Ultimate Florida Keys Insider’s Travel Guide: Local Tips + Maps

Are you planning a trip to the Florida Keys? You’ve come to the right place. Our ultimate Florida Keys travel guide has everything you need to know before you go to the beautiful Florida Keys.

The Florida Keys, a string of islands where turquoise water, endless sunshine, and laid-back charm all meet, are one of the most stunning places in Florida.

Whether you’re dreaming of diving or snorkeling the reefs, indulging on all of the seafood, making the drive from Miami to Key West to see the stunning water views, or enjoying some of the best resorts the Keys have to offer, the Florida Keys deliver a one-of-a-kind experience in the state.

As someone who was born and raised in Florida, traveled to the Florida Keys many times, and even lived in Key West for a while, these islands are some of my favorite places in Florida.

So this guide was put together to be a complete resource for your travel planning to the Florida Keys. It covers all of the major islands and hotspots, and explores the hidden gems you might not know about.

If you want a more detailed look at the Florida Keys, we have many more guides that go into more details about each specific place that you will see linked throughout the post.

Let’s get to planning your ultimate Florida Keys vacation!

The Ultimate Florida Keys Complete Insider’s Guide And Local’s Insight With A Map

Brief History

The Florida Keys have a long history dating all the way back to the 1500’s. The first recorded history was when Juan Ponce de Leon charted the islands in 1513 naming them las Martires.

Over the centuries, the Keys have become a magnet for forts, shipwrecks, pirates, and traders.

By the 19th century, Key West had become an official port and a prosperous hub of industries like the wrecking industry, salt production, and a cigar trade. This attracted many diverse immigrants to the area and created many wealthy people for the time.

In 1905, Henry Flagler got an ambitious goal to create the Overseas Railway that linked the islands to the mainland. Unfortunately, much of it was destroyed in the 1935 Labor Day Hurricane.

This led to today’s famous highway, the Overseas Highway, that finally connected the islands and made them more accessible than ever. You can still see the old railroad highway next to the new one in some places.

If you want to learn more about the history of the Florida Keys, see the whole timeline.

Map Of The Florida Keys

The map highlights all of the top things to do in the Florida Keys. You can use this map to check the top things to do around you by island.

Overview Of The Islands

There are over 800 islands in the Florida Keys that stretch for 202 miles from Key Largo to the Dry Tortugas.

Not all of those islands are inhabited, in fact, many of them are small islets and sandbars that are scattered all around the main islands.

In total, there are 42 bridges connecting the islands with the longest one being the Seven Mile Bridge. It is 35,716 feet long and one of the bucket list experiences of the Florida Keys is to drive from Miami to Key West just to see the stunning views of the water and drive over the bridge.

Key West is the southernmost city in the continental U.S. When you travel to Key west, you get the chance to take a picture by the southernmost buyo which indicates you are only 90 miles from Havana Cuba making it closer in distance than Miami.

The Florida Keys are known for the stunning turquoise water and the many water sports that come with it. You can also spot wildlife like dolphins, turtles, manatees, and the rare Key deer.

The islands are usually broken down into three sections categorizing the islands into three distinct areas: the Upper Keys, Middle Keys, and Lower Keys.

The Keys By Interest

No matter what kind of traveler you are, the Florida Keys have something for you. From exciting snorkeling and diving to romantic getaways and family-friendly adventures, each island offers something unique.

For Adventure Seekers and Water Sports Enthusiasts:

• Key Largo is by far the place to be for those who love snorkeling and scuba diving along with the many other water sports adventures. There you have the John Pennekamp State Park with many reefs to explore, the Christ of the Deep statue, and USS Spiegel Grove, a Navy ship that sank because of a hurricane. You can go on a snorkeling adventure tour where you get to snorkel different reefs and see the Christ statue.
• Islamorada is known as the “Sportfishing Capital of the World” where anglers can chase sailfish, mahi-mahi, tarpon, marlin and many more types of one-in-a-lifetime type of catches with fishing charters.
• Skydiving at Sugarloaf Key is one of the most amazing thrilling experiences where you get to see stunning views as you jump.
• Have you ever wanted to see sharks up close? You can in Marathon Key where you get to go out a few miles offshore and encounter Tiger, Hammerhead, Bull, Mako and Reef sharks. There are shark diving and shark viewing tours to choose how adventurous you want to be.
• Parasailing in Key West and jet ski adventures.
• Cable Wakeboarding is a fun adventure at The Lagoon in Marathon where you can also learn how to foilboard and go on their obstacle course on the water.

