Rob Taylor, Author at The Keys Explored

Sunset Watersports Catamaran snorkel at Sand Key Reef Lighthouse Key West Florida Keys 1

Catamaran Snorkeling Tour with Sunset Watersports – Key West’s Easiest Snorkel

The catamaran snorkeling tour from Sunset Watersports in Key West is one of the best beginner snorkel tours available. See what to expect on this sailing trip, including sights and how to be prepared for Key West snorkeling.

Sunset from Blu Q Honest Eco Tours Key West Florida Keys 1

Key West Tours Wildlife

Sunset Sailing on the Blu Q Catamaran with Honest Eco Tours in Key West

Doing a sunset sailing on the Blu Q in Key West is a great way to end a fun day. Watch for dolphins, enjoy the BYOB atmosphere and get out on the water with Honest Eco Tour's catamaran. A great tour!

Tourists Parasailing with Sebago Key West Florida Keys 6

Key West Things To Do

Parasailing in Key West: an Airborne Adventure w/ Beautiful Views

Parasailing in Key West is an awesome way to get a fresh perspective on this beautiful, historic island. Leaving from the Historic Seaport, there are a few companies to pick from for getting out on the water and up in the air. See what to expect and how to plan this fun adventure.

Taylor Family at Gates Hotel Key West Florida Keys 1

Key West Lodging

The Blue Flamingo Resort (formerly the Gates and 24 North Hotels) in Key West

The Gates Hotel Key West is a fun, budget option for a family trip to the Florida Keys. With great amenities and a convenient shuttle to the historic district, see what else makes the Gates Hotel a top pick for where to say in Key West.

Rob Taylor in Swimming Pool at Perry Hotel Key West Florida Keys 5

Key West Lodging

The Perry Hotel Key West – a Beautiful Resort and Marina on Stock Island

The Perry Hotel and Marina in Key West is a very different sort of pick when you're in the Florida Keys. Located on Stock Island and being industrial chic, the Perry Hotel is spacious and unlike any other Key West accommodations we've had.

Orchid Mural on Exterior of Grassy Flats Resort Grassy Key Marathon Florida Keys 2

Lodging Middle Keys

Grassy Flats Resort in the Middle Keys – Quiet and Calm near Marathon

The Grassy Flats Resort near Marathon in the Florida Keys is a quiet destination for a relaxing trip. See what you'll find at this off the beaten path hotel in one of the most peaceful parts of the Florida Keys.

Taylor Family at Marker Resort Hotel Key West Florida Keys 2

Key West Lodging

The Marker Resort Key West – Quiet Luxury at the Historic Seaport

The Marker Key West Resort is both beautiful and one of the most convenient places to stay in Key West. Located at the Historic Seaport, see what to expect of the hotel and amenities, as well as recommendations for dining and things to do near the Marker Resort.

Taylor Family on deck at Loft Suite at the Laureate Hotel Key West Florida Keys 2020 1

Key West Lodging

Hotel Laureate – a Beautiful All-Suites Hotel in Key West

The Hotel Laureate in Key West is a fantastic all-suites hotel. Each unit is spacious with bedrooms and outdoor areas, and it's in a great location. The Hotel Laureate is ideal for families and longer stays in Key West.

Inside Key West Aquarium Florida Keys 2020 1

Key West Things To Do

The Key West Aquarium: Vintage, Family Friendly Fun Downtown

The Key West Aquarium is a cool, vintage attraction in the historic district, and it's an easy addition to your time in Key West. See what you'll find at the aquarium and what makes it a unique feature in Key West.

Java Cat Key West Eco Tours in port in Key West Florida Keys 1

Key West Tours

Key West Eco Tours Java Cat – the Best Wildlife Photography Boat Tour

Going out on the Java Cat with Key West Eco Tours is one of the best wildlife photography tours I've done. See what to expect from this catamaran sailing / kayak / snorkel tour and what sets it apart from other Key West boat tours.

Full Taylor Family Kayaking with Key West Eco Tours Geiger Key Florida Keys 1

Key West Tours

Beautiful Geiger Key Kayaking Tour – the Quite Side of the Florida Keys

Right next to Key West is Geiger Key, a kayaking destination full of wildlife and beautiful sights. See what you'll find as you explore with a guide through Geiger Key Paddle Hut or if you're kayaking on your own. This is an awesome Key West activity that's great with kids.

SUPs at Beach at Bakers Cay Resort Key Largo Florida Keys 1

Lodging Upper Keys

Bakers Cay Resort: a Peaceful and Fun Stay on Key Largo

Bakers Cay Resort of Key Largo is one of the most peaceful resorts we've stayed at. From quiet beach nooks to balconies and swimming pools that are perfect for relaxing, this is a top pick for where to stay on Key Largo.

