All Articles - The Keys Explored

Kelly Kayaking at Biscayne National Park Florida 1

Kayaking in Biscayne National Park: Kayak Tours and Self-guided Trips

Kayaking in Biscayne National Park is one of the best ways to enjoy the wildlife and scenery here. Whether you've brought your own gear or if you're a part of a kayak tour from the Biscayne Institute, it's worth adding this to your trip to the Florida Keys.

Rob Taylor Kayaking in mangroves with Key West Eco Tours at Key West National Wildlife Refuge Florida Keys 3

Things To Do

Best Kayaking Spots in South Florida: the Keys, Everglades, Gulf Coast & More

Kayaking in South Florida is a great addition to a trip to Miami or the Florida Keys. Kayak spots in Palm Beach County, the Everglades on nature preserves on the Gulf Coast all make for beautiful kayaking destinations, and you don't even have to bring your own paddling gear for many of them. See our recommendations for both general kayaking areas and specific launch sites.

Taylor Family on guided kayak tour with Geiger Key Paddle Hut Key West Florida Keys 1

Things To Do

Best Florida Keys Kayaking: Beautiful Spots from Key Largo to Key West

The best places to kayak in the Florida Keys range from Key West to the backcountry of the smaller keys. Kayaking routes and guided tours in the Florida Keys to make a road trip on the Overseas Highway even better.

Boardwalk on the Golden Orb Nature Trail at Long Key State Park Middle Keys Florida Keys 1

Middle Keys State Parks Things To Do

Visiting Beautiful Long Key State Park between Islamorada and Marathon

Long Key State Park is an often overlooked spot in the Middle Keys. Known for its birdwatching and kayaking, it's a quiet spot to enjoy nature and usually very few people. See what to do at Long Key State Park and tips for visiting.

Turquoise Water View from Bahia Honda State Park Big Pine Key Florida Keys 2020 1

Camping Lower Keys State Parks

Enjoying Bahia Honda State Park in the Lower Keys

Bahia Honda State Park is one of the prettiest places in the Florida Keys and is a must for a beach or kayaking day. Located between Key West and Marathon, it's an easy day trip to plan or stop along your Florida Keys road trip. See what you can enjoy at Bahia Honda and get some tips for making the most of your time here.

Taylor Family with Banyan Tree at Windley Key Fossil Reef State Park Islamorada Florida Keys 1

Middle Keys State Parks Things To Do

Everything You Need to Know about Windley Key Fossil Reef State Park

Windley Key Fossil Reef State Park is one of the most unusual historic spots to visit in the Florida Keys. Located in Islamorada, Windley Key SP is full of cool quarry pits, history exhibits and even beautiful birds. See what you'll find here in this easily overlooked State Park.

Kelly biking at Shark Valley in Everglades National Park Florida 1

National Parks Things To Do

Biking in Everglades National Park: Exploring the Beautiful Shark Valley

Biking in Everglades National Park at Shark Valley is a wonderful and unique way to experience the park. Located near Miami this fun adventure gets you out into the harsh environment into the heart of the Everglade most beautiful wildlife.

History Key West Things To Do

Visiting the Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum – Great with Kids and Adults

The Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum is perfect to visit with kids and adults, fascinating for any age. I would rank it in my top three museums in town. See what you'll find here and just how creepy/piratey it is (thinking about if little kids will be scared).

Illustrated Map of Curry Hammock State Park Marathon Florida Keys 1

Middle Keys State Parks Things To Do

Curry Hammock State Park: Everything You Need to Know!

Curry Hammock State Park is an overlooked gem on Marathon, perfect for kayaking, camping or just having a beach day. See what you'll find and even our favorite paddling routes here at Curry Hammock State Park in the Middle Keys!

History Key West

Key West’s Museum of Art & History – Hemingway, Flagler and Famous Events

The Key West Museum of Art & History at the Customs House is the best place in town to learn the story of the Florida Keys. The perfect balance of relevant art and historic exhibits, the Key West Historical Society's museum is perfect for all ages and interests of visitors.

