Best Places To Visit in the Florida Keys – Key West Attractions

Are you looking for the best places to visit in the Florida Keys? The Florida Keys are not just a string of islands connected by scenic bridges — they’re a dreamscape where turquoise waters kiss endless skies, pastel sunsets melt into the horizon, and the pace of life slows to a gentle sway. Stretching over 120 miles from Key Largo to Key West, the Keys offer everything from adventurous water sports to serene beaches, quirky local culture, vibrant nightlife, and rich history.

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Best places to visit in the Florida Keys – Key West Attractions – Things To Do in the Keys

 

In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to visit in the Florida Keys, why they’re worth it, the top things to do, how to reach them, mid-budget overnight stays, tours to book, internal commute tips, and some practical travel advice. Hence, your trip is nothing short of unforgettable.

Key Largo – The Diving Capital of the World

Key Largo is the northernmost and first major island of the Florida Keys, known worldwide for its vibrant coral reefs, underwater parks, and relaxed island charm. If you’re starting your trip to Florida Keys, Key Largo is your perfect first stop. This is where you’ll find the famous John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park — the first underwater state park in the United States — an absolute paradise for divers and snorkelers.

Things to Do

• Snorkel or dive at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park – See brilliant fish, sea turtles, and coral formations in their natural habitat. Even glass-bottom boat tours here give you an unforgettable view.
• Explore the African Queen – This historic steamboat from the classic Humphrey Bogart movie is still running tours.
• Kayak through mangroves – Discover hidden waterways filled with birdlife and the occasional manatee.
• Visit the Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center – A wonderful, free spot to see rescued birds and learn about local wildlife.

Distance & Route – From Miami, Key Largo is about 60 miles (1.5 hours) via US-1 South, the scenic Overseas Highway. It’s the first major island you’ll hit after crossing into the Keys.

Overnight Stay – Bayside Inn Key Largo – Comfortable rooms, a private beach, and a central location make this a perfect stop for travelers who want a blend of convenience and charm.

Tours to Book

• John Pennekamp Coral Reef Snorkel Tour
• Glass-bottom boat ride for non-swimmers

The seamless blend of underwater adventure and laid-back Keys vibes makes Key Largo truly special. One moment you’re exploring colorful coral gardens, the next you’re sipping a tropical drink while watching the sun dip below the Gulf of Mexico.

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Islamorada – The Sportfishing Capital

Islamorada, spread across six islands, is often called the “Sportfishing Capital of the World.” But it’s more than just fishing — it’s an artsy, laid-back, upscale destination where luxury resorts meet small-town friendliness. It’s also the halfway point between Miami and Key West, making it an ideal overnight stop on a trip to Florida Keys.

Things to Do

• Go deep-sea fishing – Whether you’re an expert or first-timer, local charters make it easy to reel in mahi-mahi, sailfish, or tarpon.
• Visit the History of Diving Museum – A fascinating journey through centuries of underwater exploration.
• Feed tarpon at Robbie’s Marina – This quirky and fun spot lets you hand-feed massive tarpon from the dock.
• Explore Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park – Walk trails surrounded by fossilized coral formations.

Distance & Route – From Key Largo, it’s about 16 miles (20 minutes) south on US-1. The drive is short but filled with ocean views.

Overnight Stay – La Siesta Resort & Villas – A tropical hideaway with beachfront views, perfect for families and couples alike.

Tours to Book

• Half-day deep-sea fishing charter
• Eco-kayak mangrove tours

Here, you’ll find world-class restaurants, artist enclaves, eco-tours, and some of the best sunsets in the entire Keys. Islamorada perfectly combines adventure and elegance.

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Marathon – The Heart of the Keys

Located right in the middle of the Florida Keys, Marathon is known for its family-friendly vibe, incredible fishing, and access to the famous Seven Mile Bridge. This area is a haven for boating, snorkeling, and marine life encounters.

Marathon is also home to one of the Keys’ most beloved attractions — the Turtle Hospital, a heartwarming place where rescued sea turtles are rehabilitated before being released back into the ocean.

Things to Do

• Turtle Hospital Tour – Meet rescued sea turtles and learn about marine conservation.
• Sombrero Beach – Soft sands, clear waters, and picnic spots make it a perfect family beach day.
• Crane Point Hammock Museum & Nature Trail – Explore nature trails, a bird rescue center, and a historic Bahamian village.
• Go kayaking or paddleboarding – Explore the calm backwaters and mangroves.

