29 Things to Do in the Florida Keys

👉 Jump to: Best Things | Museums & Culture | Animal Interactions | Beaches | Outdoor Activities

I’ve lived in the Florida Keys for over 10 years and am here to share the very best things you can’t miss on your visit.

In my opinion, the Florida Keys is the perfect place to get tropical island vibes while staying stateside. The Keys is an island chain just south of Miami that’s connected via a series of bridges. It’s one of the few places in the world where you can go on an island-hopping road trip.

But I don’t need to sell you on why it’s awesome – my list below speaks for itself. Before we get into it, make sure you bookmark my guide to where to stay in the Florida Keys to read next.

Best Things to Do in the Florida Keys

Dry Tortugas National Park

Snorkel, camp, and tour a historic fort at this unique and remote National Park.

The author Natalie Becerra walking along a pathway at the Fort Walls — *Me walking along the fort walls at Dry Tortugas National Park*

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (305) 242-7700 | Website | Entrance: $15 or Free with America the Beautiful Pass ($80, covers up to 4 people), Yankee Freedom Ferry Day Trip $235 adult, Child (4-16) $180 | 👉 Book a Dry Tortugas National Park Day Trip on Viator

Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the nation’s least accessible national parks, yet one of its most stunning. Located 70 miles away from Key West, it’s a two-hour ferry ride to get to Dry Tortugas National Park, although you can also get there by private boat and seaplane.

The park consists of a small island fort and the surrounding waters. Once you get there, tour the Civil War era fort, relax on the beach, and snorkel all around the island. For the most interesting snorkeling, head where the old dock used to be.

You can get a permit to camp overnight on the island, but keep in mind that it is primitive camping. Book your trip well ahead of time to ensure availability, as tours often sell out.

The Turtle Hospital

Focused on rescue, rehabilitation, and release, the turtle hospital is a fully functioning veterinary hospital for turtles.

Closeup look of a turtle on inside the tank — *A turtle in one of the tanks at the Turtle Hospital*

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (305) 743-2552 | Website | Hours: 8:30 am – 6 pm (Last Tour at 4 pm), Daily | Entrance: Adult: $38.00, Children (4-12 years old): $19

A visit to the Turtle Hospital in Key West is a must for animal lovers. The team here works around the clock to save injured sea turtles, and the tour offers a bird’s-eye view into what this looks like.

At the facility, you’ll take a guided 90-minute tour that provides an educational look behind the scenes. The tour even ends with the opportunity to feed some of their permanent residents. Reservations are highly recommended.

Fishing

The Florida Keys is known as one of the top fishing destinations worldwide.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (305) 903-5764 | Website | Hours: 7 am – 10 pm Daily | 👉 Book a Key West Half-Day Fishing Charter tour on Viator

Did you know that fishing enthusiasts from all over the world seek out the Florida Keys for their next catch? Specifically, Islamorada is known as the sport-fishing capital of the world.

To snag a fish for yourself, head to a marina to charter a boat with a fishing guide and go on a classic fishing expedition. Expect to catch mahi mahi in the open ocean or snapper in the mangroves.

Some of the best sportfishing is in Marathon, so definitely check out Manic Sportfishing – it has nearly perfect reviews.

Even the budget-conscious can get in on the action, as fishing from bridges is permitted. Stop by one of the many bait houses and grab a fishing pole to try your luck at reeling in a big one.

Once you have your catch of the day, go to one of the local restaurants where they will cook your catch for a nominal fee.

Snorkeling

Swim with the fishes along the only living coral reef in the continental United States.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (305) 451-6322 | Website | Hours: 8 am – 5 pm Daily | 👉 Book a Key Largo Two Reef Snorkel tour on Viator

The Florida Reef runs along the entire Florida Keys, just a few miles offshore, up to the Dry Tortugas. And the best way to experience it? Take a snorkeling tour from one of the state parks or one of the many snorkel and dive shops.

