Florida Keys Travel Guide

Explore the culturally and naturally rich Florida Keys with our comprehensive tour guide. Find the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more!


Introduction to Florida Keys

Florida Keys is a string of islands stretching approximately 120 miles off the southern tip of Florida, between the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. This tropical paradise offers a unique blend of cultural and natural attractions, making it a perfect choice for travelers seeking an exotic adventure.

List of Places to Visit in Florida Keys

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum

The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum is a must-visit attraction for literature lovers. The museum is home to the legendary author’s original furniture, books, letters, and memorabilia, including his six-toed cats. You can take a guided tour of the property and learn about Hemingway’s life and work.

Key West Lighthouse

The Key West Lighthouse is an iconic landmark of the Keys, built in 1825 to guide sailors safely through the shallow waters of the Florida Straits. The lighthouse offers stunning views of the ocean and the city, and you can learn about the area’s shipwreck history and the life of the lighthouse keepers.

Harry S. Truman Little White House

The Harry S. Truman Little White House is a significant piece of American history, where the former President used to spend his winters. The house is a museum now, and you can learn about Truman’s life and presidency, as well as about the many other famous people who visited the house.

Natural Attractions of Florida Keys: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Dry Tortugas National Park

The Dry Tortugas National Park is a pristine wilderness area, accessible only via seaplane or boat. The park comprises seven small islands, and it’s home to an impressive collection of coral reefs, shipwrecks, and marine life. You can snorkel, swim, dive, or just relax on the gorgeous beaches and explore the historical Fort Jefferson.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

The John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is Florida’s first undersea park, and it protects the only living coral reef in the continental United States. The park offers an opportunity to explore the underwater world with its crystal-clear waters, abundant marine life, and colorful corals. You can also take a glass-bottom boat tour or rent a kayak and explore the mangrove swamps.

Bahia Honda State Park

The Bahia Honda State Park is the perfect retreat for nature lovers, with its pristine beaches, clear waters, and tranquil atmosphere. You can swim, snorkel, fish, hike, or just relax under the palm trees and watch the sunset. The park also has campsites for overnight stays.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Florida Keys

The Florida Keys offer endless opportunities for hiking and biking enthusiasts, with its scenic routes, historic trails, and nature reserves. Here are some of the most popular:

  • Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail: This trail spans 106 miles and connects the islands of Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, Big Pine Key, and Key West, offering stunning views of the ocean and the shoreline.

  • Key West Bicycle Tour: This tour takes you through the enchanting streets of Key West, where you can learn about the history, culture, and architecture of the neighborhood.

  • Crane Point Nature Center: This nature preserve features a network of trails through the mangrove forests and offers opportunities for bird watching, fishing, and picnicking.

Best Things to Do in Florida Keys: Activities and Tours

Diving and Snorkeling

The Florida Keys are a mecca for divers and snorkelers, with their crystal-clear waters, colorful coral reefs, and diverse marine life. You can explore the underwater world with professional guides or just rent your own gear and go at your own pace. Some of the most popular sites include:

  • Sombrero Reef
  • Looe Key Reef
  • Molasses Reef

Sunset Sailing

Watching the sunset from a sailboat is a quintessential Florida Keys activity. You can choose from a variety of tour operators, offering sunset cruises, dinner cruises, and private charters. Some of the popular options include:

  • Schooner America 2.0
  • Fury Water Adventures
  • Danger Charters

Fishing Charters

Fishing is a part of the Florida Keys’ culture and history, and there are numerous charter companies offering trips for both experienced and novice anglers. You can catch a variety of fish, including tarpon, bonefish, permit, and sailfish. Some of the popular charter companies include:

  • FishMonster Charters
  • Dream Catcher Charters
  • SeaSquared Charters

Week-Long Itinerary for Florida Keys

Day 1-2 Key Largo: Visit John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, explore the Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center, and take a sunset sail.

Day 3-4 Islamorada: Go fishing with a charter company, visit the History of Diving Museum, and bike through the scenic routes.

Day 5-6 Marathon: Swim with the dolphins at Dolphin Research Center, explore Bahia Honda State Park, and take a sunset cruise.

Day 7-8 Key West: Visit Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, take a tour of the historic district, and go snorkeling at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park.

Food and Drink Scene of Florida Keys

Must-Try Dishes

  • Key Lime Pie: A creamy and tangy dessert made with Key lime juice, graham cracker crust, and whipped cream.

  • Conch Fritters: Deep-fried balls made with conch meat, flour, and spices, served with dipping sauce.

