The Florida Keys are known as a tropical paradise with their white sand beaches and beautiful turquoise waters. This southernmost area of Florida is also known for fun adventures and exciting activities. If you’re looking for fun in the sun and outdoor adventure, then the Florida Keys are the perfect destination for you.
Get to Know the Best of the Florida Keys
Exciting stops offer fine dining, state parks, beautiful beaches and live entertainment. Use this guide for the best stops in the Florida Keys to help plan your Keys adventure filled with fun in the sun!
The Florida Keys are a special blend of relaxation and beauty that will fill your soul with happiness. These best stops in the Florida Keys will provide you with adventure, relaxation and tranquility that will make your tropical dreams come true.
Key Largo
As one of the most famed destinations in the area, Key Largo is the perfect tropical paradise. If you want an escape from hectic city life and you’re interested in diving and snorkeling then Key Largo is the perfect stop for you. Not only will you get amazing views of the coral reef and tropical fish but you can also see the Christ Of The Abyss statue in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Key Largo is famous for its marinas, tackle shops and of course, all the amazing diving opportunities. Another great option on this famous Key is swimming or sunbathing under the swaying palm trees at Harry Harris Park And Beach.
Don’t Miss on Key Largo
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park – 102601 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037 – $8 per vehicle + $.50 per person – John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is one of a kind and offers visitors a breathtaking glimpse into the underwater world of the Keys. Encompassing an impressive 70 nautical square miles, take a glass bottom boat tour or for a closer look consider diving or snorkeling. This state park is a place of clear blue water, where fish swim and lobsters crawl while you marvel at the colorful organisms that make up this impressive coral reef. Dive or snorkel to see the famous Christ Of The Abyss, an 8.5 foot bronze statue of Jesus that is 25 feet below.
African Queen Canal Cruise – 99701 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, FL 33037 – Adults (13+) – $59 Children (4-12) – $25 Under 3 – Free – Made famous by the 1951 movie starring Humphrey Bogart and Katherine Hepburn the African Queen remains a timeless classic today. The famous steamboat is available for canal cruises in the Port Largo canal. The newly restored African Queen takes about 1.5 hours to cruise the canal to the Atlantic ocean and back again.
Islamorada
Islamorada is a beautiful stop that covers 6 of the reef islands of the Florida Keys. A place where you can have up close encounters with dolphins and view a real treasure chest from the 16th century at the History Of Diving Museum. Head to Windley Key Fossil Geological Park for a nature walk and to see the fossilized coral reef. Or shop at one of the many fun and quirky shops around Rain Barrel Village. If you’re interested in marine life then the Theater Of The Sea is a must visit while on Islamorada. Here they offer all kinds of interactive exhibits including swimming with dolphins and meeting sea turtles.
Don’t Miss on Islamorada
Theater Of The Sea – 84721 Overseas Highway, Islamorads, FL 33036 – Adults (11+) – $44.95 Seniors (65+) – $40.46 – Children (3-10) – $29.95 – The Theater Of The Sea lagoons and lush gardens are home to dolphins, sea lions, sea turtles, sharks, stingrays, alligators and birds. The general admission tickets will get you up close with dolphins, sea lions and parrot shows. You can also take a glass bottom boat ride or enjoy the lagoon side beach. Take a fish or reptile tour to see tropical fish, sharks, sea turtles and alligators. The animal encounters include swimming with dolphins, meeting sea lions and swimming with sharks or stingrays.
History of Diving Museum – 82990 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, FL 33036 – Adults – $15 Seniors (62+) – $13 Children (6-11) – $7 Under 5 – Free – This museum is dedicated to the preservation, exhibition and education on the history of diving, and focuses specifically on the Keys and their contributions. They have an impressive collection of artifacts, antiques, books, documents and photographs. You can even see a true buried treasure from the 16th century at the History Of Diving Museum. You won’t want to miss the collection of diving helmets or a visit to the gift shop.
Robbie’s Marina – 77522 Overseas Highway, Islamorada, FL 33036 – Robbie’s Marina has been voted the #1 place in the Keys that visitors shouldn’t miss. This marina is home to the world famous tarpon feeding.
