Travel Guide to the Florida Keys
Ra's Travel Guide to the Florida Keys
Turquoise blue waters that will have you thinking you're in the Caribbean; the ultimate travel guide to the Florida Keys.
Travel Guide to the Florida Keys- Key Highlights
- Explore Key Largo, the "Diving Capital of the World," and enjoy the pristine underwater wonders of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.
- Immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Old Town Key West, including a visit to Ernest Hemingway's former residence.
- Savor the iconic Key lime pie at renowned local eateries while crossing the scenic Seven Mile Bridge.
- Experience thrilling water activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and feeding tarpons at Islamorada.
- Discover the beauty of Dry Tortugas National Park and witness diverse marine life and historic Fort Jefferson.
- Enjoy the tranquility of Bahia Honda State Park and marvel at the Gulf of Mexico’s turquoise waters.
Introduction
The Florida Keys is a beautiful island group that stretches for 125 miles in the United States. It is a great place for a road trip you won’t forget. Picture yourself driving from the mainland through islands like Key Largo and Key West. Every stop has its own natural beauty and lively feel. The area along the Overseas Highway is perfect if you want time to relax. You can find outdoor fun, delicious food, or learn about the area’s past. Use this travel guide to the Florida Keys for ideas, things to do, and travel tips. It will help make the most of your trip.
Let’s take a look at what makes these islands in the Florida Keys so special.
The Florida Keys are full of history and culture. This group of islands, known for beautiful views and bright marine life, has a lot to offer. The islands stretch from Key Largo to Key West, where you can visit the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, the Key West Aquarium, and the Key West Nature Conservatory. People come here to see amazing coral reefs and take part in many outdoor activities. There is something for everyone, like walking in the lovely Old Town or stopping by famous places such as Hemingway’s home. With clear blue water everywhere and the famous Seven Mile Bridge in the background, the Florida Keys call out to all who want to see what makes them special.
The Unique Geography of the Island Chain
The Florida Keys stretch over 120 miles, beginning just south of the Florida Peninsula and going out into the Gulf of Mexico. The area is made up of islands that are joined by 42 bridges. This includes the famous Seven Mile Bridge. The Overseas Highway lets people travel easily through this part of the state. There are many natural sights to see, such as the Lower Keys. People also visit the southernmost point for its nice views. When you take a trip here, you move between islands with bright blue water on every side. It feels like the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean come together, and you can see why so many people love to travel here.
Brief History and the Culture of the Keys
The Florida Keys are known for a long and rich past in the continental United States. Many different groups lived here over the years, from early Native Americans to explorers from Spain. Key West is famous for its connection to Ernest Hemingway and Tennessee Williams, including the notable Custom House. It was also once an important military base and a busy port for ships. The culture here is full of strong Caribbean touches, and you can see this in the food and the music. This gives the whole area a bright and lively feel. You can find spots like the Key West Lighthouse and the unique buildings in Old Town that help you see and feel the islands’ long history and art.
Discovering the Florida Keys: An Introduction
Essential Planning Tips for First-Time Visitors
A good Florida Keys itinerary helps you get the most out of your trip. It is smart to book your place to stay early, so you can save money and not waste time during the busy winter months or the riskier hurricane season. Look at the different places to stay, like beachside resorts or small inns, to make your time more special. Also, plan how you will get around from Miami International Airport. You can rent a bike or consider bike rentals to explore Key West, or get a car to drive the scenic Overseas Highway. Doing this will help you see all the fun parts of Florida and enjoy your visit to the Florida Keys even more.
Choosing the Best Time to Visit
Visiting the Florida Keys is a good idea, and it can be a very fun experience if you go at the right time. The best weather is usually in the winter months. December, January, February, March, and April all give you low humidity and nice, cool air, so it's great for you to explore.
The summer months are much warmer, but this is also hurricane season in the Florida Keys. It can bring storms at any time, so weather can change fast.
You can also go in late spring or in early fall. These times are called the shoulder seasons. During these months, there are not as many people. Also, there's a good chance you will get to see more wildlife out in nature. This way, you can enjoy your trip, miss the big crowds, and have an adventure to remember in the Florida Keys.
The Islands of the Florida Keys
The Florida Keys is a stunning chain of islands stretching over 120 miles, each offering a unique experience. Key Largo, the first island you encounter, is known as the “Diving Capital of the World” with its incredible coral reefs and John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Islamorada is a paradise for anglers, often called the “Sportfishing Capital of the World,” and features laid-back vibes and oceanfront dining. Marathon sits at the heart of the Keys and is family-friendly, with attractions like the Dolphin Research Center and Sombrero Beach. Crossing the iconic Seven Mile Bridge leads to the Lower Keys, home to Big Pine Key and the National Key Deer Refuge, where wildlife and natural beauty shine. Finally, Key West offers a lively cultural scene, colorful historic homes, vibrant nightlife, and famous sunsets at Mallory Square. Together, these islands blend adventure, relaxation, and tropical charm, making the Florida Keys a dream destination for travelers.