  • Cuban Sandwich: A hot-pressed sandwich filled with roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, served on Cuban bread.

Local Beverages

  • Key West Brewing Company: The local brewery offers a variety of beers, including Island Life IPA, Southernmost Wheat, and Sunset Ale.

  • Cuban Coffee: A strong and sweet espresso-based drink, often served with a slice of lime.

Where to Stay in Florida Keys: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Key Largo

  • Hilton Key Largo Resort: A luxurious resort with private balconies, poolside bar, and waterfront dining.

  • Key Largo Bay Marriott Beach Resort: A tropical paradise with lush gardens, private beach, and water sports facilities.

  • The Pelican Key Largo Cottages: A charming and cozy collection of cottages, with pool, kayak rentals, and easy access to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.

Key West

  • The Saint Hotel Key West: A stylish and elegant hotel, featuring a rooftop pool, spa, and restaurant.

  • The Marker Key West Harbor Resort: A luxurious resort, with marina, outdoor pool, and beach club.

  • NYAH Key West: A budget-friendly hostel, offering shared and private rooms, hot tub, and pool.

What to Buy in Florida Keys: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Key Lime Products: You can find a variety of products made with Key lime, including soap, lotion, candles, and hot sauce.

  • Conch Shells: A classic beach souvenir, you can find conch shells of various sizes and shapes in the Keys.

  • Artwork: The Keys are home to many talented artists, and you can find unique and beautiful paintings, sculptures, and pottery in the local galleries.

Local Culture and Customs of Florida Keys

The Florida Keys have a unique culture, influenced by the diverse populations of pirates, fishermen, and artists who have lived there over the years. The locals are friendly and laid-back, and they value the environment and the traditions of the area.

Best Time to Visit Florida Keys

The best time to visit Florida Keys is from December to April, when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are thin. The summer months (June-August) can be hot and humid, and the hurricane season (June-November) can bring unpredictable weather.

Do’s and Don’ts of Florida Keys

Do:

  • Do respect the environment and wildlife, and follow Leave No Trace principles.

  • Do learn about the history and culture of the area, and support local businesses.

  • Do try the local cuisine and drinks, as the Keys have a unique gastronomic heritage.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural resources, as the Keys are a fragile ecosystem.

  • Don’t touch or harass the marine life, as it’s illegal and harmful.

  • Don’t drink and drive, as the Keys have strict DUI laws and checkpoints.

Safety and Health

Safety in Florida Keys

The Florida Keys are a generally safe destination, but visitors should take the usual precautions of any tourist destination, such as avoiding isolated areas at night, securing valuables, and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Florida Keys

The Keys are a tropical area, and visitors should take precautions against mosquito-borne diseases, such as Zika or dengue fever. They should also protect themselves from the sun and heat, by wearing appropriate clothing, using sunscreen, and staying hydrated.

Getting to Florida Keys: Transportation Options and Logistics

The Florida Keys are accessible by car, bus, or plane. The closest airport is Key West International Airport, but Miami International Airport is also a viable option.

Airports Near Florida Keys

  • Key West International Airport
  • Miami International Airport
  • Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport

Bus Stations Near Florida Keys

  • Greyhound Bus Station, Key West
  • Marathon Transfer Station, Marathon

Other Options

  • Ride-sharing services
  • Private shuttle services

How to Get Around in Florida Keys

The best way to get around Florida Keys is by car. You can rent a car at the airport or in the cities, or use a ride-sharing service or taxi for shorter journeys. There are also bike rental options available in some areas.

Where to Go Next from Florida Keys: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Miami

Miami is an energetic and cosmopolitan city, known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and delicious cuisine. You can explore the art deco architecture of South Beach, shop in Coconut Grove, or visit the museums and galleries in Wynwood.

Everglades National Park

The Everglades National Park is a vast wilderness area, home to a diverse ecosystem of alligators, panthers, manatees, and birds. You can hike, bike, or kayak through the park and explore its unique wetlands, sawgrass prairies, and mangrove forests.

Conclusion

Florida Keys is an exotic and enchanting destination, offering a plethora of cultural and natural attractions, tasty cuisine, and friendly locals. Plan your trip with our comprehensive tour guide, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

link=U.S. Highway 1 link=U.S. Highway 1 The bow of the Spiegel Grove, a ship sunk as an artificial reef The bow of the Spiegel Grove, a ship sunk as an artificial reef


    Big Pine Key
    Dry Tortugas National Park
    Islamorada
    Marathon