If you’re looking for a tropical getaway that offers stunning scenery, rich history, diverse wildlife, and endless adventure, look no further than the Florida Keys. This coral cay archipelago off the southern coast of Florida is the southernmost part of the continental United States and a world-class destination for travelers of all persuasions.
In this video, we’ll explore some of the best islands of the Florida Keys while discussing what makes them unique. Whether you’re into fishing, diving, kayaking, or just relaxing on the beach, you’ll surely find something to love in this sunny paradise.
The Florida Keys stretch from Key Largo to Key West, connected by 42 bridges that span over the Atlantic Ocean, Florida Bay, and the Gulf of Mexico. Along the way, you’ll encounter a variety of islands with diverse personalities and attractions. Some are famous for their natural beauty and wildlife, such as Big Pine Key and the Lower Keys, where you can spot endangered Key deer and colorful birds. Others are known for their cultural heritage and artistic flair, such as Key West, where you can visit Ernest Hemingway’s home and enjoy live music and nightlife. And some are simply perfect for enjoying water sports and outdoor activities, such as Islamorada and Marathon.
The Florida Keys are more than just a place to visit; they’re a way of life. The locals have a laid-back attitude that reflects their appreciation for nature and diversity. They also have a strong sense of community that welcomes visitors with open arms. You’ll feel right at home in this friendly atmosphere where everyone is treated like family. You’ll also discover a vibrant culinary scene that showcases fresh seafood, tropical fruits, Cuban influences, and local specialties.
So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready to explore some of the best islands of the Florida Keys.
Viewcation Presents: Best Islands of the Florida Keys (Differences Explained)
Key Largo
Key Largo is the very first and largest island of the majestic Florida Keys, as well as a gateway to a world of underwater wonders. As the self-proclaimed Dive Capital of the World, Key Largo boasts some of the most spectacular coral reefs and marine life in the country. Travelers can explore these must-see sights at locations such as the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, which was the first undersea park in the United States and covers 25 miles of pristine ocean.
Here, you can snorkel, scuba dive, or kayak among colorful fish, turtles, dolphins, and more. You can also visit the world’s largest artificial reef, the USS Spiegel Grove, a former Navy ship that was intentionally sunk to create a habitat for marine life.
But Key Largo is not only about diving. It’s also a place where you can enjoy the wonders of nature above the water. If that sounds like something tht’s up your alley, you can visit Everglades National Park, which spans 1.5 million acres of wetland across South Florida and is home to alligators, crocodiles, manatees, panthers, and hundreds of bird species.
Key Largo also has a rich history and culture that you can discover. To experience this, you can visit The African Queen Boat Museum to see the original vessel used in the classic movie starring Humphrey Bogart and Katharine Hepburn. Additionally, you can also visit The Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center to see rescued birds such as pelicans, hawks, owls, and ospreys. And if you’re craving a little more excitement in your life, you can enjoy live music and nightlife at venues such as Snook’s Bayside Restaurant & Grand Tiki Bar or Jimmy Johnson’s Big Chill.
Florida Keys: Marathon
Marathon is a city that technically spans 13 gorgeous islands smack dab in the middle of the Florida Keys, offering a variety of attractions and activities for visitors to discover. It is located 50 miles northeast of Key West and 54 miles southwest of Key Largo, making it an ideal base for exploring the Keys. Marathon has a retro, nautical vibe that reflects its history as a fishing and boating destination.
One of the main attractions in Marathon is the Dolphin Research Center, where guests can swim with dolphins, watch their shows, and learn about their behavior and intelligence. You can also visit The Turtle Hospital, which rescues and rehabilitates injured sea turtles and educates the public about their conservation.
Marathon is also a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy deep-sea, reef, or flats fishing with one of the many charter boats available . You can likewise snorkel or dive among coral reefs and shipwrecks at Sombrero Reef Marine Sanctuary or Coffins Patch.
Marathon also has plenty of options for dining and entertainment. Hungry travelers can savor fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants such as Lazy Days South, Sparky’s Landing, or Island Fish Company. For entertainment, you can also enjoy live music and nightlife at venues such as Hurricane Bar & Grille, Overseas Pub & Grill, or Dockside Tropical Cafe. Throughout the year, visitors can join one of the many festivals and events that celebrate the local culture and cuisine, such as The Original Marathon Seafood Festival, The Seven Mile Bridge Run, or The Marathon Games.
Marquesas Key
Marquesas Keys are a group of 10 uninhabited islands that form a natural atoll about 25 miles west of Key West. They are part of the Key West National Wildlife Refuge and offer a secluded and pristine environment for wildlife and nature lovers. The islands are surrounded by a ring-shaped coral reef that hosts a variety of fish, coral, and other marine life.
