The Florida Keys is filled with endless adventures suitable for everyone. When embarking on the famous Seven Mile Bridge, here are the top things to do along the way!
Visit John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
Off Key Largo is the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Inaugurated in 1963, this state park is the first undersea park in America. Attracting kayakers and scuba divers alike, this excitingly serene park extends nearly 3 miles into the Atlantic Ocean and is approximately 25 miles in length and has seagrass swamps, coral reefs, and mangroves within its confines. Water enthusiasts can admire colourful coral reef and the popular Christ of the Deep underwater statue on snorkelling and scuba diving tours, whilst those who would rather stay dry can take a ride on the glass-bottom boat. Additionally, there is a swimming spot and picnic areas where you can relax after your underwater adventure. Keep an eye out for the underwater life and the gorgeous birds that call Florida Keys park home!
See the stunning sunset in Key West
Few places in the world offer better sunset gazing that the Florida Keys, with its remarkable views over the vast expanse of ocean. Stretching from Key Largo down to the southern tip of the Keys, panoramic sunsets are one thing you cannot miss whilst visiting.
Explore the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
Located in Key West, this former home of author Ernest Hemingway is an important piece of Florida’s cultural history. Built in the 1800s, the grand Spanish Colonial exterior of the house shelters his eclectic collection of furniture, art, and accessories while the grounds act as a haven for wildlife, plants, and home to sixty polydactyl (six-toed) cats.
See the Dry Tortugas National Park
The Dry Tortugas National Park is a series of islands 70 miles west from Key West, bursting with great beauty and an even greater history. The park preserves Fort Jefferson and the seven Dry Tortugas islands, boasting an abundant sea life, tropical bird breeding grounds, colourful coral reefs and legends of shipwrecks and sunken treasures there is plenty to explore on a day trip to the National Park. There is no road to Dry Tortugas. You can take a seaplane or a boat weather permitting. The ferry from Key West will set you back around $175 but is well worth it for the 2 ½ hour trip through jade green waters in which you might spot a passing shark, sting ray or sea turtle. Despite the ‘dry’ part of its name, the park is 99% underwater so make sure to pack your swimsuit. Dry Tortugas National Park is open year-round, but late spring (best time to witness bird migrations) and early summer are the best times to explore the area.
Explore Duval Street
Perhaps one of the most popular destinations on the island of Key West, Duval Street is the main drag of downtown, running north to south from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean, Duval Street is the epicentre of Key West’s famous party atmosphere. You could spend an entire afternoon or evening wandering up and down and you’ll quickly understand its popularity. Whether you want to grab a quick bite to eat, find a souvenir to bring home or kickback with a cocktail at sunset, it is all here. This mile-long stretch of pavement is lined with famous retail shops, restaurants and night time hotspots like Sloppy Joe’s Bar, opened in 1933 and is now recognised as a National Historic Landmark.
Inspired to visit the Florida Keys? Browse through our inspirational itineraries or contact our expert team on 0161 888 5632 to start planning your dream holiday to the Florida Keys.