Marathon
If you feel like exploring, Marathon is a great stop on your Florida Keys journey. The city encompasses an impressive 13 small Key islands and has a more urban feel then some of the other spots. While it may be a bit more urban, you’ll still have an incredible amount of outdoor activity options including beaches, barrier reefs, spotting loggerhead turtles and a Natural History Museum. Visit the Turtle Hospital for a unique opportunity to learn about the process of rehabilitating injured sea turtles. Marathon is also known as the sport fishing center of the Middle Keys, for the full experience arrange a charter for deep sea or reef fishing. It’s also the starting point for walking the Seven Mile Bridge if you are wanting to stretch your sea legs a bit.
Don’t Miss on Marathon
The Turtle Hospital – 2369 Overseas Highway, Marathon, FL 33050 – Adults – $30 Children (4-6) – $15 Under 4 – Free – Reservations Recommended – This non-profit organization is dedicated to the rehabilitation of endangered sea turtles and runs on donations and funds from visitors. This is a working hospital so you must be on a guided tour in order to visit with the turtles. All of the efforts of the hospital are to release these beautiful endangered turtles back in the wild after they are rehabilitated. And you can learn how they do that by visiting the Turtle Hospital in Marathon.
Key West
Key West is by far the most popular spot in the Florida Keys and for good reason! There are so many things to do in the beautiful and tropical paradise that is Key West. Visit Duval Street for museums, souvenir shops, galleries and cafes. This lively street is also home to some of Key West’s best historical attractions including the Ernest Hemingway Home And Museum, Strand Theater and the Southernmost House. Check out Mallory Square and lively Old Town Key West for the nightly sunset celebration. Where entertainers and vendors gather to create a festive atmosphere for visitors enjoying the iconic Key West sunsets. Or visit the beautiful Key West Butterfly And Nature Conservancy that provides the unique opportunity to mingle with 60 species of stunning butterflies.
Don’t Miss on Key West
Ernest Hemingway House And Museum – 907 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL 33040 – Adults – $17 Children (6-12) – $7 Under 5 – Free – Cash Only – Walk in the path of the legendary author Ernest Hemingway by visiting his home and museum in Key West. Take a 20 to 30 minute tour and then have full access to the home, gardens and museum to wander at your own pace. This is also the home of about 60 polydactyl (6 toed) cats. Polydactyl cats held a special place in the author’s heart as he was gifted a 6 toed cat named Snow White. Hemingway named all of his cats after famous people.
Key West Butterfly And Nature Sanctuary – 1316 Duval Street, Key West, FL 33040 – Adult – $15 Locals – $13 – Seniors (65+) – $12 Children (4-12) – $11 Under 3 – Free – Enter the magical world of butterflies and relax as you stroll through the tropical paradise of the Key West Butterfly And Nature Sanctuary. Walk through the mystical environment filled with hundreds of butterflies, including 50 to 60 different species. You’ll also see an impressive array of tropical plants, colorful birds and cascading waterfalls as you are transported to another world.
Duval Street – Key West – One of the most popular destinations in Key West, Duval Street, is the heart of the island. Although it’s only a mile in length, you’ll find a diverse array of restaurants, shops, nightlife and world famous pubs. See live music at The Green Parrot, pet a shark at the Key West Aquarium or take an Old Key West Trolly Tour. You won’t run out of things to do or entertainment options on Duval Street.
Southernmost Point – Whitehead Street + South Street, Key West, FL 33040 – What you’ll find at the Southernmost Point is the iconic colorful buoy and some of the most spectacular sunsets you’ve ever seen. The buoy marks the southernmost point in the continental United States. This is a great photo op to remember your time spent in the Florida Keys. Keep in mind that this is a very popular photo op and you will most likely have to wait in line to take your photo.
Big Pine Key
You’ll find that Big Pine Key, located about 30 miles north of Key West, is perfect for those who love nature. This Key is full of relaxing water activities such as boating, fishing, scuba diving and snorkeling. You’ll also find some of the best and freshest seafood on Big Pine Key. The major attraction here is the beautiful Bahia Honda State Park, which is known for having the nicest and most beautiful beaches in the entire Sunshine State. The park covers 400 acres and offers snorkeling, boat tours, beach equipment rentals and concessions for your convenience. Visit the National Key Deer Refuge where you’ll get to see this miniature species of deer thrive. Check out the Blue Water Hole, a freshwater pond located in a former quarry if you are interested in spotting alligators and turtles.
