Florida Keys, USA Plan a trip
Get ready for the road trip of a lifetime, just an hour or so from Miami. The Florida Keys is one of the most unique destinations on the planet, a beautiful 125-mile-long archipelago all connected by the scenic Overseas Highway. Along the way, you’ll see dazzling ocean views, tropical marine life and over 40 bridges.
You’ll absolutely want to stop off along the way, whether it’s to feel the white, powder-soft sands under your toes or pop into a seafood restaurant to taste the day’s freshest catch.
There’s a surprising amount to do here, if you can tear yourself away from the beach. This includes kayaking through coastal mangroves, cycling coastal trails and of course, snorkelling.
The Florida Keys is famously home to one of the largest barrier reefs in the world, so it’s bursting with colourful corals and tropical fish. These are protected waters too, part of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary which protects over 6,000 marine species.
Each region of the Keys has its own distinct character. You’ll start your journey at Key Largo, the first island, then travel through Islamorada, Marathon and the Lower Keys, before ending up at Key West.
Key West is one of the most interesting, as it’s closer to Cuba than Miami. This is the perfect place to experience Cuban culture, see colourful Art Deco architecture and try some fantastic food.
You can also learn more about the rich history of the Florida Keys at one of several Key West Art & Historical Society museums. Visit in the autumn and you might catch the Key West Film Festival, a highlight of a packed cultural calendar on the islands.
Foodies will want to try a little of everything on a Florida Keys road trip. Make sure you get yourself an original Sloppy Joe sandwich, but the real highlight is the incredible seafood. Must-try dishes include Florida stone crab claws, lobster in garlic butter or a baked snapper. And of course, you simply must try the key lime pie, believed to have been invented in the Keys.
Plan your trip to the Florida Keys today!