Key West Tours

Island to Island Charters: a Top Shelf Experience Exploring Key West’s Waters

Island to Island Charters is one of the best family experiences you can plan in Key West. Exploring the backwaters and sandbars with a day tailored to your family and friends is the perfect Florida Keys adventure.

Drinking Tea in Indoor Relaxation Space at Ocean Spa at Faro Blanco Resort Marathon Florida Keys 1

Middle Keys Things To Do

The Ocean Spa at Faro Blanco – Adding a Day Visit to your Florida Keys Trip

The Ocean Spa at the Faro Blanco Resort in Marathon offers a day pass for the spa and it's one of the most relaxing things you can do on a Florida Keys trip. See what's included with the spa day pass and how to have the best experience at the Ocean Spa.

Taylor Family on Pier at Ocean Pointe Suites Key Largo Florida Keys 2020 3

Lodging Upper Keys

Staying at the Ocean Pointe Resort Key Largo – Condo Style Quiet Stay

The Ocean Pointe Resort is a condo style hotel on Key Largo, perfect for families staying for a few nights. The quiet location and nearby fun make it a great option when you're visiting the Upper Florida Keys.

Beach at Grassy Flats Resort Grassy Key Marathon Florida Keys 2

Planning

FAQ for Planning a Trip to the Florida Keys

We collected our most frequently asked questions about planning a trip to the Florida Keys and answered EVERYTHING. Honest opinions and tips for putting together a great trip is what you'll find, and we have a lot of experience to draw from in the Florida Keys.

Key Lime Cocktail at Lighthouse Kitchen and Bar at Faro Blanco Resort Marathon Florida Keys 2

Restaurants Things To Do

15 Best Cocktail Spots in the Florida Keys (my top pick is last)

Our picks for the best cocktail spots in the Florida Keys range from tiki bars in Key Largo to Hemingway themed hangouts in Key West. Check out our favorite places to enjoy a cocktail with great menus, good vibes and beautiful Florida Keys views.

Key Lime Recipes

Delicious and Easy Key Lime Pie Recipe – Baking Florida Keys Magic at Home

This is the easiest key lime pie recipe around, with easy, delicious options to make it even better. After trying many key lime pies and making several, this recipe is the best.

History Key West Tours

Key West Ghosts and Gravestones: Nighttime City Tour w/ a Creepy Twist

The Ghosts and Gravestones Tour is Key West is a weird, fun and historic experience if you're looking for something cool to do at night. See what to expect, including what ages it's appropriate for, and if this spooky tour is right for your Florida Keys trip.

Conch Train Tour at Mallory Square Depot Key West Florida Keys 2

History Key West Tours

The Famous Conch Train Tour of Key West: Tips for a Fun, Quirky Experience

The Conch Train Tour of Key West is one of my favorite ways to roll through town seeing what's new and getting reacquainted with the Conch Republic. See what to expect and how to plan your own fun day on the Conch Train in Key West.

Glass Bottom Boat at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park Key Largo Florida Keys 1

State Parks Tours Upper Keys

Glass Bottom Boat Tours at Pennekamp State Park on Key Largo

The glass bottom boat tour in John Pennkamp Coral Reef State Park is the most popular activity on Key Largo. See what to expect and what makes this unique tour worth your time in the Florida Keys.

Antique Scuba Diving Helmet Display at Museum of the History of Diving Islamorada Florida Keys 1

History Middle Keys Things To Do

Visiting the History of Diving Museum in Islamorada – Fascinating FL Keys Stop

The History of Diving Museum in Islamorada in the Florida Keys is one of the most niche museums we've been to. Focusing on the evolution of diving and exploring underwater, see what to expect and how to plan your visit to this fascinating place.

Key West Postcard Mural Florida Keys 2020 2

Key West Things To Do

10 Iconic Things to Do and See in Key West

What are the most iconic things to see and do in Key West? There may be too many to count! Here are a few of the things we think will make your trip to the lower keys and Key West extraordinary.

