Florida Keys Things to Do
Discover the Magic of the Florida Keys: 5 Must-Visit Islands Along the Overseas Highway
The Florida Keys are a breathtaking string of tropical islands whose name comes from the Spanish “cayos”—meaning “small islands.” Spanning 180 miles, the archipelago includes over 800 islands, although only a few are inhabited. The most iconic are the five major Keys: Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, Big Pine Key, and Key West.
The Overseas Highway, stretching 113 miles from Key Largo to Key West, crosses 42 islands and 44 bridges, including the legendary Seven Mile Bridge. It’s one of America’s most scenic road trips, offering ocean views, colourful culture, and unique coastal charm.
From snorkeling coral reefs to watching sunset celebrations in Mallory Square, there's something for everyone.
Plan Your Tropical Escape
Our Budget for 7 Days
- Condo - $0
- Activities - $80
- Restaurants - $150
- Transportation - $210
- Total - $440
- Our per person cost was just $31 per day
Discover the Magic of the Florida Keys: 5 Must-Visit Islands Along the Overseas Highway
The Florida Keys are a breathtaking string of tropical islands whose name comes from the Spanish “cayos”—meaning “small islands.” Spanning 180 miles, the archipelago includes over 800 islands, although only a few are inhabited. The most iconic are the five major Keys: Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, Big Pine Key, and Key West.
The Overseas Highway, stretching 113 miles from Key Largo to Key West, crosses 42 islands and 44 bridges, including the legendary Seven Mile Bridge. It’s one of America’s most scenic road trips, offering ocean views, colourful culture, and unique coastal charm.
From snorkeling coral reefs to watching sunset celebrations in Mallory Square, there's something for everyone. Here's a closer look at what each major Key has to offer.
Key Largo – Gateway to the Florida Keys
Known as the “Diving Capital of the World,” Key Largo is the northernmost island in the chain and the first you'll reach when heading south on the Overseas Highway. This island is home to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the first underwater park in the U.S. Here, you can snorkel over coral gardens, dive wrecks like the Christ of the Abyss, or glide across clear waters in a glass-bottom boat.
Nature lovers can kayak through mangrove tunnels or hike through the tropical hardwood hammock of the Florida Keys Wildlife and Environmental Area. For those seeking more comfort, enjoy local seafood at a waterfront grill as the sun sets over Florida Bay.
Islamorada – The Sportfishing Capital of the World
Islamorada is a village made up of six islands and is often called the Sportfishing Capital of the World. Anglers from around the globe come here to fish the waters where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Gulf of Mexico. Deep-sea, reef, and backcountry fishing excursions are all available from the island’s many marinas.
But there’s more to Islamorada than just fishing. Families love visiting the Florida Keys Brewing Company and the quirky Theater of the Sea, where you can swim with dolphins and sea lions. For a more laid-back afternoon, enjoy art galleries, waterfront dining, or a quiet paddleboard session through the mangroves.
Islamorada is the perfect blend of action and serenity — a place where you can reel in a tarpon by morning and sip a cocktail under a thatched tiki roof by evening.
Marathon – The Heart of the Keys
Marathon is the geographic and cultural heart of the Florida Keys. Spread across 13 islands, this welcoming community is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and easy access to outdoor adventures. It’s also the gateway to one of the most photogenic stretches of the Overseas Highway — the iconic Seven Mile Bridge.
Top attractions include the Turtle Hospital, a rehab centre for injured sea turtles, and Crane Point Hammock, a nature preserve and historical site perfect for short hikes and bird watching.
Marathon is also the place to go for beach time in the Keys — the sandy shores of Sombrero Beach are among the best in the archipelago. From boating and diving to enjoying fresh-caught seafood, Marathon strikes a beautiful balance between adventure and relaxation.
Big Pine Key – Nature’s Quiet Escape
If you’re craving a more tranquil and natural side of the Florida Keys, Big Pine Key offers a serene getaway far from the bustle of the busier islands. It’s best known as the home of the endangered Key deer, a miniature species that roams freely through the National Key Deer Refuge.
For snorkellers and divers, Big Pine Key is the jumping-off point for visiting the remote and pristine reefs of Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary. The waters here are teeming with marine life and vibrant coral formations — often without the crowds found elsewhere in the Keys.
Don’t miss the peaceful beaches and stargazing from quiet backroads. With limited development and plenty of open space, Big Pine Key is a haven for nature lovers, cyclists, and photographers alike.
Key West – The Southernmost Point and Cultural Soul of the Keys
Key West is the final stop on the Overseas Highway and perhaps the most famous of all the Keys. Known for its quirky charm, historic streets, and free-spirited energy, this island city blends Caribbean colour with literary and maritime history.
Visitors flock to landmarks like the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, the iconic Southernmost Point Buoy, and the preserved Victorian homes of the Old Town. Stroll along Mallory Square for nightly sunset celebrations filled with street performers, local art, and live music.