For History and Culture:

• A lot of the cultural and historic places are located in Key West. It’s definitely the cultural hub of the Florida Keys. There, you can visit Ernest Hemingway Home, Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, and admire the historic buildings like the churches and Victorian mansions, cultural food and events like the many festivals.
• See the Henry Flagler Overseas Railway along the Overseas Highway road in different parts of the Keys but notable in Bahia Honda State Park.
• History of Diving Museum and the Keys History & Discovery Center in Islamorada.
• Take a boat tour to Lignumvitae Key and Indian Key with KeyZ Charters or Robbie’s in Islamorada to see some of the most historic places in the Florida Keys.

For Nature and Wildlife:

• Visit Bahia Honda State Park for endless beach days, clear turquoise water, trail, and wildlife watching.
• The Turtle Hospital in Marathon is a rehabilitation center where visitors can learn about sea turtle conservation and see the rescued turtles up close.
• Dagny Johnsons Key largo Hammock Botanical State Park is a hidden gem with over 84 species of protected plants and animals. It’s a birdwatchers dream with many opportunities to see various wildlife along the trails.
• At Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park in Islamorada, you can walk among fossilized coral reefs and be sure to see the famous tree with its roots on display.
• Crane Point Hammock is a 63-acre tropical escape where you can spend time in nature and even get a fish pedicure.
• To see some of the rare Florida Keys deer go to the National Key Deer Refuge in Big Pine Key.
• The Great White Heron National Wildlife Refuge is a remote sanctuary of mangroves and the breeding ground of the great white heron and other birds.

For Couples & Romance:

• Sunset sails in Key West (or in any of the major islands, take your pick!) but nothing beats gliding over the smooth water of the Keys while the sky lights up in beautiful colors and reflects on the water.
• Book a romantic dinner on the water at Latitudes, the most romantic dining experience near Key West. It is located on Sunset Key just a short ferry ride away, and boasts delicious freshly sourced cuisine with breathtaking views.
• Have a couples spa day at any one of the top spas on the islands like the Cheeca Lodge & Spa in Islamorada or at the 8,000 square foot spa at Ocean Reef Club in Key Largo.
• Enjoy a secluded luxury all-inclusive getaway at Little Palm Island Resort & Spa in Little Torch Key with Michelin-level dining, spa and excursions.
• Go star gazing and snorkeling at the remote Dry Tortugas National Park

For Families:

• Dolphins Plus in Key Largo or Theater of the Sea in Islamorada are the places to go where kids can interact and swim with dolphins, watch shows, and learn more about the animals in interactive ways.
• At the Key West Aquarium or the Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters in Marathon kids will love all of the exhibits and marine species that they have, from fish to stingrays and sharks. There are many encounters to choose from like the Lagoon for the whole family and even a private nighttime diving.
• Kids will be mesmerized by hundreds of butterflies flying around them at the Butterfly & Nature Conservatory in Key West.
• The Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum is another fun place that the kids will love to explore and after all of the exhibits, be able to walk up the 65-foot tower to see cool views of Key West.
• Snorkeling and dolphin watching is always fun with kids!

Interesting Places To Stay In The Florida Keys

Little Palm Island Resort & Spa in Little Torch Key is a remote luxury resort that is only accessible by boat or seaplane. It’s a place to disconnect from the world and stay at a thatched roof bungalow and just enjoy the beaches, swing in a hammock, indulge in Michelin level food, fun excursions and relaxing spa offerings. It’s a special place for an unforgettable getaway.

Bungalows Key Largo located on the Key Largo island that’s an adult-only all-inclusive resort in the Florida Keys. You get unlimited dining, pool & jacuzzi, cabanas, recreational amenities, and much more included for a truly all-inclusive experience in the Keys.

Cheeca Lodge & Spa in Islamorada is one of the best leisurely escapes in the Florida Keys. With many amenities, dining, pools and beaches, it’s perfect for a blissful escape. The best part is they offer deals and packages, especially if you are a Florida resident.

Jules Undersea Lodge is one of the most unique stays in the Keys. If you have your SCUBA certification, you can stay at an underwater lodge overnight where the only way to get to your room is to dive! The underwater room has a small window looking out into the water and is stocked with drinks and snacks. You will also get pizza delivered to your room for dinner. If you want to stay here but don’t have your SCUBA certification, you can get certified on site.

Stay on a boat while traveling in the Florida Keys. It’s one of the coolest accommodations and while some are stationed like a houseboat, others, like a catamaran, can even take you wherever you want to go.

