9 Tips to Enjoy Bungalows Key Largo

Get away to Key Largo for sun, sand, surf and fun.

Past a sea of green wetland—and, literally, the sea—lies a string of over 1,700 islands making up the Florida Keys. While I’ve not spent much time in Florida at all, I know it can get a bad rap. But as soon as I laid eyes on the crystal clear Key Largo waters, I knew I had entered a pocket of paradise. 

My sanctuary for my first full-fledged trip to the Sunshine State? Bungalows Key Largo, an intimate exclusive resort situated on 11.5 waterfront acres at the northernmost part of the Keys (aka only an hour from Miami International Airport!). 

The all-inclusive adults-only (!) oasis boasts the perfect balance of laid-back leisure, natural exploration and fun-loving activities—all backdropped by palm trees, salty sea air and the Gulf of Mexico. Blending luxury and casual tropical vibes, it’s the ideal destination for a couples getaway, girls’ trip or even solo vacay if you’re really looking for an escape from the outside world. Here, nine takeaways and tips for a sun-soaked sojourn. 

All-Weather Oasis

BKL staff shared that the best times of year to visit are February through spring, and fall. But if you’re antsy to get away from the rare Carolina chill, I found December weather in the Keys to be quite pleasant, with highs reaching the low 80s—and nary a day of rain! And if it’s a bit nippy, there’s always the Jacuzzi. 

Sit & Stay

My main priority for any beach vacay is catching rays. And, luckily, BKL has ample ops for lazing the day away. Choose from the Jacuzzi/poolside loungers, waterfront beach chairs or cabanas, or cozy outdoor furniture on the docks. Want to skip the elements? There’s a dedicated lounge with a large TV and games for that.

Eat Your Heart Out

Huge all-inclusive perk: not having to fuss with reservations, fight over what restaurant to go to, hike blocks, or wait 15 minutes for an Uber just to venture out for a cup of coffee. BKL levels up with three palate-pleasing on-property restaurants grouped together. Sea Señor was my personal favorite for its outdoor beachfront seating and refreshing margs—and don’t sleep on the chips and queso. Fine dining steakhouse-esque Bogie & Bacall’s is also worth the splurge. And Fish Tales has got you covered for almost any hankering breakfast, lunch or dinner. 

Activities Galore

OK, fine, I will go vertical for a good activity—and the resort has inspo in spades. By day, catch a game of cornhole or two on the beach, or take out a stand-up paddleboard, water trike or kayak. Out on the water, don’t forget to look down for locally popular marine-life sightings like fish, stingrays and manatees. Then dance the night away via DJ and karaoke nights on the beach. 

Exploration Encouraged

While BKL has range for days, local spots like Snook’s Bayside Restaurant & Grand Tiki, Pilot House Restaurant & Marina, and Key Largo Conch House also beckon—with an on-site shuttle to chauffeur you anywhere up to 5 miles from the property.

Pinkies Up

When it comes to tropical tippling, all-inclusive means all-inclusive—and I rec you take full advantage of that. Belly up to the pool/beachside Tiki bar for tropical bevs and snacks (also a great spot for socializing), or head upstairs to Hemingway Bar for craft cocktails in a moody refined setting.

Sunset Splurge

Excursions are another big attraction, ranging from BYOB Tiki boats and private-chartered daytime scenic tours to half-day snorkel trips and an Everglades eco tour. My personal pref is the sunset catamaran cruise, complete with snacks, wine/beer and a gorgeous view of the sun dipping below the horizon. You may even get lucky with some dolphin sightings.

Cozy Accommodations

Do not disturb—on. Answering the cozy call, the lush garden bungalows are the move… enter the spacious yet quaint and private home away from home starring a private patio boasting an outdoor soaking tub, rain shower and lounge seating—not to mention two bikes for cruising around the property. Paradise found. Don’t text!

The Zen Is In

Doing nothing is completely encouraged, but you can also get off your asana at the fitness Tiki hut featuring free weights, treadmills, ellipticals, Pelotons and more. And, for the omies, there’s daily yoga on the beach—think hatha yoga, vinyasa fun flow or, for the early risers, a zero dark thirty gentle sunrise stretch.