Beginning in Key Largo, the Overseas Highway runs southward through the Florida Keys. Framed by the Gulf of Mexico on your right and the Atlantic Ocean on your left, it may be the most unusual road in America. And wherever you choose to stop along the way, paradise awaits.
Key Largo is an entryway to America’s only subtropical jungle, the Everglades, home to the Miccosukee Tribe and wildlife and natural wonders found nowhere else. It’s also the diving and snorkelling capital of mainland USA complete with America’s only underwater hotel open exclusively to divers, the Jules’ Undersea Lodge.
Islamorada is a popular romantic getaway and ranks among the world’s best fishing grounds. There’s a surprising cultural vitality here, too. A number of excellent artists have studios in the Morada Way Arts & Cultural District, which are open to visitors during the monthly Art Walks.
Farther south, Marathon draws families because of special experiences like the Dolphin Research Center, where residents dazzle you with their spectacular water acrobatics. You can swim with them, too, so bring the camera. More excitement continues at Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters with up-close-and-personal encounters with all types of marine life. And at the nearby Turtle Hospital, you can interact with rehabilitating turtles large and small.
The Lower Keys are known for great natural beauty and camping sites, as well as the very rare Key deer. At the Key Deer Refuge, you have a great chance of spotting these wondrous creatures. And speaking of paradise, sunsets over the Lower Keys will have you thinking you’ve found it.
Colourful Key West is filled with fascinating sights and entertainment. Historic gingerbread houses stand next to world-class resorts. At night, the cuisine and rhythms of the Caribbean mix with those of Europe and southern U.S. Landmarks such as Sloppy Joe’s—once Hemingway’s favourite hangout—are everywhere. The LGBT community is active and embraced. And sunset celebrations at Mallory Square are a nightly tradition.
The Florida Keys are indeed paradise.
Travel Planner
Stake out your little piece of paradise at fla-keys.com.
