I’ve been to the Florida Keys more times than I can count- definitely over 100- and I still find new things to love every trip. Whether you’re snorkeling over coral reefs, kayaking through mangroves, or sitting on a beach with a cocktail in hand, there’s plenty to keep you busy (or not, if relaxing is more your thing). And, of course, no trip is complete without fresh seafood and waterfront dining. If you’re planning a trip, I’ve got you covered. Keep reading for the absolute must-dos in the Florida Keys!
*Even though I’ve listed these activities under specific islands, you can find most of them throughout the Keys. No matter where you stay, you’ll have easy access to incredible adventures, beautiful beaches, and unforgettable experiences!
I’ve listed my favorite must-dos, but check out my Ultimate Guide to the Florida Keys to help you plan the perfect Florida Keys trip!
Must-Dos in the Florida Keys: Water Activities
Getting out on the water is one of the top must-dos in the Florida Keys to truly experience their beauty!
Snorkel
Big Pine Key
Captain Hook’s offers unforgettable snorkeling trips to Looe Key Reef, one of the area’s most vibrant and breathtaking coral reefs. With over 150 species of colorful fish, it’s an experience that will leave you in awe. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a first-timer, the stunning marine life and crystal-clear waters make for an incredible trip. Four-hour charters start at just $49. This price includes a mask, fins, snorkel, and vest.
Key West
Snorkeling with Island Jane Charters offers a variety of reefs to explore, each located about an hour’s boat ride from the dock. Their 3-hour snorkeling and sailing charter is priced at $79 and includes all necessary equipment, water, soda, white wine, beer, margaritas, and champagne to enjoy while you sail.
Kayak and Paddle board
Islamorada
Rent a kayak or paddleboard at Robbie’s and paddle through the mangroves and crystal-clear waters. Rentals are $50 for a single kayak and $60 for a double.
Key West
The Lazy Dog kayak tour offers a 2-hour tour through mangrove tunnels for $60.
Snuba Dive
SNUBA diving is like snorkeling, but with a twist—you dive up to 20 feet without the heavy gear or training! You’ll breathe through a regulator connected to a floating raft, making it an easy and fun way to explore the underwater world. Perfect for anyone who wants a taste of diving without the training.
Islamorada
Robbie’s starts at around $200 for 2.5 hours.
Key West
Snuba Key West offers a 3-4 hour charter for $120.
Swim with Dolphins
Swim with Dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center in Marathon. It’s an unforgettable experience! You’ll meet a family of dolphins and sea lions, interact with them in the water, and observe research studies to learn more about their behavior. Several packages are available, but the swimming experience is $225 per person.
Tarpon Feeding
If you’re in Islamorada, this is a must-do at Robbie’s! 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.
Must-Dos in the Florida Keys: Visit the Beach
Big Pine Key
Bahia Honda State Park 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 a gem. The waters are 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 from 8 am to sunset and has an $8 parking fee.
Key West
Fort Zachary Taylor State Park is my favorite in Key West. 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.
I love to go to Higgs Beach because of the restaurant Salute! On the Beach is located here. I rent my chair, walk over to Salute’s walkup window, and order a margarita to drink in my chair- it’s the only way I can take the sun! Salute has indoor and covered outdoor seating if you need a break from the sun. I love having a restaurant located just steps from my beach chair. Restroom and shower facilities are available at Higgs Beach, too!
Smather’s Beach is the largest public beach in Key West. I don’t usually come here, as it gets busy, especially during spring break. But if you’re up for it, Sunset Watersports is located on this beach and offers everything from beach chairs to paddle board rentals. Restrooms are available. Beach hours are sunrise to sunset and Sunset Watersports rentals are available 9am-5pm.
Must-Dos in the Florida Keys: Explore Key West
Rent a Golf Cart
Zipping around on a golf cart is a fun way to explore Key West. We’ve rented an electric golf cart from HydroThunder and had a blast! A four-seater starts at $90 for 3 hours.
Old Town Trolley Tour
Old Town Trolley Tour is a fun and convenient way to explore the island. It has a hop-on-hop-off option and is the perfect way to see the sights at your own pace.
See the Southernmost Buoy
This buoy symbolizes Key West’s geographic location. It’s a touristy spot and typically has long lines for photos, but at least you can see the ocean while you wait.
Explore Duval Street
This street is filled with activity day and night. You’ll see historic landmarks, art galleries, cafes, lively bars, and souvenir and boutique shops. The north end of Duval is too touristy for me; I prefer the southern end, which has nicer boutiques and wine shops and is not as rowdy. My favorite boutiques are The Green Pineapple and Shaddow and Fish.
Hemingway Home
Touring the Earnest Hemingway Home is a must-see for literature enthusiasts and history buffs.
Listen to Live Music
Listening to live music is a must-do in the Florida Keys. From casual beach bars to iconic venues, Key West has no shortage of live music. Sloppy Joe’s is popular, but my favorite places to go for music are Mangos (my favorite performer is Bootle), Hanks of the Dog, and The Green Parrot.
Must-Dos in the Florida Keys: Eat!
Eating is one of the most important must-dos in the Florida Keys, with fresh seafood and unique dining spots around every corner. Whether you’re enjoying a laid-back beachside meal or opting for a more upscale dining experience, the food here is as unforgettable as the views.
Best Beach Bars in the Florida Keys
Islamorada
The Beach Café at Morada Bay is one of my favorite waterfront dining spots in the Florida Keys. It 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.
Marathon
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 beachy cocktails. It’s the ultimate spot to relax and enjoy a meal by the water!
Little Torch Key
Kiki’s Sandbar is the ultimate casual beach bar with amazing food and live music every night. I’m a big fan of their ahi tuna nachos and fish tacos—both are must-tries. It’s the perfect spot to unwind, listen to live music, and sip a drink by the water.
Best Restaurants in the Florida Keys
Cudjoe Key
Square Grouper 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 drink and some live music while I wait. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day in the sun!
Gieger Key
Gieger 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 love the ahi tuna tacos and Hogfish tacos. Pro tip: this restaurant is in the marina, so consider a fishing or boat charter, or go kayaking and paddle boarding through the mangroves before grabbing a bite. It’s the ultimate Keys experience!
Key West
If you’re looking for a relaxing spot to enjoy some drinks and an appetizer in Key West, you can’t miss Seaside Cafe at Mansion on the Sea. This is my favorite spot and is definitely one of my must-dos in the Florida Keys. Its prime location steps from the ocean and tables scattered between palm trees make it the perfect place to unwind and soak up the island vibes. I love their mojitos and conch fritters, but they are famous for their lobster biscuits. The ocean views and coastal dishes make it hard to beat the ambiance here.
I come to Louie’s Backyard if I want to dress up and have a waterfront view of the Atlantic Ocean. Just make sure to make a reservation in advance to secure your spot! 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.
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.
I’ve listed a few of my favorite restaurants in Key West, but check out my guide Where to Find the Best Food in Key West for more!
Whether you’re out on the water, soaking up the sun on the beach, or eating your way through the Keys (because the food is that good), these must-dos in the Florida Keys guarantee a trip you won’t forget.