Must-Try Food In The Florida Keys

Key Lime Pie

If there is just one thing you try in the Florida Keys make it Key Lime Pie. It’s the region’s signature dessert that’s absolutely delicious. The original is made with tangy Key limes that are made into a creamy filling in a buttery pie crust.

Now though, you will find all kinds of variations like Key Lime Pie on a stick, chocolate-dipped, frozen, fried, coconut infused or piled up high with meringue but all equally delicious and worth a stop at all the different dessert places.

Blonde Giraffe Key Lime Pie Factory in Tavernier – whole pies, chocolate-dipped frozen pie on a stick, key lime cookies.

S.S. Wreck & Galley Grill in Marathon – unassuming eatery not only has good food but a Key Lime Pie that has been voted as the best in the Florida Keys by many. Their pie is more of a combination of cheesecake with Key Lime Pie making it a creamy but tart pie.

Kermit’s Key Lime Pie Shop in Key West – for all things Key Lime Pie.

Burdine’s Waterfront in Marathon – is the place to go for a fried Key Lime Pie in a firm pastry.

Blue Heaven in Key West – for a pie that is piled sky high with meringue.

Porky’s Bayside Restaurant in Marathon – for a unique twist on a fried Key Lime Pie go to Porky’s where you will find a pie that is crusted in a breadcrumb and egg crust for a crunchy fried treat.

Conch Fritters

The conch fritters are another one of the Florida Keys signature dishes. Conch is a large sea snail known for its spiral shell with a pink interior which are native to the waters around the Florida Keys.

After being overfished and becoming endangered, it is no longer allowed to fish them around the Keys. The conch you see on the menu today is brought in from the Caribbean. Other than conch fritters you can also try conch chowder, salad or cracked conch.

The Conch Shack in Key West – Has some of the best fritters and is also a good place to try cracked conch.

Conch Republic Seafood Company in Key West – It’s a good place for conch fritters and seafood.

The Conch House in Key Largo – Here you’ll find it all – Conch fritters, salad, chowder and cracked conch done to perfection.

Island Tingz in Key West – It might just become your favorite conch place.

Stone Crab & Fresh Seafood

The Keys Fisheries in Marathon – It’s not only the best place in the Florida Keys to have stone crab because they get it delivered fresh there, but it’s also a great place for all kinds of seafood including the conch dishes too.

Key Largo Fisheries in Key Largo – It’s also a great place for stone crab and fresh seafood. You can pick from items like crab, Florida lobsters, Mahi or shrimp.

Other Foods To Try In The Florida Keys

• Grouper
• Florida Lobster
• Smoked Fish Dip
• Mahi Mahi
• Yellowtail Snapper
• Key West Pink Shrimp
• Cuban food & coffee
• Rueben (traditional and lobster)
• Ice cream with exotic flavors

Suggested Itineraries

Looking for specific itineraries? Here are some of our other guides to help you plan the perfect trip.

Best Tips, Tricks & Insider Secrets

Florida Resident Discounts

If you are a Florida resident (or even Georgia resident for some places) then you have to check for discounts in the Florida Keys. Often times accommodations will have a nice discount for your stay if you are a Florida resident. Ask at tours and other experiences too!

Use Apps For Your Trip

One of the coolest features about planning your trip to the Florida Keys is the apps at your disposal. You can get a self-guided audio tour that uses GPS to help you learn about the landmarks along the way, history of the area and shares local tips.

There’s another travel app by the Monroe County Tourist Development Council called The Florida Keys & Key West. It has narrated driving tours telling you about the scenery around you, points of interest, and even customize a trip itinerary.

To monitor the traffic information and any traffic disruptions or delays, use the app by the Monroe County Sheriff’s office.

Use Mile Markers

If you’re ever unsure of exactly where something is located, you can always ask for the mile marker that’s closest to the place and it’s often how locals give directions. The mile markers start at 0 in Key West and increase as you get closer to the mainland.

Keep Hurricane Season In Mind

We will talk later about what is the best time to visit Florida and what to keep in mind for every season, but the hurricane season is something to be aware of.

If you’ve never been to Florida then it’s something you should plan ahead if you’re traveling around the time of the hurricane season. Often times tours reschedule or refund bad weather cancelations but for things like flights get the option to be able to cancel if need be.