Despite its popularity, Key West still offers hidden gardens, offbeat museums, and quiet side streets waiting to be discovered. Whether you're sipping Cuban coffee in a shaded courtyard or catching a show at the historic Tropic Cinema, there's always a touch of magic in the island air.
Plan Your Stay in the Florida Keys
Ready to wake up to ocean breezes and swaying palms? Here are our trusted platforms to book your Florida Keys getaway:
Why Go to Key Largo and the Florida Keys
Key Largo: A Tropical Dream Realised in the Florida Keys
Key Largo and the Florida Keys have always had a certain mystique for me. I first heard of Key Largo as a kid, captivated by James Bond movies and boys' adventure novels. The name alone sparked dreams of tropical breezes, daring escapades, and colourful characters. So when the opportunity came to spend a week there, we jumped at it.
I envisioned a place with lush tropical plants, humid warmth, and people living life on their own terms — and Key Largo did not disappoint. The November weather was comfortably warm, the humidity just right. We had a couple of short-lived downpours, but they only added to the tropical vibe. As we explored the Keys, we met a cast of fascinating characters — locals and wanderers who had left the rat race behind and found peace in the island rhythm.
Key Largo is the first and northernmost of the Florida Keys, and the longest. It's home to two state parks, a national park, and a marine sanctuary, making it a hub for nature lovers and one of the top dive sites in the world. The abundance of fresh seafood is a dream for anyone who enjoys cooking or grilling, and there’s no shortage of laid-back bars and grills for happy hour and watching the sun melt into the sea.
We stayed in a top-floor corner condo on the ocean, tucked at the end of Ocean Drive. It was a home exchange with a couple from London who had fallen in love with the area so much they purchased a vacation home and visited several times a year. We live in a ski town, so the exchange was perfect — they got powder snow, and we got tropical sunsets.
During our week in Key Largo, we packed in a mix of nature, culture, and pure relaxation:
- Visited hurricane memorials and state park beaches
- Drove scenic back roads through the Keys
- Spent a full day exploring Key West
- Took an airboat ride in the Everglades
- Visited an alligator farm and found a roadside casino (with a free meal!)
- Bargain-hunted at an outlet mall
- Shared stories and laughter at the local American Legion
- Tried calamari fries that were out of this world
- Sampled frozen, chocolate-dipped Key lime pie
- Watched one jaw-dropping sunset after another
It was everything I had imagined — and more. Key Largo remains one of our most memorable tropical escapes, and we’re already looking forward to returning to the Florida Keys to explore even more.
Plan Your Stay in the Florida Keys
Looking for your own tropical escape? Whether you're diving reefs, paddling mangroves, or simply sipping cocktails as the sun sets, the Florida Keys deliver unforgettable experiences. Find your perfect home base here:
Where are the Florida Keys?
Click on the Google Map. For driving in North America, put in your home town. The map will calculate the driving time. To fly put in your closest airport and the Miami International Airport. The map will give you the flight time and an approximate cost.
Key Largo – Gateway to the Florida Keys
Known as the “Diving Capital of the World,” Key Largo is the northernmost island in the chain and the first you'll reach when heading south on the Overseas Highway. This island is home to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the first underwater park in the U.S. Here, you can snorkel over coral gardens, dive wrecks like the Christ of the Abyss, or glide across clear waters in a glass-bottom boat.
Nature lovers can kayak through mangrove tunnels or hike through the tropical hardwood hammock of the Florida Keys Wildlife and Environmental Area. For those seeking more comfort, enjoy local seafood at a waterfront grill as the sun sets over Florida Bay.
Plan Your Stay in the Florida Keys
Ready to wake up to ocean breezes and swaying palms? Here are our trusted platforms to book your Florida Keys getaway:
Marathon – The Heart of the Keys
Marathon is the geographic and cultural heart of the Florida Keys. Spread across 13 islands, this welcoming community is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and easy access to outdoor adventures. It’s also the gateway to one of the most photogenic stretches of the Overseas Highway — the iconic Seven Mile Bridge.
Top attractions include the Turtle Hospital, a rehab centre for injured sea turtles, and Crane Point Hammock, a nature preserve and historical site perfect for short hikes and bird watching.
Marathon is also the place to go for beach time in the Keys — the sandy shores of Sombrero Beach are among the best in the archipelago. From boating and diving to enjoying fresh-caught seafood, Marathon strikes a beautiful balance between adventure and relaxation.
Big Pine Key – Nature’s Quiet Escape
If you’re craving a more tranquil and natural side of the Florida Keys, Big Pine Key offers a serene getaway far from the bustle of the busier islands. It’s best known as the home of the endangered Key deer, a miniature species that roams freely through the National Key Deer Refuge.