Don’t Miss on Big Pine Key
Looe Key Marine Sanctuary – Big Pine Key – By visiting one of Big Pine Keys’ grooves and spur reefs at Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary you’ll escape into the underwater world of the Florida Keys. This reef got its name from the HMS Looe which ran aground in 1744. With its interesting history and diverse depths Looe Key is an excellent scuba and snorkeling adventure for people of all skill levels. The water clarity here will leave you stunned as you take in over 150 species of fish including yellowtail, parrotfish, barracuda and moray eels. If you’re lucky you may even spot sharks and stingrays.
Bahia Honda State Park – 36850 Overseas Highway, Big Pine Key, FL 33043 – $8 per vehicle – At Bahia Honda State Park you’ll find ionic Florida scenery including palm tree lined beaches, beautiful gin clear waters and awe inspiring sunsets. Rent a kayak to explore at your own pace or take a boat trip to the park’s reef for snorkeling excursions. Nature lovers will appreciate the island’s plants and animals, including wading and shore birds.
National Key Deer Refuge – 30587 Overseas Highway, Big Pine Key, FL 33043 – Key Deer are unique to the lower Florida Keys and this refuge was established in 1957 to both protect and preserve this endangered species. But this refuge is unique because it also protects other endangered species including butterflies, marsh rabbits and several bird species. Visitors to the refuge can take part in wildlife viewing, fishing and checking out the Visitor’s Center. Visit the Blue Hole, a freshwater pond located in a former quarry if you are interested in spotting alligators and turtles.
Dry Tortugas
Located in Homestead, Florida you’ll discover Dry Tortugas National Park roughly 70 miles from Key West. The park is only accessible by boat or seaplane and is one of the most underrated National Parks in the United States. This archipelago of 7 small islands is also home to Fort Jefferson, a gigantic fortification that takes up the entirety of one of the small islands. This National Park is a favorite among divers and snorkelers for both its spectacular coral reef, as well as enormous shipwrecks to explore. For the best snorkeling spots make sure to stop at Historic Coaling Pier or Garden Key’s Coral Head. For those with their own boat be sure to explore Loggerhead Key’s Little Africa Reef and the Windjammer Wreck.
Don’t Miss on Dry Tortugas
Dry Tortugas National Park – 40001 SR-9336, Homestead, FL 33034 – $15 per person for 7 consecutive days – Almost 70 miles west of Key West is the remote Dry Tortugas National Park. The park is 100 square miles of mostly open water and is comprised of 7 small islands. You’ll need to take a boat or a seaplane to get to these remote islands. Ferry tickets are included in the park entrance fee, but seaplanes will charge the entrance fee upon arrival at the island. Dry Tortugas is known for its beautiful blue waters, Fort Jefferson, stunning coral reef and awe inspiring marine life. You can also camp at Dry Tortugas to get the full experience.
Bahia Honda Key
This small island in the Florida Keys is known for Bahia Honda State Park, which contains the gorgeous Calusa Beach. The state park encompassing over 500 acres offers some of the best snorkeling and beach combing in all of Florida. If you are looking for a quiet and secluded family getaway then Bahia Honda Key is perfect for you. The palm lined beaches, gin clear water and awe inspiring sunsets will have you relaxed in no time. If you’re looking for a bit of adventure try chartering a boat trip to the reef for a snorkeling excursion. Or rent a kayak, paddle board or snorkeling gear to explore at your own pace.
Long Key
Long Key is a tranquil haven for swimming, kayaking, bird watching or simply relaxing on beautiful shorelines. Enjoy Long Key State Park where you can hike, kayak, snorkel, fish or have a relaxing picnic on the beach. The 2 hiking trails within the park will give you a chance for close up encounters with plants and the animals that call the Keys home. You can bring your own kayak or rent one from the Ranger station to paddle along the beautiful shorelines and see a wide variety of wildlife. You can also camp in Long Key State Park, where you’ll get to experience oceanfront camping at its finest. The views of the turquoise water of the keys will feel like a dream.