Along the reef, I recommend visiting the famous Christ of the Abyss statue – you can dive to it by picking a dive shop in Key Largo or at John Pennekamp State Park. If you prefer seeing a larger reef system, then head down south to Bahia Honda State Park to take a snorkel tour that visits Looe Key, one of my favorite spots.

Road Trip

The 113-mile stretch of road from Key Largo to Key West is one of the most beautiful drives in the United States.

View of the bridge of the Florida Keys Scenic Highway — *View of one of the bridges of the Florida Keys Scenic Highway*

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (305) 664-4503 | Website

The Florida Keys Scenic Highway is an iconic drive that soars over massive stretches of water. It’s made up of 42 bridges, including the famous 7-mile bridge.

Driving this stretch is all about enjoying the journey. Don’t miss looking for Fred the Tree on the old highway while crossing the 7-mile bridge. And feel free to stop off at one of the many viewpoints and pedestrian bridges to take in the views.

Seafood

Fresh, tasty, and accessible seafood that will make you forget everything you thought you knew about fish.

View of the beach loungers along the shoreline at Lazy Days — *For lunch with a view, opt for Lazy Days in Islamorada.*

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (305) 664-0640 | Website | Hours: 5 pm – 10 pm Daily, Closed Sundays

Nearly all restaurants in the Florida Keys serve fresh seafood, but I highly recommend trying the Key West Shrimp, mahi mahi, yellowtail snapper, hogfish, spiny lobster, and conch fritters.

Go to the Fish House in Key Largo for their ‘matecumbe’ style fish (prepared with diced tomatoes and capers), Chef Michael’s in Islamorada for finer dining, La Nina in Marathon for a Cuban twist, and Blue Heaven in Key West for brunch.

Sunset Sail

Sunset is when everyone gathers by the water, but you can one-up them by watching it ON the water.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (305) 304-2235 | Website | 👉 Book Key West Schooner Sunset Sail on Viator

The sunsets are always beautiful in the Florida Keys, no matter where you see them, but they’re especially stunning while on a boat.

For added fun, try out a Key West schooner sunset sail. It’s the best way to get a “pirate” vibe, as the sailboats are historical replicas. You can sit, bring your own food and drinks on board, and even get a chance to be behind the wheel.

On another night, catch the sunset from Mallory Square in Key West, where you are sure to be impressed by the street performers and vendors.

Duval Crawl

Duval Street in Key West is famous for being the center of nightlife.

View of the people outside the Sloppy Joe’s Bar — *Sloppy Joe’s Bar, a historic staple of Duval Street.*

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (305) 998-8599 | Website | 👉 Book a Key West Pub Crawl on Viator

Duval Street is lined with shops, restaurants, and bars that are lively all day long. You’ll be crawling by the end of it if you’re not careful, with live bands and strong drinks on every block.

Some of my favorite stops are Irish Kevin’s for the entertainment, Señor Frog’s for a frozen drink to cool down, and Matheessen’s for a warm cookie to end the day.

There are numerous eateries ranging from high end to dive bars. My preferred quick, tasty, and reasonable restaurant is Amigos for tacos and margaritas. However, you can’t miss popping into Sloppy Joe’s, a historical establishment that’s been around since 1933.

While Duval street stays pretty family-friendly during the day, things really heat up once the sun goes down. Avoid holidays, especially Fantasy Fest, unless you are all in for a night of debauchery.

Hemingway House

Hemingway purchased the 1851 Spanish Colonial-style home in 1930 and made it an artist’s retreat.

View of the Hemingway Home from the outside — *View of the Hemingway Home from within the grounds.*

Stop in at the Hemingway House to experience the literary side of Key West. American author Ernest Hemingway lived in Key West from 1928-1939. The mark he made on literary history and the shaping of Key West is undeniable, and visiting his abode is a great way to explore it. Many of the original furnishings and decor remain there today.

Most notable is the swimming pool, installed at a staggering cost and the first in-ground swimming pool in Key West. Look out for the descendants of Hemingway’s cats, the six-toed cats, lounging throughout the house.