Two Goliath Groupers with Captain Hooks Looe Key Reef Snorkeling Big Pine Key Florida Keys 1

Lower Keys Tours

Snorkeling Looe Key Reef with Captain Hook’s from Big Pine Key

Snorkeling Looe Key Reef with Captain Hook's from Big Pine Key is one of the more unusual wildlife tours you can plan in the Lower Keys. See what makes Looe Key Reef special and our tips for having a great experience out on the water.

Exterior of Truman Little White House Key West Florida Keys 1

History Key West Things To Do

Visiting the Truman Little White House: Key West’s Presidential Getaway

Touring Truman's Little White House in Key West is a must for history lovers. Unlike other historic homes in town, the Little White House is much more modern history and a very different sort of tour experience. Find out more, including the rules of visiting, for when you're in Key West.

Taylor Family at Turtle Hospital Marathon Florida Keys 2020 1

Middle Keys Things To Do Wildlife

Visiting the Marathon Sea Turtle Hospital – a Special Florida Keys Experience

Visiting the Marathon Sea Turtle Hospital is a must-do as you travel through the Florida Keys. Learning about these amazing creatures and seeing them up close as they go through rehabilitation and release is fascinating, and very special with kids.

Exterior of Flamingo Lodge at Everglades National Park Florida 3

Lodging National Parks

Flamingo Lodge in Everglades National Park – a Unique Addition to a Keys Trip

The Flamingo Lodge in Everglades National Park is the ONLY hotel in the park. We've got the full scoop on rooms at the NEW lodge, the restaurant, things to do at Flamingo and more.

Classic Cars at Havana Cabana Resort Key West Florida Keys 1

Key West Lodging

Review of Havana Cabana Resort: an Adults-only Key West Hotel

The Havana Cabana adults-only resort in Key West is a fun alternative stay when you're in the Florida Keys. Check out Key West's largest swimming pool, on site food truck and more at the Havana Cabana.

Pool Patio area at Bayside Inn Key Largo Florida Keys 1

Lodging Upper Keys

The Bayside Inn, Key Largo – a Fun, Budget Friendly Stay

The Bayside Inn Key Largo is a good option for both a budget stay and an easy place for having a diving/snorkeling trip to the Upper Keys. See what we like about staying at the Bayside Inn, including amenities, pool and beach access from the hotel.

Kayaking Buttonwood Canal at Flamingo Everglades National Park Florida 4

National Parks Things To Do

Kayaking at Flamingo in Everglades National Park – the Full Scoop and Tips

Kayaking at Flamingo in Everglades National Park is one of the best ways to get to see crocodiles and explore the area on the water. With awesome bird watching and tons more wildlife to encounter, see our tips for paddling with kayak rentals from Flamingo Adventures.

Hemingway Boat Pilar inside Bass Pro Shop World Wide Sportsman Islamorada Florida Keys 1

Things To Do Upper Keys

World Wide Sportsman Bass Pro Shop, Islamorada: Hidden Hemingway History and More

World Wide Sportsman Islamorada is more than a Bass Pro Shop, but it's a full experience for anyone (even if you don't fish). From Ernest Hemingway's boat to bars and feeding tarpon, this is one of the most unexpected cool spots to stop in the Florida Keys.

View from Crane Point Hammock Preserve Marathon Florida Keys 2

Middle Keys Things To Do

Crane Point Hammock: Marathon’s Hidden Gem with Natural Fish Pedicures

Crane Point Hammock on Marathon in the Florida Keys is a hidden gem with trails, museum exhibits and natural fish pedicures not to be missed. See what to expect from kayaking to picnic spots at this beautiful preserved area in the Middle Keys.