How to Get to the Florida Keys
The Florida Keys are a stunning chain of tropical islands stretching from the southern tip of Florida into the Gulf of Mexico. Known for turquoise waters, coral reefs, and laid-back vibes, the Keys are a dream destination for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. Getting there is an experience in itself, offering multiple options depending on your starting point, budget, and preferred mode of travel.
Plane
If you want to skip the drive, flying into Key West International Airport (EYW) is the fastest way to get to the Keys. The airport has direct flights from major U.S. cities like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, Atlanta, Charlotte, and New York. From Key West, you can rent a car or use local transportation to explore the rest of the islands.
Shuttle Services
Shuttle services such as the Keys Shuttle and Florida Keys Express Shuttle provide convenient transportation from Miami International Airport (MIA) or Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) to destinations throughout the Keys. This is a great option if you don’t want to rent a car but still want a comfortable and stress-free ride.
Ferry
Travelers on Florida’s west coast can take the Key West Express Ferry, which runs from Fort Myers Beach and Marco Island to Key West. The high-speed ferry offers a scenic alternative to driving, with the trip taking about 3.5 hours. While this option only goes to Key West, it’s a unique and relaxing way to start your island adventure.
Bus
For a more affordable option, consider the Greyhound or FlixBus services, which operate routes from Miami to Key West with stops in major Keys towns like Key Largo, Islamorada, and Marathon. Travel time is slightly longer than driving, but it’s budget-friendly and perfect for those who don’t mind a slower pace.
Car
Driving is the most popular way to reach the Florida Keys. From Miami, it’s about a 3.5 to 4-hour drive to Key West along the breathtaking Overseas Highway (U.S. Route 1). This iconic 113-mile stretch takes you across 42 bridges, including the famous Seven Mile Bridge, and offers unbeatable ocean views. Renting a car in Miami or Fort Lauderdale gives you the flexibility to stop at hidden beaches, local diners, and scenic lookouts along the way.
When I visited the Florida Keys, we were staying in Key West but wanted to stop over in Islamorada. Therefore, we decided to fly to Miami, rent a car, and drive through the Keys. This gave us more freedom to add on to our itinerary.
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Where to Stay in the Florida Keys
Travelers on Florida’s west coast can take the Key West Express Ferry, which runs from Fort Myers Beach and Marco Island to Key West. The high-speed ferry offers a scenic alternative to driving, with the trip taking about 3.5 hours. While this option only goes to Key West, it’s a unique and relaxing way to start your island adventure.
Luxury Resorts
For travelers seeking ultimate relaxation and world-class amenities, the Florida Keys are home to several luxurious resorts. Little Palm Island Resort & Spa in Little Torch Key is a private island paradise offering stunning ocean views and exclusive bungalow accommodations. Another favorite is Casa Marina Key West, A Waldorf Astoria Resort, which boasts a private beach, elegant rooms, and a historic charm. These upscale resorts are perfect for honeymooners or anyone wanting a high-end island experience.
Boutique Hotels
If you prefer something more intimate and unique, boutique hotels provide stylish accommodations with personalized service. The Perry Hotel Key West offers a modern, chic vibe on Stock Island with waterfront views and exceptional dining. In Islamorada, Amara Cay Resort blends tropical design with laid-back elegance, making it ideal for couples and solo travelers looking for a peaceful retreat.
Vacation Rentals & Villas
For those who want a home-away-from-home experience, vacation rentals are a great choice. Platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo feature stunning villas and condos throughout the Keys. For example, a waterfront villa in Key Largo is perfect for families or groups who want to cook their own meals and enjoy private docks for boating and fishing. Many rentals include pools and outdoor spaces for a true island lifestyle.
Budget-Friendly Options
Traveling to the Keys doesn’t have to break the bank. There are plenty of budget-friendly accommodations that offer comfort without the hefty price tag. Seafarer Key Largo Resort and Beach is a popular pick, offering cozy rooms, a private beach, and complimentary breakfast. In Key West, Blue Marlin Motel is a great option for those who want to stay near Duval Street without overspending.
RV Parks & Camping
For adventurous travelers, camping in the Keys offers a unique way to enjoy the islands’ natural beauty. Boyd’s Key West Campground is a favorite for RV travelers, with waterfront sites and excellent amenities. Bahia Honda State Park is another fantastic choice for tent camping or RV stays, offering some of the best beaches in the Keys and incredible stargazing opportunities.
