Nestled between the Upper and Lower Keys, the Middle Keys are a treasure trove of wonder, offering a distinct blend of natural beauty, vibrant marine life, and unparalleled recreational opportunities. Stretching from Long Key to Marathon, this region is a haven for family vacationers and adventure seekers. With its exclusive locations and accessible attractions, the Middle Keys are the perfect destination for creating unforgettable memories.

Family-Friendly Activities

Turtle Hospital rehabilitation center in Marathon, FL

The Middle Keys are a paradise for families, offering a variety of activities that cater to all ages. Here are some of the top attractions:

Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters: Located in Marathon, this aquarium provides interactive experiences where children can feed stingrays and swim with sharks.
Dolphin Research Center: This non-profit education and research facility offers dolphin encounters and educational programs, making it a hit among kids and adults.
Turtle Hospital: Another Marathon gem, this hospital rescues and rehabilitates injured sea turtles. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about these magnificent creatures and the conservation efforts in place.
Sombrero Beach: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Sombrero Beach offers picnic areas, volleyball courts, and a playground, making it ideal for a fun-filled day by the sea.

Adventure Seekers’ Paradise

The Middle Keys deliver in abundance for those craving a bit more excitement. Here are some must-try adventures:

Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Explore the serene waters and mangrove tunnels of the Middle Keys by kayak or paddleboard. These activities offer a unique way to experience the area’s natural beauty up close.
Fishing: Renowned for its world-class fishing, the Middle Keys provide ample inshore and offshore angling opportunities. Charter a boat and try catching tarpon, bonefish, and other prized species.
Diving and Snorkeling: Discover vibrant coral reefs and marine life at renowned spots such as Sombrero Reef and Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary.
Day Trips to Local Sandbars: Pack a picnic and set sail to one of the many sandbars scattered throughout the Middle Keys. These secluded spots offer pristine sands and crystal-clear waters, perfect for relaxation and exploration.

Hidden Gems

While the well-known attractions are certainly worth your time, the Middle Keys also boast several hidden gems that promise a unique experience:

Curry Hammock State Park: A bit off the beaten path, this park offers hiking trails, kayaking, and a quiet beach area, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers.
Pigeon Key: Accessible only by boat or ferry, this historic island offers guided tours that delve into its fascinating history and significance in the Florida Keys.
Seven Mile Bridge: While not precisely hidden, the views from this iconic bridge are often overlooked. Stop at the scenic pull-offs for breathtaking vistas and photo opportunities.

Where to Stay: KeysCaribbean Resort Home and Private Rental Collections

When it comes to accommodations, KeysCaribbean offers a range of luxurious options designed to cater to both families and adventure enthusiasts:

Village at Hawks Cay Villas: Situated in Duck Key, these villas are perfect for vacationers seeking a blend of luxury and adventure. Enjoy water sports, spa treatments, and proximity to attractions like Sombrero Beach. While the villas are not affiliated with Hawks Cay Resort, they offer a range of amenities, including dolphin encounters, tennis, fishing charters, watersports, and more on the island.
Coral Lagoon Resort: This resort offers luxury vacation rentals with private porches, gourmet kitchens, and access to a communal swimming pool and full-service marina.
Indigo Reef Resort: Located in Marathon, this resort features luxury waterfront vacation homes with private docks on the Gulf of Mexico. Enjoy state-of-the-art amenities, including a communal swimming pool, fitness center, and pet-friendly accommodations. Special offers like the Free Nights Offer make this an attractive choice among our properties in Marathon. Book 7 nights to get the 6th and 7th nights free!
Private Home Collection: Discover private vacation homes in Marathon ranging from quaint cottages to grand estates. Our rental properties feature inclusive amenities, such as private swimming pools, boat dockage, hot tubs, and more.