Bahia Honda State Park

Consistently ranked one of the best beaches in the Florida Keys, Bahia Honda State Park checks all the boxes with soft sand, clear water, and stunning sunsets.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (305) 872-2353 | Website | Hours: 8 am to Sunset Daily | Entrance: $8 per vehicle (2-8 people) + $0.50 per person. $4.50 single-occupant vehicle. $2.50 pedestrians, bicyclists, extra passengers | 👉 Book a Florida Keys Nature & History Tour from Key West on Viator

Are you a bona fide beach bum? Then head on over to Bahia Honda State Park. This park is a popular spot for camping, stargazing, and snorkel tours, and its beaches are some of the best in the state.

A unique feature is getting a good view of the old highway bridge that was originally part of Henry Flagler’s railroad. If you only have time to visit one park in the Keys, I highly recommend this one.

Florida Keys Museums & Culture

Truman’s Little White House

First built in 1890, the Little White House has hosted many important visitors and six American presidents.

The signage of The Little White House from the outside — *The Little White House, a historic landmark in Key West.*

The Little White House is a fantastic way to step into the history of the Florida Keys. Harry S. Truman especially enjoyed his winter stays there, using it for 175 days of his presidency from 1946 to 1952.

Touring the home feels like traveling back in time, and it is incredible to be in the very rooms where important talks and decisions were made regarding foreign policy, civil rights, and the Cold War.

USCGC Ingham Maritime Museum

Tour one of only two preserved Treasury-Class Coast Guard Ships.

Exterior view of the USCGC Ingham — *Exterior of the USCGC Ingham (photo: Chuck Wagner / Shutterstock)*

View inside the USCGC Ingham — *Touring the inside of the vessel*

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (305) 292-5072 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 4 pm Tuesday to Saturday | Entrance: $18 adults, $5 children 7-12

The USCGC Ingham Maritime Museum is a floating museum that celebrates the USCGC Ingham – the most decorated ship in Coast Guard history.

It’s a national historic landmark, and the self-guided tour lets you see most of the ship and understand what it was really like to live and work on this vessel. In service from 1936 to 1988, the Ingham played a role in World War II, the Vietnam War, and events as recent as the Mariel Boatlift.

The ship is a significant piece of maritime history and the volunteers help bring that history to life.

History of Diving Museum

Learn about the evolution of scuba diving, from its ancient origins to its modern innovations.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (305) 664-9737 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm Daily | Entrance: $15, adults, $7 children 6-11

Are you a diving enthusiast? This is the museum for you. The History of Diving Museum will tickle your diving-history fancy with visual displays that demonstrate how far this activity has come.

I mean, we’ve certainly come a long way since scuba diving with a bucket on your head and an air pump. The abundance of visual displays makes it easy to follow along. Visiting also makes for a great rainy day activity.

Shipwreck Museum

Climb the tower to get the best view of Key West and learn about the industries that brought prosperity here.

Key West’s Shipwreck Museum is a pirate-themed museum that shows you the nautical history of the area. It features actors, artifacts, displays, and even a real shipwreck. Adults will enjoy this place, but it’s an interesting visit even for kids.

Take in the air conditioning, history, and views, all at the Shipwreck Museum.

Morada Way Third Thursday Art Walk

A night of art, music, and craft beer that brings the community together.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (305) 664-2471 | Website | Hours: 12 – 5 pm daily | Entrance: Free

The Morada Way Third Thursday Art Walk features booths and boutiques of local artists. Located in the Islamorada Art District during the third Thursday of every month, these businesses stay open late for art enthusiasts to enjoy.

Finish off the night at the Florida Keys Brewing Company for one of their unique beers and grab a bite to eat at the taco truck.

Rain Barrel Village

When you see the giant lobster, pull over!

View of the huge sculpture of the Betsy the Lobster — *The entrance to the Rain Barrel can’t be missed thanks to Betsy*

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (305) 521-2043 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 5 pm Daily | Entrance: Free

This 30 foot tall sculpture, named Betsy the Lobster, marks a collection of open air boutiques set amongst a tropical landscape.

