Seas The Day In Tavernier

The Florida Keys are a coral archipelago stretching across 180 miles and including 800 Keys. A network of more than 40 bridges connects the islands, the longest of which is the Seven Mile Bridge stretching from the Florida mainland to the Keys.

While the Keys weren’t mapped until 1513, they were inhabited for many years by the Calusa and Tequesta Native Americans before the arrival of Spanish explorers. Even when Spain began colonizing Central and South America, they largely ignored the Keys until the late 1700s when a British cartographer created a detailed map of them, christening Tavernier as Key Tabona.

Thanks to its proximity to Carysfort Reef, Tavernier enjoyed a certain popularity among Bahamian wreckers. The earliest settlers came from the Bahamas, and by the late 1800s, the little settlement of Tavernier was growing and thriving, a vibrant port that served as a stop on the way to the other Keys. Today, Tavernier is a friendly, colorful beach community that welcomes visitors from around the country and the globe, but it still retains the friendly, relaxed island vibe that first helped it soar in popularity.

In Tavernier, you can explore historic sites, engage in watersports, or spot some wildlife. Some of the best things to do are free! Check out Harry Harris Park or the Laura Quinn Wild Bird Sanctuary to spot some native Florida Keys flora and fauna.

In the fall, the humidity levels drop, making it an ideal time to enjoy outdoor activities. You won’t miss any of the fall colors, either: Tavernier’s sunsets are an explosion of fiery crimson, warm saffron, shimmery gold, velvety plum, and rich amethyst. Check them out from aboard a sunset cruise or while sipping a sunset sangria at Morada Bay in Islamorada.

You can also explore the culture of the Keys during a variety of festivals and events, including the Full Moon Beach Party Reggae and Junkanoo Fest and the Dia De Los Muertos celebration at the Florida Keys History and Discovery Center, which also features artifacts, stories, and more to help you discover the history of the Keys.

The Florida Keys have a sunny, inclusive culture that welcomes people from around the United States and the world. Art is celebrated both in museums and galleries as well as in street fairs and markets. The lifestyle is as colorful as the island sunsets are, and you can enjoy it on your schedule. You’re on island time now!

At Mangrove Marina, we celebrate everything Florida Keys. Whether you visit our wet slips with your own liveaboard or prefer to check out one of our Aqua Villa houseboats, you’ll be able to enjoy everything our resort has to offer, including gardens, an onsite restaurant and bar, and our heated freshwater pool. Our houseboats are well-equipped to serve as your home-away-from-home, with kitchenettes, dining spaces, living spaces, and full bathrooms. You’ll even have your own patio or deck from which to watch the glorious Florida Keys sunrises and sunsets. Contact us today to learn more about staying at Mangrove Marina or to make your reservations.