Discover Paradise: The Ultimate Florida Keys Travel Guide
Introduction to the Florida Keys
The Florida Keys are a 120 mile long chain of tropical islands located off the southern tip of Florida. Surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Gulf of Mexico on the other, the islands are connected by a series of bridges and causeways.
The Keys begin just south of Miami and extend southwest towards Key West, which is located just 90 miles from Cuba. The islands are situated on the northern edge of the Florida Reef, the only living coral barrier reef in North America.
The Florida Keys have a unique geography of mangrove swamps, tropical hardwood hammocks, and sandy beaches. The islands enjoy a tropical climate with an average temperature of 77°F. June through October brings hot and humid weather with the potential for tropical storms. The winter months are drier and milder.
The Florida Keys have a diverse history reflecting the various cultures that have inhabited and influenced the islands over the centuries. From Native tribes and early Spanish explorers to shipwreck salvagers, pineapple farmers, and modern-day tourism, the Keys have gone through many transformations. Today, tourism and fishing are the pillars of the local economy and culture.
With their laid-back charm, natural beauty, and adventures on both land and sea, the Florida Keys offer the perfect tropical island escape without leaving the U.S. The islands provide something for every traveler, from diving and snorkeling to cultural attractions, nature preserves, dining, and nightlife. If you're planning a trip to the Keys, here are some tips to help you get started:
Weather & When to Visit
The Florida Keys enjoy a tropical climate all year long, with hot summers and mild winters. There are some key factors to consider when planning your visit.
The best time to visit the Florida Keys is from December to April during the dry season. Temperatures range from the 60s to 80s F. Rainfall is low, averaging only 2-3 inches per month, so it's ideal for outdoor activities like boating, fishing, and snorkeling. The water tends to be calmer and clearer as well.
Summers in the Florida Keys (May to October) are hot and humid. High temperatures average in the 80s and low 90s F. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, especially June through September, which sees the most rainfall. Hurricanes are a threat during the late summer and early fall.
The shoulder seasons of November and early December have mild, sunny weather and fewer crowds. However, the water may be too cool for swimming. Late April and May still see high temperatures around 80 F, yet more rain starts returning.
The Florida Keys enjoy sunny weather year-round, with an average of 250 sunny days. Even in summer, the average high remains below 90 F. Pack light, breathable clothing you can layer and wear both in and out of the water. Don't forget sun protection!
Getting to the Florida Keys
The Florida Keys are accessible by air, land, and sea. The region is served by two major airports, making it easy to fly directly into the islands. You can also drive to the Florida Keys by road, or arrive by boat.
The two main airports are:
Key West International Airport (EYW) - Direct flights are available to Key West from several major US cities. Airlines flying into EYW include American Airlines, Delta, United Airlines, and more.
Miami International Airport (MIA) - Located on the mainland, Miami Airport is a major international hub with service from most major carriers. It's about 3.5 hours by car from Miami to Key West.
Driving to the Florida Keys from the Miami area takes around 3-4 hours in normal traffic via the Overseas Highway (US Hwy 1). This scenic highway connects the Florida Keys island chain and has several off-road access points. Driving is the most flexible way to explore the Keys at your own pace.
You can also take the bus from Miami to Key West on the Keys Shuttle. The ride takes around 4 hours. Greyhound has bus service connecting Miami to Key West as well.
Finally, you can charter a boat, ferry, or cruise to reach the Florida Keys by sea. Key West Express offers ferry service from Fort Myers and Marco Island to Key West. Numerous cruises also include Key West on their itineraries. Boaters can spend time island hopping and exploring the Keys by private boat.
What to Bring
Shorts
swimwear
small backpack or beach bag
flip flops
beach towels
sunglasses
hat
waterproof phone bag
sunscreen, aloe vera
*** Get this stuff before you go! It is heavily marked up on site. Get water and snacks at Win Dixie before going to the beach or excursions.
Travel Tip: You can save space by foregoing the beach towels and “borrowing” the pool towels from your hotel or resort.
Lodging
The Florida Keys offer a wide variety of lodging options to suit different budgets and tastes.
Hotels & Resorts
For those seeking luxury, Key West offers historic inns and boutique hotels located right on Duval Street. Many feature beautiful architecture, pools, and prime location for exploring Key West's attractions. Well-known options include The Reach Resort and Casa Marina Resort.
Islamorada is home to the iconic Cheeca Lodge, a sprawling beachfront resort with amenities like a spa, golf, and several restaurants. Other Islamorada resorts include the family-friendly Postcard Inn and chic Moorings Village.
