The Florida Keys are a popular destination here at AWWT. Their broad appeal means they work well with a number of the tailor-made USA itineraries we put together. Combined with Orlando they make for a fun honeymoon. Alternatively mix these with a stay in Miami for a cool city break, followed by some chilled downtime.
Curving out from the mainland, they are made up of hundreds of little islands that seep far into the turquoise seas of the Florida Straits, stretching towards Cuba. Out of the 800 keys that make up this archipelago, 30 of them are inhabited. With glorious balmy temperatures and limited rain over the winter months, the Keys are at their best between December-March, making them a perfect choice for some winter sun.
We are going to explore the five main regions which make up the Florida Keys, giving you a feel for what this unique part of the USA can offer.
Key Largo
Just over an hours drive from the bright lights of Miami Beach, Key Largo is the largest of all the Keys and the closest to the mainland. Its biggest draws are its natural attractions, such as John Pennekamp State Park, the first undersea park in the USA. Home to huge coral reefs and a submerged shipwreck, this is a diver’s paradise. Glass bottomed boat trips and a huge aquarium, mean that anyone can experience the underwater magic.
For visitors wanting to enjoy Largos natural attractions on dry land its worth taking the time to visit Dagny Johnson, State Park. Here visitors can follow trails on bike or foot, with the chance to spot crocodiles and other protected species of animals.
History buffs and movie lovers won’t want to miss a ride aboard the African Queen – a 100 year old steam boat that began its life in Africa. Originally transporting hunting parties across the Nile, it became a Hollywood star in the film of the same name. Having sailed Humphrey Bogart and Katherine Hepburn in its past life, The African Queen ‘retired’ to Key Largo in 1982. The boat has been painstakingly restored to its former glory and now offers visitors the chance to cruise the Port Largo Canal.
Come sundown on Largo you’ll find plenty of restaurants and bars to unwind as you look back on action packed days and enjoy incredible sea food.
Islamorada
Our next stop is Islamorada. Made up of six different islands it’s the self-proclaimed Sports Fishing Capital of the world. The deep blue waters off the coast here attract fishing fans from all over the globe. They come to land big game fish such as Black fin tuna, Wahoo, Sailfish and Mahi Mahi. After wrestling your feisty catch aboard, you can take this to a local restaurant where it will be cooked to perfection.
There is no shortage of boats that are available for charter in this part of the Florida Keys, but if you are a novice then you can join a group sailing which will include everything you need to get started. Such as rods, bait and tackle.
Back on land you will find independent shops and boutique art galleries in the village centre, as well as laid back restaurants, cafes and bars. A visit to Robbie’s ticks all of these boxes in one visit! Feed the giant Tarpon that frequent the dock here, then enjoy your own meal by the waters edge. Browse the open-air market and you will find local art, photography, and handicrafts.
A voyage to Islamorada sandbar is a fun way to spend an afternoon. Snorkel over colourful reefs, before enjoying the party atmosphere that surrounds the famous sandbar. On weekends and holiday’s you’ll be joined by local families picnicking and barbecuing in the shallow waters here.
Marathon
Roughly halfway between Key Largo and Key West, the city of Marathon makes a good stopover on the long journey from Miami to Key West. It shares many of the same attractions as Islamorada, but composed of 13 separate islands it is much bigger. You will have a broad selection of hotels and resorts to choose from.
Marathon can make claim to having one of the best beaches in the keys, the beautiful Sombrero Beach. Marathon’s perfect white sands are often visited by nesting turtles between April and October making it a perfect spot for nature lovers, as well as sun seekers. For an active experience head to the nearby Curry Hammock State Park where you can hire a kayak and explore the watery trails that flow through the mangroves.
Make sure you visit Pigeon Key, a remote island, connected by an old railway line that was once part of the original 7-mile Bridge. It’s 2 miles each way, so is a good walk from Marathon or a gentle cycle ride. Upon reaching the island you will be able to explore the railroad museum or snorkel in the crystal-clear waters that lap its shores. A visit to the Dolphin Research centre is a highlight of any trip to The Florida Keys! Here you will be able to experience an unforgettable encounter with these friendly and intelligent animals.
Big Pine Key and The Lower Keys
The penultimate region on our journey through the Florida Keys is Big Pine Key and the Lower Keys. Understated and unspoilt, this is an unplugged version of the Keys that are stripped back of big hotels and fancy restaurants. An abundance of natural attractions and a quieter way of life, make this the perfect spot for anyone looking to get away from the crowds.
With tropical fish, sharks, coral and a submerged wreck, Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary is a scuba divers heaven. The clear, warm waters make this ideal for snorkelling too. Our team can arrange dive tours and snorkelling trips for you before you depart the UK.
Make sure you put aside a day to enjoy the beautiful Bahia Honda State Park. Its perfect sandy white beaches are the very best in all of the Keys if not the USA. Being a state park, visitors are able to camp here. If you book early enough you can enjoy the sensation of stepping out of your RV and into the warm shallow waters which surround this stunning park. A section of the iconic rail bridge that once connected the keys offers up aerial views of the park.
Key Deer
If you linger on Big Pine Key Long enough, you may experience an encounter with a Key Deer. Little more than the size of a dog, these pocket-sized deer are native to the Florida Keys. This is the only place in the world that you’ll find these pretty animals. You can spot Key Deer in a range of habitats, including wooded hammocks, mangroves or grazing by the roadside. You might even spot them swimming between the different keys!
Make a visit the Blue Hole, a must for any nature lover. This former quarry that has been flooded with rainwater, making it a magnet for wildlife. Visit at dusk or dawn and you may spot deer coming to drink. Look out for the resident gators though.
Key West
Our final destination of this virtual tour of The Keys is Key West – the best-known key of them all. Located just 105 miles from Havana, Key West sways to a different rhythm to the rest of mainland USA. It’s laidback vibes and legendary nightlife, pull in the crowds who come to experience a town that is diverse as it is inclusive.
Wander through the palm lined streets of Key Wests historic old town and you’ll find a feast of architecture. Pastel-coloured bungalows, weather boarded cottages, gingerbread mansions and a spattering of colonial French gems are all in the mix. Many of these Grand houses once played host to former presidents, artists, and writers. Notably Key Wests most famous resident Ernest Hemingway. Like Hemingway, most travellers are drawn to the temperate climate, deep sea fishing and a few drinks on Duval Street.
Nightlife
After a day exploring the plethora of museums and shops, head to Mallory Square and join in the sunset celebration. As the sun begins its slow descent into the ocean, crowds gather to watch the tight rope walkers, jugglers and fire breathers that come out each evening to mark the occasion.
Once darkness falls head to Duvall Street where bars and clubs come to life, entertaining revellers into the small hours. For a quieter scene you’ll find no shortage of restaurants and bars tucked away off the main drag.
Like the other keys we have explored so far you will be able to indulge your passions for water sports. Diving, snorkelling, big game fishing and kayaking are all possible here. To arrange any of these activities speak to our team. If you are looking at getting onto or under the turquoise waters that encompass Key West then let us know.
Learn more about Florida and the Keys by getting in touch with one of our team of friendly travel experts.
