Top 10 Things to Do in the Florida Keys
Hi, my name is Emily and I recently visited the Florida Keys. I had an amazing time exploring this beautiful region and I’m excited to share my top 10 things to do with you. From snorkeling to trying local cuisine, there’s something for everyone in the Florida Keys.
Interesting Facts and Curiosities
- The Florida Keys are a chain of islands located at the southernmost point of the United States.
- There are 42 bridges that connect the islands of the Florida Keys.
- The islands are home to the only living coral barrier reef in the continental United States.
- Ernest Hemingway lived and wrote in Key West for more than 10 years.
- The Florida Keys are home to the world-famous Key Lime Pie.
Top 10 Things to Do
- Snorkeling or Scuba Diving in the Coral Reef
- Visiting the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
- Enjoying a Sunset Celebration in Key West
- Taking a Glass-Bottom Boat Tour
- Trying Key Lime Pie
- Exploring Dry Tortugas National Park
- Taking a Sunset Sail
- Visiting the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory
- Trying Conch Fritters
- Visiting the Harry S. Truman Little White House
I went snorkeling in the coral reef and it was an unforgettable experience. The water was crystal clear and I saw an incredible variety of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even a few sharks. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try scuba diving to get an even closer look.
I’m a big fan of Hemingway’s writing, so visiting his home and museum was a must. The house is beautifully preserved and filled with Hemingway’s personal belongings, including his writing desk and typewriter. The museum also has a colony of six-toed cats, descendants of Hemingway’s own pets.
Every evening, crowds gather at Mallory Square in Key West to watch the sunset and enjoy street performers, food vendors, and live music. It’s a great way to soak up the local culture and enjoy a beautiful sunset over the water.
If you want to see the coral reef without getting wet, a glass-bottom boat tour is a great option. You can see the marine life through the boat’s glass bottom and learn about the ecosystem from knowledgeable guides.
No visit to the Florida Keys is complete without trying the world-famous Key Lime Pie. I tried several versions during my trip and my favorite was from Blue Heaven in Key West. It was sweet, tangy, and had the perfect graham cracker crust.
Dry Tortugas National Park is a remote island chain located about 70 miles west of Key West. It’s only accessible by seaplane or boat, but the journey is worth it. The park is home to a historic fort, pristine beaches, and incredible marine life.
Watching the sunset from a sailboat is a romantic and relaxing way to end a day in the Florida Keys. There are many companies that offer sunset sails, and some even include food and drinks.
The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is a peaceful oasis filled with exotic plants and hundreds of butterflies. It’s a great place to escape the heat and enjoy the natural beauty of the Keys.
Conch fritters are a local specialty made with chopped conch, a type of shellfish. They’re usually served with a spicy dipping sauce and are a delicious snack or appetizer.
The Little White House in Key West was once the winter home of President Harry S. Truman. It’s now a museum that offers guided tours and showcases the history of the house and its famous residents.
FAQs
How do I get to the Florida Keys?
The Florida Keys are accessible by car via the Overseas Highway, which runs from Key Largo to Key West. You can also fly into the Key West International Airport or Miami International Airport and rent a car.
What is the best time of year to visit the Florida Keys?
The best time to visit the Florida Keys is from November to April, when the weather is mild and there’s less rainfall. However, this is also peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and more crowds.
What should I pack for a trip to the Florida Keys?
Be sure to pack sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and comfortable shoes for walking. If you plan on snorkeling or scuba diving, bring your own gear or rent it from a local shop.
What is the currency used in the Florida Keys?
The currency used in the Florida Keys is the US dollar.
What is the legal drinking age in the Florida Keys?
The legal drinking age in the Florida Keys is 21.
What is the time zone in the Florida Keys?
The Florida Keys are in the Eastern Time Zone.