The Ultimate Florida Keys Travel Guide

Key Largo

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park: Located in Key Largo, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone planning a Florida Keys vacation. As the first undersea park in the United States, it's one of a kind, offering an amazing glimpse into the underwater world whether you're into snorkeling, scuba diving or glass-bottom boat tours. Immerse yourself in the vibrant marine life and colorful coral reefs at this stunning natural wonder.

Scuba Diving: Beyond the state park, Key Largo is home to one of my favorite dive shops, Horizon Divers. Their skilled instructors know the area's reefs like the back of their hand, and will navigate you to the perfect locations to spot marine life. They offer everything from certification courses to guided dives, private dives, and equipment rentals so all you need to do is show up!

Islamorada

Robbie's of Islamorada: One of the top things to do in the Florida Keys, Robbie's is renowned for its picturesque marina, where visitors can hand-feed massive tarpon fish from the docks. Buy a bucket of bait fish, hold out your hand, and wait for one of these large marine animals to jump up and eat it from your hand. Robbie's is also home to a charming market with local arts, crafts, and souvenirs, making it a must-visit destination, even for those passing through on the long drive down to the Lower Keys!

Fishing: Known as the "Sportfishing Capital of the World," Islamorada offers world-class fishing experiences that attract anglers from around the globe. Situated in the heart of the Florida Keys, Islamorada boasts diverse fishing environments, including deep-sea, backcountry, and flats fishing, making Islamorada a paradise for both seasoned anglers and novice fishermen. The area's warm waters, lush mangrove islands, and vibrant coral reefs create a rich marine ecosystem that supports an incredible array of prized game fish, including tarpon, bonefish, permit, sailfish, mahi-mahi, and tuna. Whether you're a seasoned angler looking for a challenge or a novice eager to learn, Islamorada's experienced guides and fishing charters ensure an unforgettable adventure in this renowned destination.

Alligator Reef: Alligator Reef is a stunning underwater oasis known for its crystal-clear blue waters and vibrant marine life. Snorkelers flock to this reef for its high likelihood of spotting exciting marine animals, including nurse sharks, sea turtles, and large schools of colorful fish. The first time I visited, I was shocked that ocean water this blue existed in Florida, I thought it was limited to the Bahamas and other Caribbean islands! Don't sleep on this hidden gem!

Islamorada Sandbar: The Islamorada Sandbar is a beloved local hotspot in the Florida Keys perfect for anchoring boats and wading in the warm, shallow waters. Popular for its lively atmosphere, the sandbar is a popular gathering spot for boaters, families, and friends looking to soak up the sun, have a drink, and socialize in the picturesque surroundings of the Florida Keys. There's even a boat, or should we call it a floating concession stand, selling food like hot dogs and empanadas if you get hungry! The Sandbar is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the laid-back charm of the Keys.

Marathon

Paddle Boarding: No matter where you are in the keys, paddle boarding should always be on your list. I recommend venturing out around sunrise for the views and calmer waters before the speedboats start making their way out. The bay side typically offers shallower, clearer waters perfect for spotting manatees, turtles, fish, and even stingrays.

Turtle Hospital: The Turtle Hospital is an educational facility and working animal hospital dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of injured sea turtles. Located in Marathon, visitors can take guided tours to learn about their work, meet some of its turtle patients, and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges facing sea turtles in the wild. Plus, at the end of each program, guests are invited to feed the permanent turtle residents!

Key West

Dry Tortugas National Park: Dry Tortugas National Park is a remote and pristine oasis located just 70 miles off of Key West. Unlike other national parks that are easily accessible by car, Dry Tortugas is only accessible by boat or seaplane, adding to its sense of adventure and exclusivity. Once you arrive, the park offers visitors the chance to explore both above and underwater with its historic 19th-century grounds and vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish, perfect for diving or snorkeling. For those on a Key West getaway, this is the perfect day trip!

Duval Street: Key West is known for its vibrant nightlife and lively party scene, with no shortage of bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from. Duval Street is the epicenter of the party scene, offering a mix of iconic bars and clubs where you can dance the night away. Sloppy Joe's, a Key West institution, and Green Parrot Bar are must-visits for their upbeat atmosphere and live music. For a more laid-back vibe, head to the Sunset Pier at Ocean Key Resort, where you can enjoy drinks and stunning sunset views. Whatever your style, Key West has plenty of options for a memorable night out on the town.

