Florida Keys holidays

Where to stay in the Florida Keys

The Florida Keys offer a diverse range of accommodations, from luxurious resorts to charming guesthouses, perfect for every type of traveller. Here’s a guide to some of the best destinations in the Florida Keys, with anchor texts for each location.

Key West

Vibrant and Historic Key West is the most famous island in the Florida Keys, known for its vibrant nightlife, historic sites, and lively cultural scene. Accommodation options range from luxury resorts to quaint bed-and-breakfasts. Staying in Key West allows you to explore attractions like the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, Mallory Square, and Duval Street. Discover our deals on holidays to Key West.

Highlights:

• Lively nightlife and cultural attractions

• Historic sites and museums

• Wide range of accommodations

Key Largo

Diving and Marine Life Key Largo is a paradise for diving and snorkelling enthusiasts, offering access to the stunning John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. The area features a mix of resorts, motels, and vacation rentals. Staying in Key Largo ensures you are close to some of the best underwater adventures in the Keys. Check out our holiday packages to Key Largo.

Highlights:

• World-class diving and snorkelling

• John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

• Marine life tours and activities

Marathon

Family-Friendly Fun Marathon, located in the middle of the Florida Keys, is ideal for families and water sports lovers. The area boasts beautiful beaches, the Dolphin Research Center, and the Turtle Hospital. Staying in Marathon offers a variety of family-friendly resorts and vacation homes, perfect for a relaxing and enjoyable stay. Don't miss the best deals on holidays to Marathon.

Highlights:

• Family-friendly attractions and activities

• Beautiful beaches

• Dolphin Research Center and Turtle Hospital

Islamorada

Sportfishing Capital Islamorada is renowned as the "Sportfishing Capital of the World," attracting anglers from around the globe. This area offers a range of accommodations, from upscale resorts to cosy inns. Islamorada holidays provide easy access to fishing charters, watersports, and beautiful sunset views.

Highlights:

• Premier sportfishing destination

• Fishing charters and watersports

• Stunning sunsets and coastal views

Big Pine Key

Nature and Serenity Big Pine Key is perfect for those seeking a more tranquil and nature-focused holiday. The island is home to the National Key Deer Refuge and Bahia Honda State Park, known for its pristine beaches. Staying in Big Pine Key holidays offers a serene environment with plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing.

Highlights:

• National Key Deer Refuge

• Bahia Honda State Park

• Peaceful and natural setting

Each of these destinations offers unique experiences and accommodations, ensuring a memorable holiday in the Florida Keys. Choose the location that best suits your preferences and enjoy the natural beauty and activities this region has to offer.

How to reach the Florida Keys

Flight time:

• Flights to the Florida Keys typically involve flying into Miami or Fort Lauderdale from London and other major UK airports. Flights to Miami take around about 9 hours, while flights to Fort Lauderdale are around 9.5 hours.

Transfer time:

• By hire car or shuttle service, it’s about a 2-hour drive from Miami International Airport to Key Largo, the northernmost island in the Florida Keys. From Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, it’s around 2.5 hours.

Price:

• Hiring a car from Miami Airport can cost around $50 per day, while shuttle services to Key Largo start at about $70 per person. A taxi ride from Miami Airport to Key Largo could set you back around $200.

Weather and best time to visit the Florida Keys

Deciding when to visit depends largely on what you want from your Florida Keys holidays and, in large part, the June to November hurricane season.

December to February is the high season, with warm and pleasant weather. Minimal rainfall and average temperatures ranging from 20 to 25°C make this a fantastic time to escape the UK winter and enjoy plenty of sunshine, averaging 7–8 hours daily.

March to May sees the start of the shoulder season. Temperatures increase from 23 to 28°C, and you’ll find fewer tourists compared to the winter months. Rainfall remains low, about 40–60mm, and you can enjoy 8–9 hours of sunshine daily.

June to August is the low season, with hotter and more humid conditions. Expect temperatures to hover between 27 and 31°C, with higher chances of rain, around 90–120mm per month. It’s also hurricane season, so staying updated on weather forecasts is wise. Sunshine remains plentiful, with around 9–10 hours daily.

September to November brings another shoulder season. Temperatures cool slightly from 30 to 25°C, and rainfall decreases as hurricane season wanes. This period offers a more tranquil experience with still-warm waters and 7–8 hours of sunshine daily.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: English is the primary language in the Florida Keys, but Spanish is also prevalent.