Distance & Route – From Islamorada, Marathon is about 30 miles (40 minutes) via US-1 South. The journey takes you past smaller islands with charming roadside stops.

Overnight Stay – Tranquility Bay Beachfront Hotel and Resort – Spacious villas, a private beach, and tropical gardens make it a dreamy stay.

Tours to Book

• Sunset sailing tour
• Private fishing charters

If you want a genuine mix of adventure, relaxation, and wildlife conservation, Marathon has it all.

Big Pine Key & The Lower Keys – Nature Lover’s Paradise

Big Pine Key is where the Florida Keys feel wilder and less commercialized. Known for the endangered Key deer — tiny, gentle deer that roam freely — this area offers some of the most untouched natural beauty in the Keys.

It’s also home to Bahia Honda State Park, widely regarded as having some of the best beaches in the Keys. If your trip to Florida Keys is about escaping the crowds and connecting with nature, the Lower Keys are your sanctuary.

Things to Do

• Spot Key deer – You’ll often find them wandering in backyards or along quiet streets.
• Relax at Bahia Honda State Park – Swim, snorkel, or sunbathe on white sandy beaches.
• Go snorkeling off Looe Key Reef, which is famous for its healthy coral formations and abundant marine life.
• Kayak through mangrove creeks – A peaceful way to explore the hidden waterways.

Distance & Route – From Marathon, Big Pine Key is about 14 miles (20 minutes) via US-1 South.

Overnight Stay – Parmer’s Resort – A laid-back waterfront inn with cozy rooms and hammocks overlooking the sea.

Tours to Book

• Looe Key Snorkeling Tour
• Guided Key deer nature walks

Key West – The Crown Jewel of the Keys

Key West is the southernmost city in the continental United States and the most famous of the Florida Keys. Known for its colorful houses, lively nightlife, rich history, and stunning sunsets, it’s a place where Caribbean vibes meet quirky American charm.

Here, you can walk in the footsteps of Ernest Hemingway, party on Duval Street, and watch the sun set from Mallory Square with street performers keeping the crowd entertained.

Things to Do

• Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum – See the author’s preserved home and meet the famous six-toed cats.
• Southernmost Point Buoy – Snap a photo at this iconic landmark, just 90 miles from Cuba.
• Mallory Square Sunset Celebration – Live music, street performers, and breathtaking sunsets.
• Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park – A mix of history and beach relaxation.
• Duval Street nightlife – Bars, restaurants, art galleries, and live music venues. 

Distance & Route – Key West is about 30 miles (45 minutes) from Big Pine Key via US-1 South, crossing stunning ocean bridges.

Overnight Stay – Orchid Key Inn – Centrally located near Duval Street, it is peaceful and has boutique-style rooms and a pool.

Tours to Book

• Key West sunset sail with champagne
• Snorkeling or dolphin-watching tours
• Ghost and history walking tours

Key West isn’t just one of the best places to visit in the Florida Keys — it’s a destination that leaves you enchanted for life.

How to Reach the Florida Keys – Trip to Florida Keys

If you plan your trip to Florida Keys, the journey can be as breathtaking as the destination. Most visitors start from Miami International Airport (MIA) or Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL). From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service down the Overseas Highway (US-1), which connects the mainland to Key Largo and continues to Key West.

• By Car – Driving is the most popular way to reach the Keys. Key Largo is about 60 miles from Miami, taking roughly 1.5 hours without stops. The drive along the Overseas Highway is considered one of the most scenic in the U.S., with endless ocean views and picturesque bridges.
• By Shuttle or Bus – Companies like Keys Shuttle and Greyhound run regular services from Miami and Fort Lauderdale to various stops along the Keys.
• By Air – If you’re short on time, Key West International Airport (EYW) receives flights from major U.S. cities. Marathon also has a small airport for private charters.
• By Ferry – From Fort Myers or Marco Island, you can take the Key West Express, a high-speed catamaran, directly to Key West.

Internal Commute – Things to do in Key West

Getting around the Florida Keys is easy, depending on your travel style and how much you want to explore.

• Rental Car – The most flexible option, allowing you to explore every island, stop at scenic viewpoints, and visit hidden beaches.
• Bicycles and Scooters – Especially in Key West, where parking is tricky, renting a bike or scooter is a fun way to get around.
• Public Transit – The Lower Keys Shuttle runs between Marathon and Key West, making it an affordable way to hop between islands.
• Ride-Sharing and Taxis – Uber and Lyft operate mainly in Key West, less so in the Upper Keys.
• Boating Between Islands – Some tours and private charters let you travel by water, which adds a unique twist to your journey.