It’s Possible To Find Cheaper Lodging

It just won’t be on the main islands close to all of the top things to do. Choose one of the smaller keys for your stay to save a lot on your accommodations. Another option is to book a houseboat that can be cheaper than staying on the major islands. This method does mean that you will need to arrive to the Keys on a car to be able to get to where you want to go from your out of the way stay.

Find A Remote Uncrowded Beach

Instead of sharing the small beaches that the Keys have with everyone else, it is so easy to rent a kayak and go to a nearby island to enjoy a secluded beach or sandbar all to yourself (we did that from Key West).

Festivals

The Florida Keys have many festivals that happen year-round like the Key Lime Festival or the Seafood Festival. Depending on the festival and its popularity, there can be a lot more crowds around that time.

Being aware of any festivals happening around the time you want to visit is important if you want to enjoy any particular festival or especially if you want to avoid the crowds and not go during a festival time.

Card Sound Road

There’s another way to get to Key Largo island from the mainland by the Card Sound Road. This gets you to north Key Largo and has a toll but it’s a good road to use that doesn’t have much of a standstill like US 1 can. Stop by Alabama Jacks if you take that route.

Watch The Weather

A quick storm rolling over the sky when it was all sunshine is very common in Florida. It’s very important to be aware of that especially if you are out on the water.

The weather can get windy and the water can get bigger waves pretty fast so be sure to practice safety awareness when out on the water if you are far out from land.

Best Time To Visit The Florida Keys

So you want to take a trip to the Florida Keys and are wondering when is the best time to go? A trip to the Keys can be done at any time of year but there are a few things to keep in mind.

Deciding how much heat, crowds, and events you want during your trip will help you decide when to go. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons in Key West.

Spring

Spring is a great time to visit the Florida Keys. The weather is warm but not sweltering so it is still possible to enjoy yourself. It’s still a popular time to visit but the later it gets into the spring months, the smaller the crowds become.

In these late spring months, the spring breakers have come and gone. The temperatures have started to climb but are not unbearable and you don’t have to worry about the hurricanes in this time of year.

During this time, the water clarity is usually really good with bright turquoise water that the Keys are known for. It’s a great season for snorkeling and diving and that’s when the Tarpon starts to run as well so fishing is in full swing.

Springtime also brings a calendar full of festivals and events one of which is the seafood festival. It’s one of our favorite times to visit the Florida Keys.

Summer

As you may have guessed, the temperatures start to get pretty high during the summer months. But that doesn’t mean you still can’t have fun and enjoy your time there especially since the crowds are fewer and prices are lower.

If your plans revolve around the water, summer is an ideal time to visit the Florida Keys.

Warm, crystal-clear water of the Keys is very inviting for snorkeling, diving, or simply relaxing by the shoreline with refreshing dips whenever the heat calls for it.

Fishing also continues well into summer where anglers can catch Mahi-mahi, tuna, marlin, tarpon, snapper, lionfish and grouper. Islamorada is particularly the place to go fishing since it is known as the “Sportfishing Capital of the World.”

It’s also the lobster season in the Florida Keys where you can go lobstering which is lot’s of fun. Lobsterfest is the result of lobster season where you can indulge in lobsters which comes after the Key Lime Festival.

Fall

Fall in the Florida Keys can be an underrated time to visit. As the summer sizzles out, it becomes a quieter time on the islands.

The reason for this though is because it’s the season of hurricanes. Most people don’t want to risk planning a trip to the Keys in the fall if a hurricane is going to ruin their plans.

But for those with a little more flexibility or ways to get everything refundable, visiting in the fall is amazing.

The beginning of the fall season is still pretty hot and humid but as the fall season progresses, the weather becomes much nicer. Combined with no crowds and lower prices, it’s ideal.

Winter

Winter is the most popular time to visit the Florida Keys. Not only is it an escape from the freezing temperatures everywhere else in the country, it is delightfully warm with abundant sunshine but not extremely hot and humid.

Along with the peak season come higher prices, for accommodations especially. It also means places are busier than normal so when you can, make sure to book ahead to secure your stays and tours.

Spending Christmas and New Years in Key West is a fun way to celebrate these holidays. There are fun events like the Christmas parade and boat parade or the “Conch Shell Drop” for New Years.

The temperature, on average, stays at about 70-75 degrees Fahrenheit unless there is a cold front coming through which can lower temperatures significantly. The water is on the cooler side during this time too but it’s still very nice for any water activities.

How To Get To The Florida Keys

With a little bit of planning you can choose the route that best fits your schedule and preference.

How you get to the Keys will determine the type of trip you have. Here are all the ways to get to the Florida Keys.

