Key Largo Battle
Having seen the best both have to offer, the answer to the Key West vs Key Largo question is harder than ever to answer. In truth, it’s a matter of personal preference. Key West has the allure of a world-famous destination. Packed with great things to do, fantastic restaurants and an electric party vibe, there’s no such thing as a bad trip to Key West.
Even in busy Key West, finding a serene spot isn’t hard (Credit: Alex Johnson)
Key Largo, whilst smaller and quieter, has all the makings of an idyllic island escape. If you want to get away from it all, get up close with nature and admire some of the best beaches Florida has to offer, Key Largo is the key for you.
