Exploring the Florida Keys

Exploring the Florida Keys: A Journey Through Paradise

The Florida Keys, a string of tropical islands stretching over 100 miles off the southern coast of Florida, are a dream destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those simply looking to relax. We discovered that staying in Marathon, situated about halfway between Key Largo and Key West, offered the perfect quiet base for exploring the best the Keys have to offer while being removed from the hustle and bustle of the tourist areas. From lush state parks to unique wildlife and vibrant Key West attractions, the Keys truly have something for everyone.

Marathon: The Heart of the Keys

Marathon’s central location made it an ideal spot for our getaway. It’s roughly a 1-hour drive to Key Largo to the north and 1 hour to Key West to the south. In Marathon, we enjoyed the laid-back vibe, convenience to area beaches and the famous Keys Fisheries Restaurant, where we indulged in fresh seafood. And one must not forget a visit to Sweet Savannah’s of the Florida Keys for your evening dessert!

Just a 15-minute drive south of Marathon is Bahia Honda State Park, one of the most beautiful spots in the Keys. With its pristine (and often quiet) beaches, and excellent snorkeling opportunities, it’s no wonder this park is a favorite among visitors. We spent hours swimming, picnicking, and marveling at the old railroad bridge that offers incredible photo opportunities. Due to some earlier storms, the snorkeling here was a tad cloudy on the day we visited but the relaxed vibe and opportunity to spot some fun fish (even a small nurse shark) more than made up for that. I’m hoping to head back at some point for a chance to snorkel when the waters are clear!

Exploring Pine Key and Meeting the Key Deer

On our way north from Marathon, we stopped at Pine Key, home to the endangered Key deer. These petite, white-tailed deer are unique to the Florida Keys and are often spotted grazing near the roadsides or wandering through the National Key Deer Refuge. A visit to the refuge’s visitor center offers insight into conservation efforts for these gentle creatures. Keep your eyes peeled while driving—as they tend to blend into their surroundings. Key deer are often quite unaffected by your presence so please be mindful and do not attempt to feed or touch them. It is actually illegal to feed Key deer, as it makes them more prone to diseases and reliant on humans for food.

Discovering Key West: The Southernmost Adventure

A little over an hour’s drive from Marathon brought us to Key West, the vibrant and historic southernmost point of the continental United States. Key West’s charm lies in its mix of history, let-loose vibe, and natural beauty.

No trip to Key West is complete without a visit to the iconic Sloppy Joe’s Bar, a favorite haunt of Ernest Hemingway. We enjoyed live music, great drinks, and the lively atmosphere that epitomizes Key West’s spirit.

For a more laid-back dining experience, we recommend Two Friends Patio Restaurant. Famous for their Key lime pie and delicious seafood, this spot is perfect for brunch or dinner after a day of exploring.

One of the highlights of our trip was the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory. Walking through the lush, tropical gardens filled with hundreds of colorful butterflies felt like stepping into a fairytale. This is a must-see for visitors of all ages.

Key West is also famous for its sunsets, and the Mallory Square Sunset Celebration is the best way to experience them. Every evening, street performers, food vendors, and live music create a festive atmosphere as the sun sets over the Gulf of Mexico.

History and literature buffs will love the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, where you can tour Hemingway’s former residence and meet the famous six-toed cats that roam the property. For a mix of history and natural beauty, Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park offers a quieter beach experience and guided tours of the Civil War-era fort.

Snorkeling and More Adventures

If snorkeling is on your agenda, the reef at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo is a must-visit, about an hour north of Marathon. As the first undersea park in the United States, it offers vibrant coral reefs, abundant marine life, and even a submerged statue of Christ. Other excellent snorkeling spots include Looe Key Reef, just 30 minutes south of Marathon, and Dry Tortugas National Park, which is accessible by ferry or seaplane from Key West. Sadly, time did not permit for us to visit these locations on our last adventure, but they all come highly recommended.

Beyond snorkeling, the Keys offer plenty of other unique experiences:

• Islamorada: Known as the “Sportfishing Capital of the World,” Islamorada is perfect for a fishing charter or a visit to Robbie’s Marina to feed the tarpon.

• Key Largo: Home to the Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center and the African Queen Canal Cruise, Key Largo is a haven for eco-tourists.

• The Seven Mile Bridge: Driving across this iconic bridge is an unforgettable experience, with breathtaking views of turquoise waters.

Drive Times Along the Keys

The drive along the Overseas Highway, with its stunning ocean views and iconic bridges, is an experience in itself. Here’s a quick guide to travel times between major landmarks:

• Key Largo to Marathon: ~1 hour

• Marathon to Bahia Honda State Park: ~15 minutes

• Marathon to Key West: ~1 hour

• Key West to Dry Tortugas Ferry Terminal: ~2 hours by ferry

A weekend, or even week, in the Florida Keys is a great way to rejuvenate the soul. There's adventure, relaxation, and wildlife all bundled into one amazing getaway. If you're looking for a vacation that has something for everyone, the Florida Keys may just be the perfect fit!