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Visit the Florida Keys and learn the meaning of the term "island paradise". Located at the southern tip of Florida, the Florida Keys are made up of about 1700 islands scattered across the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico. The keys span about 110 miles, beginning at the southeastern tip of the Florida peninsula and then extending in a southwestern arc until reaching Key West (the southernmost point of the United States). Roads, bridges, and causeways connect the various keys.
Pelican on dock of the bay, Key West
A holiday in the Florida Keys is perfect for visitors looking for a refreshing getaway that combines relaxing on the beach, exploring underwater treasures, great shopping, and natural, educational sightseeing. You can indulge your taste buds at the world-renowned local seafood restaurants and then kick back and enjoy the laid-back nightlife as the sun sets over the water.
Because of its southern location and tropical climate, the Florida Keys is blessed with sunshine and warm weather all year. That said, keep in mind that during hurricane season, particularly the weeks between August and October, the Keys occasionally risk being in the path of violent storms. Plan your trip wisely and check with the National Hurricane Centre before visiting.
Each of the islands in the keys has its own unique attractions, and a holiday here gives the expression "fun in the sun" a whole new meaning. While there are far too many islands to cover in depth, here are a few of the most popular areas.
Key Largo is the longest island in the chain and the closest to Miami. It's only an hour's drive from South Florida's two major airports yet it feels like it's worlds away.
Key Largo offers some of the best diving and snorkeling in the entire keys region. One area it is particularly famous for is the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, (America's first underwater park) which has an underwater hotel where couples can tie the knot below the water's surface. There are also many dive companies that run guided trips to the park and to the sunken wrecks that dot the area. Proximity to the everglades along with the rich underwater eco-system has also made Key Largo popular with eco-tourists.
Schooling tropical fish, Key Largo
Key Largo boasts amazing natural wonders along with tours, guides, and friendly locals happy to help you make the most of them. You can arrange an eco-tour, try your hand at parasailing, race through the waters on a jet ski, relax on a sunset sail or sightseeing tour, or anything else your heart desires. All this natural beauty, combined with the area's rich history, has helped create a vibrant community of artists who display their creations at dozens of local galleries. There are also theatres, clubs, shopping areas, cultural events, and much, much more.
Islamorada is comprised of six islands including Plantation Key, Windley Key, Upper Matecumbe Key, Lower Matecumbe Key and the offshore islands of Indian Key and Lignumvitae Key. Just south of Key Largo, Islamorada is primarily known for its world-class sport fishing. Anglers from all over the world make Islamorada their premier fishing destination.
Colourful tortilla chips, salsa, and an iced tea served island style
While it's considered the "sport fishing capital of the world", Islamorada has so much more. Anglers come for the abundant sea life while others come to enjoy watery activities like scuba diving and snorkeling, boating, jet skiing, and exploring the relics of this historically rich area. Gourmets will love the many restaurants, beachside cafes, secluded bistros, and lively tiki bars, where they can sample local cuisine and see some of the local color of Islamorada. Music lovers enjoy warm, balmy evenings on the lawn of the TIB Amphitheater; theater goers can take in top-notch productions at the Coral Shores Performing Arts Center; and at Long Key State Park, visitors can relax and meander along lush, tropical nature trails. In Islamorada nature and culture meet in every possible way.
Marathon is known as "the heart of the keys" due to its placement in the middle of the island chain. Located mainly on Vaca, Fat Deer, and Grassy Key, Marathon is the most family-friendly of all of the Keys' regions. Its laid-back lifestyle and relaxed atmosphere reflect the attitude of "old-Florida" and appeals to visitors young and old.
The most famous attraction in Marathon Florida is the Seven Mile Bridge, and the drive over this bridge is one of the most beautiful drives you may ever take. The fishing and snorkeling are excellent with miles of flats, as well as numerous bridges, which make superb fishing spots. If you're staying in Marathon without a boat, you can find a spot under one of the bridges in the area where you can set up for the day and find some great fishing hotspots. Of course, you can also charter a boat for the day and get out on the water.
Marathon is a family oriented destination with many attractions for the entire family to enjoy such as the Dolphin Research Centre, The Turtle Hospital, Crane Point Hammock, and Pigeon Key Island. There are also plenty of exciting water sports to try like parasailing, snorkeling, deep sea or reef fishing, boating, and jet skiing. It's also not hard to find your own private, secluded island or stretch of beach where you can relax and rejuvenate in peace and quiet.
The lower keys are where you want to go when you've had enough of crowds and you're ready for the ultimate lazy holiday. Famous for their family-oriented neighborhoods, homey resorts, and community atmosphere, the lower keys are all about easy relaxation.
Shore of the Bahia-Honda State Park in the Lower Keys of Florida and the Overseas Highway stretches from island to island across turquoise tropical oceans
Like with all of the keys, the snorkeling is amazing. Check out the Looe Key coral reef for an amazing underwater treat. Above the water you can ride a bicycle through Key Deer country (where the endangered Key deer resides), or stroll through the charming towns and villages.
The lower keys is a quiet region of small resorts, family restaurants, untamed wildernesses and fascinating history. If you want to get a little shopping done head over to Big Pine Key, which is the central shopping hub of the area.
When visiting the lower keys you're never far from the more lively atmosphere of Key West. In fact, the drive is one worth taking. The largely uninhabited Saddlebunch Keys that you will pass through are a series mangrove islands that make the trip a memorable one, especially at sunset.
Even though it's at the end of the keys and is the continental USA's southernmost point, Key West can be reached from Miami in less than four hours by car. Visitors who choose to make the trip will have the pleasure of passing through the beautiful, scenic vistas of the individual keys. Expect to see emerald-green lagoons, deep blue waters, swaying palms, and mangrove swamps.
Key West is a lively destination rich with history and cultural attractions. Its African heritage in particular is well represented in the vibrant Bahama Village neighborhood. There are historic churches, indigenous foods and fabulous annual festivals. When visiting, you'll also discover that the old town section of Key West is one of America's true architectural and botanical treasures. Old wooden homes have been faithfully restored and are surrounded by lush tropical flowers and trees.
Key West Lighthouse
Key West also has a vibrant nightlife. Open-air bars, famous pubs, mouth-watering restaurants and pulsating nightclubs all come to life as soon as the sun goes down. Entertainment venues abound where you'll find dramas, musicals, comedies, performance artists and more.
Of course, being an island destination, Key West is also a haven for snorkeling, diving, lazing on the beach, golfing, and more.
No matter where you stay in the Florida Keys, you'll experience a sunny beach holiday like no other.
Other Florida areas: Orlando | Gulf Coast | Atlantic Coast
Orlando/Kissimmee
Gulf Coast
Atlantic Coast