Florida Keys vacation packages

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 traveler. Here’s a guide to some of the best destinations in the Florida Keys, with clickable links 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 vacations 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 snorkeling 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 vacation packages to Key Largo.

Highlights:

• World-class diving and snorkeling

• 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 vacations 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 cozy inns. Islamorada vacations 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 vacation. 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 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 vacation 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 usually involve flying into Miami or Fort Lauderdale from London and other major UK airports. Flights to Miami take about 9 hours, while flights to Fort Lauderdale are around 9.5 hours.

• Transfer time: By rental car or shuttle service, it’s approximately 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: Renting 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 cost around $200.

Weather and best time to visit the Florida Keys

Deciding when to visit largely depends on what you want from your Florida Keys vacation, and significantly, the June to November hurricane season.

• December to February is the high season, featuring warm and pleasant weather. Minimal rainfall and average temperatures ranging from 68 to 77°F make this a fantastic time to escape the UK winter and enjoy plenty of sunshine, averaging 7–8 hours daily.

• March to May marks the beginning of the shoulder season. Temperatures increase from 73 to 82°F, and you’ll encounter 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 range between 81 and 88°F, with higher chances of rain, around 90–120mm per month. It’s also hurricane season, so staying updated on weather forecasts is advised. Sunshine remains plentiful, with around 9–10 hours daily.

• September to November brings another shoulder season. Temperatures cool slightly from 86 to 77°F, 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 common.

• 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).

• Health and safety: The Florida Keys are generally safe, but it’s wise to stay aware of your surroundings. Make sure your travel insurance covers medical emergencies, just in case.

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

• Getting around: Renting 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 travelers will need an adapter.

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

• Required travel documentation: UK travelers need a valid passport and an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) to enter the US. Apply for your ESTA at least 72 hours before departure.

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 spot 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 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 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 artifacts. 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 travelers.

• 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 snorkeling and diving enthusiasts, as it’s the first undersea park in the U.S. Dry Tortugas National Park, accessible by boat or seaplane from Key West, offers pristine beaches, excellent snorkeling and a fascinating 19th-century fort to explore.

• Water sports: The Keys are a haven for water sports enthusiasts. Popular activities include scuba diving, snorkeling, 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 70 miles 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 vacation in the Florida Keys.

Smathers beach

Key West’s largest beach

Highlights:

• Long stretch of white sand

• Water sports rentals available

• Convenient facilities

Bahia honda state park

Pristine natural beauty

Highlights:

• Beautiful sandy beaches

• Excellent snorkeling

• Family-friendly environment

Sombrero beach

Family-friendly fun

Highlights:

• Playground and picnic areas

• Volleyball courts

• Calm, shallow waters

Anne’s beach

Secluded and serene

Highlights:

• Secluded and serene

• Boardwalk and picnic areas

• Shallow waters

Fort Zachary Taylor beach

Historic and scenic

Highlights:

• Clear waters for snorkeling

• 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 snorkeling.

• 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 snorkeling 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 vacation in the Florida Keys.

Local dishes in the Florida Keys

One of the great delights of vacations in the Florida Keys is indulging in the diverse and flavorful cuisine that reflects the region's rich cultural heritage and tropical surroundings.

Some typical dishes

• Conch fritters: A local favorite, 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 favorite 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.