Florida Keys
Florida Keys Travel Guide
Stretching more than 100 miles from Key Largo to Key West, the Florida Keys offer turquoise water, world-class snorkeling, fresh seafood, and one of America’s most scenic road trips. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a week-long adventure, this guide will help you experience the best of the Keys.
Why Visit the Florida Keys?
The Florida Keys feel unlike anywhere else in the continental United States. Connected by the scenic Overseas Highway, each island has its own personality—from the diving capital of Key Largo to the laid-back fishing villages of Islamorada and Marathon, all the way to the lively streets of Key West.
Whether you’re looking for beaches, boating, wildlife, waterfront dining, or unforgettable sunsets, the Florida Keys deliver a relaxed island atmosphere that’s perfect for slowing down and enjoying the journey.
Top Things to Do
Don’t miss these iconic experiences:
Drive the Overseas Highway
Visit Bahia Honda State Park
Snorkel or dive at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
Feed tarpon at Robbie’s Marina
Explore Duval Street in Key West
Watch the sunset at Mallory Square
Visit the Southernmost Point Buoy
Tour Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum
Paddle through mangrove tunnels
Take a boat trip to Dry Tortugas National Park
Best Beaches
The Florida Keys aren’t known for long stretches of sandy beaches like Miami, but they offer several beautiful places to relax by the water.
Bahia Honda State Park
Often considered one of Florida’s most beautiful beaches, with calm water and excellent snorkeling.
Sombrero Beach (Marathon)
A family-friendly beach with picnic areas, volleyball courts, and shallow water.
Higgs Beach (Key West)
A convenient beach close to downtown with nearby restaurants and walking paths.
Anne’s Beach (Islamorada)
A peaceful boardwalk beach that’s ideal for wading and enjoying the scenery.
Where to Stay
Choose your home base based on the experience you’re looking for.
Key Largo
Perfect for snorkeling, scuba diving, and quick weekend trips from South Florida.
Islamorada
Known for fishing, waterfront resorts, and a quieter atmosphere.
Marathon
A central location that’s ideal for exploring the Middle Keys.
Big Pine Key
Best for nature lovers looking to escape the crowds.
Key West
Perfect for nightlife, history, shopping, and iconic sunsets.
Where to Eat
Fresh seafood is the highlight of dining in the Florida Keys.
Local specialties include:
Key lime pie
Stone crab (seasonal)
Fresh mahi-mahi
Conch fritters
Lobster (seasonal)
Fish tacos
Waterfront seafood restaurants
Many restaurants offer dockside dining where you can enjoy sunset views while watching boats come and go.
Sample Itineraries
One Day
Drive to Key Largo
Visit John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
Lunch on the waterfront
Stop at Islamorada before heading home
Weekend
Day 1
Key Largo
Islamorada
Robbie’s Marina
Day 2
Bahia Honda State Park
Marathon
Sunset in Key West (or return north depending on your schedule)
Five Days
Spend time exploring:
Key Largo
Islamorada
Marathon
Big Pine Key
Key West
Allow plenty of time for scenic stops along the Overseas Highway.
Best Time to Visit
The Florida Keys are a year-round destination.
Winter (December–February)
Warm, sunny weather and peak travel season.
Spring (March–May)
Excellent temperatures with beautiful water conditions.
Summer (June–August)
Hot and humid with fewer crowds and lower hotel rates.
Fall (September–November)
Quieter travel season, though visitors should monitor hurricane forecasts.
Getting Around
A car is the best way to explore the Florida Keys.
The Overseas Highway (U.S. 1) connects every major island and offers incredible ocean views along the drive.
Keep in mind:
Allow extra travel time during weekends and holidays.
Fuel stations become less frequent farther south.
Parking in Key West can be limited and expensive.
Nearby Adventures
Extend your trip with these experiences:
Everglades National Park
Biscayne National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park
Dolphin and snorkeling tours
Sunset sailing cruises
Deep-sea fishing charters
Paddleboarding and kayaking
Related Guides
Continue planning your trip with these guides:
Key Largo Travel Guide
Islamorada Travel Guide
Marathon Travel Guide
Key West Travel Guide
Best Stops on the Overseas Highway
Bahia Honda State Park Guide
Dry Tortugas National Park Guide
Best Snorkeling in the Florida Keys
*Coconut Creek Travel participates in affiliate programs, This means we may earn a commission when you make bookings through our links.
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