Rob Taylor driving Carolina Skiff from Florida Keys Boat Rentals at Robbies of Islamorada Florida Keys 1

Middle Keys Things To Do Upper Keys

Florida Keys Boat Rentals: Exploring the Beautiful Backwaters on Your Own

Florida Keys boat rentals can be a great way to explore the waters and have fun with friends and family. We've got the scoop on renting a boat out of Islamorada with suggestions for activities and information about what license or boating experience is required to rent a boat in the Keys.

Feeding the tarpon at Robbies of Islamorada Florida Keys 3

Middle Keys Things To Do Upper Keys

Robbie’s of Islamorada: Tips for Visiting a Fun Florida Keys Icon

Robbie's of Islamorada is famous for its tarpon feeding, but there's a lot more to visiting. See what you can do and see at Robbie's, including tips about what's best on the menu at the Hungry Tarpon restaurant.

Sunset at Casa Morada Resort on Islamorada Florida Keys 2

Lodging Upper Keys

Beautiful Retreat to Casa Morada on Islamorada

The Casa Morada Resort in Islamorada is the adults-only Florida Keys hotel that makes me want to plan another trip ASAP. Between the peace and quiet, the snorkeling from the property and beautiful grounds see what makes staying at the Casa Morada a special hotel choice in the Keys.

Sandbar Charter with Lazy Dog Adventures Key West Florida Keys 7

Key West Tours

Lazy Dog Adventures Sandbar Charter w/ Paddling in Beautiful Key West

The sandbar charter with Lazy Dog Adventures in Key West is a great way to enjoy a day on the water paddling, snorkeling and having an experience tailored to your group. See why a charter is a good budget option and what to expect exploring the backwaters of Key West with Lazy Dog Adventures.

Nighttime fire pit at Faro Blanco Resort Marathon Florida Keys 1

Lodging Middle Keys

Enjoying the Beautiful Faro Blanco Resort on Marathon – Peaceful AND Fun

The Faro Blanco Resort in Marathon is the perfect, peaceful getaway in the Middle Keys. With a beautiful property, nice spa and tons of things to do nearby, see why this is one of our favorite Florida Keys resorts.

Yankee Freedom from Fort Jefferson at Dry Tortugas National Park Key West Florida 2

Key West National Parks Tours

Taking the Boat to Dry Tortugas National Park from Key West

Taking the boat to Dry Tortugas National Park is a part of the unforgettable experience from Key West, but it can be rough. We've got the scoop on what it's actually like and how to prepare for the 70 mile ferry ride, also known as the "vomit comet" which isn't necessarily accurate...

Nighttime Wildlife Safari with Night Kayak Key West Florida Keys 2020 5

Key West Tours

Beautiful Wildlife Experience Night Kayaking in Key West

Night kayaking in Key West is one of the coolest experiences you can have during your visit. It's great for all ages and is a very unique way to see wildlife using clear kayaks and LED lights. See what to expect and get some tips for enjoying this unusual kayaking experience in the Florida Keys.

Flamingo Backcountry Boat Tour in Everglades National Park Florida 1

National Parks Tours

Exploring Everglades NP – Flamingo Adventures Backcountry Boat Tour

The Flamingo Boat Tour through the Backcountry is a beautiful introduction to Everglades National Park. Watching for crocodiles, birds and more, this is a great way to get on the water and see wildlife in the Everglades before or after a trip into the Florida Keys.

Taylor Family in Hot Tub at Coconut Beach Resort Key West Florida Keys 5

Key West Lodging

Coconut Beach Resort in Key West: a Chill, Condo-style Stay

I love having a low-key vacation, so the Coconut Beach Resort in Key West is perfect for that. Located on the south side of town very near the Southernmost Resort,…

Taylor Family at Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory Florida Keys 9

Key West Things To Do

Visiting the Key West Butterfly Conservatory: a Beautiful Oasis

The Key West Butterfly Conservatory is a fun, beautiful place to visit for a break from being on the water in the Florida Keys. Tropical butterflies, birds, flowers and more make this an interesting, relaxing place to visit on an afternoon in Key West.

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