Dining Guide

Enjoy locally caught seafood that is guaranteed to be fresh, such as stone crab claws in-season

No trip to the Middle Keys is complete without indulging in the local cuisine. Here are some top dining recommendations:

Island Fish Company: A family favorite, this restaurant offers waterfront dining with fresh seafood, tropical drinks, and a kids’ menu.
Barracuda Grill: Known for its eclectic menu and cozy atmosphere, this grill is perfect for a casual yet refined dining experience.
Lazy Days South: Enjoy a relaxed dining experience with stunning ocean views and a menu that includes everything from seafood to pasta and steaks.

For more recommendations, visit the Dining/Nightlife section of the Activities Guide.

Planning Your Visit

To ensure a memorable and stress-free vacation, consider securing your accommodations and activities ahead of time to take advantage of special offers and avoid last-minute hassles. Bring sunscreen, hats, and comfortable walking shoes. If you plan on exploring the waters, don’t forget your snorkeling gear and fishing rods. And while spontaneity can be fun, having a rough itinerary will help you maximize your time in the Middle Keys.

Your Island Adventure Starts Here!

The Middle Keys offer a perfect blend of family-friendly activities and thrilling adventures, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and excitement. With luxurious accommodations from KeysCaribbean and many attractions to explore, your vacation will surely be unforgettable.

Ready to embark on this journey? Book your stay with KeysCaribbean today and experience the magic of the Middle Keys for yourself!

_{This article is a guided production of Jasper AI. We use AI to provide our readers with more comprehensive and better-quality content.}

High Praise From Our Guests

"The entire Team and staff were great, helpful, kind and responsive. The place was amazing and surrounding areas were very peaceful. The beds were very comfortable and the kitchen was well equipped overall. My family and I would love to stay there again."

~ Alex, 6/14/2024

"I live in Fort Lauderdale and found availability just 2 days before the busy memorial day weekend A beautifully decorated condo facing the ocean with plenty of space. I will never stay anywhere else when I go to Key Largo. Thank you to the hosts. Rooms: Rooms were large, super clean with large beds. Noteworthy details: Even provided pickleball paddles and yoga mats."

~ Andy, 5/28/2024

"Beautiful property and excellent location! Was perfect size for 3 adult couples and all agreed could have stayed forever"

~ Sheri, 5/23/2024

"Unit 67 at Indigo Reef is amazing. The location is perfect, situated on the end of a row of condos that opens up to a beautiful view of the Gulf. The interior was spotless and equipped with everything you need to enjoy your stay. Each rental comes with a boat slip, and use of the pool & fitness center. The grounds of Indigo Reef were peaceful and unbelievably well-maintained. We didn't want to leave and will definitely return!"

~ Janet, 4/28/2024

"This is a great escape in a small community of condos. The grounds are exquisitely maintained. The pool is large and communal. We had an unexpected live Jimmy buffet cover artist who was staying in the complex share live music at the pool on Sunday. Manatees visit in evenings to see what the fisherman brought back to the docks. The boat slips are easy to access and we'll maintained. Being a boating community helps set a common language for meeting the neighbors if that is an objective. The two private decks allow you space to retreat to privacy if that is an objective. Highly Recommend!"

~ Kurt, 4/27/2024

"Our extended family (ages 3 to 75) really enjoyed our stay at the Mariners Club while visiting the Keys for a wedding! The townhouse was spacious and had everything we needed. The pool was amazing, we were there every day. The location was great, close to groceries and good restaurants. Pam from KeysCaribbean was very kind and helpful, answering questions when booking and when we had trouble with the door locks!"

~ Ellen, 4/24/2024

"We loved our stay at Mariner's Club Key Largo! The grounds and unit were well kept and the view beautiful! Our family enjoyed the pools and hot tub each day and loved staying here as our home base while we explored the Keys and Everglades. We hope to be back again!"

~ Megan, 3/24/2024

"Beautiful, spacious condominium in a safe gated community with spectacular pools. We had a lovely time, highly recommend. Close to great restaurants, home is well stocked with everything you need for a comfortable stay."

