VISIT FLORIDA > Florida Keys

Though connected to mainland Florida by one of the prettiest roads in the world—the 195-kilometre Overseas Highway, with 42 bridges—The Florida Keys seem more like their own country than part of the contiguous U.S. The vibe with its five districts (Key West, Big Pine & the Lower Keys, Marathon, Islamorada, and Key Largo) is so laid-back and welcoming that you’d be forgiven for thinking you’d arrived on a Caribbean island. Of course, the lush vegetation and stunning beaches that characterize The Keys only add to that illusion.

Here’s what makes this destination such a perfect place to chill out, with incredible food and some unique natural experiences.

Seafood Feasts and Signature Pie

Whether your ideal meal is fish tacos or coconut shrimp with a perfect piña colada, you’ll find it in Marathon. Try TJ’s Tiki Bar for an oceanview bar experience or upscale dining at the exquisite Butterfly Café at Tranquility Bay Beachfront Resort. Conch fritters are a must-try, and indulging in as much key lime pie as possible is highly recommended.

Ocean Adventures

The Florida Keys boast the continental U.S.’s only living coral reef, extending well beyond the islands and providing world-class diving. A multitude of dive shops in Key Largo offer excursions taking snorkellers out to view rays, sharks, eels, and, if you’re lucky, a sea turtle, on the shallower reefs, while deep-water divers can explore coral-encrusted shipwrecks and beautiful marine life beneath the waves.

You needn’t swim to enjoy the ocean. Operators across most of The Keys offer everything from sunset cocktail cruises with live music to sailing excursions. Islamorada is known as the Sport Fishing Capital of the World, with opportunities to reel in swordfish, tarpon and sharks. Prefer to get the adrenalin pumping? Plenty of outfitters offer jet-ski tours or parasailing too.

Cultural Diversions

The Keys aren’t just for relaxation; they’re steeped in culture. In Key West, you can visit the Hemingway Home and Museum, Audubon House & Tropical Gardens, and the Tennessee Williams Museum. You might even follow in poet Elizabeth Bishop’s footsteps, touring heritage homes dotting the island. You could also enjoy libations at Hemingway’s favourite bar, Sloppy Joes.

Parklands and Tiny Deer

The Florida Keys are home to 11 state parks and three national parks, each offering outdoor experiences like camping, hiking, stargazing and birdwatching. The endangered Key Deer, a tiny species found on Big Pine Key and surrounding islands, can sometimes be spotted on nature walks. For a truly unforgettable trip, venture to Dry Tortugas National Park, accessible only by boat or seaplane. This remote park features a historic fort, abundant birdlife and crystal-clear waters for swimming and diving.