When I visited the Florida Keys, we stayed in a boutique hotel and a resort so we could have close access to the beach and water sports. Depending on the time of year, you can get access to the resorts at a cheaper price, so be on the lookout for deals.
Guides to the Florida Keys
Getting Around the Florida Keys
Car
Driving is the most convenient and flexible way to explore the Florida Keys. The Overseas Highway (U.S. Route 1) connects the islands with stunning ocean views and more than 40 bridges, including the iconic Seven Mile Bridge. Renting a car from Miami or Key West is easy, and you’ll have the freedom to stop at hidden beaches, local restaurants, and scenic overlooks along the way.
Public Transit
Public transportation is available through Monroe County’s Key West Transit system, which operates routes connecting Key Largo, Marathon, and Key West. While buses are affordable, they run on fixed schedules, so this option works best if you’re staying in one spot or planning in advance.
Bike & Scooters
Biking or renting a scooter is a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the islands, especially in Key West and Islamorada, where distances are short. Many rental shops offer daily and weekly rates. Scooters are particularly popular in Key West for zipping through narrow streets and avoiding parking hassles.
Taxi
Taxis and rideshare options like Uber and Lyft are available in Key West and some of the larger islands. This option is ideal for short trips, nights out, or when you don’t want to worry about parking. Keep in mind that availability is more limited outside Key West.
Walking
Walking also allows you to fully enjoy the island’s laid-back vibe, colorful architecture, and historical sites like the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. While the rest of the Keys stretch out over 120 miles, most islands aren’t pedestrian-friendly, so walking is mainly practical in downtown areas like Key West or small local neighborhoods in Islamorada or Marathon. For the most relaxing experience, combine walking with other modes of transport like bikes or trolleys.
What to Do in the Florida Keys
Adventures are a big part of any trip to the Florida Keys. You will find many things to do, from fun water sports to peaceful sunset sails. You can see marine life by feeding tarpon, or visit Dry Tortugas National Park to enjoy its great landscapes. Some people like to try ghost tours in the historic Old Town for a different kind of thrill. You might also want to spend a quiet day at Bahia Honda State Park. There are so many choices here, so everyone can find something they like in this tropical place with its special charm.
Feed the Tarpons
An unforgettable time waits for you at the well-known tarpon feeding spots in the Florida Keys. You can go to the popular Hungry Tarpon Restaurant, where these big fish come together, alongside various food vendors. People of all ages watch excitedly as the tarpon jump out of the water, trying to grab food. This fun activity shows the bright marine life in the area and lets you enjoy the natural beauty of the Florida Keys. Do not skip this special chance to meet these amazing fish and take in the pretty views along the coast.
Sunset Sail
Going on a sunset sail in the Florida Keys with Honest Eco is an amazing way to spend your evening at the historic seaport. When the sun goes down, you see the sky turn bright orange and pink. It is a perfect scene for you to enjoy after a visit to Half Shell Raw Bar. Some local companies, like Sebago Watersports, run guided tours. On these tours, you often get cold drinks and you may even see dolphins in the water. This peaceful trip gives you time to relax and enjoy nature. It is a top pick for people who want to see the best of the Florida Keys and take in the beautiful views.
Water Sports
Thrilling water sports are waiting for you in the Florida Keys. There are so many things to do in the sun for the first time. When you try snorkeling or scuba diving, you get to see bright coral reefs full of life. Paddleboarding is a fun way to see bays and thick mangroves that many people miss.
If you like a rush, you can try backcountry sport fishing and see if you can catch something big. When you visit John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, kayaking gets you close to sea turtles and key deer.
Every time you enjoy one of these water activities, you feel the fun energy that makes this a special place. This island area has a spirit that fills you with joy with every splash. The Florida Keys and its beautiful state park are perfect if you want to see coral reefs and meet wildlife up close.
Golf
Golf lovers in the Florida Keys can enjoy something special. Many courses there give both a tough game and some of the best views you can see. You will find yourself looking out at the Gulf of Mexico and beautiful green spaces while you play. Some courses in the Florida Keys are famous for being top places to play. Others welcome everyone, no matter your skill.
The Key West Golf Club stands out. It has a laid-back vibe with good greens. This makes it a great spot to relax and play a round. For most people, the best weather to golf here is during the winter months. That’s when it is mild and sunny. If you are building a Florida Keys itinerary, taking time to golf here should be on your list.
Spas & Wellness
You can find relaxation and feel refreshed at many spas in the Florida Keys. Many places use the beauty of the area as inspiration. They offer treatments with local key lime and sea salt. This helps make your visit feel even more special. If you are by the water in Key Largo or in the middle of Key West, you can get a soothing massage or a freshening facial. Enjoy the calm feeling that comes with these wellness treatments. Spend your time relaxing both your body and mind as you take in the stunning views of the Florida Keys.