~ Leah, 03/16/2024

"Beautiful setting, super friendly neighbors and neighborhood!! Lovely space to walk and read!! Easy access to all the other keys! We had a lovely respite! The beaches at Bahia were spectacular!!"

~ Susan, 1/28/2024

"The property management company went out of their way to make our stay memorable even after telling us that the property where we were originally staying had a broken AC. They quickly found another property which was much better. An upgrade from the original. An amazing house with ocean views, capacity for up to 14 people (we were 10) and amazing pool area that could comfortably seat about 20 people for much fun in the sun. I would stay there again without a doubt. The house was luxury (although that’s not what we originally ordered). We will forever remember this trip as one of our favorites. 🏝️🏊‍♀️🐠🐟🎣"

~ Delys, 1/16/2024

"Wow! The on-line pictures were beautiful and once we arrived it looked just as beautiful! Unit was spotlessly clean. Bedrooms gorgeous. Comfortable. Kitchen, perfectly stocked and clean. Bathrooms great. Views? SPECTACULAR! This unit was on the end, right on the waters edge and was just perfect! One morning we actually spotted 2 dolphins and their baby about 10 feet off shore right from our balcony! The grounds are gorgeous. Pool is perfect. Nice chairs and umbrellas. The map looks like the pool is a far walk but it was actually very close! Nice & close car port parking. Great restaurants close by ..."

~ Tracy, 1/9/2024

"This was one of the best properties we have stayed in over the course of several years of coming to Key Largo. The management company responded promptly to questions. The property was well-appointed and impeccably clean. The Mariner’s Club is an excellent facility and the location of this unit is outstanding with beautiful ocean views from the main living area and the master bedroom. What could be better than waking to the sun rising over the Atlantic! We would definitely return to this property again."

~ Peter, 7/15/2023

"We really enjoyed our stay here, (#533) ocean front condo we stayed at was very spacious with beautiful views, very clean, full kitchen with all kitchen essentials, big dining table, beach towels that really came in handy, very nice spacious balcony, washer and dryer, comfortable beds, very homey and cosy, they had complimentary snacks and bathroom toiletry essentials. Property has gated security 24/7 they have jet-ski and boat docking, nice pool and hot tub, very well maintained property, everyone on the property very friendly and helpful."

~ Tati, 07/05/2023

"WOW!!!!!! Best ever vacation that I've ever taken! 10/10 recommend using this site. I will return!"

~ Mark, 06/30/2023

"Our stay was short but amazing. Super relaxing, beautiful place and scenery. Everything close by. Communication was great with the host and the team, quick to respond"

~ Eilen, 06/26/2023

"Amazing place with a priceless view. Great hosts who made us feel right at home. We are already planning our next trip!"

~ Erika, 06/23/2023

"We had a wonderful stay. The views of the water and the sunset were fantastic. The sunrise colors were beautiful. The home was as described and well appointed. Beds, linens, and furnishings were very nice. We would definitely stay there again. Carol was a very responsive and helpful host."

~ D., 06/22/2023

"Very beautiful and comfortable space. New appliances and nicely decorated. Private pool was perfect!"

~ April, 06/21/2023

"Excellent place, the house is super nice and the host is very responsible and accessible all time, great place to go with family"

~ Deborah, 06/18/2023

"Great location, reasonable rates, nice property with all of the amenities that you can ask for. 😀"

~ J.C., 06/18/2023

"Everything was as advertised!!We enjoyed are stay and be we will be booking again and again!!!"

~ Daryl, 06/18/2023

"Great property !! We stayed here for a family vacation and it was just perfect. Very comfortable home, in a beautiful neighborhood. The pool area is very peaceful and very close to the unit. We made good use of the boat slip as there are boat rental companies and great sandbars and fishing spots near by. Overall I would say this property is a gem."

