North Beach derives its descriptive geographic name indicating its position on the northern shores of Key Largo in Monroe County, specifically within the North Key Largo area occupying the northernmost 13 miles of the island. Key Largo, named Cayo Largo ('long islet') by Spanish explorers and earlier labeled Caio des 12 Leguas by Dutch cartographer Johannes Vingboons in 1639, developed from exposed fossilized coral reef formed during periods of higher sea level. When Europeans arrived in the 16th century, the area remained uninhabited or sparsely inhabited by Calusa and Tequesta peoples, with Dutch surveyor Bernard Romans reporting in 1770 that the region was uninhabited though evidence showed occasional indigenous visits. By 1858 following the Third Seminole War's end, United States government control was established though the area remained largely unpopulated. North Key Largo includes Ocean Reef Club and Key Largo Anglers Club, accessed from the mainland via Card Sound Bridge. Environmental organizations throughout the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s fought development plans, resulting in government conservation purchases protecting portions of North Key Largo's natural habitats.
Beach access in North Key Largo occurs primarily through private clubs and conservation areas rather than traditional public beaches, as the limestone coral reef geology prevents natural sand beach formation characteristic of the Florida Keys. Swimming opportunities exist in protected coves and marina areas within the private Ocean Reef Club community. Snorkeling and scuba diving focus on the living coral reefs offshore rather than beach-based activities. Boating and fishing dominate recreational pursuits in North Key Largo's waters, with anglers targeting tarpon, bonefish, and permit in the shallow flats. Kayaking through mangrove channels reveals abundant wildlife including manatees, dolphins, and wading birds. The Card Sound Bridge provides scenic crossing from the mainland, offering panoramic views of Florida Bay. Conservation areas protect critical habitat for endangered species and provide limited nature observation opportunities along designated trails and boardwalks through tropical hardwood hammock and mangrove ecosystems.
Dining options in North Key Largo concentrate within the Ocean Reef Club private community and require traveling south to Key Largo proper along the Overseas Highway for public restaurant access. Sal's Ballyhoo's Historic Seafood Grille near Mile Marker 97.8 serves fresh local catches including yellowtail snapper, tuna, and mahimahi in a 1930s conch house setting. Caribbean Club at Mile Marker 104, opened in 1938 as the Upper Keys' oldest bar, provides waterfront drinking and dining from the Take Two food truck with Florida Bay sunset views. The isolated character of North Key Largo maintains limited commercial development, preserving the natural environment that environmental advocates protected from the subdivision and resort projects proposed during the 1970s development boom.
