Top Spots in the Florida Keys
The islands of the Florida Keys, including Islamorada, Key Largo and Key West, are a favorite destination for travelers. Traveling to the Florida Keys is easy. After driving from Florida City to Key Largo, take the Scenic Highway, which ends in Key West. The highway, that spans over 100 miles, is dotted with sand, palm trees, beaches and other scenic views. Once you get there, where should you go? Here are some of the must-visit spots.
Islamorada and Tavernier
This village is comprised of six of the Keys. Swim with dolphins, snorkel and view shows at the Theater of the Sea. Or, for a more natural attraction, visit the Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park. Walk through the trails, pack a picnic lunch and relax in nature.
A short distance away is Tavernier, a must-visit community. Get out on the water at Mangrove Marina. Stay on a houseboat or participate in activities at the marina. After enjoying the beautiful views, enjoy a slice of tangy, refreshing Key lime pie or the chocolate-dipped option at the Blonde Giraffe Key Lime Pie Company. If you enjoy the pie, take a full-sized one or tarts home with you. Enjoy heartier fare at Café Moka, where croissants, quiche, yogurt, coffee and sandwiches are made just for you.
Key Largo
The Northernmost Florida Key offers ample places to scuba dive. Sail Fish Scuba, a dive shop, gives travelers the chance to kayak or snorkel. Waterskiing and jet skiing are on offer at Tropic Water Sports, if you want to do a different water sport. Rent one for the day and have a blast cruising around. Clear kayaks are available, so you can see the sea life below as you paddle. For a more eclectic activity, make a stop at the Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center. Open every day of the year, the sanctuary offers protection and care for multiple birds, including owls, turkey vultures and hawks. There is no admission fee to visit, though donations to help with operations are accepted. Take a break from adventuring at the Buzzard’s Roost. Menu offerings include seafood, burgers, tacos and steak.
Key West
Things move slower in Key West, but that is part of its charm. When you are not watching the world go by from a café, explore all that this sunny paradise has to offer. The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is a highly-rated attraction, which features a learning center, artwork, birds and, of course, butterflies. For literature lovers, The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum has tours, lush gardens and is the home of many cats. Tour the island by taking a hop on hop off trolley tour with Old Town Trolley Tours. Cool off and enjoy a show at the Waterfront Playhouse. Once it ends, savor some Caribbean and Latin-influenced eats and drinks at Bien.
Traveling to the Florida Keys offers fun, sun and the chance to make countless memories. With multiple islands to explore, every traveler can find something to enjoy.