Flying

Flying is the most common way to get to the Florida Keys especially for those who are traveling from far away.

You have two options when you’re flying to Key West. First, you can fly directly to the Key West International Airport which is a great option if you just want to stay in Key West for your whole trip.

However, the prices can be pretty expensive to fly into Key West, especially during the peak season, since it is a smaller airport.

The other option is to fly into the Miami or Fort Lauderdale airport which most likely will have cheaper flights. Then you can rent a car at the airport to do a Miami to Key West road trip.

Car

Traveling by car is an excellent way to explore the Florida Keys. If you are renting a car from the airport in Miami or Ft. Lauderdale, then your car journey will start there.

Many people who live in the nearby states choose to drive down to Florida. If you live in northern Florida that is also an option. This makes it a longer road trip but it is worth it.

Once you pass southern Miami, you will cross from the mainland into the Keys. From there, you can choose the type of road trip you want to have.

You can take it slow and make stops in Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, Bahia Honda, and then make your way over to Key West.

Another option would be to do a few stops along the islands in one day and arrive in Key West in the evening. It all depends on how much time you have to explore the Keys.

Bus

An option many people don’t think about is taking a bus to the Keys. Greyhound is the major company that operates buses to the Florida Keys.

You can take a bus from Miami to your choice of any of the big islands like Key Largo, all the way down to Key West.

This is a great option when you don’t want to rent a car and just want to get to the Keys. From there, if you want to get from one island to another, you can always take the Keys Shuttle too.

The shuttle runs on a schedule so you would have to time your departure depending on what island you are. You can see the schedule and rates here.

Tour

Another option for those who have traveled to Miami and want to take a quick trip out to Key West, is to take a tour bus down to the islands.

You can choose from different packages that bundle the bus tour with add-on experiences, such as a snorkeling excursion or a trolley tour, giving you more ways to explore the Keys in one trip.

A few companies to choose from include Miami to Key West Bus Tour Company and Key West Sightseeing Tours. It’s a great day trip from Miami.

Boat

This one is not as common for most people who travel to Key West, but you can always take your own boat to the Keys.

Many people who live in Florida travel to Key West on their own boat. This way, you can go anywhere you want and enjoy the islands on your own time.

Another thing to keep in mind is that cruises stop at Key West in some itineraries so that is another way to be able to visit Key West.

Ferry

Did you know there is a ferry that runs to Key West? Yep, there is a ferry that runs from Ft. Myers and Marco Island to Key West.

The Key West Express leaves early in the morning from Ft. Myers and Marco Island and 3-4 hours later you are in Key West.

Your price includes a return ticket which can be any day you choose making your stay as long or as short as you want.

It’s a great option for those who live in Florida or don’t want to drive all the way down to the Keys.

The Upper Keys

The Upper Keys, located closest to the mainland, offer the best introduction to island living.

There are two main towns in the Upper Keys, Key Largo and Islamorada, with many other stops in between.

Key Largo is the first island you arrive at in the Florida Keys and it’s one of the best destinations in the islands. it is known as the “Diving Capital of the World” and boasts vibrant coral reefs and many cool underwater treasures.

Further down, Islamorada is known as the “Sportfishing Capital of the World” where anglers can catch many different types of fish. It also has art galleries, waterfront dining, and resorts.

Tucked between the two is Tavernier, a quieter island but worthy of a mention. It has plenty of water activities and dining options so if you’re looking for a quiet getaway, it’s the place to be.

The Upper Keys have easy access from Miami and can be a great day trip from Miami or the beginning of your epic Florida Keys road trip.

What To Do In The Upper Keys

Key Largo is known for snorkeling and diving, so if you plan to spend your days exploring the ocean, it’s a great idea to base yourself here.

Start out with one of the best things to do in Key Largo, exploring the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. The undersea park encompasses 70 nautical square miles and is a window into colorful coral reefs, tropical marine life, and historic sites like the Christ of the Deep statue and USS Spiegel Grove.

Not only can you go on an amazing snorkeling adventure and dive in the area if you are certified, but you can enjoy kayaking, fishing, swimming and picnicking out in nature.

If you don’t want to get out into the water but still want to see the marine life, you can take a glass-bottom boat where you can look into the underwater world from the comfort of a boat.

Another amazing boat experience is taking a sunset cruise in Key Largo on a floating, palm-thatched tiki boat. Soak in the sunset colors with drinks and music for a perfect way to end the day.