• Local habits and customs: The Keys are known for their relaxed island vibe. Casual attire is widely accepted, and tipping is customary in restaurants (15–20 percent per meal and $1 a drink).

• Currency: The US Dollar (USD) is used. ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted almost everywhere.

• Getting around: Hiring a car is the most convenient way to explore the Keys. Public buses, known as the Key West Transit, operate along the islands, with single fares costing about $4. There are also bike rentals and taxi services.

• Electricity and plug types: The US uses 120V and Type A/B plugs. UK travellers will need an adaptor.

• Time zone: The Florida Keys are in the Eastern Time Zone, 5 hours behind GMT.

Best things to do in the Florida Keys

The Florida Keys offer a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history and vibrant culture.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Key West Lighthouse: Climb to the top of the Key West Lighthouse for stunning panoramic views of the island and the surrounding ocean.

• Sunset Pier: Located in Key West, this iconic location offers breathtaking sunset views over the Gulf of Mexico. Arrive early to secure a good spot.

• Bahia Honda State Park: Visit the old Bahia Honda Railway Bridge for spectacular views of the Atlantic and the Gulf of Mexico. The park itself is a paradise of pristine beaches and clear waters.

The best districts

• Duval Street, Key West: This bustling street is the heart of Key West, lined with shops, restaurants and bars.

• Old Town, Key West: Wander through the charming streets of the Old Town, home to historic buildings, museums and quaint shops.

Parks and gardens

• Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory: This magical spot is home to hundreds of butterflies, tropical birds and beautiful flora.

• Nancy Forrester's Secret Garden: A hidden gem in Key West, this lush garden is a sanctuary for rescued parrots and other exotic birds.

Historic monuments

• Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum: Visit the famous author's former home. The house, with its beautiful gardens and resident six-toed cats, offers a glimpse into the writer’s life and work.

• Harry S. Truman Little White House: This historic site was once President Harry S. Truman's winter White House. Tours provide fascinating insights into Truman’s presidency and the history of Key West.

• Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park: Explore this historic fort, which played a role in the American Civil War.

Activities for families in the Florida Keys

The Florida Keys offer a variety of family-friendly activities that cater to all ages.

• Aquariums and zoos: Visit Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters in Marathon for interactive exhibits and hands-on marine life encounters. The Dolphin Research Center in Grassy Key offers interactive programs where families can swim with dolphins and learn about marine conservation. Robbie’s Marina in Islamorada is famous for hand-feeding tarpon, a thrilling experience for kids.

• Interactive museums: The Key West Shipwreck Museum offers a fascinating look into the maritime history of the Keys, with interactive exhibits and artefacts. The Mel Fisher Maritime Museum is another great spot, showcasing shipwreck treasures.

• Parks and gardens: Families will love exploring the lush landscapes of the Key West Garden Club at West Martello Tower, which has beautiful gardens and historic ruins.

Free things to do in the Florida Keys

The Florida Keys offer plenty of free activities, making it a great destination for budget-conscious travellers.

• Free events: The Keys host numerous free events and open-air concerts throughout the year. Check out the Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square in Key West, where street performers and artisans gather.

• Free museums: The Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center in Key West offers free admission and educational exhibits about the local marine environment.

• Annual festivals: April sees the Conch Republic Independence Celebration, which features parades, bed races and other quirky Key West events.

Nature and outdoor activities

• National parks: The Florida Keys are home to several stunning parks. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo is a must-visit for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts, as it’s the first undersea park in the US. Dry Tortugas National Park, accessible by boat or seaplane from Key West, offers pristine beaches, excellent snorkelling and a fascinating 19th-century fort to explore.

• Water sports: The Keys are a haven for water sports enthusiasts. Popular activities include scuba diving, snorkelling, kayaking, paddleboarding and jet skiing. Islamorada is known for its world-class sport fishing, while Key Largo offers fantastic diving opportunities at the famous Molasses Reef.

• Hiking and nature trails: The Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail stretches 113km from Key Largo to Key West, offering scenic views and hiking, cycling and bird-watching opportunities. The Key Deer National Wildlife Refuge on Big Pine Key is another great spot for hiking and spotting the endangered Key deer.

• Eco-tours and wildlife watching: The Great White Heron National Wildlife Refuge offers boat tours that provide excellent bird-watching opportunities and a chance to see majestic white herons.