Swimming Pool at Holiday Inn Key Largo Florida Keys 2021 2

Lodging Upper Keys

Holiday Inn Key Largo – a Surprising Pick for the Florida Keys

The Holiday Inn Key Largo has been a consistent stay for us for years. While it's not the fanciest option in the Florida Keys, we often will book a night on our way to or from Key West to break up the drive and simply relax in the pools near our favorite restaurants.

Taylor Family in Salt Water Lagoon at Hawks Cay Resort Duck Key Florida Keys 2020 5

Lodging Middle Keys

Beautiful Hawks Cay Resort in the Middle Keys

Hawks Cay Resort in the Middle Keys is a vacation destination in itself. A combination hotel and condo resort, see what you'll find at this enormous Florida Keys vacation property located on Duck Key.

Key West Tours Wildlife

Sunset Watersports Dolphin and Snorkeling Combo Tour – Awesome!

The Sunset Watersports dolphin snorkeling tour combo is a great way to get out on the water and explore below the surface. See what to expect and how to plan your trip for dolphin watching and snorkeling from Key West

Taylor Family at Key West Tropical Forest and Botanical Garden Florida Keys 5

Key West Things To Do

The Key West Botanical Garden and Tropical Forest: a Unique Oasis

The Key West Botanica Garden is more than that; it's also a tropical forest. See what to expect here and how much time you should set aside for a visit to this unique Florida Keys attraction.

Lantern of Sombrero Key Lighthouse Marathon Florida Keys 1

History Things To Do

Lighthouses in the Florida Keys – Which You Can Visit

If you know anything about me (Rob, the creator of The Keys Explored) then you know that I love lighthouses and wildlife. And there are plenty of lighthouses in the…

Taylor Family Underwater on Morning Snorkel Tour with Sunset Watersports Key West Florida Keys 1

Planning Wildlife

Reef-Safe Sunblock: Why It’s So Important for the Florida Keys

Reef-safe sunblock is very important when you're visiting the Florida Keys or any place with a delicate ecosystem. See what standard sunscreen can do to the environment and get recommendations for reef-safe sunscreen products.

Taylor Family at Key West Lighthouse and Maritime Museum Florida Keys 4

History Key West Things To Do

Visiting the Beautiful Key West Lighthouse: an Easy and Interesting Stop

There are 9 lighthouses in the Florida Keys but the Key West Lighthouse is the only one you can climb. See what you'll find here at the lantern and museum of the Key West Lighthouse.

Taylor Family at Hemmingway House Key West Florida Keys 2

History Key West Things To Do

Hemingway House in Key West: Perfect for Literature Fans and Cat Lovers

The Ernest Hemingway House in Key West is a must-visit for literature and cat lovers, whichever you are. See what you'll find at this beautiful historic home, including info about the most unique tour in Key West.

Kelly with Sea Turtle while diving at Benwood Shipwreck off Key Largo with Horizon Divers Florida Keys 1

Tours Upper Keys

Horizon Divers: Awesome Snorkeling and Free-diving Tour from Key Largo

Horizon Divers on Key Largo does a great job accommodating all skill levels, including free divers and snorkelers. From shipwrecks to reefs, see what you can expect going out with Horizon for an incredible Florida Keys wildlife experience.

Taylor Family jumping off Sail Boat with Danger Charters Key West

Key West Tours

Danger Charters Key West: Beautiful Sail, Kayak, and Snorkel Experience

Danger Charters in Key West offers a really unique tour that you can't miss. This sail boat trip with kayaking and snorkeling in the Key West National Wildlife Refuge is really incredible and not to be missed.

Starfish Snorkeling Tour Catamaran at Marina in Marathon Florida Keys 1

Middle Keys Tours

Starfish Catamaran Snorkeling Tour from Marathon – my FAVORITE!

Not all of the best things are flashy, and Starfish Catamaran snorkeling is one of the best adventures to have in the Florida Keys. See what to expect leaving from Marathon to the Sombrero Reef Marine Sanctuary for an awesome snorkeling experience.

Squid Catamaran Honest Eco Tours in Historic Seaport Key West Florida Keys 1

Key West Tours

Honest Eco Key West – Snorkel Tours on the Squid, an Eco-friendly Catamaran

Snorkeling with Honest Eco in Key West is one of the most family-friendly tours available. Going out on the Squid (catamaran) is a fun way to explore with naturalists who know so much and are really passionate about sharing the waters of Key West with visitors.

Fish Eating Sargassum at Sombrero Reef National Marine Sanctuary Marathon Florida Keys 2

Lower Keys Things To Do

Great Things to do on Marathon and the Lower Keys

Traveling to the Keys and looking for great things to do in Marathon and lower keys? There are so many opportunities for adventure and lots of restaurants, wildlife, and fishing spots too.

View from Audubon House and Gardens Key West Florida Keys 2021 1

History Key West Things To Do

Visiting the Audubon House and Tropical Gardens – a Bird Lover’s Must-see

The Audubon House and Tropical Gardens in Key West are a unique addition to your time in the Conch Republic. From beautiful bird art by John James Audubon to tropical gardens to wander through, see what you'll find here in this historic home.