Further down in Islamorada, one of the best activities not to miss is of course the fishing. If you are a fan of fishing, go deep-sea fishing in Islamorada the “Sportfishing Capital of the World”.

There are charter boats you can take out to go deep sea fishing like with Dirty Boat Charters. You have the option to choose how long you want to go out fishing for with the possibility of even going on a swordfish or sailfish catching adventure.

Some fun, quirky stops in Islamorada include feeding Tarpon at Robbie’s Marina and the Rain Barrel Village with the huge lobster out front.

One of the coolest things to see is also the Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park. There you will find fossilized coral and stunning trees with whole root systems on display.

Something you can do at both Key Largo and Islamorada is go swimming with dolphins. In Key Largo, you can swim with dolphins at Dolphin Life and Dolphin Plus. Choose from different encounters and you can even book a private swim experience.

A similar experience can be found at Theater of the Sea in Islamorada where you can not only swim with dolphins but sea lions and sharks.

Where To Eat In The Upper Keys

Eating delicious food is part of the incredible travel experience of the Florida Keys. The islands are full of incredible dining spots and waterfront views.

In Key Largo, one of the favorites is Key Largo Conch House known for its conch fritters and fresh seafood.

Another seafood staple not to miss in Key Largo is Key Largo Fisheries which is a restaurant and a fish market combination. It is probably one of top places in the Keys where you can get the most fresh seafood. If you’re wanting to eat some good Stone Crab, this is the place to try it.

For hearty meals with good portions Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen is a popular casual stop.

In Islamorada, Chef Michael’s is an upscale seafood restaurant that has incredible flavors. If you’ve never tried lionfish before, this is the place to try it. Lorelei Restaurant and Cabana Bar is also a place you can enjoy eating on the beach with water views.

Don’t forget Robbie’s Marina in Islamorada is not only a place to stop and feed the Tarpon, they also have a restaurant on site with some great food.

For dessert, don’t miss Blonde Giraffe Key Lime Pie Factory where they have all kinds of versions of Key Lime Pie that are all delicious.

Where To Stay In The Upper Keys

Choosing where to stay in the Florida Keys adds to your overall vacation experience. There are so many places to choose from that match your style and budget. If you want to stay in Key Largo, there are plenty of places to choose from.

Playa Largo Resort & Spa is a luxury resort situated on 14.5 acres that is nearby all of the attractions in Key Largo. It has a private beach and a pool with poolside cabanas for basking in the sun.

They also have a spa and onsite dining with four restaurants to choose from. With onsite watersports excursions that depart directly from the resort, you have everything you need at this resort for an amazing stay in Key Largo.

If you don’t want to stay there for the night, they also have a day pass that you can purchase to enjoy the pool amenities for the day.

Cheeca Lodge & Spa is located in Islamorada and is a favorite stay for many. Lush grounds with 1,200 feet of private white sand beach and a 525 foot fishing pier (longest in the Florida Keys) create a beautiful setting for your stay.

There are two oceanfront family pools, one adult pool, beach and poolside cabanas, dining options, spa, golf course, watersports activities and gear rentals along with other things you can enjoy at this resort.

If you are a Florida resident, they have packages for even betters deals that you can choose from.

A really cool place to stay is the Key Lime Sailing Club & Cottages because you get an unlimited private sailboat use! Not only that but without any extra charges you get to use their snorkeling equipment, kayaks, bicycles, fishing gear and more.

If you don’t know how to sail, you can take a sailing course with them too.

For more budget stays, you can check out Kona Kai Resort and Coconut Palm Inn in Tavernier.

The Middle Keys

The Middle Keys are the quieter islands offering a balance of natural beauty, family-friendly attractions and a laid-back charm. The main town in this section of the Keys is Marathon which is set on thirteen islands.

There are not as many attractions here as there are in the Upper or Lower Keys but if you just want to relax and go out on the water without crowds, it’s the perfect place to be.

That’s not to say that things won’t keep you busy here. There are plenty of things to do and it is a very convenient location as a base to explore the other Keys. Cheaper too!

What To Do In The Middle Keys

There used to be a great trolley train that ran through Marathon and went past all of the main points of the town, but as of right now it is not running. It was a great way to get a feel of the island and we will update if it becomes available again.

One of the most popular stops in Marathon is the Turtle Hospital, a non-profit organization where they rescue, rehab, and release endangered turtles.

They have 90-minute daily guided educational programs where you will see the hospital facilities and rehabilitation area. These programs run every half hour from 9am to 4pm and at the end you get to feed the permanent residents.

