When you think of the Florida Keys, you probably picture crystal-clear waters, fishing trips, and late-night partying in Key West—but there’s so much more to discover.
In this Florida Keys travel guide, I’ll show you hidden gems like cozy beach bars, kayaking through mangroves, and my favorite beaches to unwind. Whether you’re taking a road trip from Miami to Key West (trust me, it’s a must-do!) or flying straight into Key West, the Keys offer something for everyone, from stunning views along the Overseas Highway to off-the-beaten-path spots most visitors miss. Ready for an unforgettable experience? Let’s dive in!
Planning to stay in Key West? See my Ultimate Key West Travel Guide for all the insider tips!
The Best Time to Visit the Florida Keys
The Keys are amazing year-round, but my favorite time to visit is January to April. The weather is perfect—temps are usually in the low 70s to mid-80s, and it’s just so comfortable. It’s a popular time to go, so hotel prices can be a bit higher, but the lower humidity and minimal rain make it totally worth it. If you love the heat, though, summer’s your season! Expect temps in the 80s to mid-90s, but just keep in mind that it’s hurricane season from June to November, so be prepared for that.
How to Get to the Florida Keys
How you get there depends on where you’re staying and what kind of vibe you’re looking for. If you’re heading to the Upper Keys (like Key Largo or Islamorada) you can fly into Miami, Fort Lauderdale or Key West. Flying directly into Key West is the easiest if you stay in the Middle Keys (like Marathon) or the Lower Keys (especially Key West).
That said, if it’s your first time in the Keys, I highly recommend flying into Miami or Fort Lauderdale and taking a Miami to Key West road trip. It’ll take about 3-4 hours, but trust me, it’s 100% worth it! When you drive down the Overseas Highway, you’ll get to take in the views of the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Gulf of Mexico on the other. Plus, there are tons of spots to stop for photos and places to grab a bite at cute beach cafes along the way.
Getting Around the Florida Keys
It really depends on what you’re planning to do! If you’re flying into Key West and don’t plan on heading north of Stock Island, you can skip the car rental. Getting around Key West is easy and convenient. The island is pretty small—only about 4 miles long and less than two miles wide—so walking or biking is the way to go. Most activities, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance, so you really don’t need a car to get around. Plus, there are plenty of fun ways to explore—scooter and golf cart rentals are really popular. We’ve rented an electric golf cart from HydroThunder and had a blast! A four seater starts at $90/3 hours
If you’re planning on visiting any other Keys (which I recommend), you’ll definitely need a car to get around.
Where to Stay in the Florida Keys
Islamorada
The Islander Resort
The Islander Resort will give you the ultimate beachfront getaway. There’s something for everyone—a fitness center, pickleball, beach volleyball, bocce ball, and even a putting course. If you want to be on the water, they have snorkeling, kayaks, paddleboards, and floating water cabanas. With four restaurants and bars to choose from and movies on the beach to cap off the day, it’s the perfect spot to soak in the island vibes
Marathon Key
Isla Bella
Isla Bella is on of my favorite Florida Keys beach resorts. It has five oceanfront pools and plenty of activities to keep you busy, including bikes, kayaks, snorkeling, bocce ball, mini golf, and giant chess. There’s also a fitness center, four restaurants and bars, and a marketplace café for casual bites. This resort is perfect for a fun and relaxing stay in the Florida Keys!
Stock Island
The Perry Hotel
Just north of Key West, The Perry Hotel offers stylish rooms, waterfront dining, and a laid-back vibe. Enjoy amenities like a welcome glass of champagne, shuttle service to Old Town, a waterfront pool, scooter and bike rentals, and outdoor fire pits. Dining options include Matt’s Stock Island Kitchen and The Salty Oyster Dockside Bar. It’s the ideal spot for both relaxation and fun.
Key West
Casa Marina
For a blend of old-world glamour and modern luxury, Casa Marina is the perfect oceanfront escape. Located on Key West’s only natural beach, this historic resort offers elegant accommodations with stunning ocean views. It’s one of my favorite beachfront hotels in Key West. Relax with a spa day and cocktails by the pool, or visit my go-to cocktail spot, the Canary Room, for a Hemingway Daiquiri.
Amenities include the largest private beach in Key West, two pools, a fitness center, and a variety of water activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, jet skiing, and snorkeling. You can also rent bikes or scooters to explore at your own pace. While close to the vibrant action of Key West, Casa Marina still offers a peaceful, relaxing retreat.
Southernmost Beach Resort
The Southernmost Beach Resort is an oceanfront getaway featuring newly renovated Key West-style buildings near the best restaurants, shops, and nightlife spots. You’ll have beach access, three swimming pools, and a variety of dining options, including the popular Southernmost Beach Café and Pineapple Bar. Additionally, you can relax at the spa, visit the gym, and rent bikes to explore the area.
Looking for more of the best hotels in Key West? Check out my guide to Key West’s Best Hotels.