Marathon is centrally located in the Keys so it makes it easier to access either end or anywhere in between for your activities and excursions. Marathon also offers more affordable resorts like Holiday Inn, as well as fishing lodges and RV resorts. Hawks Cay and Faro Blanco are popular luxury picks. (I had a great experience at Faro Blanco!)
Bed & Breakfasts
Quaint bed and breakfasts are abundant on the islands, especially in Key West. Historic Victorian and conch houses have been converted into charming inns, many with porches, gardens, and pools. Breakfast is usually included. Top picks include Curry Mansion, Simonton Court, and Santa Maria Suites.
Vacation Rentals
For more space, privacy, and home amenities, vacation rentals are popular throughout the Keys. House and condo rentals often offer full kitchens, separate bedrooms, and screened-in porches. Rates are generally cheaper than hotels. Good sources for vacation rentals include Airbnb, VRBO, Vacasa, and local real estate agencies.
Dining in the Florida Keys
The Florida Keys are a seafood lover's paradise. With the Atlantic Ocean to the south and east and the Gulf of Mexico to the north and west, the islands are surrounded by some of the freshest and tastiest seafood you'll find anywhere.
Key West pink shrimp, yellowtail snapper, mahi mahi, and spiny lobster are just a few of the delicious catches that make their way from the sea to local restaurant menus. No matter where you dine in the Keys, be sure to try the fresh fish of the day, raw bar options like oysters and ceviche, or classics like fish tacos, fried shrimp baskets, coconut shrimp, and grilled grouper sandwiches.
Of course no trip to the Keys is complete without trying Key lime pie. The official dessert of the state of Florida, Key lime pie is made with the distinctively yellow Key lime juice that grows abundantly throughout the islands. From hole-in-the-wall bakeries to five star resort restaurants, you'll find delicious pies with an authentic graham cracker crust and creamy Key lime filling. Some other classic Keys dishes to try include conch fritters, stone crab claws, and Cuban and Caribbean cuisines.
The Keys have dining options to fit any taste and budget. Casual waterfront spots like Schooner Wharf Bar and the Half Shell Raw Bar in Key West are perfect for kicking back with a tropical drink, live music, and plate after plate of oysters or peel-and-eat shrimp. Upscale resorts like Chefs Michael's or Louie's Backyard in Marathon offer fine dining in an elegant setting. And don't miss fresh seafood shacks like the Fish House and Tiki Bar in Islamorada, where the motto is "come as you are." No matter where your cravings take you in the Florida Keys, you won't leave hungry or disappointed.
[Coconut Shrimp]
[Mahi Mahi Fish Tacos]
Activities in the Florida Keys
The Florida Keys offer an abundance of outdoor activities to enjoy on both land and sea. With sunshine year-round, the Keys are a playground for water sports and ocean adventures.
Snorkeling & Scuba Diving
Snorkeling and scuba diving in the Florida Keys allows you to experience the area's exotic coral reefs and marine life up close. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo has snorkeling trails through mangrove forests and coral reefs. You'll see colorful tropical fish, sharks, rays, sea turtles and more. Many scuba diving sites can be accessed from shore or local dive boats. The Vandenberg wreck off Key West offers amazing wreck diving.
Fishing
The Keys are a premier sportfishing destination, with options for offshore, flats, and backcountry fishing. Islamorada is known as the sportfishing capital of the world. Anglers can catch game fish like sailfish, marlin, tuna, mahi-mahi, snapper and grouper. Inshore fishing targets bonefish, redfish, tarpon and permit on the flats.
Sailing & Kayaking
The calm turquoise waters of the Keys make an ideal sailing destination. Key West is a major sailing hub, with plenty of charter companies offering catamarans and mono-hulls. Paddling a kayak lets you silently glide through mangrove tunnels and shallow flats. Many state parks have kayak rentals and tours (more on that below!)
Eco-Tours
Join a guided eco-tour to visit Keys habitats by boat or on foot. Guides explain the ecology of mangrove forests, seagrass flats, hardwood hammock islands and coral reefs. Tours may include snorkeling, birdwatching or visiting an underwater preserve.
Islamorada
Islamorada is known as the "Sportfishing Capital of the World" and spans across six of the Florida Keys islands. Located between Mile Marker 73 90, Islamorada offers incredible fishing, watersports, dining, and resorts.
Overview
Islamorada is actually made up of four islands - Upper Matecumbe Key, Lower Matecumbe Key, Windley Key, and Plantation Key. It's home to various state parks, beaches, and art galleries. The community of Islamorada has a population of around 6,600 people.
The village offers a relaxed, tropical vibe with mangroves, palm trees, and calm turquoise waters. Islamorada has a rich history in the fishing industry and is considered one of the best sportfishing destinations in the world. Anglers flock here to catch sailfish, marlin, mahi-mahi, and more.