Other animal attractions in Marathon that are family-friendly are the Dolphin Research Center and the Aquarium Encounters.

At the DSC general admission includes seeing dolphins and sea lions, bird aviary or even book your very own dolphin interaction. You get a stamp for the day so you can even come back later to see the sea lions and dolphins again.

The Aquarium Encounters is a fun way to spend the day where you get to meet and feed all kinds of animals. There are sharks, stingrays, tarpon, turtles, lobsters, and tropical fish as part of their exhibits and encounters.

If you want to relax on a beach in Marathon, there is a great beach called Sombrero Beach. Florida Keys aren’t known for amazing beaches but there are a few gems and this is one of the better ones you’ll find on the islands with clean facilities and free parking.

You can do all of the top watersport activities here too from snorkeling and kayaking to fishing and diving.

There are actually really cool wrecks to explore diving like the Thunderbolt Wreck off of Marathon shores or the Adolphus Busch off Big Pine Key. With Captain Hooks you can experience all of these fun water activities in Marathon and even get certified as a mermaid.

Want to enjoy even more nature? Curry Hammock State Park is one of the state parks in the Florida Keys. It spreads over 1,000 acres and is a great natural escape that even has a campground that is open from November 1 – May 31.

The nearby Pigeon Key is a place of history that you can get to by a tram ride. During the construction of the Key West Extension and the Florida East Coast Railway, the island was a work-camp for the workers.

Last but not least, drive over the seven-mile bridge to experience the amazingly long bridge. It is somewhat of an iconic landmark that everyone who visits the Florida Keys needs to see.

Where To Eat In The Middle Keys

Being the quieter islands, most foodie hotspots are in either the Upper or the Lower islands but it’s not hard to find some gems here.

The Keys Fisheries is a great spot for conch fritters and other seafood options while the Florida Keys Steak & Lobster House is just as the name implies, great for steaks and lobster.

A restaurant many people enjoy is Sparky’s Landing that serves seafood eats and tropical drinks. It has some unique dishes too like the shrimp and bacon wood fired pizza and their Frueben.

Brutus Land & Sea is another great place for seafood and not only do they have a restaurant, they also have a fish market. Blending the fresh seafood flavors with authentic BBQ, Porky’s Bayside Restaurant offers a laid-back waterfront dining experience.

One of the top meals you will most enjoy in Marathon though comes from a food truck called Irie Island Eats so make sure you stop by.

Where To Stay In The Middle Keys

For an incredible stay, Hawks Cay is a beautiful resort on Duck Key that makes staying in the Middle Keys blissful. There are several pools to choose from and a whole saltwater lagoon that has been enclosed to create a safe for swimming and snorkeling.

Visit the spa, dine at its restaurants and enjoy the marina where boaters can come refuel and relax until the next water adventure.

The Isla Bella Resort is another luxury resort that is worth the splurge. Every room has an ocean view and a terrace where you can step outside and take in the stunning turquoise water views.

With exceptional dining, which you don’t want to miss out on especially with an all-inclusive dining package available for purchase, this turns into pretty much an all-inclusive stay. Also check out their marketplace, spa and various events.

A few more good budget options are staying at the Captain Pip’s Hideaway and Marina where many restaurants are walking distance or the Tropical Cottages for a fun beachy stay.

The Lower Keys

The Lower Keys are a mix of stunning nature escapes along with the huge hub of attractions that is Key West. Some of the most notable places in the Lower Keys are the Bahia Honda State Park, Big Pine Key and of course Key West.

Here you will find some of the best beaches in the Florida Keys, many historic and cultural attractions, and beautiful natural escapes.

Many people skip the Florida Keys and go straight to Key West which is where the southernmost point of the whole continental U.S. is located. It’s definitely a bucket list destination in Florida.

What To Do In The Lower Keys?

Bahia Honda State Park is a one-of-a-kind place in the Florida Keys that boasts incredible beaches and sweeping views of the Bahia Honda Rail Bridge.

The park encompasses over 500 acres with some of the best beachcombing, snorkeling and exploring of the coastal habitats. There are several beaches to choose from in the park and they all have beautiful clear blue water and soft white sand.

Best of all, it is quiet and peaceful making it the perfect getaway. There are even campgrounds and cabins that you can rent but book them in advance because they sell out fast.

Another stop not to miss is Big Pine Key that’s home to the endangered Key deer. Some other islands in the Lower Keys include No Name Key, Sugarloaf, and Stock Island among others are all great places to get off the beaten path to explore.