Don’t Miss on Long Key
Long Key State Park – 64700 Overseas Highway, Layton, FL 33001 – 1 person – $4.50 – 2+ people – $5.50 / $.50 per additional person – Long Key was historically a favorite of the rich and well-to-do, but now serves as a tranquil haven for everyone. Nature enthusiasts can kayak, hike, snorkel and fish at this beautiful state park. Take a hike on one of the 2 nature trails in the park where you can explore a variety of plant and animal life.
Little Torch Key
This lush island gets its name from the torchwood tree and was a frequent fishing destination of President Truman. This Key has a back country feel that is perfect for those looking to kayak and fish. If you’re looking for a bit of adventure try exploring the colorful coral reef at Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary. Explore the downtown area in search of museums and boutiques or that next delicious meal. Little Torch Key is also home to one of the best luxury resorts in all of the Keys – Little Palm Island Resort And Spa.
Grassy Key
In the Middle Keys you’ll find Grassy Key, one of the lesser known islands. It’s located between Marathon and Islamorada, and is a very laid back and relaxed island. Here you can rent a boat for fishing, snorkeling and you are only a short drive or boat ride from Marathon. Stop by the Dolphin Research Center where they rescue and rehabilitate dolphins. This nonprofit center offers many programs including swimming with the rehabilitated dolphins. Make sure to catch a technicolor sunset from the beautiful shoreline of Grassy Key.
Best Tips For Traveling The Florida Keys
The Florida Keys offer beautiful beaches and outdoor adventures galore. This 125 mile long archipelago has so much to offer that your journey traveling the Florida Keys is sure to be magical. There are so many options for destinations and things to do that you may be feeling overwhelmed. Every few miles there is a discovery to be made whether it be a traditional island tiki bar, a fish shack or a beautiful beach resort. These best tips for traveling the Florida Keys are here to help!
Best Times To Visit The Florida Keys
Peak tourist season in the Keys begins in late December and lasts through May. But the subtropical climate means that the Florida Keys experience balmy temperatures year round. The summer months bring warmer weather that usually makes the crowds disperse and the hotel rates drop significantly.
Atlantic hurricane season is something to consider when planning a trip to the Keys. Hurricane season begins in June and ends in November. Visiting Florida during this time can be risky, keep in mind that peak hurricane months are August through October.
Things to Know About the Florida Keys
The Florida Keys begin just south of Miami and are a collection of 1,700 islands spanning 125 miles. The islands are linked by 42 bridges over the Atlantic Ocean, Gulf of Mexico and Florida Bay. The Keys are divided into 5 major regions: Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, Big Pine Key, the Lower Keys and Key West.
How to Get to the Florida Keys
Flying – Flying is by far the fastest way to get to the Florida Keys. Flying from the closest airport in Florida is the best idea, these include Tampa, Fort Lauderdale and Miami.
Driving – Driving gives you the distinct advantage of being able to stop at will during your time in the Keys. There is only one road that links the islands, the Florida Keys Overseas Highway, sometimes referred to as the Highway That Goes to the Sea. The highway includes 42 bridges that cross the ocean between islands. It is common for hotels, restaurants and other sites to peg the location closest to an Overseas Highway mile marker as their location. The drive from Miami to Key West generally takes 4 hours with no stops.
Where to Stay on the Florida Keys
Key West
As the most popular destinations in the Keys, of course, Key West is one of the best places to stay. In terms of nightlife, shopping and restaurants you’ll be hard pressed to find a better spot than Duval Street. Accommodations in Key West have the added benefit of having ocean views thanks to it being the southernmost point in the United States.
Margaritaville Key West Resort – 245 Front Street
Located in Oldtown Key West, just minutes from Mallory Square, you’ll love the ocean views at the Margaritaville. This upscale resort is fun and friendly with spacious rooms that offer balconies complete with amazing views of the ocean. The fun open air bar and outdoor pool are perfect for days spent relaxing in Key West.
Southernmost Best Resort – 1319 Duval Street
This resort is a short walk from the fun and lively Duval Street, which is full of shops and restaurants. Southernmost Beach Resort features colonial architecture with a modern coastal flair. Here you can enjoy a private beach and pier, lawn games, and a delicious onsite restaurant.