For snorkellers and divers, Big Pine Key is the jumping-off point for visiting the remote and pristine reefs of Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary. The waters here are teeming with marine life and vibrant coral formations — often without the crowds found elsewhere in the Keys.
Don’t miss the peaceful beaches and stargazing from quiet backroads. With limited development and plenty of open space, Big Pine Key is a haven for nature lovers, cyclists, and photographers alike.
Key West – The Southernmost Point and Cultural Soul of the Keys
Key West is the final stop on the Overseas Highway and perhaps the most famous of all the Keys. Known for its quirky charm, historic streets, and free-spirited energy, this island city blends Caribbean colour with literary and maritime history.
Visitors flock to landmarks like the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, the iconic Southernmost Point Buoy, and the preserved Victorian homes of the Old Town. Stroll along Mallory Square for nightly sunset celebrations filled with street performers, local art, and live music.
Despite its popularity, Key West still offers hidden gardens, offbeat museums, and quiet side streets waiting to be discovered. Whether you're sipping Cuban coffee in a shaded courtyard or catching a show at the historic Tropic Cinema, there's always a touch of magic in the island air.
Top 7 Things To Do in the Florida Keys
1. Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail
Explore the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail
The Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail (FKOHT) is a spectacular 90-mile paved trail designed for biking, walking, running, and more. It follows a planned 106-mile route from Key Largo to Key West, closely paralleling the iconic U.S. Highway 1 — a designated Scenic Byway.
One of the trail’s highlights is the inclusion of 23 historic Flagler railway bridges, many of which have been repurposed as fishing platforms. Along the way, you’ll enjoy sweeping ocean views, lush ecosystems, and access to fascinating cultural and natural landmarks throughout the Keys.
Whether you’re into cycling, hiking, fishing, or kayaking, this is one experience you won’t want to miss. It’s an unforgettable way to see the Keys up close — and at your own pace.
Click here for more detailed information about the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail
2. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
Discover John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
Most visitors come to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park to experience the stunning coral reefs and marine life within its 70-square-nautical-mile underwater park. The park offers snorkelling and scuba diving tours, as well as a popular glass-bottom boat tour for those who prefer to stay dry while viewing the reef below.
The Visitor Center features a fascinating 30,000-gallon aquarium and nature films in its on-site theatre. On land, there are short nature trails, picnic areas, and even a mangrove swamp to explore. The sandy beach is perfect for a swim, and beach wheelchairs are available free of charge, making the park more accessible for all.
It’s a fantastic place to spend the day. Although the reef tours were cancelled during our visit due to murky water after storms, we still enjoyed a relaxing afternoon on the beach and a peaceful walk along the park’s nature paths.
Click here for more detailed information about John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
3. Bahia Honda State Park
A small park that is a great spot to stop for great pictures of an iconic Flagler railroad bridge. There is swimming and a beach.
The park has the Atlantic on one side and the Gulf on the other side giving good examples of wracklines. The wrackline is the line of organic plant debris deposited on the beach at high tide. The wrackline is home to many crustaceans that feed on the organic matter breaking it down into nutrients for the dunes and stabilize the sand that protects the dunes.
4. Rain Barrel Village
One of the top Florida Keys experience for over 40 years is a visit to the village on Islamorada Key. It has many outdoor speciality shops selling local art, pottery, crafts, jewellery, clothing and souvenirs. There are restaurants and bars if you are hungry or thirsty.
Spend some time talking to the artists at work in the village. Get your picture with the 30 foot Betsy the Lobster. The 2nd most photographed landmark after the Most Southern Point buoy in Key West.
5. Everglades National Park
The Everglades National Park contains 1.5 million acres of the millions of acres of sawgrass glades located in Southern Florida. The park includes coastal mangroves, glades of sawgrass and pine flatwood. Here you will find manatee, panther, alligators, American crocodiles, iguanas, flamingos and much other wildlife.
It is a World Heritage Site, an International Biosphere Reserve, and a Wetland of International Importance. And it has a couple of awesome Airboat tours that are so much fun.
6. Key West
Key West is the most Southern point of the United States and is closer to Cuba than Miami. Their motto is, “We are all created equal members of ONE HUMAN FAMILY”.
This is a city of fascinating contrasts. It has attracted artists, authors, and people pursuing lifestyles outside of the norm. They have all made their mark on the development of Key West. It draws people to fish, dive, stroll the beach, hit the bars, dine and attend awesome events.
7. Sunset Bars
Sunset is a big deal in the Florida Keys. Every night is a celebration of the beautiful sunset throughout all the Keys. Each night brings a different sunset to celebrate.
People flock to the beachside bars and grills to take part in the nightly Happy Hour. On Key Largo there are over a dozen of them to choose from. They all have special food and drink prices, and live music to watch the sunset in an enchanting setting.
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