Beaches in the Florida Keys

The Florida Keys are renowned for their beautiful beaches, offering everything from pristine white sands to vibrant coral reefs. Here’s a guide to some of the best beaches you can enjoy during your holiday in the Florida Keys.

Smathers Beach

Key West’s largest beach Located in Key West, Smathers Beach is the largest public beach in the area. It features over half a mile of white sand and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Amenities include restrooms, picnic areas, and water sports rentals, making it a convenient spot for a day at the beach.

Highlights:

• Long stretch of white sand

• Water sports rentals available

• Convenient facilities

Bahia Honda State Park

Pristine natural beauty Located on Big Pine Key, Bahia Honda State Park is known for its stunning natural beauty and some of the best beaches in the Florida Keys. The park offers both sandy beaches and excellent snorkelling opportunities. The shallow waters and abundant marine life make it a great spot for families and nature lovers.

Highlights:

• Beautiful sandy beaches

• Excellent snorkelling

• Family-friendly environment

Sombrero Beach

Family-friendly fun Sombrero Beach in Marathon is a favourite among families for its calm waters and well-maintained facilities. The beach features a playground, picnic areas, and volleyball courts, providing plenty of activities for a fun-filled day. The clear, shallow waters are perfect for swimming and snorkelling.

Highlights:

• Playground and picnic areas

• Volleyball courts

• Calm, shallow waters

Anne’s Beach

Secluded and serene Anne’s Beach in Islamorada offers a more secluded beach experience. Named after local environmentalist Anne Eaton, this beach features shallow waters, a boardwalk, and picnic tables. It’s an ideal spot for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful day by the sea.

Highlights:

• Secluded and serene

• Boardwalk and picnic areas

• Shallow waters

Fort Zachary Taylor Beach

Historic and scenic Located within Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park in Key West, this beach is known for its clear waters and excellent snorkelling. The park offers a unique combination of history and natural beauty, with the historic fort providing a fascinating backdrop to the beach. Amenities include picnic areas, restrooms, and a café.

Highlights:

• Clear waters for snorkelling

• Historic fort nearby

• Picnic areas and facilities

Tips for visiting Florida Keys beaches

• Tide times: Check tide times before visiting, as they can affect the availability of certain activities, especially snorkelling.

• Sun protection: The Florida sun can be intense, so bring plenty of sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses.

• Water safety: Pay attention to local water safety guidelines, especially if swimming or snorkelling in areas with strong currents.

By exploring these diverse beaches, you can experience the best of what the Florida Keys have to offer, from lively family-friendly spots to tranquil natural retreats. Enjoy the sun, sand, and sea on your unforgettable holiday in the Florida Keys.

Local dishes in the Florida Keys

One of the great delights of holidays to Florida Keys is indulging in the diverse and flavourful cuisine that reflects the region’s rich cultural heritage and tropical surroundings.

Some typical dishes

• Conch fritters: A local favourite, these deep-fried balls of conch meat are seasoned with spices and served with a tangy dipping sauce.

• Key Lime pie: This iconic Keys dessert is made with tart Key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk and a graham cracker crust. Top it off with whipped cream.

• Cuban Sandwich: This tasty treat is made with roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles and mustard on Cuban bread, pressed and toasted.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Stone Crab Claws: In season from October to May, these sweet and succulent claws are served chilled with mustard sauce.

• Grilled fish tacos: Fresh local fish, often mahi-mahi or grouper, is grilled and served in soft tortillas with slaw, lime and a creamy sauce.

• Lobster: Florida spiny lobster is typically grilled and served in a rich butter sauce.

Street food

• Conch salad: Similar to ceviche, this dish features fresh conch marinated in lime juice with chopped vegetables.

• Fish dip: A smoky, creamy dip made from local fish, typically served with crackers or sliced vegetables at casual eateries and food trucks.

Sweets and desserts

For something a little more refreshing, try a slice of frozen Key lime pie on a stick dipped in chocolate. Another favourite is the rum cake, a moist, rich sponge soaked in local rum.

Local drinks

• Rum Runner: A classic Keys cocktail made with rum, banana liqueur, blackberry liqueur, orange juice and grenadine.

• Key Lime Martini: This tart and creamy cocktail is a twist on the classic martini. It's made with Key lime juice, vodka and a splash of cream.

• Craft beer: The Keys have a growing craft beer scene. Look out for local breweries like Florida Keys Brewing Co. in Islamorada, offering a range of beers inspired by the tropics.