Truman Hotell – 611 Truman Avenue
The bold and modern rooms at the Truman Hotel provide spacious digs for any budget. Complete with a picturesque poolside shaded by swaying palm trees. While some rooms feature balconies, others have lounges for relaxing in comfort during your stay. A complimentary continental breakfast is offered each morning and the iconic Ernest Hemingway House is just a 3 minute walk from the hotel.
Key Largo
Playa Largo Resort – 97450 Overseas Highway
Just a short 1 hour drive from Miami you’ll discover the beautiful luxury resort, Playa Largo. Sitting on an expansive 14 acres, the resort features spacious rooms with balconies and beach inspired decor. This is a great resort for families and the amenities even include a kids club. The resort also offers dining options and sunset sailing charters.
Hampton Inn Key Largo – 102400 Overseas Highway
At the Hampton Inn Key Largo you’ll find comfortable and clean rooms in a low key setting that’s great for those looking to relax. Certain rooms have ocean views, and you’re sure to appreciate the relaxing tropical vibes at this hotel. Hampton Inn Key Largo features a small beach where you can sunbathe under palm trees, as well as an outdoor pool. The hotel is just 5 minutes from the gorgeous Dolphin Cove.
Atlantic Bay Resort – 527 Caribbean Drive
This budget friendly option is located on Key Largo’s largest deep sea marina. Rooms are comfortable, spacious and offer amenities such as coffee makers and mini refrigerators. If you want a balcony with beautiful marina views make sure to book a suite. For your convenience, you can pay for overnight boat dockage at the marina if you are arriving by boat.
Islamorada
Cheeca Lodge And Spa – 81801 Overseas Highway
This popular luxury resort, Cheeca Lodge and Spa, has hosted U.S. Presidents and celebrities among their guests. This family friendly resort is home to white sand beaches, a nine hole golf course, and a fishing pier, and this resort has something for everyone. The amenities here include a kids club, 3 swimming pools, and 4 tennis courts.
La Siesta Resort And Marina – 80241 Overseas Highway
A great family resort, La Siesta is an easy-going and comfortable hotel. The resort consists entirely of suites so there will be plenty of room for the whole family. A bonus is that kayaks, bike rentals and fishing rods are all included in your nightly fee. Its close proximity to the Overseas Highway makes it perfect for those who are road tripping through the Florida Keys.
Marathon
Isla Bella Beach Resort – 1 Knights Key Boulevard – MM 47
This modern-lux resort is perfect for adults and couples and is a fairly new addition to the Florida Keys beach resort scene. Thanks to clever design, all of the rooms and suites have ocean views for you to enjoy those gorgeous technicolor Keys sunsets. On site amenities include a beautiful beach bar, exceptional dining, 5 swimming pools and a private marina.
Tranquil Bay Beachfront Resort – 2600 Overseas Highway
The classic decor at Tranquil Bay will have you feeling relaxed and at home immediately. These simple yet opulent rooms are cozy and perfect for down time in between adventures in Marathon. Tranquil Bay also offers the option of a 2 or 3 bedroom beach house, which is perfect for those traveling in large groups or with larger families.
Captain Pip’s Marina And Hideaway – 1480 Overseas Highway
Set along Florida Bay, this down to earth hideaway is only 3 miles from the Seven Mile Bridge. These low key rooms offer wifi, flatscreen tv’s and coffeemakers. You can easily hit the water by renting a boat or booking a snorkeling trip at Captain Pip’s Hideaway.
Big Pine Key
Looe Key Reef Resort And Dive Center – 27340 Overseas Highway
If you are in the Keys to dive then you won’t find better accommodations then the Looe Key Reef Resort. As a true Florida Keys scuba diving and snorkeling hotel they are equipped with a dive shop, boats and pools for all of the water lovers. There are also daily scuba diving trips to Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary. The comfortable and clean rooms are decorated with an ocean theme and have free wifi. After a fun day of diving check out the onsite Looe Key Tiki Bar And Grill for food, drinks and live entertainment.
The Barnacle Bed And Breakfast – 1557 Long Beach Drive
This laid back bed and breakfast has comfortable rooms with an island flair. Your stay comes with free kayak and bike rentals making it easy to explore the laid back, Big Pine Key. The bnb also has its own private beach, tiki hut and plenty of bbq areas. You’ll appreciate the relaxing atmosphere after full days of exploring in the Keys.
