Kona Kai two nights

Question

Trying to finalize plans for the Keys mostly where to stay as a home base for exploring. We will be traveling August 8th from Palm Beach and flying out off Miami the night of August 10th. Traveling as a couple with our 15 year old son. We are very active but also like to relax and our son is obsessed with fishing. We do want to make it out to Key West. But mostly spend time on the water, snorkel and paddling. Trying to decide between LaJolla or Kona Kai.

Answer

Both La Jolla and Kona Kai are excellent options for a base in the Florida Keys, but each has its unique offerings. Since you’re an active couple with a fishing-enthusiastic son, and you want to explore the water, snorkel, and paddle, here’s a breakdown of what each location has to offer, helping you decide the best place to stay for your trip:

Kona Kai Resort & Gallery (Key Largo):
Kona Kai is a great option for those looking to experience both relaxation and water activities. Located in Key Largo, it is the first island in the Keys, which makes it very accessible if you're coming from Palm Beach. This resort offers a quieter, more intimate setting with its beautiful waterfront location. You’ll have access to:
- Fishing: Since your son is obsessed with fishing, Kona Kai offers great opportunities for fishing directly from the property or via nearby charter services. Key Largo is famous for its excellent fishing spots, including some great offshore and backcountry options.
- Snorkeling and Paddleboarding: The resort is ideally situated for water sports, with easy access to the Florida Bay and John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, which is one of the best places for snorkeling in the Keys. They also offer kayaking and paddleboarding, so you can easily explore the waters.
- Relaxation: Kona Kai’s serene atmosphere, combined with art galleries and a laid-back vibe, makes it perfect for winding down after a day of activities.
La Jolla (Islamorada):
La Jolla in Islamorada offers a slightly different vibe with a focus on luxury and more resort-style amenities. Islamorada is often referred to as the “Sportfishing Capital of the World,” making it a prime destination for your son’s fishing interests. Here’s what La Jolla has to offer:
- Fishing and Watersports: Islamorada is known for some of the best fishing in the world. From sport fishing to shallow water flats fishing, there are many fishing charters available. Your son will love the access to world-class fishing opportunities right from the area.
- Luxury Amenities: La Jolla provides a more luxurious stay with higher-end accommodations, so if you're looking for a bit more comfort after your activities, it could be the better choice. Many of the resorts here offer on-site dining, pools, and private beach access.
- Snorkeling and Paddleboarding: Islamorada also has fantastic snorkeling spots, such as those around the Alligator Reef Lighthouse. If you prefer quieter waters for paddleboarding, the Florida Bay in Islamorada provides peaceful conditions.
- Proximity to Key West: If making it to Key West is a priority, La Jolla is about an hour and a half drive from the southernmost point of the Keys, so it’s a good location to make a day trip out to Key West.

In terms of your itinerary, if you're mainly looking for an intimate, active yet relaxed atmosphere with lots of opportunities for fishing and watersports, Kona Kai would be a great choice. If you’re after a more upscale experience with luxury accommodations and the chance to enjoy some of the Keys' best fishing and diving, La Jolla would be a fantastic base.

Since you’re planning to explore Key West, staying in Key Largo (Kona Kai) may give you a bit more flexibility with your travel time, as it’s a shorter drive to Key West compared to staying further south in Islamorada. However, if you’re looking for a more luxurious, resort-style stay with a variety of dining options, La Jolla may be more appealing.

Both locations offer fantastic access to the water and a great balance of adventure and relaxation, so either way, you’re sure to have an unforgettable time in the Keys!

Kona Kai two nights

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