Google Map Florida Keys

Introduction

Located at the southernmost point of Florida, the Florida Keys is a chain of tiny islands stretching over 120 miles. It is known for its crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and laid-back lifestyle. Whether you are a nature lover, outdoor enthusiast, history buff, or foodie, Florida Keys has something for everyone. With Google Map as your ultimate guide, you can explore the hidden gems and top attractions of this tropical paradise. In this travel guide, we will take you on a journey to discover the best of Florida Keys.

Top Attractions

Duval Street

Duval Street is the heart of the tourist district in Key West. It is a vibrant street lined with art galleries, shops, restaurants, and bars. You can spend hours exploring the unique architecture and colorful buildings. The nightlife here is legendary, and you can find everything from live music to drag shows.

Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum

Ernest Hemingway, the famous American writer, lived in Key West for over a decade. His home is now a museum that showcases his life and work. You can take a guided tour of the house and see many of his personal belongings, including his typewriter and fishing gear. The highlight of the tour is the six-toed cats that roam the property.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

Located in Key Largo, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is the first underwater park in the United States. It is home to a diverse range of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and even sharks. You can take a snorkeling or scuba diving tour to explore the coral reefs or go on a glass-bottom boat tour to see the underwater world without getting wet.

Hidden Gems

Indian Key

Indian Key is a tiny island located between Islamorada and Marathon. It can only be reached by boat, but it is worth the effort. The island was once a thriving community, but it was destroyed by a Native American attack in the 1800s. Today, the island is a ghost town, and you can explore the ruins of the old buildings and learn about its history.

Crane Point Museum and Nature Center

Crane Point Museum and Nature Center is a 63-acre nature preserve located in Marathon. It is home to a variety of native plants and animals, including mangroves, butterflies, and birds. The museum showcases the history of the area, including the lives of the indigenous people and the early settlers.

Seven Mile Bridge

The Seven Mile Bridge is a famous landmark in the Florida Keys. It was built in the 1900s, and it connects Marathon to the Lower Keys. The bridge offers stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding islands. You can walk, bike, or drive across the bridge, but be prepared for the wind and the sun.

Food Scene

Key Lime Pie

Key Lime Pie is the signature dessert of the Florida Keys. It is made with Key lime juice, condensed milk, and graham cracker crust. You can find it in almost every restaurant, but some of the best places to try it are Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe and Blue Heaven in Key West.

Conch Fritters

Conch Fritters are a popular appetizer in the Florida Keys. They are made with ground conch, flour, and spices and deep-fried until crispy. You can find them in most seafood restaurants, but some of the best places to try them are at the Conch Republic Seafood Company in Key West and the Fish House in Islamorada.

Grouper Sandwich

Grouper Sandwich is a must-try dish in the Florida Keys. It is made with fresh grouper fillet, seasoned with spices, and served on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and tartar sauce. You can find it in most beachside restaurants, but some of the best places to try it are at the Hogfish Bar and Grill in Stock Island and the Lorelei Cabana Bar and Restaurant in Islamorada.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Stay in a Vacation Rental

One of the best ways to save money in the Florida Keys is to stay in a vacation rental instead of a hotel. You can find affordable rentals on websites like Airbnb and VRBO. Most rentals come with a kitchen, so you can cook your meals and save money on dining out.

Visit State Parks

Florida Keys has several state parks that offer affordable outdoor activities. You can hike, swim, snorkel, or kayak in these parks for a small entrance fee. Some of the best parks to visit are Bahia Honda State Park, Curry Hammock State Park, and Long Key State Park.

Take a Free Walking Tour

The Florida Keys has a rich history, and you can learn about it by taking a free walking tour. Key West offers several free tours, including the Historic Seaport Walking Tour and the Cemetery Stroll. You can also explore the art galleries and museums for free during the monthly ArtWalk in Islamorada.

Outdoor Adventures

Dolphin Watching

Dolphin watching is a popular activity in the Florida Keys. You can take a boat tour to see these intelligent creatures in their natural habitat. Some tours even offer the opportunity to swim with the dolphins.

Kayaking

Kayaking is a great way to explore the mangrove forests and shallow waters of the Florida Keys. You can rent a kayak or join a guided tour to see the unique ecosystem up close.

Fishing

Fishing is a way of life in the Florida Keys. You can catch a variety of fish, including tarpon, snapper, and grouper. You can book a fishing charter or go on a party boat to experience the thrill of catching your dinner.

Family-Friendly Activities

Butterfly and Nature Conservatory

The Butterfly and Nature Conservatory in Key West is a great place to take your kids. You can see hundreds of butterflies fluttering around in a tropical paradise. The conservatory also features exotic birds, turtles, and plants.

Turtle Hospital

The Turtle Hospital in Marathon is a nonprofit organization that rescues and rehabilitates injured sea turtles. You can take a guided tour of the facility and learn about the different species of turtles and their conservation efforts.

Key West Aquarium

The Key West Aquarium is the oldest attraction in Key West. It features a variety of marine life, including sharks, turtles, and stingrays. You can even touch some of the animals in the touch tank.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Robbie’s Marina

Robbie’s Marina in Islamorada is a unique experience. You can hand-feed the tarpon that come to the dock, or you can rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the mangroves. You can also take a snorkeling or diving tour to see the marine life.

Fort Zachary Taylor State Park

Fort Zachary Taylor State Park is a hidden gem in Key West. It is a secluded beach that offers stunning views of the ocean. You can also explore the historic fort and learn about its role in the Civil War.

Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park

Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park is a unique park that showcases the ancient coral reefs that formed the Florida Keys. You can see the fossilized coral and learn about the geology of the area.

Natural Wonders

Dry Tortugas National Park

Dry Tortugas National Park is a remote park located 70 miles west of Key West. It is only accessible by boat or seaplane. The park is home to a 19th-century fort, beautiful beaches, and a diverse range of marine life. You can snorkel or dive in the crystal-clear waters to see the coral reefs and sea turtles.

Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary

The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary is a protected area that spans over 2,900 square nautical miles. It is home to a variety of marine life, including coral reefs, sea turtles, and dolphins. You can take a snorkeling or diving tour to explore the underwater world.

Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park is located on the mainland of Florida, but it is worth the trip from the Florida Keys. It is a unique ecosystem that is home to alligators, panthers, and manatees. You can take an airboat tour to see the wildlife up close.

Vibrant Nightlife

Sloppy Joe’s Bar

Sloppy Joe’s Bar is a historic bar in Key West that has been serving drinks since the 1930