Little Torch Key
Little Palm Island Resort – 28500 Overseas Highway
The perfect getaway resort for adults and couples can be found on Little Torch Key. The Little Palm Resort is an all inclusive property that features just 30 luxury bungalows. If you are looking to get away from it all then this is the resort for you. Cell phones are not permitted in public areas and there are no tv’s in the bungalows. Amenities include a spa, fine dining restaurant, and a posh pool.
Parmer’s Resort – 565 Barry Avenue
This unique collection of cottages, suites, studios and rooms is spread out over 5 acres on relaxed Little Torch Key. You can choose from basic hotel accommodations or well equipped multi-room rentals. The resort has a beautiful 90 foot beach where you can kayak, paddle board or rent or charter a boat. The resort also has an outdoor heated pool perfect for relaxing and offers seaside yoga.
Best Restaurants of the Florida Keys
Classic dishes in the Keys reflect the island’s close proximity to Caribbean culture. Favorite dishes include spicy conch chowder, Cuban classics and Key Lime Pie. Being surrounded by water the Keys have amazing fresh seafood including lobster, yellowtail, grouper, snapper and mahi mahi.
Key Largo – Alabama Jack’s – 58000 Card Sound Road
Alabama Jack’s has been a Key Largo staple since the 1950s. This is widely known as one of Florida’s best fish shacks, this open air restaurant is built right over the water. This casual lunch destination is known for their conch fritters, so make sure to try them!
Islamorada – Hungry Tarpon Restaurant – 77522 Overseas Highway
The Hungry Tarpon is located on Robbie’s Marina, where you can feed the actual hungry tarpon. Breakfast is served daily as early as 6:30 am for those early birds. Both lunch and dinner are seafood forward and signature dishes include fish tacos, cracked conch and lobster frittata. You can also have the chef prepare your catch after a day of fishing in Islamorada.
Marathon – Island Fish Company – 12648 Overseas Highway
This classic waterside tiki bar and fresh seafood combo is one of Marathon’s best restaurants. Get stunning ocean views as you enjoy the outdoor seating of Island Fish Company. Try Happy Hour complete with frozen cocktails or a raw seafood dinner featuring favorites like crab claws, fish dip and Caribbean specials.
Big Pine Key – No Name Pub – 30813 Watson Blvd.
While this pub may have no name, its got a larger than life reputation. This eclectic pub is eccentric and loaded with money, literally. Visitor’s contribute $1 to the interior to leave their mark on the No Name Pub. They have typical pub fare with large portions that are great for sharing. Try the seafood plates or bbq pork sandwich. At this bait and tackle shop turned pub it’s all about atmosphere.
Key West – Hogfish Bar and Grill – 6810 Front Street
Renowned as one of the best restaurants in Key West, Hogfish is a favorite of locals and visitors alike. The panoramic waterfront views, outdoor dining, amazing seafood and strong drinks serve up a winning combo. The food is a great mix of fresh seafood and Mexican flavors. Try the house special, fried hogfish served with fresh cuban bread.
Visit the Florida Keys
No matter which island or accommodations you choose, the Florida Keys will treat you well! Pack your bags and get ready to experience the white sand beaches, tranquil turquoise waters and epic sunsets in the Keys.
The natural beauty of the Florida Keys has been enticing travelers to visit the island chain for generations. What’s not to love?
You’ll find that the Keys have a laid back culture all to themselves and that during your stay here you’ll adapt to island time. There are a stunning 1,700 islands that make up the magical Florida Keys. What are you waiting for? Pack your bags and use this guide to the Florida Keys to book your trip.
The Florida Keys are a taste of tropical paradise right in the United States. The Keys are famous for their sugary white sand beaches, beautiful coral reefs and laid back island vibes. To make your tropical dreams a reality visit the island chain and enjoy all of the amazing experiences that the Keys have to offer. This list of the best things to do in the Florida Keys will help you to make the most of your time in this tropical paradise.
The Florida Keys are a wonderful mixture of fun and nature that will have you wanting to return every year. There are so many things to do that this list barely scratches the surface, but it is a great start for planning your Florida Keys vacation.
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