Rain Barrel Village has been welcoming visitors of the Florida Keys for over 40 years with an array of handmade gifts. I particularly like going to the glass shop to watch the artist make pieces right in front of you.

Conch Train

The easiest way to get a quick overview of Key West.

A great tour for families, the Conch Train takes you past a number of notable places in Key West and gives you commentary about local history.

While you can’t get on and off, I recommend this for first-time visitors to Key West and for those with limited mobility. See all the main attractions in a short period of time!

Animal Interactions in the Florida Keys

Swim with the Dolphins

Feel like a dolphin trainer as you observe their behaviors and go for a swim.

The author Natalie Becerra swimming with the dolphin

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (305) 451-4060 | Website | Hours: 8 am – 5 pm Daily | Entrance: Dockside Encounter $100, Shallow Water $185, Swims from $260-$350 per person

Ever wanted to feel a dolphin gliding you across the water? Then you’re in luck. Dolphins Plus Bayside is a research and interaction center that offers a variety of dolphin interactions to suit your comfort level. It has a good reputation for animal wellness, and its ongoing research and education efforts make it a great facility.

Swimming with dolphins is a magical experience like none other. I would highly recommend it!

Feed the Tarpon at Robbie’s

Watch huge fish leap out of the water to take your bait.

View of the tarpons in the Water — *Tarpon in the waters of Bud n’Mary’s Marina in Islamorada*

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (305) 664-8070 | Website | Hours: 7 am – 9 pm Daily | Entrance Fee: $2.50, $5 Bucket of Fish

For a few bucks, you can buy a bucket of fish to feed the huge tarpon fish that hang out at the end of the docks at Robbie’s, a waterfront restaurant. It’s a fun way to get up close and personal with tarpon without actually going fishing.

You can purchase the fish food onsite before holding it up to watch the tarpon jump to get it. Just watch out for the pelicans and your fingers!

This experience is also available at Bud n’Mary’s Marina if you’re over that way and want to skip the crowds.

Theater of the Sea

See live animal shows that showcase dolphins, sea lions, parrots, and more.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (305) 664-2431 | Website | Hours: 9:30 am – 5 pm Daily | Entrance: $32.95 for ages 3-10 and $49.95 for ages 11 and over

Theater of the Sea is one of the world’s oldest marine mammal facilities. It’s been family-owned and operated since 1946. Their mission is to provide a safe home for mostly rescued animals while giving people a way to safely interact with them.

Here, you can see shows featuring live animals. Plan to spend 2-3 hours here to catch all the shows and the glass bottom boat.

Florida Keys Wild Bird Center

Make a pit stop to see local birds thriving at this facility.

View of the signage and entrance to the Wild Bird Sanctuary — *Entrance to the Wild Bird Sanctuary*

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (305) 852-4486 | Website | Sanctuary Hours: Sunset to Sunrise Daily | Entrance: By Donation

The Wild Bird Center is the perfect place for learning about the rescue and rehabilitation of local birds. The center itself acts as a rescue and sanctuary for non-releasable wild birds.

When I visited, there were several birds that I was not familiar with, and even some owls and parrots. A very interesting visit, especially for bird-lovers!

Key Deer at No-Name Pub

Spot the elusive Key deer near this local’s hangout.

A Florida Key Deer amongst the palm trees on Big Pine Key — *Key Deer amongst the palm trees on Big Pine Key*

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (305) 872-9115 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 10 pm Daily

The Key deer is an endangered species of deer only found in the Florida Keys. They are so cute to see, but can be hard to find!

Outside of the No-Name Pub is one of the few places you can find them pretty consistently. It’s worth a stop to see if they are there, and you might as well grab a drink while you’re at it.

Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory

Walk through an enclosed, lush garden setting and find yourself surrounded by birds and butterflies.

A butterfly landed on the hand of the author Natalie Becerra — *A butterfly landed on me at the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory*

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (305) 296-2988 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 5 pm Daily, Last Admission at 4:30 | Entrance: $17.50 Adult, $12.50 Child 4-12

Stopping by the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory is worth it for the beautiful, lush garden setting. Stand still for a minute, and a butterfly will likely land on you!