The Best Restaurants in the Florida Keys
Islamorada
Morada Bay
Morada Bay is one of my favorite waterfront restaurants in the Florida Keys. It has two amazing restaurants: The Beach Café and Pierre’s.
The Beach Café offers a mix of American and Caribbean dishes. Its colorful tables are in the sand under palm trees and string lights. I love starting with tuna tataki, followed by Mahi street tacos and a glass of rosé. It’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
If you’re looking for something a little more special, Pierre’s is a gorgeous two-story home with French fusion cuisine and stunning water views. It’s perfect for a nice night out, and the “casual elegance” dress code makes it feel a bit fancy. It’s dinner-only, and you’ll definitely want to make a reservation!
Marathon
Isla Bella’s Beach Bar
Even if you’re not staying at Isla Bella Resort, you have to check out the Isla Bella Beach Bar for lunch or dinner. The outdoor bar and tables in the sand, strung with lights and overlooking the water, create the perfect vibe. The menu is amazing—I’m obsessed with the tuna nachos, Mahi tacos, and the beachy cocktails. It’s the ultimate spot to relax and enjoy a meal by the water!
Burdines Waterfront
Burdines is a super casual bar and grill right on the marina—perfect for a laid-back lunch or dinner. With great views and a relaxed vibe, it’s the kind of spot where you can kick back, enjoy some good food, and watch the boats, and maybe even a pod of dolphins, go by!
Little Torch Key
Kiki’s Sandbar
Kiki’s is a casual beach bar with amazing food and live music every night. I’m a big fan of their ahi tuna nachos and fish tacos. It’s the perfect spot to unwind, listen to live music, and sip a drink by the water.
Ramrod Key
Boondocks
Boondocks is a fun spot, though it’s become more commercialized since they expanded. It’s still a place for good vibes, with great bands playing and a fun game of putt-putt to keep you entertained. Perfect for a casual lunch or dinner.
Five Brothers Two
Five Brothers Two is a tiny Cuban market with the best Cuban sandwiches and coffee. If you’re renting a house in the Lower Keys, it’s the perfect spot to grab a sandwich to take to the beach or on the boat.
Cudjoe Key
Square Grouper
Square Grouper is one of my all-time favorite restaurants. Whenever I visit, I order the fried mozzarella for my appetizer and the shrimp pasta in a key lime butter sauce for my entrée. Although they don’t take reservations, I like to put my name in and head upstairs to the 420 Lounge for a cocktail and some live music while I wait. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day in the sun!
*Maven Tip: This restaurant is open for lunch and dinner, but the pasta isn’t featured on the lunch menu. Additionally, it’s usually closed on Sundays and Mondays.
Morning Joint
Morning Joint is a cute coffee shop with a great vibe. They’ve got a fun menu of coffee drinks, smoothies, and smoothie bowls, plus delicious breakfast and lunch sandwiches. Bonus: there’s also a truck outside serving homemade ice cream, making it the perfect spot to grab a treat after your meal!
Geiger Key
Geiger Key Fish Camp
Geiger Key Fish Camp is an open-air spot that has panoramic views of the mangroves and waterways, giving you an authentic Florida Keys vibe. I have to come here at least once every trip and I love the ahi tuna tacos and Hogfish tacos.
Stock Island
The Docks
Located on a fishing harbor in Stock Island, The Docks serves up some of my favorite craft cocktails in Key West and has a fun menu. I’m hooked on their grilled calamari and NY-style pastrami swordfish sandwich. While I love the menu, unfortunately, their burger isn’t impressive. I wouldn’t recommend it.
Restaurants at The Perry Hotel
Matt’s Stock Island Kitchen is the perfect spot to escape the heat by chilling inside at the bar or sitting in their outdoor seating area while sipping craft cocktails. I recommend their refreshing Cucumber Gimlet.
Salty Oyster has a more laid-back vibe and overlooks the pool and marina. The Pain Killer is the ideal drink to have while watching the boats coming in and out of the marina.
Key West
Baby’s Coffee
Baby’s Coffee is on Saddlebunch Key, just north of Key West (mile marker 15). It is my absolute go-to for iced coffee, whether I’m coming back from the airport or heading to the beach. I’m obsessed with their Jet Black roast and have bags of it shipped home all year long. The coffee is always fresh, and the vibe is super laid-back. Plus, there’s a food truck, Baby’s Grill, outside serving the BEST cheesesteak sandwiches.
Blue Heaven
When it comes to breakfast in Key West, this outdoor restaurant is my go-to. Even though you might have to wait for a table (they don’t accept breakfast reservations), it’s well worth it! While I wait, I always walk to their bar across the street for a mimosa and some live music. And don’t worry if you see some chickens and cats roaming around- it’s all part of the charm that makes this place unique.
I’ve been told the Lobster Benedict is fantastic, but when it comes to breakfast, I tend to stick to the basics – eggs, potatoes, and bacon. However, I must say that their homemade bread adds an extra touch to my meal and makes it even more delicious.