Tip: If you plan to stay in Key West for several days, consider parking your rental car and exploring on foot, bike, or scooter to avoid parking headaches.

Helpful Tips – Things To Do in Key West – Key West Attractions

1. Book accommodations early – Especially during peak season (December to April), as hotels fill quickly.
2. Pack reef-safe sunscreen – Protect both your skin and the delicate coral reefs.
3. Bring water shoes – Some beaches have rocky or coral bottoms.
4. Respect wildlife – Don’t feed wild animals; observe marine creatures from a distance.
5. Plan for slow travel – Driving the Overseas Highway can take longer than expected because of narrow roads and scenic stops.
6. Check the weather and tides, especially if you plan boating, snorkeling, or kayaking.
7. Stay hydrated – The subtropical sun can be intense year-round.

Extended Tours and Experiences Across the Keys – Key West Attractions

While each island has its attractions, some experiences are worth going out of your way for.

Snorkeling and Diving Adventures

• Looe Key Reef – One of the most spectacular reefs in the Keys, located near Big Pine Key. Perfect for spotting colorful fish and coral.
• Molasses Reef – Off the coast of Key Largo, famous for its vibrant marine life.

Sunset Cruises – A classic things to do in Key West experience — nothing beats watching the sun sink into the Gulf while sipping a cocktail on a sailboat.

Kayaking Through Mangroves

Islamorada, Key Largo, and Big Pine Key offer serene kayak tours through mangrove tunnels, where you can see manatees, nurse sharks, or sea birds.

Fishing Charters

The Keys are an angler’s paradise, from Islamorada’s deep-sea fishing to Marathon’s reef fishing.

Cultural and Historical Tours

• Hemingway Home & Museum in Key West
• Fort Jefferson in Dry Tortugas National Park (reachable only by boat or seaplane)

Suggested Itinerary for a Trip to Florida Keys

If you want to experience the best places to visit in the Florida Keys without rushing:

• Day 1-2: Key Largo – Diving, John Pennekamp Coral Reef, African Queen boat.
• Day 3: Islamorada – Tarpon feeding at Robbie’s, art galleries, kayaking.
• Day 4: Marathon – Turtle Hospital, Sombrero Beach, Seven Mile Bridge.
• Day 5: Big Pine Key – Bahia Honda State Park, Key deer spotting.
• Day 6-7: Key West – Hemingway House, Southernmost Point, Duval Street nightlife, sunset at Mallory Square.

Best Time to Visit the Florida Keys

• Peak Season: December to April – Best weather, but also the most crowded and expensive.
• Shoulder Season: May and November – Warm weather with fewer tourists.
• Hurricane Season: June to October – Cheaper rates but higher risk of storms.

FAQs – Best Places to Visit in the Florida Keys

Q1: How many days do you need for a trip to the Florida Keys?

Ideally, 5–7 days to explore from Key Largo to Key West at a relaxed pace.

Q2: Can you drive all of the Florida Keys in one day?

Yes, but you’d miss out on attractions. The drive from Key Largo to Key West is about 3.5–4 hours nonstop, but it’s worth breaking up over several days.

Q3: Is Key West worth staying overnight?

Absolutely. Key West has a unique energy after sunset — from lively bars to evening street performers.

Q4: Are the beaches in the Keys sandy like in Miami?

Some are, but many have coral or rocky shorelines. Bahia Honda, Sombrero Beach, and Fort Zachary Taylor have nice sandy stretches.

Q5: What’s the cheapest way to travel through the Keys?

Use the Lower Keys Shuttle for island-to-island travel and stay in smaller inns or motels instead of resorts.

Q6: Is snorkeling better in Key Largo or Key West?

Key Largo is generally better for snorkeling because of its proximity to protected coral reefs, but Key West also offers great trips to nearby reefs.

A trip to Florida Keys is more than just a vacation — a sensory experience. From the underwater wonderlands of Key Largo to the historic streets of Key West, each island offers a different flavor of paradise. Whether you’re here for the fishing, the sunsets, the wildlife, or simply to unwind with your toes in the sand, the Keys will capture your heart and call you back repeatedly.

The best places to visit in Florida Keys aren’t just about sightseeing; they’re about soaking up the laid-back spirit, savoring the fresh local Southern food, chatting with locals over a cold drink, and watching time slow down as the ocean breeze wraps around you.

So pack your bags, rent that convertible, and hit the Overseas Highway. Adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories await in the Florida Keys.

Picture Courtesy – CanvaPro

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