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The Florida Keys island chain, located just off the southern coast, is well-known for its turquoise, calm waters and relaxing atmosphere. The year-long warmth provides a comfortable subtropical environment for boating excursions, beachgoing, and winter escapes. But what are the Keys best known for?

Beautiful Scenery

Among the leading reasons to visit the Florida Keys is the incredible natural beauty unlike any other in North America. The islands are home to many marvelous species, such as Key Deer and the Sandhill Crane. In addition, the crystal clear waters surrounding the Keys are teeming with diverse marine species, including Loggerhead sea turtles, manatees, and Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins.

Florida Keys Wild Bird Center

(305) 852-4486
Mile Marker 93.5 Bayside
93600 Overseas Hwy, Tavernier, FL 33070

The Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center cares for sick, injured and orphaned birds. Visit the Wild Bird Sanctuary and take a stroll on the boardwalk bordering several enclosures for an up-close look at nearly 40 species of wild birds native to the island chain.

Website: missionwildbird.com

The Florida Keys are also famous for their vibrant sunsets, lighting the sky in orange, purple, and pink hues!

Arts & Culture

Another reason to visit the Florida Keys is to experience the rich culture. The Islamorada and Key West Islands host museums, art galleries, and other attractions. One sight worth visiting is the giant lobster statue at Rain Barrel Artisan’s Village in Islamorada.

History of Diving Museum

(305) 664-9737
Mile Marker 83 Bayside
82990 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036

The History of Diving Museum boasts an extensive collection of educational and entertaining exhibits, equipment and artifacts showcasing the history and evolution of diving.

Website: divingmuseum.org

Diving & Sportfishing

Regarding worldwide recognition, Key Largo and Islamorada are most popularly known as the capitals of sportfishing and diving, respectively. There is no better reason to visit the Florida Keys than to experience the mesmerizing allure of the Keys’ undersea wonders or to enjoy angling the likes of mahi-mahi, marlin, and other more challenging catches. If you prefer to stay dry, consider a tour aboard the Key Largo Princess Glassbottom Boat!

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

(305) 451-6300
Mile Marker 102.5 Oceanside
102601 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037

Pennekamp Park preserves a portion of the only living coral reef in the continental United States. Catch a glimpse of a variety of tropical marine life in or out of the water aboard their glass-bottom boat and snorkeling/diving charters. Visitors have access to 50 miles of natural mangrove channels in the surrounding area with kayak and paddle board rentals. You can rent a boat or bring your own and make use of their launch ramp, trailer storage and wet slip services.

  • Services include boat rentals, kayak and paddle board rentals, fishing, swimming, picnicking, snorkeling, diving, glass bottom boat tours, wet slips, trailer storage, launch ramp

Website: pennekamppark.com

Key Largo Princess Glass Bottom Boat

(305) 451-4655
Mile Marker 100 Oceanside
99701 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037

Watch the sunset and see the reef throughout John Pennekamp State Park aboard the Key Largo Princess Glass Bottom Boat for a truly unique experience you’re sure to remember.

Website: keylargoprincess.com

It’s no wonder why the Florida Keys are the first-pick vacation destination for travelers across the globe. If you’re considering visiting the island chain, you’ll want to check out our Activities Guide. Our Guide provides valuable insight on what to do, where to eat, and more must-see sights.

Don’t forget to discuss with our reservation specialists what you want to do during your vacation. Our extensive rental program spans the islands of Key Largo, Tavernier, Islamorada, Duck Key, and Marathon. We can help you choose the ideal location and Florida Keys vacation rental home that satisfies all your desires!

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