As you drive south from Miami, the first area you encounter is Key Largo, the longest, largest and easternmost island of the Florida Keys chain. The Florida Keys are measured in terms of Mile Markers and Key Largo extends from MM 90 to MM 106. To the north lies Florida Bay and to the south are the Florida Straits and the Atlantic Ocean.
The first thing you'll notice is that there are no soft sand beaches. While mainland Florida has wide, sandy beaches, the Florida Keys has a living reef that extends its length, the only living reef in the continental United States.
Diving is BIG business in Key Largo and divers from all around the world are attracted to John Pennekamp Coral Reef Park, the first underwater park in the United States. Diving in Key Largo is easy, there are many outfitters offering lessons, dive equipment and half and full day packages.