Key Largo’s Newest Resort! 
Even event planners like myself need to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, and one of my favorite retreats is the Florida Keys. There’s nothing better than setting your watch (and mind) to island time! In the past, most of us would blow right past Key Largo, the first in the chain of Keys, and make a beeline to party-centric Key West or laidback Islamorada, but these days, Key Largo has become a destination in itself.
Just a little over 60 miles from Miami International Airport, Key Largo offers a quick getaway that feels like you’re a world away. There have been quite a few new hotels popping up in the Florida Keys over the last few years, and one of the notable new spots is the gorgeous Playa Largo Resort & Spa (a welcome sight since it’s been almost two decades since Key Largo saw a hotel refresh like this full-service resort). While the beachfront resort embraces the relaxed vibe that makes the Keys so special, it also brings a new level of luxury to the area boasting sparkling amenities like a spa, marina, modern hammocks on the beach for sunning, and multiple restaurants for foodies to enjoy. I’m always looking for new and different spots for clients to host an event — and this resort offers many different options with an impressive amount of indoor and outdoor function space. Choose from venues such as a glam ballroom fitted with opulent chandeliers or a private beach which offers striking bay views. Guests will feel right at home in one of the 154 rooms, suites and bungalows, or groups looking for extra luxury (and space) can spring for the Beach House, a huge mansion with a private beach.
No matter where you stay, there is so much to do in Key Largo. Known as the diving capital of the world, much of life there revolves around the water. You’ll have the chance to explore interesting dive sites like the Spiegel Grove Wreck or Molasses Reef on a dive charter, or you can snorkel the natural undersea beauty of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, which is most famous for its Christ of the Abyss statue. Choose your way of getting around during the day — from kayaks to paddleboards or even a glass bottom boat (if you don’t like getting wet, this is a great option to see what’s going on under the sea). You can even swim with dolphins or try your luck at fishing. Whatever you do, don’t miss the sunset. A sunset in the Florida Keys is spectacular and many places offer special happy hours with a front-row seat to the stunning show. I promise you’ll return to the mainland in a refreshed state of mind!
