Florida Keys Travel Guide – Island Escapes & Coral Reefs

Intro to Florida Keys Travel Guide

The Florida Keys are a string of tropical islands stretching 113 miles from the southern tip of Florida to the famous buoy marking “90 miles to Cuba” in Key West. Linked by the scenic Overseas Highway, they offer a world of turquoise waters, coral reefs, and laid-back island vibes. From the sportfishing capital of Islamorada to the bohemian streets of Key West, each island chain has its own personality. Start planning your journey with our Florida Keys Travel Guide — and discover how guided tours can bring snorkeling reefs, hidden mangroves, and colorful sunsets to life.

Cities to Explore in Florida Keys

Big Pine Key | Duck Key | Islamorada | Key Largo | Key West | Little Torch Key | Marathon | Stock Island | Sugarloaf Key | Tavernier

Get to Know the Florida Keys – Island Groups & Districts

The Keys are divided into five main regions, each offering a different flavor of paradise.

• Key Largo. The first island travelers encounter, Key Largo is home to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. It’s known for diving, snorkeling, and eco-tours through mangroves, making it a gateway to underwater adventures.
• Islamorada. Called the “Sportfishing Capital of the World,” Islamorada attracts anglers and water lovers. It combines upscale resorts with a small-town island feel, perfect for charter fishing and dolphin encounters.
• Marathon. Midway along the Keys, Marathon is a family-friendly hub. It features the Dolphin Research Center, Turtle Hospital, and sandy beaches like Sombrero Beach. Its location makes it a convenient base for exploring.
• Lower Keys. Quieter and less developed, the Lower Keys showcase natural beauty in places like Bahia Honda State Park. Big Pine Key is famous for the endangered Key deer, adding to the area’s wild charm.
• Key West. The southernmost city in the continental U.S., Key West blends Caribbean vibes with historic streets. Duval Street buzzes with nightlife, Ernest Hemingway’s house preserves literary heritage, and Mallory Square sunsets are legendary.

Where to Stay in the Florida Keys

Stay in Key Largo for diving and eco-lodges, Islamorada for upscale resorts, or Marathon for family-friendly vacation rentals. Choose the Lower Keys if you want quiet beaches and nature, while Key West offers boutique hotels, historic inns, and lively nightlife.

Top Attractions & Iconic Sights

Natural Icons & Landmarks

• Seven Mile Bridge. An engineering marvel and one of the most scenic drives in the U.S., connecting Marathon to the Lower Keys with endless ocean views.
• Key West Historic District. Pastel-colored homes, conch cottages, and historic landmarks like the Southernmost Point Buoy create the island’s unique character.
• Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum. Once home to the legendary author, the house is now a museum filled with history and six-toed cats.

Cultural & Educational Gems

• Turtle Hospital (Marathon). A rescue and rehabilitation center where visitors learn about sea turtle conservation.
• Key West Lighthouse & Keeper’s Quarters Museum. A climb up the 88 steps rewards visitors with sweeping views of the island.
• History of Diving Museum (Islamorada). A fascinating collection of artifacts showcasing the Keys’ deep connection with the sea.

Family Favorites

• Dolphin Research Center (Marathon). Educational encounters with dolphins and sea lions in a family-friendly environment.
• Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory. A magical glass-enclosed garden filled with butterflies and exotic birds.
• Robbie’s of Islamorada. Famous for hand-feeding massive tarpon from the dock, this quirky stop is fun for kids and adults alike.

Natural Escapes Within and Near the Florida Keys

The Keys are as much about nature as they are about nightlife.

• John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park (Key Largo). The first undersea park in the U.S., where snorkeling and glass-bottom boat tours reveal vibrant coral reefs.
• Bahia Honda State Park (Lower Keys). Known for its soft sandy beaches and excellent snorkeling, it’s one of Florida’s most beautiful parks.
• Dry Tortugas National Park (Key West). Accessible only by ferry or seaplane, this remote park features Fort Jefferson, coral reefs, and pristine waters for diving.
• National Key Deer Refuge (Big Pine Key). A sanctuary where tiny Key deer roam freely through pine forests and wetlands.

Book immersive Florida Keys tours and experience unforgettable things to do in Key West — from snorkeling coral reefs and deep-sea fishing to kayaking mangroves and sunset sails in Key West.

Culture, History, and Local Identity

• Conch Republic Heritage. In 1982, Key West humorously declared independence as the Conch Republic, reflecting its quirky, rebellious identity that still thrives today.
• Maritime Legacy. Shipwrecks, salvaging, and lighthouses have defined the Keys’ past. Museums and guided dives reveal this nautical history.
• Cuban & Caribbean Influence. Cuban cigar makers, Bahamian settlers, and Caribbean flavors shaped the Keys’ culture, visible in its food, music, and festivals.

Local Food, Markets, and Artisan Vibes

• Seafood Fresh from the Gulf. Lobster, mahi-mahi, and stone crab dominate local menus, often served dockside with ocean views.
• Key Lime Pie. No trip is complete without tasting this tart dessert, a Keys classic available at bakeries and roadside diners.
• Duval Street Dining. Key West’s main strip offers everything from casual seafood shacks to upscale fusion restaurants, with live music spilling into the streets.
• Local Craft Shops. Artisan boutiques across Islamorada and Key West sell handmade jewelry, island art, and nautical crafts that reflect the Keys’ character.