Key Largo

Key Largo Fisheries: Key Largo Fisheries is my first stop every time I go to the Keys. With a walk-up to order counter and plenty of seating, it's a quick and easy lunch option with the best fish dip in the keys. Yes, you read that right! Don't leave without a visit to their seafood market where you can scoop fresh stone crabs (when in season), fresh fish, and more of that fish dip to go...

Pilot House: Located right across the marina from Key Largo Fisheries, Pilot House is a great choice for dinner in Key Largo. Skip the fish tacos and instead opt for their Crunchy Grouper Sandwich and the Pilot House Harvey Fish Sandwich, a grilled cheese sandwich stuffed with fresh black grouper that had Guy Fieri hooked when he visited on Diners, Drive Ins and Dives.

Dry Rocks: When I want a relaxing but elevated meal in Key Largo, I head to Dry Rocks at Baker's Cay Resort. The oceanfront bar, nestled between the mangroves and the sand, offers handcrafted cocktails and delicious bites perfect while soaking up the sun or enjoying a breathtaking sunset. Its laid-back atmosphere and breathtaking surroundings keep me coming back time and time again.

Lazy Lobster: Two of my favorite dinner items in Key Largo are from Lazy Lobster. First, you must order the lobster jalapeño bites appetizer with key lime butter. It's a special but they have it a lot. And second, you must get the yellowtail jalapeño breadcrumb entrée over rice. If you're spice averse don't worry, these are not spicy items at all! The jalapeño just adds a little flavor. You'll thank me later.

Harriette's: Harriette's is a Key Largo breakfast spot beloved by locals. The space is small, so you may have to wait 20 minutes for a table, but it's worth it. From their massive omelets and biscuits to their homemade muffins (which come in over 20 varieties), I can promise you won't leave hungry!

Blonde Giraffe Key Lime Pie Co.: What's a trip to the Keys without Key Lime Pie? Situated in Tavernier, just south of Key Largo, Blonde Giraffe has everything you need to satisfy your key lime cravings from pie to cookies, limeade drinks and more. Enjoy your snacks on their cute patio, equipped with Wi-Fi and lots of shade, which you'll need if you visit in the summer.

Islamorada

Café Moka: For those a bit further south in Tavernier or Islamorada, Café Moka is a charming café perfect for breakfast or lunch. Known for its cozy atmosphere and friendly service, they have a full coffee menu for those who crave their morning lattes like I do, as well as pastries, quiches, sandwiches and more.

Marker 88: Marker 88 is the best lunch spot in Islamorada. The restaurant just underwent a major renovation and now has even more tables to accommodate the crowds that flock to this waterfront property. Sit on their new deck or at a table in the sand, while overlooking the bay, and enjoy everything from sushi to fish sandwiches and frozen daiquiris. If you happen to go for dinner, order the Snapper Curry and ask for a side of roti. Trust me on this one.

Square Grouper: Square Grouper is a legendary waterfront restaurant in Islamorada. Named after the packages of "mary jane" that used to wash ashore in the area, it's a very popular spot that often runs a long waitlist. I recommend going early, putting your name in, and heading upstairs to their bar for cocktails and good vibes. On many nights, they offer a special fish preparation with beurre blanc and citrus (typically orange or lemon) - if they have it when you visit, order it!

Chef Michael's: Chef Michael's is a culinary gem in Islamorada that showcases the best of local ingredients and flavors. I would say it's one of the few fine dining establishments in the Keys, and even then, the laid-back island vibes are still front and center. What I love about his menu is he offers a selection of 4-7 local fresh catches that you can have prepared one of six different ways - giving you many more combinations than you see at a typical restaurant.

Morada Bay: This waterfront restaurant is known for its laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere with breathtaking views of the sunset. Morada Bay is the perfect spot to unwind and soak up the beauty of the Keys, as the al fresco dining is set in the sand and the kiddos can run around playing. If you want to catch the sunset, come a little early to snag a table as it's a popular spot. And, for those who watched Bloodline on Netflix, the Moorings Village where most of the series was filmed is just across the street!