John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

KEY LARGO. If the constant urban buzz wears thin, this park makes an ideal escape. About two hours south of Miami, it was founded in 1963 as the country's first underwater preserve. At the visitor center, immerse yourself in the area's ecology and natural history, and check out the 30,000-gallon saltwater aquarium. For a closer look at the reef and its inhabitants, opt for snorkeling, scuba diving or glass-bottom boat tours. Other diversions include fishing, swimming and camping.