My sisters and our families spent time in Key Largo, FL Dec 21-25, 2019. It was a wonderful way to spend time together, enjoy warm(er) weather and ease into Christmas and the New Year.
Mark, Keira and I almost didn't make our flight. Thank goodness Linh, Mai and their families got to the airport much earlier. Lines were really long, particularly at baggage drop-off. Fortunately, Linh was able to hold a place in line since we were using her luggage privileges for the flight. If it wasn't for that, I'm not sure we would've made it. It was a heart-pumping way to start our trip! We definitely underestimated the impact of holiday travel.
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| Security line after the long baggage line - it was a close call! |
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| Our flight captain, William |
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| In-flight entertainment really helps when traveling |
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| Having fun on the flight |
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| Stinkin' cutie-patootie |
We stayed at the Key Largo Bay Marriott Beach Resort which was about a 2-hour car ride from Miami International airport. It was nice, but the rooms could use some updating and TLC. The kids enjoyed the property which had a pool, small beach area, sand volleyball court, etc. There are a couple of restaurants on-site too, but we enjoyed eating off-property more.
Since our trip was over a month ago, I don't remember much. It's a fact of getting older - my memory isn't what it used to be.
Here are some highlights and recommendations with random thoughts sprinkled in.
*Weather - We were told the weather was unusually cool and wet, but I'm wondering how unusual that is. I wasn't impressed by the weather. That's for sure. It was generally warm-ish with temperatures in the mid-70's. I was disappointed in the gray skies and wind. Still, we had a couple of days nice enough to enjoy the pool and ocean. If you go in December, don't expect tropical climate. For that, stick to Hawaii or Mexico! But, we were on vacation, so I couldn't really complain.
*Restaurants - all of these had options for the kiddos who ranged in age from 2-12...Unless indicated, these were restaurants in Key Largo.
Doc's Diner - Local diner feel. Good food, very reasonable prices and large portions. I thought Midwest portions were big, but these were even bigger!
Mr. C's - Gourmet ice cream. I was drawn in by the "corn syrup" and "natural" gelato and ice cream. However, the gelato and ice cream were "okay" and the guy helping us (not sure if he was Mr. C) was rude and a little belligerent.
Flamingo Crossing - In Key West. Really yummy ice cream and fabulous service. I'd recommend this option if you're in Key West.
Pilot House - Yummy seafood. Located on the water. Make reservations - it gets busy.
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| Baby in the pool |
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| Sunset in Key West |
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| Turtle Hospital in Marathon |
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| The crew aboard the Pennenkamp glass bottom boat |
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| Riding with the top down |
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| Bahia Honda State Park beach |
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| Dinner at Pilot House |
*Things to do
Bahia Honda State Park - If the weather had been nicer, I would've liked to spend more time here. The kids really enjoyed it as it was the closest to a nice beach we could find.
Key West - I wish we had more time to explore Key West. It's definitely a busier tourist town than Key Largo, but it was still quite charming and had more shops and restaurants to explore. Don't bother trying to get a photo at the Southern Most Point because the lines are ridiculously line.
John Pennenkamp Glass Bottom Boat - While this activity pushed me outside of my comfort zone, I'd recommend for those that don't easily get seasick and want a cool view of the reefs and sea life without having to snorkel or go scuba diving. Definitely take some Dramamine, especially if the waters are choppy. Keira really enjoyed this experience and had no issues with being in open water.
Turtle Hospital - In Marathon. If you love sea turtles, this is a wonderful experience. This organization saves, rehabilitates and when possible, releases sea turtles back into the wild. Just make sure to reserve a date and time. Tours fill up quickly and they do not take walk-ins. It's about a 2-hour experience including educational and hands-on. You get to feed the turtles which is pretty fun.