The ultimate destination in the Florida Keys is, of course, Key West. It is full of historic charm, vibrant culture, water activities and the famous sunsets. Once you have made it to Key West, make sure to check off seeing the southernmost point buoy off of your Florida Keys bucket list.

If you haven’t done enough watersports in the other Keys, there are plenty of opportunities here. From snorkeling and kayaking to fishing and jet skiing, you can choose which water activities you want to do in Key West.

There are so many attractions to choose from in Key West but some of the top places people love to visit are the Ernest Hemingway Home, Butterfly & Nature Conservatory, Harry Truman Little White House, and the Lighthouse & Keeper’s Quarters Museum.

One of the places not to miss, and one of our personal favorites, is the Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. Explore the historic fort and relax on one of Key West’s beaches with stunning views of the water all around.

The best way to end any day in Key West is to go on a sunset cruise or stroll Mallory Square for the sunset celebration.

Where To Eat In The Lower Keys?

You’re in for a treat in the lower Keys just because of how many amazing places there are to eat at in Key West.

Like everywhere in the Keys you will find delicious, fresh seafood places like Conch Republic Seafood Co, Bo’s Fish Wagon, Square Grouper, Eaton Street Seafood Market, Island Tingz and Square Grouper, and Red Shoe Island Bistro.

Blue Heaven is a popular place not only for brunch but to try their famous Key Lime Pie with meringue piled sky high. Louie’s Backyard is nice waterfront dining and Sunset Pier at Ocean Key Resort is a colorful waterfront place for drinks.

For an upscale experience, go to Latitudes that is located on Sunset Key which you have to take a ferry to.

Cuban flavors are also big here with places like El Siboney, El Meson de Pepe, Kim’s Kuban, Sandy’s Cafe and Cuban Coffee Queen.

There are a few great spots on Stock Island too including The Docks and Hogfish. No Name Pub is a good stop if you are visiting Big Pine Key.

Don’t forget to have Key Lime Pie in Key West too so be sure to stop by Kermit’s Key Lime Shop.

Where To Stay In The Lower Keys?

The Lower Keys offer some of the best stays with a mix of boutique inns, waterfront resorts and cabins.

Two of the most well-known resorts in Key West are Casa Marina and the Ocean Key Resort. Another luxury resort is the Sunset Key Cottages where Latitudes restaurant is located. If you stay at any one of these resorts, you will have luxurious amenities and a peaceful stay.

Parrot Key Hotel & Villas or the Marquesa Hotel make for a historic and unique stay.

If you want to stay in the lower Keys but not on Key West, then you can always stay on Big Pine Key at the Deer Run On The Atlantic where you might even see some of the local deer.

Packing Guide For The Florida Keys

Packing for the Florida Keys is all about being prepared for hot sunny days but also expecting the occasional rain shower or a cool evening breeze.

The typical outfit attires you will see in Key West are shorts, sundresses and t-shirts. Don’t forget your swimwear as you will probably be spending at least half of your time enjoying the water.

You will also need a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, sandals, beach and swimming accessories. Make sure to bring a light sweater for the cooler nights especially if you are traveling in the winter months.

Here are some of the things you can’t forget to bring with you:

Bug Spray – If you’re not used to the amounts of mosquitos in Florida then you will want to bring an insect repellent with you. Especially if you are planning on going kayaking in the mangroves, trust me, you will need it!

Sunscreen – I got my worst sunburn in the Florida Keys. Make sure it doesn’t happen to you so bring reef safe sunscreen to protect yourself and the fragile habitats around you. Don’t forget to reapply it too.

Waterproof bag – A little waterproof bag is a necessity in the Keys when you are going from one watersport to another water activity.

Beyond The Main Keys

If you’ve made it this far, then you are ready to plan and take your Florida Keys trip. It’s an amazing destination and a bucket list experience in Florida.

While Key West is the southernmost point in the connected islands, there is another place that is worth a mention in the Keys and that’s the Dry Tortugas.

Dry Tortugas

The Dry Tortugas are a remote cluster of islands that are located about 70 miles west of Key West. They are only accessible by boat or seaplane which you have to book in advance.

On one of the islands stands Fort Jefferson, a 19th century massive fort that is one of the largest brick masonry structures in the United States.

Surrounding the islands is some of the clearest water and coral reefs that are perfect for snorkeling. You’ll see plenty of tropical fish, coral and other marine life.

You can even camp in the Dry Tortugas right under the stars for a truly unforgettable experience.

Tools & Resources

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