To see the marine life up close, you can snorkel or dive in the clear waters and explore the underwater wonders. Anglers can also fish for tarpon, bonefish, snapper, grouper, and more in the flats or offshore.
Marquesas Keys are a bonafide hidden gem in the Florida Keys that offer a unique and unforgettable experience for adventurous travelers. They are accessible only by boat or seaplane from Key West, so you’ll need to book a charter or tour to visit them . But once you get there, you’ll be rewarded with a natural wonderland that will make you feel like you’re on another planet.
Bahia Honda Key
Bahia Honda Key is an island that features one of the most stunning state parks in Florida. Bahia Honda State Park covers 524 acres of land and offers three stunning beaches, a historic bridge, a nature trail, and a marina. From kayaking to snorkeling to hiking, pretty much anything outdoorsy you can think of, you can do at this breathtakingly beautiful location.
Dry Tortugas National Park
Dry Tortugas National Park is a highly celebrated national park that lies about 68 miles west of Key West located in the Gulf of Mexico. It consists of seven islands and a huge coastal fortress called Fort Jefferson, which is the largest brick structure in the Western Hemisphere.
The park is accessible only by boat or seaplane and offers a remote and spectacular experience for adventurous visitors. Visitors can tour Fort Jefferson and learn about its history as a military fort, a prison, and a quarantine station. You can also enjoy the pristine coral reefs and marine life that surround the islands by snorkeling or diving.
Islamorada
Islamorada is a village of six islands that lies between Miami and Key West in the Florida Keys. It is known as the “Sportfishing Capital of the World” and hosts a large fleet of fishing boats that offer anglers a chance to catch marlin, sailfish, tuna and more.
Islamorada also offers plenty of other water activities, such as snorkeling, diving, kayaking, paddle boarding, and even swimming with dolphins. Travelers can explore the coral reefs and shipwrecks that teem with marine life or visit the Theater of the Sea, an oceanarium that features dolphin and sea lion shows. You can also learn about the history and culture of Islamorada at museums such as the History of Diving Museum, which displays diving equipment from ancient times to modern days, or the Florida Keys History & Discovery Center, which showcases exhibits on pirates, shipwrecks, hurricanes, and more.
Big Pine Key
Big Pine Key is a peaceful island in the Florida Keys that offers a natural escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. It is home to the National Key Deer Refuge, which protects the endangered Key deer, a subspecies of white-tailed deer that are only found on this island and a few nearby ones.
You can spot these adorable creatures roaming around the pine forests and wetlands, or visit the Blue Hole, an old limestone quarry that is now a freshwater lake where you can see alligators, turtles, birds, and fish.
Big Pine Key also has plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as fishing, boating, diving, snorkeling, kayaking, and biking. Aquaticly-inclined travelers can explore the coral reefs and marine life at Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary, one of the best diving spots in the Keys; or enjoy the sandy beaches and picnic areas at Bahia Honda State Park , which has been rated as one of the most beautiful beaches in America. You can also browse local art and crafts at Artists in Paradise Gallery, or sample some delicious seafood at one of the many restaurants on Big Pine Key or nearby islands.
Key West
Key West is world-famous for being the southernmost city in the US as well as the most popular destination in the Florida Keys. It is a vibrant and colorful island that offers a mix of history, culture, nature, and fun. First-time visitors should start off by taking a stroll along Duval Street, the main street that runs from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean, and enjoy its shops, bars, cafes, and galleries.
You can visit historic sites such as Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, where you can see the famous writer’s house and his six-toed cats; Truman Little White House, where President Harry S. Truman spent his winter vacations; or Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, which was built in 1845 and played a role in the Civil War and Spanish-American War.
You can also explore nature at Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, where you can see hundreds of butterflies and exotic birds or Key West Aquarium, where you can touch sharks, rays, and sea stars.
Key West is also known for its lively nightlife, festivals, and events. If you’re looking to be entertained, you can watch street performers at Mallory Square during the Sunset Celebration; catch live music at Sloppy Joe’s Bar, Hog’s Breath Saloon, or Green Parrot Bar; or join one of the many parties that take place throughout the year such as Fantasy Fest, Key West Pride, or Hemingway Days. You can also enjoy water sports such as fishing, boating, diving, snorkeling, kayaking, or parasailing.
Key West is a city that has something for everyone who loves sun, fun, and adventure. It is a place where you can experience the laid-back island lifestyle with a touch of sophistication.
So, on that note, we’ll go ahead and wrap things up. In the comments, let us know which island in the Florida Keys you’re most excited to visit. If you’ve already had the pleasure of visiting the Keys before, let us know which one is your favorite.
And as always, happy travels!