Events, Nightlife, and Seasonal Fun

• Fantasy Fest (Key West). A legendary 10-day costume festival each October that brings parades, parties, and artistic revelry.
• Key West Songwriters Festival. A major music event featuring performances in intimate venues across the island.
• Sportfishing Tournaments (Islamorada & Marathon). The Keys host numerous world-class tournaments, attracting anglers from around the globe.
• Duval Street Nightlife. Known for its bars, pubs, and live music, Duval Street is where evenings turn into unforgettable celebrations.

Where to Base Yourself in the Florida Keys

• Key Largo. Ideal for divers, snorkelers, and eco-travelers.
• Islamorada. Perfect for anglers and those seeking resort luxury.
• Marathon. A central, family-friendly base with easy access both north and south.
• Lower Keys. Suited for nature lovers and travelers who want quiet escapes.
• Key West. Best for nightlife, culture, and history, with plenty of boutique lodging.

Insider Tips for Experiencing the Keys Like a Local

• Plan a sunset in Mallory Square, where street performers and community gatherings create a festive ritual.
• Visit Robbie’s in Islamorada early in the morning to avoid crowds when feeding tarpon.
• Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect delicate coral ecosystems.
• Try the local fish shacks instead of tourist restaurants — the freshest catches are often served in the most unassuming places.

Getting Around the Florida Keys – Transport Tips

• Driving the Overseas Highway. The most scenic way to experience the Keys, with countless pull-offs for photos.
• Biking in Key West. The compact island is best explored by bike, avoiding parking challenges.
• Ferries & Seaplanes. Essential for reaching Dry Tortugas, adding adventure to the journey.
• Shuttle Services. Regular buses and shuttles connect Miami to Key West, making it easy to visit without a car.

Best Time to Visit the Florida Keys

• Winter (Dec–Apr). The dry season offers perfect weather, but also higher prices and larger crowds.
• Summer (Jun–Aug). Hot and humid, with chances for hurricanes, but quieter and more affordable.
• Fall (Sep–Nov). Shoulder season with good deals, though storms remain a risk.
• Spring (May). Warm, lively, and a great time for festivals before the summer heat kicks in.

Planning Your Stay in the Florida Keys – Practical Tips

• Book accommodations well in advance for winter, especially in Key West.
• Three to seven days allows time to explore multiple islands.
• Bring water shoes, snorkeling gear, and casual island wear.
• Stay flexible — island weather can change quickly.

Live Like a Local – Hidden Gems & Authentic Spots

• No Name Pub (Big Pine Key). A quirky, decades-old pub decorated with dollar bills covering the walls, serving pizza and local stories.
• Indian Key Historic State Park. A tiny island accessible only by kayak, with ruins from a 19th-century settlement.
• Bahia Honda Sandbar. At low tide, a sandbar emerges offshore, creating a secret beach locals love.
• Blue Heaven (Key West). A funky open-air restaurant known for live music, roosters wandering freely, and enormous slices of Key lime pie.

Nearby Destinations to Explore

• Miami. A vibrant city with nightlife, art, and Cuban culture just north of the Keys.
• Everglades. A UNESCO World Heritage site filled with airboats, wildlife, and wetlands right at the doorstep.
• Naples. A Gulf Coast retreat known for luxury, golf, and beaches.
• Fort Lauderdale. A canal-laced city with beaches, boating, and culture.
• Bahamas. Ferry and flight connections from Key West make island hopping to the Bahamas possible.

Final Tips for a Smart Keys Adventure

• Drive the Overseas Highway slowly — the journey is as spectacular as the destinations.
• Protect the reefs by booking with eco-certified operators.
• Plan one day for water adventures and one for land-based exploration.
• Always catch at least one sunset — it’s the Keys’ most celebrated daily ritual.
• Balance popular stops with quiet islands for the full experience.

Plan Smarter, Travel Better

The Florida Keys reward travelers who pace themselves. By splitting your time between snorkeling reefs, exploring hidden islands, and enjoying Key West’s cultural life, you’ll uncover the best of the chain. Book tours early in peak season, but leave space in your schedule for spontaneous discoveries.

Choose Your Next Adventure

• Key West. Historic streets, nightlife, and sunsets at the southernmost point.
• Everglades. Explore Florida’s iconic “River of Grass” with airboat rides, wildlife encounters, and vast wetlands.
• Naples. A Gulf Coast retreat with luxury dining, golf, and beautiful beaches just across the state.
• Fort Lauderdale. A canal-laced city offering boating, beaches, and a thriving cultural scene.

It’s Time to Experience the Florida Keys

The Florida Keys are a world apart, a sun-soaked chain where coral reefs, island culture, and endless ocean views define every day. Whether you’re driving the Overseas Highway, fishing in Islamorada, or watching a Key West sunset, the Keys deliver a lifetime of travel stories. Ready to plan your journey? Discover more Florida destinations and travel ideas with our guides.