Rob and Kelly on African Queen Boat Tour from Key Largo Florida Keys 1

Things To Do Upper Keys

African Queen Boat Tour in Key Largo – Perfect for Film and History Buffs

If you like movies, history and the Florida Keys then you need to do the African Queen boat tour from Key Largo. A combination of film history and dolphin cruise, it's a great activity for getting out on the water and enjoying a living piece of motion picture memorabilia.

Taylor Family on beach at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park Key West Florida Keys 4

History Key West Things To Do

Fort Zachary Taylor State Park in Key West: Beach Day w/ a Side of History

Fort Zachary Taylor State Park is a favorite place for having beach days in Key West. Complete with white sand, snorkeling, trails and a historic fort, see what you need to know and plan for to visit Fort Zachary Taylor when you come to the Florida Keys.

Snorkeling at Historic Pigeon Key Middle Keys Florida Keys 5

History Middle Keys Tours

Day Trip to Historic Pigeon Key and the Beautiful Old Seven Mile Bridge

Historic Pigeon Key is a unique island connected to the Old Seven Mile Bridge in the Florida Keys. Visiting means learning about the history of the Keys and the railroad, snorkeling, and falling in love with the quiet vibes of the Middle Keys.

Railroad Quarry Equipment at Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park Florida Keys 1

Middle Keys Things To Do

Florida Keys Fun Things to Do in the Middle Keys

As many people just drive straight down to Key West, the Middle Keys are full of fun things to do and quiet places to enjoy the vibe of the Florida Keys. See our top picks for activities and ways to enjoy this mellow part of the Keys.

Taylor Family with Cats at Hemmingway House Key West Florida Keys 4

History Key West Lower Keys

Historic Sites in Key West: Interesting Things to Do and See in KW

There are countless historic sites in Key West that are interesting and worth visiting when you're there. We've picked our favorites to add to a Key West plan that highlight history, beautiful views, and things that are fun for kids of all ages.

Lower Keys Wildlife

Seeing Key Deer on Big Pine Key: the Smallest Deer in North America

The Key Deer is an exceptionally small deer, and it's found only in the Florida Keys. A unique sort of wildlife to see, find out what makes these tiny deer special and where to see them in the Lower Keys.

Planning

Tips for a Budget-Friendly Trip to the Florida Keys

Trying to plan a budget-friendly trip to the Florida Keys? We have all the best ideas for staying within your budget and the cost breakdown of how a day in the keys will actually affect your wallet.

Kelly on Boardwalk Trails at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park Key Largo Florida Keys 1

Things To Do Upper Keys

Fun Things to Do on Key Largo in the Beautiful Florida Keys

There are so many awesome things to do on Key Largo. We have listed our best ideas to make your trip to the Upper Keys filled with fun!

Nurse Shark and Fish with Giant Sponge in Key West National Wildlife Refuge Florida Keys 3

Things To Do Tours Wildlife

Best Wildlife and Snorkeling Tours in the Florida Keys

There are lots of great wildlife and snorkeling tours in the Florida Keys, for everything from seeing dolphins to diving at beautiful reefs. We've picked our favorite wildlife tours including kayaking, sailing and catamarans to help visitors plan great experiences.

Wildlife

Birdwatching in the Florida Keys: Beautiful Birds (and the Scoop on Flamingos!)

Birdwatching in the Florida Keys is amazing. With a diverse range of bird species inhabiting the area's unique coastal habitats and low-lying tropical forests, we have tips for spotting wildlife and where the best birding in the Keys is!

Taylor Family snorkeling at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park Key Largo Florida Keys 2020 10

State Parks Things To Do Upper Keys

Guide to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Key Largo in the Florida Keys

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo is one of the highlights of getting to visit the Florida Keys. From kayaking and snorkeling just off the main hub of the park to glass bottom boats and guided snorkel trips, it's a must for your Keys vacation.

Lion Fish school at Key West National Wildlife Refuge Florida Keys 4

Things To Do Wildlife

Wildlife in the Florida Keys – Tips for Awesome Wildlife Experiences

The wildlife in the Florida Keys is just as incredible as the turquoise waters and beautiful resorts. We've picked our favorite creatures to encounter, to dive with, and observe from the land. Tips for wildlife sighting and top tours for responsible wildlife experiences.

Taylor Family with Rainbow on Sunset Watersports Catamaran Evening Snorkel Tour Key West Florida Keys 1

Planning

Florida Keys in Summer: Staying Cool in the Hottest Months

Visiting the Florida Keys in the summer is fun and beautiful, but it can be hot and humid. Tips for keeping cool, having fun during the busiest time in the Keys and information about Hurricane Season travel.

Beach Path at Curry Hammock State Park Marathon Florida Keys 1

Camping Lower Keys Middle Keys

Camping in the Florida Keys

A combination of Paradise and Adventure! Camping in the Florida Keys is a great place to camp with access to crystal clear waters and a ton of state parks.

Hotel Picks