There are also flamingos and a short film with interesting facts about butterflies. A great place for anyone to visit, I always recommend this place to friends when going to Key West.

Beaches in the Florida Keys

John Pennekamp State Park

As the country’s first undersea park, much of John Pennekamp State Park’s beauty lies under the surface.

View of the pathway surrounded by a mangrove forest — *Pathway within the park surrounded by a mangrove forest*

Scenic view of the John Pennekamp State Park at sunset — *Sunset over the beach at John Pennekamp State Park*

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (305) 676-3777 | Website | Hours: 8 am – Sunset Daily | Entrance: Multiple-occupant vehicle, $8 plus 50 cents per person up to 8 people, $2.50 each additional person. Single-occupant vehicle, $4.50. Pedestrian or bicyclist, $2.50 per person | 👉 Book Half Day Snorkel Trip on Viator

John Pennekamp State Park is the first underwater state park in the USA. Here, you can take a tour out snorkeling or scuba diving from the state park concessions.

Explore the mangrove forests by kayak and stop in at the little aquarium before heading to one of the two beaches. These beaches are a little more rocky than sandy, but you’ll get your fix of salt and sun.

Fort Zachary Taylor State Park

Why choose between going to the beach and viewing a historical site, when you can have both?

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (305) 292-6713 | Website | Hours: 8 am – Sundown, Fort closes at 5 pm | Entrance: $6 per vehicle up to 8 people, or $4.50 single occupant vehicle, $2.50 pedestrians/bicyclists/extra passengers

At Fort Zachary Taylor State Park, you can tour a fort that pre-dates the Civil War and then relax on a sandy beach. This is one of my favorite beaches in Key West. Come on the third weekend of the month to see locals do historical reenactments.

Sombrero Beach

A true beach in the classic sense, with long, wide expanses of sand and clear, deep water.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (305) 743-6598 | Website | Hours: 7 am – Dusk Daily | Free

Sombrero Beach is a public beach located in Marathon, right around the middle of the Florida Keys. While this beach is family-friendly, it’s not very shady, so definitely bring an umbrella. Go to the Publix supermarket first to grab a sub sandwich and snacks to make it a perfect day on the beach.

Outdoor Activities in the Florida Keys

Scuba Diving

It’s a whole new world! Explore another side of the Keys by diving in one of its marine sanctuaries.

View of the scuba divers preparing on the water — *Me getting scuba dive certified at John Pennekamp State Park*

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (305) 451-3595 | Website | Hours: 7:30 am – 6:30 pm Daily | 👉 Book a Half-Day Small-Group Scuba Dive in Key Largo (Certified Divers Only)

Did you know that Key Largo is the scuba dive capital of the world? It boasts over 100 reef diving sites and several wrecks.

There are great dives for beginners and advanced divers. Go with a reputable dive center like the ones at the state parks. I also went diving with Amoray Cay and had a great time.

Paddleboarding

Get in a workout in while seeing the natural beauty of the Keys.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (305) 434-5930 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm Daily

Thanks to the coral reefs off the Florida Keys, the waves break far from shore. This keeps the waters calm and perfect for paddle boarding. Go through some of the mangrove forests or canals to spot manatees! Paddleboard rentals are available at many outfitters, beaches, and resorts.

Paddle the Florida Keys in Tavernier offers guided paddleboard tours, rentals, and rental delivery service.

Kayaking

Set your own course as you explore the bay by kayak.

View of the kayak on the canal in Key Largo — *Kayaking down a canal in Key Largo*

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (305) 451-3018 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 7 pm Daily | 👉 Book Mangroves and Manatees- Guided Kayak Eco Tour on Viator

Not much for balancing? Then kayaking may be a better fit for you than paddle boarding. You can explore the same beautiful bays and mangroves without worrying about slight waves.

Florida Bay Outfitters can deliver rentals directly to you or your desired launch point.

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Thanks for reading my list of the best things to do in the Florida Keys! Don’t forget to read my guide to where to stay in the Florida Keys. Happy traveling!

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