Tortugas National Park
Stretching across the beautiful Dry Tortugas, this national park is well known for its clean beaches and great coral reefs. In this place, you can see Fort Jefferson, a big 1800s building that shows what old military places looked like. There is also a lot of bright marine life here. The snorkeling and diving are two things people like the most, since you get to see many fish and watch sea turtles as they swim around in the water. This national park is the first undersea park in the Florida Keys, and it is almost always reached by boat or seaplane. Tortugas National Park gives you a special adventure, letting you see the natural beauty and the history of this spot in the Florida Keys with its amazing coral reefs and sea turtles.
Marathon Turtle Hospital
This place in the Florida Keys has a sea turtle hospital. It does very important work for sea turtles and to help keep them safe. When you visit, you can see up close how sea turtles get care and help. You also learn about the hard things that sea turtles and other sea life go through in the Gulf of Mexico. With displays you can touch and tours with guides, you really find out why we need to look after sea turtles and the places they live. When you give your support, you also help teach people, and you help everyone feel close to the special land and water of the Keys.
Ghost Tours
The Florida Keys are not only about sun and sea—they also have a spooky side perfect for thrill-seekers. Key West is renowned for its ghost tours, where visitors wander through dimly lit streets lined with historic homes, listening to chilling tales of haunted mansions, restless spirits, and maritime legends. Many tours include stops at famous haunted spots like the East Martello Museum, home to the infamous Robert the Doll, a century-old toy believed to be cursed and the inspiration behind horror stories. This eerie museum has earned a reputation as one of the spookiest attractions in the Keys, drawing paranormal enthusiasts from around the world. Whether you're fascinated by history, mystery, or the supernatural, a ghost tour in the Florida Keys offers a hair-raising experience you won't forget.
Beaches
The Florida Keys are home to some of the most beautiful beaches. Each one gives a different experience. In Key West, you can go to Fort Zachary Taylor State Park. This is a place where you see both history and natural beauty. People like to swim in the clear water, and you can see bright coral reefs. Another nice place is Bahia Honda State Park. Here, you find wide sandy beaches, so it is good for laying in the sun or having a picnic. If you want some peace, Big Pine Key has calm views and quiet spots. No matter if you like water sports or just want to relax under palm trees, these beaches in the Florida Keys will give you many good things to remember. All travelers can find something special, from Fort Zachary Taylor State Park to Big Pine and Bahia Honda State Park.
Conclusion
A trip through the Florida Keys, which is situated at the tip of Florida and a beautiful part of Florida, will show you a colorful mix of adventure, fun, and pretty views. You can enjoy the old-world feel in Key West, or head out to the fresh blue seas at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Each island in the Florida Keys gives you a new thing to try and a different story to tell. You'll taste local treats like the famous key lime pie and join in on fun things like backcountry sport fishing or joining a sunset sail. The Keys are more than one spot on the map. They invite you to dive into their way of life and get to know what makes this place special. Use this travel guide to the Florida Keys for a memorable visit!
Frequently Asked Questions & Information
How Many Day Should I Spend in the Florida Keys?
To really enjoy the Florida Keys, plan to stay for at least three to five days. This will give you time to see different islands, do water activities, and relax. If you want to visit more islands or try out a lot of different things, you might want to stay longer. That way, you can have all the fun you want in the Florida Keys.
Are the Florida Keys Family-Friendly?
Yes, the Florida Keys are a great choice for families. The Florida Keys have many things to do for people of all ages. You can go snorkeling, visit the sea turtle hospital, or check out some nature parks. There are also a lot of water sports that you and your family can try. The vibe in the Florida Keys is relaxed, so it’s easy for everyone to have fun together and make some good memories.
What Are the Can’t-Miss Foods in the Florida Keys?
When you are in the Florida Keys, make sure to try some fresh seafood at the Key Largo Conch House and Conch Republic Seafood Company, as well as visit Key West’s first legal rum distillery. The food here is full of good tastes. Try the conch fritters, stone crab claws, and the sweet key lime pie. Do not miss out on local foods like the Cuban sandwiches and tasty fish tacos. These dishes show off the lively culture of the Florida Keys.
Travel Tip
Be sure to make your restaurant reservations a few days in advance, especially during peak-tourist season.
My Playlist for the Florida Keys
"Margaritaville" by Jimmy Buffett
"Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes" by Jimmy Buffett
"Key West Address" by Michael McCloud
"Island Life" by Howard Livingston & the Mile Marker 24 Band
"Floridays" by Jimmy Buffett
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