~ Aileen, 06/16/2023

"Love the location , the property , the views . Checking in was very easy , we got approved to check in an hour earlier which was great 😊 Bahia Honda is a beautiful beach and within minutes . Communication with the rental team was very easy and they reply to all my questions very fast .. would definitely stay here again."

~ Redkenia, 06/13/2023

"The place was easy to find. Very convenient to dock our boat behind the house. Easy access to the ocean. The whole family had a great experience! Everyone slept comfortably. The house was spectacular! Communication was excellent. We got to Duck Key earlier than expected and were able to check in early. Couldn’t ask for a better place to stay!"

~ LightPacker821908, 05/23/2023

"Pam was extremely responsive and helpful. Her property is at a great location on Duck Key. We loved having a private pool. Bedrooms and bathrooms were very clean and as advertised."

~ Blake, 05/14/2023

"Amazing place, amazing views, makes for an amazing trip! Thanks Indigo and KeysCarribean!"

~ Doug, 05/07/2023

"This townhouse (until 711) has the most amenities than we have seen at our usual Airbnb accommodations. There was plenty of space for 3 couples and two toddlers. A highchair and pack and play was even available for use. Our group really enjoyed the pool and wish we would have spent more time there. We all left on checkout day wishing we had at least one more night! We will certainly be visiting again."

~ Kathryn, 05/01/2023

"We absolutely enjoyed our stay at Mariners club 607. The place was clean, well stocked, and accommodated us perfectly. The pools were wonderful, clean and beautiful layout. Also enjoyed the pickle ball courts. Scenery was gorgeous. Highly recommend!"

~ Kelly, 04/11/2023

"Beautiful view of the bay from the condo. Manatees like to swim by off the shore. Amenities listed were present."

~ Julia, 03/26/2023

"Keys Caribbean is awesome. Always a great experience."

~ Thomas, 03/16/2023

"We had such a wonderful stay. The back porch is surrounded with palm trees creating a private atmosphere to enjoy the pool. It’s a beautiful home with full kitchen, great sized living room, plenty of beds, and spacious decks including one from the master bedroom. Tv’s in every room with streaming app access. Beds were also super comfortable! Would absolutely stay again."

~ Melissa, 03/06/2023

"Loved it!! Would do it again!!! No need to look elsewhere!!!"

~ Andrew, 03/06/2023

"This condo was clean, quiet, and very comfy, and the location (the entire community) is stunning and super fun to explore. Would highly recommend for a family or group."

~ Steven, 03/01/2023

"We loved this place. Clean. Well stocked. Comfy. We will be back Pool is great grounds are clean"

~ Michael, 03/01/2023

"Mariners Club 535 was the perfect spot for our family vacay. We had plenty of room for our family of 8. The condo had everything we needed, and was very clean. The leasing staff did a great job of communication prior and during our stay. Mariners club is conveniently located to shopping and recreational activities. It’s location in the southern part of Key Largo makes it easy to take advantage of activities, shopping and restaurants in Tavernier, Islamorada as well as Key largo."

~ Nancy, 02/27/2023

"Fabulous place to stay! Our 2 bedroom condo was perfect. The pool is gorgeous and kept pristine. I highly recommend the Mariners club if you are staying in Key Largo."

~ Charlene, 02/13/2023

"The morning view of the Sunrise from our balcony each morning was breathtaking. We picked the perfect location with the best views of the pool and water. The property was immaculate with constant cleaning by the friendly staff. We will be back, thanks for a wonderful stay!"

~ Amy, 01/31/2023

"Condo is spacious and comfortable. Great view. Patio was the favorite place to hang out. HOA pools were fantastic!"

~ Tracy, 01/29/2023

"They stay was amazing! The place was beautiful and clean. And would definitely go back for another stay. The Amenities were awesome as well! A+"

~ Joseph, 01/24/2023

"It was the perfect place for our family vacation. Five of us were very comfortable in villa 532. It was beautiful, clean, the best ocean view, and had everything we needed for the week. It was nice to have the beach towels and the separate ice maker was the nicest surprise! The basket of snacks was a nice touch too. Washer, dryer, and dish washer along with provided detergents and dryer sheets were so convenient. And attention to the “little things,” like enough toilet paper, paper towels, garbage bags, and linens for the week was much appreciated. My expectations were exceeded!"