Major Attractions
Some top attractions in Islamorada include:
Anne's Beach: Popular public beach with picnic areas, calm waters, and beautiful ocean views.
History of Diving Museum: Learn about the fascinating history of diving, see artifacts like diving helmets, and more.
Indian Key Historic State Park: Only accessible by boat, this island is the site of an 1840s settlement that was attacked during the Second Seminole War. Ruins and interpretive displays detail its history.
Theater of the Sea: Interactive marine park where you can swim with dolphins, stingrays, sea lions, and more.
Robbie's Marina: Famous marina offering food and drinks, plenty of shopping, and fun water activities such as boat rentals, jet ski tours, paddle boarding, and kayaking. The most exciting attraction at Robbie’s however is the Tarpon feeding. Swarms of friendly Tarpons hang out in the shallow waters around the dock allowing visitors to Robbie’s the opportunity to hand feed them. The excitement also wins over the local pelicans and adds to the entertainment!
[Tarpon Feeding at Robbie’s in Islamorada]
[Swarm of Tarpons at Robbie’s in Islamorada]
Dining
Islamorada has outstanding fresh seafood restaurants, beachside cafes, and casual eateries. Top picks include:
Lazy Days: Quintessential waterside seafood restaurant known for fresh catches, key lime pie, and sunset views.
Morada Bay Beach Cafe: Chic restaurant right on the beach offering upscale dining with a great drink menu.
Green Turtle Inn: Historic inn with a charming restaurant that uses locally sourced ingredients.
Pierre's: Acclaimed fine dining restaurant with an ever-changing menu showcasing local Florida ingredients.
Fishing
As the sportfishing capital, Islamorada is a paradise for anglers. Top catches include sailfish, marlin, mahi-mahi, tarpon, bonefish, snapper, grouper and more.
The area has numerous experienced fishing charters and guides who can take you offshore, backcountry, or on the flats. Popular spots include the reefs of the Atlantic, the Gulf of Mexico, and Florida Bay.
For those who want to fish on their own, there are plenty of rental boats, bait and tackle shops, and public docks and bridges for land-based fishing. Plan your Islamorada fishing trip during peak seasons from April - July for optimal catches.
Paddle Boarding the Mangroves
There are a lot of places throughout the keys to Paddle Board and all claim to be the best. We chose “Paddle the Florida keys” in Islamorada. They were very friendly and helpful and offer two primary paddling routes. One is into the Mangroves of Islamorada, and the other is a more tropical experience that takes you out over the teal water to a small island. Both routes are a lot of fun that offer a unique adventure on the water and the opportunity to enjoy some wildlife! Paddle the Florida Keys offers both Stand Up Paddle Boards and Kayak rentals.
Marathon
Overview
Marathon is located in the middle Florida Keys, roughly midway between Key Largo and Key West. It's a convenient base for exploring the Keys, with a more laid-back and less touristy vibe than Key West.
Known as the "Heart of the Keys", Marathon offers a vibrant, small-town feel with picturesque waterfront parks, long stretches of beach, and a lively downtown district.
[Sombrero Beach Marathon, Florida]
Major Attractions
Some of the top attractions and things to do in Marathon include:
Crane Point Museum and Nature Center - This 64-acre nature preserve features hiking trails, a museum with exhibits on Keys history and wildlife, an Adderly House built in the 1800s, and beautiful grounds with everything from coastal dunes to mangrove swamps.
Pigeon Key - Accessible via a short ferry ride, this 5-acre island under the Old Seven Mile Bridge has an interesting history as a former work camp for railroad workers. Visitors can tour restored buildings, walk nature trails, and go snorkeling or fishing around the island.
Sombrero Beach - With over 300 feet of beautiful white sand beach, Sombrero is one of the longest beaches in the Keys. It's a popular spot for swimming, beachcombing, picnicking and watching stunning sunsets.
Marathon Community Park & Aquatic Center - Families enjoy spending time at this large community park which has athletic fields, tennis, basketball and racquetball courts, a skate park, aquatic center, dog park and more.
Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters - Get up close with sharks, sea turtles, reef fish and other marine life through interactive programs and touch tanks at this small but highly engaging aquarium.
Sunset Grille - Head to the historic Seven Mile Bridge for dinner and drinks served alongside breathaking views at this popular, laid-back waterfront restaurant.
With a more relaxed vibe than Key West along with beautiful parks and beaches, Marathon makes for a wonderful home base to experience the Middle Keys.
The Turtle Hospital
The Turtle Hospital in Marathon Florida is the worlds first and only Hospital for Sea Turtles. The Hospital is a fully operational and functioning veterinary hospital that offers a very fun and informative tour that even includes the opportunity to feed endangered Sea Turtles.
