Florida Keys Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Higgs Beach showing tropical scenes and a beach as well as a large group of people
Dry Tortugas National Park featuring heritage architecture and general coastal views
Smathers Beach which includes a bay or harbour, tropical scenes and a sandy beach
Florida Keys
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park showing marine life

Far removed from the mainland lifestyle, the laid-back Florida Keys are the perfect tropical paradise and one of the best destinations for a fun-in-the-sun holiday.

The Florida Keys are often called the American Caribbean, and for good reason. With balmy temperatures, pollution-free blue skies, bath-like turquoise waters and the only coral reef on mainland United States, there is much to enjoy. Unwind on the beach, party up a storm island-style and enjoy some watery eco-pursuits out on the waves.

The Florida Keys are an island chain at the southern tip of Florida, stretching over 100 miles into the Gulf of Mexico. At the furthest point from the mainland is the small but lively Key West, one of the most popular holiday hotspots.

For something more laid-back, try Key Largo, where you can explore the John Pennekamp State Park, or Islamorada, famed for its sport-fishing. In the middle of the islands is Marathon, home to many excellent holiday resorts. Off-the-beaten-track, Big Pine Key is the place to head for eco-pursuits and a truly relaxed vibe.

A holiday in Florida Keys means you can do as much or as little you like. Relax by the pool with a cocktail in hand, soak up the rays on a private island resort, or hire a boat and bob on the gently rippling sea. The waters surrounding the islands protected by the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary and the reefs are thriving.

Scuba diving here is first-class, and there are plenty of tours that will take you out to the best diving and snorkelling spots. Sport-fishing is big business, too, and you can book yourself on many eco-activities. You could also kayak to historic lighthouses, explore the Dry Tortugas National Park and Fort Jefferson or spend a day boating.

When you’re completely waterlogged, dry off on land. Discover museums such as Ernest Hemingway’s House, funky festivals and rustic restaurants serving fresh seafood. Walk the original ocean railroad, drive the 100-mile long Overseas Highway and while away evenings watching the sunset on the beach or at the daily Sunset Celebration in Mallory Square.

Holidays to Florida Keys come in all shapes are sizes. Choose from hotels big and small, luxury or budget, secluded or in thick of the action and enjoy some escapism from the real world.

Where to stay in Florida Keys

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Old Town Key West

5/5(6 area reviews)

While visiting Old Town Key West, you might make a stop by sights like Duval Street and Saint Mary Star of the Sea.

Old Town Key West
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Key West Historic District

4.5/5(66 area reviews)

Travellers to Key West Historic District praise its fantastic nightlife. If you've got some more time to explore, be sure to stop by Duval Street and Saint Mary Star of the Sea.

Key West Historic District
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Downtown Key West

While visiting Downtown Key West, you might make a stop by sights like Duval Street and Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum.

Downtown Key West
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New Town

4.5/5(6 area reviews)

While there might not be top attractions in New Town, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Smathers Beach and Key West Tropical Forest and Botanical Garden.

New Town
Harry S. Truman Little White House showing a house, a park and heritage elements

Truman Annex

If you're spending some time in Truman Annex, Harry S. Truman Little White House and Mel Fisher Maritime Museum are top sights worth seeing.

Truman Annex
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Historic Seaport

If you're spending some time in Historic Seaport, Duval Street and Key West Shipwreck Museum are top sights worth seeing.

Historic Seaport
Hawks Cay Resort
Hawks Cay Resort
4 out of 5
61 Hawks Cay Blvd, Marathon, FL
The price is £235 per night from 6 Jul to 7 Jul
£235
6 Jul - 7 Jul
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this beach hotel in Marathon. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, 5 outdoor pools and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in their reviews. ...
8/10 Very Good! (1,004 reviews)
"My family loved staying at hawks cay resort! The whole property was beautiful. All staff was friendly and always willing to help in anyway. We loved the pools and splash pad. Close to many restaurants and stores. Will definitely be looking forward to coming back!"

Reviewed on 20 Jun 2025

Hawks Cay Resort
Amara Cay Resort
Amara Cay Resort
4 out of 5
80001 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL
The price is £198 per night from 6 Jul to 7 Jul
£198
6 Jul - 7 Jul
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star beach resort in Islamorada. Enjoy 2 restaurants, a private beach and 3 bars/lounges. Our guests praise the pool and the bar in their reviews. ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,218 reviews)
"Enjoyed relaxing by the beach."

Reviewed on 22 Jun 2025

Amara Cay Resort
Isla Bella Beach Resort & Spa
Isla Bella Beach Resort & Spa
5 out of 5
1 Knights Key Boulevard, MM 47, Marathon, FL
The price is £269 per night from 6 Jul to 7 Jul
£269
6 Jul - 7 Jul
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 5-star luxury hotel in Marathon. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, 5 outdoor pools and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in their ...
9/10 Wonderful! (1,007 reviews)
"Nice big oceanfront rooms, very clean and comfortable"

Reviewed on 19 Jun 2025

Isla Bella Beach Resort & Spa
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Yacht Haven Marina
Yacht Haven Marina
3.5 out of 5
5 Sombrero Blvd, Marathon, FL
Stay at this 3.5-star houseboat in Marathon. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a picnic area. Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. Popular ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (161 reviews)
"Great people"

Reviewed on 21 Jun 2025

Yacht Haven Marina
Old Wooden Bridge Resort and Marina
Old Wooden Bridge Resort and Marina
2.5 out of 5
1791 Bogie Drive, Big Pine Key, FL
Stay at this cottage in Big Pine Key. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a marina. Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. Popular attractions ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (240 reviews)
"The property was clean and close to Key West. The pool was good for my grandson. The office personnel were friendly."

Reviewed on 19 Jun 2025

Old Wooden Bridge Resort and Marina
Tropical Cottages
Tropical Cottages
3 out of 5
243 61st Street Gulf, Marathon, FL
Stay at this cottage in Marathon. Enjoy free parking, daily housekeeping and a garden. Popular attractions Sombrero Beach and Crane Point Museum and Nature Center ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (817 reviews)
"Cute place, convenient location"

Reviewed on 17 Jun 2025

Tropical Cottages
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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