Florida Keys
About
What It Is
The Florida Keys is a chain of coral islands extending more than 100 miles into the sea, located just south of Miami along the southeastern tip of Florida. [1] The islands are connected by the Overseas Highway, a scenic 113-mile route that crosses 42 bridges and passes through five distinct destinations: Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, the Lower Keys, and Key West. [1] The archipelago sits within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, and its surrounding waters are known for their clarity and turquoise color. [1]
Activities & Experiences
Visitors can snorkel and dive the coral reefs, fish from charters or docks, kayak through mangrove waterways, and take eco-tours guided by local naturalists. [1] Wildlife encounters are a notable draw, including opportunities to see tarpon, Key deer, and sea turtles at rehabilitation facilities in Marathon. [1] The Old Seven Mile Bridge in Marathon can be explored on foot or by bicycle, and Key West offers sightseeing, art galleries, and nightly sunset gatherings. [1] The Lower Keys provide stargazing under skies with minimal light pollution, and Islamorada is recognized as the Sportfishing Capital of the World. [1]
Practical Access
The Florida Keys are reached by road via the Overseas Highway, which begins south of Miami and runs the full length of the island chain. [1] Each of the five destination areas has its own character and range of accommodations, from resorts to vacation rentals. [1] No specific hours, fees, or reservation requirements for the Keys as a whole are stated in the sources.
Restrictions
No specific restrictions noted in the sources.
What Makes It Distinctive
The Florida Keys offer a combination of reef diving, sportfishing, wildlife encounters, and road-trip access that is unusual among American beach destinations. [1] The Overseas Highway itself is described as one of the most unique motor journeys in the country, linking ocean views, historic bridges, and five destinations with distinct atmospheres along a single continuous route. [1] The presence of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, accessible directly from Key Largo, places world-class underwater ecosystems within reach of the highway. [1]
Sources
- Explore Florida Keys & Key West | Official Tourism Site of The Florida Keys
- Florida Keys Vacation Travel Guide & Tourist Attractions
Field map
- Open year-round
- Best months: March–May
- Typical duration: 3 days
Access & fees
- free entry
Things to do
- boating tours
- cycling old seven mile bridge
- eco-tours
- kayaking
- scuba diving
- sea turtle encounters
- snorkeling
- sportfishing
- sportfishing charters
- stargazing
- sunset viewing
- wildlife spotting
- wildlife viewing
Amenities
- accessible travel resources
- dockside dining
- hotels and resorts
- vehicle and bike rentals
Features
- 100-mile island chain
- coral island chain
- daily sunset gatherings
- five distinct destinations
- florida keys national marine sanctuary
- overseas highway
- overseas highway access
- southernmost point landmark
- turquoise clear waters
Nearby
- miami
- miami, florida
Good to know
- event calendar available
- road access only
- road access via overseas highway