Big Pine Key & Bahia Honda
Big Pine Key and Bahia Honda offer some of the best outdoor activities in the Florida Keys. Big Pine is the largest island between Key Largo and Key West, encompassing over 10,000 acres of pine rockland habitat and Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve. Bahia Honda State Park is located on Bahia Honda Key just north of Big Pine, and is known for its picturesque white sand beaches.
Parks & Preserves
The main attraction of Big Pine Key is exploring its pine forests and wetlands. Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve has over six miles of hiking trails through pine flatwoods and cypress swamps. Here you can spot native wildlife like the endangered Key deer and rare birds. Blue Hole is another popular park with a short boardwalk trail around a sinkhole pond that's perfect for alligators and turtles. Bahia Honda State Park has great beaches as well as nature trails through tropical hardwood hammocks and mangroves.
Beaches
Bahia Honda has some of the most beautiful beaches in the Keys. Sandspur Beach is the biggest and most popular, with sparkling white sand and turquoise waters. Calusa Beach is smaller and tucked away, making it feel secluded. Both beaches have bathrooms, changing areas, picnic tables, and snorkel gear rentals. Nearby Spanish Harbor Key has quiet beaches that are only accessible by boat.
Outdoor Activities
There are plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors on Big Pine Key and Bahia Honda. Kayaking through the mangrove forests and shallow bay waters allows you to spot wildlife up close. The beaches are great for swimming, snorkeling over coral reefs, and fishing. Biking is popular on the paved roads and trails of Big Pine. Camping is available at Bahia Honda and backcountry camping in the refuge on Big Pine. Watching the famous Keys sunsets is a favorite activity from any of the parks and beaches.
Key West
The southernmost island in the Florida Keys archipelago, Key West is located just 90 miles from Cuba. Known for its pastel-hued, conch-style historic homes, Key West is a vibrant island city with a lively arts scene, stunning beaches, and exhilarating watersports.
Dining
Key West dining ranges from casual spots for key lime pie and conch fritters to upscale seafood eateries. Top picks include:
Blue Heaven - A legendary Key West restaurant housed in a historic clapboard building. Enjoy breakfast classics or Caribbean-inspired dinner fare.
Azur Restaurant - Elegant restaurant featuring sublime seafood and a wine list with over 200 selections.
El Siboney - Authentic Cuban cuisine including succulent roasted meats, empanadas, and tropical mojitos. Cash only.
Nightlife
Famous for its raucous nightlife and live music scene, Key West bars and attractions to check out after dark include:
Sunset celebrations at Mallory Square
Duval Street pub crawl
Schooner Wharf Bar for live music and drinks on the waterfront
Green Parrot Bar - A Key West institution for over 100 years
Garden of Eden - Clothing-optional bar and entertainment venue
Beaches
Key West is surrounded by stunning beaches, including:
Smathers Beach - Key West's longest beach, perfect for swimming and watersports.
Fort Zachary Taylor State Park - Historic fort site with a gorgeous stretch of beach.
Higgs Beach - Sandy beach with playgrounds, volleyball courts, and shallow swimming areas.
With its vibrant culture, historic charm and natural beauty, Key West offers the quintessential Florida Keys island experience. It's a can't-miss destination for any trip to the region.
[Sunset from Mallory Square, Key West, Florida]
Major Attractions
Some of Key West's top attractions include:
Mallory Square - This lively waterfront plaza is known for its nightly sunset celebration filled with street performers and vendors. It's a classic Key West experience.
Duval Street - Key West's lively main drag features multiple bars, restaurants, shops and guest houses. Don't miss the landmark Hard Rock Cafe.
Hemingway Home and Museum - The former residence of acclaimed author Ernest Hemingway provides a glimpse into his life and legacy. See the home where he wrote classics including For Whom the Bell Tolls.
Southernmost Point - Pose for a photo at the brightly painted monument marking the southernmost point of the continental United States. It's just 90 miles to Cuba!
Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory - View over 60 species of butterflies and exotic birds in a glass-enclosed habitat.
The Hemingway Home and Museum
The Hemingway House, also known as the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, is the former home of American author Ernest Hemingway. Located at 907 Whitehead Street in Key West, Florida, it is open to the public as a museum dedicated to Hemingway's memory. The museum features a collection of memorabilia from Hemingway's life, including his fabled writing desk, personal library, as well as as photographs and other memorabilia from his life and career. The house was declared a National Historic Landmark on May 30, 1968. It was further designated a U.S. National Historic Landmark on May 6, 1968.
Southern Most Point of the Continental United States
The southernmost point of the continental United States is located in Key West, Florida. The Southernmost Point Marker is located at the southern end of South Roosevelt Boulevard and Duval Street, just north of Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park.
