Florida Keys and Key West Florida

Pathway to a serene beach in Key West

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Enjoying the vibrant atmostphere of Sunset Pier in Key West

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Strolling and shopping in downtown Key West

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Kiteboarding across the crystal-clear water of Islamorada

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Sea turtle resting on the Coast Guard cutter Duane in Key Largo

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Protected Key deer in the National Key Deer Refuge on Big Pine Key

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Seven Mile Bridge connecting Knight's Key in the Middle Keys to Little Duck Key in the Lower Keys

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Aerial view of the tropical Keys surrounded by bright blue water

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Major Airports:

Key West (EYW)

Miami (MIA)
States:

Florida

Key West: Fishing, diving and beaches on idyllic islands

A drive through the Florida Keys and Key West is one of the best scenic road trips in the USA. Only one road connects the 161-kilometer-long island chain: It began as Flagler’s Railroad, became the legendary Overseas Highway and now has been designated an All-American Road under the National Scenic Byways program. The drive has magnificent scenery, significant historic value and an abundance of recreational opportunities, making it a vacation unto itself.

Things to Do in Key West

This journey transports you through hundreds of little islands nestled between the Gulf of America and the Atlantic Ocean.

The Overseas Highway begins in Key Largo, home of Everglades National Park and John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, which is popular among eco-adventurists because of its many activities, including kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding and snorkeling. Go back in time to historic Tavernier or enjoy a family outing at Harry Harris Park.

Continue south to experience Islamorada, known as the Sport Fishing Capital of the World. This village of islands prides itself on fresh seafood, fine dining and plenty of marinas. An artisan village is chock full of colorful arts, crafts and other island treasures.

Just beyond, you’ll reach Marathon, a retreat for families and boating with its plentiful activities, accommodations and marinas. You’ll feel like you’re driving on water as you cruise over the world-famous Seven Mile Bridge. You can also take part in a dolphin encounter where the original 1963 "Flipper" movie was shot.

The pace slows down as you enter Big Pine Key and the Lower Keys. You can see endangered Key deer as they feed and frolic in the National Key Deer Refuge, which is home to several hundred of the miniature deer. If you want to find out what a gorgeous beach is really about, visit Bahia Honda State Park, one of the nation’s top beaches. Stay for the beautiful camping, marinas and picnic grounds.

After leaving the Lower Keys, you’ll reach Key West, the end of the road and the southernmost point in the continental USA. John Audubon and Ernest Hemingway once lived here. One had a passion for conservation, and the other, a great zest for living. That combination exemplifies Key West’s unique personality. You no longer need a car. You can tour the city by foot, bicycle, trolley or electric car and enjoy the village, theaters, museums, galleries, sidewalk cafes and legendary pubs.