Seaside Cafe at The Mansion on the Sea
Seaside Cafe is a must if you’re looking for a chill spot to enjoy drinks and appetizers in Key West. Just steps from the ocean, with tables tucked between palm trees, it’s the perfect place to unwind and soak in the island vibes. I’m a fan of their mojitos and conch fritters, but they are famous for their lobster biscuits. With ocean views and delicious coastal dishes, the ambiance here is hard to beat.
Tip: There’s only outdoor seating, so be sure to dress for the weather. If it gets too hot, there’s plenty of seating under a pavilion.
DJ’s Clam Shack
DJ’s Clam Shack is a laid-back seafood shack on Duval Street with the BEST lobster roll. Seriously, the best lobster roll I’ve ever had, and I’ve tried them all up and down the East Coast. After ordering my food at the window, I sit at the front counter to see the excitement on Key West’s main strip. Head to the picnic tables in the back if you’re looking for something a little quieter.
Louie’s Backyard
I come to Louie’s Backyard if I want to dress up and have a waterfront view of the Atlantic Ocean. I like to arrive early and grab a glass of champagne on their lower deck that extends over the water. It’s the perfect spot to snap some photos before your meal. While I haven’t had it myself (I usually get one of their specials), I’ve heard nothing but rave reviews about their Shrimp & Grits. I recommend making reservations.
Latitudes
Latitudes is a waterfront restaurant on the private island of Sunset Key, just a short ferry ride from Key West. This restaurant has American cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood. Reservations are required, and the ferry ride is included.
Tip: Request an outdoor table for the best dining experience in Key West when making your reservation. I’d recommend booking an early time to arrive before sunset. That way, you can enjoy the scenic ferry ride and catch the sunset on Key West during dinner.
The Canary Room at the Casa Marina
I highly recommend checking out Canary Room if you’re looking for a classy bar for after-dinner drinks. I went three times during my last trip to Key West, and every drink I had was amazing, but my favorite drinks were the Hemingway Daiquiri and the Clover Club. They’ve seriously got the best craft cocktails in town. The atmosphere is nice, too, so it’s a great place to unwind after a long day in the sun. Definitely worth checking out!
Want more restaurant suggestions? See my post on Where to Find the Best Food in Key West.
Best Things to Do in the Florida Keys
Islamorada
Robbie’s
Robbie’s is a fun spot with plenty to do—eat, shop, and enjoy water activities. Here are a few of my favorites:
Tarpon Feeding: This is a must-do! You can grab a bucket of fish and head to the dock to feed the giant tarpon. It’s only $2.50 to get on the dock and $5 for a bucket of fish.
Kayaking and Paddle Boarding: Rent a kayak or paddle board through the mangroves and crystal-clear waters. Rentals are $50 for a single kayak and $60 for a double.
Snuba Diving: If you want to experience snorkeling and scuba diving, try Snuba! It’s a great way to explore the reefs, see colorful fish, and check out the coral formations. The trip costs around $200 for 2.5 hours of underwater adventure.
Marathon Key
Swim with Dolphins at The Dolphin Research Center
Swimming with dolphins is an unforgettable experience! You’ll get to meet a family of dolphins and sea lions, interact with them in the water, and even observe research studies to learn more about their behavior. Several packages are available, but the swimming experience is $225 per person.
Big Pine Key
Bahia Honda State Park
Bahia Honda is my go-to beach if I’m not heading to Key West. While the Keys aren’t exactly known for their beaches, this one is nice. The water is beautiful, and you can rent kayaks or book a snorkeling tour to explore the area. It’s the perfect spot to relax. The park is open 8 am to sunset and has an $8 parking fee.
Key West
Snorkeling
Island Jane Charters offer a 3-hour snorkeling and sailing charter for $79. The price includes all necessary equipment, water, soda, white wine, beer, margaritas, and champagne.
Kayaking
The Lazy Dog kayak tour offers a 2-hour kayak tour through mangrove tunnels for $60.
Beach
Key West has a few beaches, but my favorite is Fort Zachary Taylor State Park. This beach is beautiful and convenient, but there is a small fee ($2.50-$6, depending on whether you’re walking in or have a car). You don’t have to worry about lugging chairs and coolers because they have it all on-site. Stop at the Chickee Hut to rent chairs and umbrellas when you arrive, then head to the Cayo Hueso Café. They have sandwiches, wraps, smoothies, frozen coffee drinks, and beer and wine. The park is open from 8:00 am to sunset daily, and the Café and Chickee Hut are open daily from 10:00 am-6:00 pm.
Whether you’re flying into Key West or taking the scenic drive from Miami, this guide has all the best spots to stay, eat, and explore in the Florida Keys. From stunning beachfront hotels to must-try restaurants and fun activities, everything you need for an amazing trip is in this Ultimate Florida Keys Travel Guide!