~ Barbara, 01/02/2023

"This little Oasis is the perfect spot for boaters to hang out. Our house was very nice, the pool was great, and we were with 10 minutes of anything we needed."

~ Skip, 12/06/2022

"Beautiful pool and community"

~ Jamie, 11/27/2022

"Beautiful property surpassed our expectations. The perfect set up for enjoying our trip on the water with dock In front of our unit, electric and water hook up for easy clean up after snorkeling or fishing all day. We loved it. Looking forward to staying here again in the future."

~ Michelle, 11/26/2022

"Perfect! Awesome place with great views . Enjoyable time with 8! Highly recommend!"

~ Joanie, 11/21/2022

"Great location, highly recommend it."

~ Ira, 11/14/2022

"Mariner’s Club, Unit 512 was a phenomenal property that was located overlooking the water and steps away from the pool. The finishings/appliances in the kitchen, living room, and bedrooms are high quality. More than enough towels, flatware/cutlery, etc to make it a comfortable stay. It is close enough to all the things in Key Largo to make it centrally located (it’s a very long island). Would stay again in a heartbeat."

~ Sean, 10/25/2022

"The house was equipped with everything needed for our family vacation trip. Good size and spacious rooms."

~ JoAnn, 10/24/2022

"The location is stunning. The Airbnb was clean and we enjoyed our stay so much."

~ Kathleen, 10/11/2022

"Comfortable beds! Everything was just as advertised."

~ Glenda, 10/03/2022

"A real gem. This property is clean and beautiful. Brand new dock, landscaping is perfect, location is within minutes of everything you would want while maintaining a “getting away from it all” vibe. We will be back."

~ Bradley & Marietta, 10/01/2022

"We had a great 4-day stay, the place was as pictured and the description was accurate. Would stay again."

~ Keith, 09/23/2022

"This condo and location was amazing! Extremely spacious and clean!! We had a group of 8 men and everybody felt very comfortable. The pools and jacuzzi on site were so close and great to use! The patio was perfect for games and grilling! Our hosts were very easy to contact and responded very promptly! Would highly recommend!"

~ Seif, 09/19/2022

"We loved our stay! The location is beautiful, the hot tub is refreshing, and the beds were super comfortable. Astrid was very responsive to our questions, and we highly recommend this location."

~ Lisa, 09/18/2022

"Impeccable Villa in just the right spot. Great communication before during and after our stay made the trip hassle free. Would absolutely return."

~ David, 09/18/2022

"The house was big enough for all we needed. In the middle of everything we wanted to do. We enjoyed the location because its not nearly as busy as any other key we traveled to. Peaceful porch sitting when it rained but also lots of places to explore close by!"

~ Samantha, 09/14/2022

"Management team is amazing and property is very well maintained."

~ Judith, 09/14/2022

"The management team is AMAZING and the property is very well maintained. I especially like the orchids throughout the landscaping."

~ Yami, 09/13/2022

"Beautiful place with an awesome spot on the key. We spent every afternoon and evening sitting on the back deck enjoying the view. Can't wait to go back!"

~ Maria, 09/11/2022

"This place was great! We loved the location on Duck Key, close to everything we wanted to see. It was great having the private hot tub on the patio and the kitchen had everything we needed for our stay."

~ Andrew, 09/10/2022

"The location was perfect with a private pool and small beach just steps away. Plenty of room for 3 couples. Everything we needed to cook with was available and large dining room fit all of us around the dinner table."

~ Julian, 09/07/2022

Vacation Home Rentals

Exploring the Middle Keys: A Perfect Blend of Family Fun and Adventure