There is So Much to Experience in The Florida Keys
07 Feb 2023
Ready for fun, sun, and a little adventure? There’s no place better to experience all of these things than in The Florida Keys. A paradise right off the coast of mainland USA, this string of Islands has it all: crystal blue waters for kayaking, lush coral reefs for diving and snorkeling, tropical beaches with some of the best sunsets around, quaint towns with friendly locals – and plenty more that will keep you entertained throughout your trip.
Whether you want to soak up some rays on one of the islands’ many sand beaches, try your hand at fishing off Big Pine Key or enjoy the tasty dishes served by locally operated seafood restaurants – there’s something here for everyone. With its tropical climate, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture, the Florida Keys are full of entertainment possibilities that await you.
If you’re ready to start planning your perfect getaway in The Florida Keys, then read on as we dive into some fun things to experience in this tropical destination!
Dolphin Research Center
If you’re looking for an unforgettable family-friendly experience with plenty of educational opportunities, then make sure the Dolphin Research Center is on your Florida Keys vacation itinerary. With over forty years of expertise in dolphin science, this world-renowned marine education and research facility offers unique opportunities to learn about one of nature’s most intelligent mammals.
Located just outside of Marathon in Grassy Key, this incredible facility serves as a marine mammal education and conservation center that facilitates groundbreaking research on dolphins and sea lions. Not only will you have a great time seeing these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat, but you’ll also be supporting an important research project that benefits dolphins throughout the region. At this incredible center, visitors can get up close and personal with trained dolphin specialists who work hard to ensure everyone has an unforgettable encounter.
From behind-the-scenes tours to interactive programs with trained dolphins, visitors can experience firsthand the wonders of these delightfully playful creatures while gaining deeper insights into their behaviour, ecology, and conservation needs. With tons of interactive activities geared towards educating visitors about these majestic creatures, it’s sure to be an enjoyable time for nature lovers of all ages.
Location
The Dolphin Research Center is located at 58901 Overseas Hwy in Grassy Key, Florida. Parking is available on-site.
Turtle Hospital
Located in Marathon, the Turtle Hospital provides long-term care to endangered sea turtles from all over Southern Florida. Visitors get a chance to explore this remarkable facility and learn about its amazing mission: rehabilitation and release of sick or injured sea turtles back into their natural habitat. You will get an up-close look at some of nature’s most beautiful creatures being cared for by professionals that dedicate their lives towards helping these sea creatures survive in our oceans today.
Offering visitors a chance to see firsthand how hundreds of endangered sea turtles receive care and rehabilitation, this hospital is absolutely one of a kind. You’ll get to observe giant loggerheads as they gain their strength and hear healing stories about recently released patients. These tours always end with special memories that will stay with you forever.
From educational exhibits about marine life conservation to getting up close with the recovering patients themselves, every single tour at Turtle Hospital contains inspiring moments like no other. A visit to the Turtle Hospital is sure to make your trip to the Florida Keys one you’ll never forget!
Location
The Turtle Hospital is located at 2396 Overseas Hwy in Marathon, Florida. Parking is available on-site.
Fury Water Adventures Key West
Do you have an adventurous spirit and a love of the ocean? A visit to the Florida Keys offers endless possibilities, but none quite compare to Fury Water Adventures Key West. Situated among the beauty of The Florida Keys, Fury’s authentic and breathtaking water adventures will transport you into another world – a world where lush coral reefs shimmer beneath crystal clear waters and majestic wildlife eagerly await your arrival.
From thrilling jet skiing rides in technicolour waters with unbeatable scenery to enjoying the panoramic views while parasailing, to snorkelling around North America’s only living coral reef, to enjoying drinks and live music on a sunset cruise, to informative nature tours showcasing a unique ecosystem like no other, Fury has something valuable for everyone in your party.
Fury Water Adventures promises guests an experience like none other – one that’s sure not to disappoint!
Location
Fury Water Adventures Key West is located at 631 Greene Street in Key West, Florida. Paid parking is available in the area.
Bahia Honda State Park
Explore the best of what Florida has to offer at Bahia Honda State Park in the Florida Keys. Located just an hour and a half south of Miami on Big Pine Key, this stunning park is home to some of the most breathtaking views and majestic landscapes along with crystal clear waters teeming with wildlife.
This idyllic setting offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience stunning natural beauty, swimming lagoons with crystal clear water, unforgettable views, amazing wildlife, delicious eateries, and activities like snorkeling, sailing, and biking through lush palm trees.
From boating and biking trails to snorkeling spots – the only limit is your own imagination. With so much to do during your stay at Bahia Honda State Park in The Florida Keys, it’s no wonder why more people are discovering its charm each year.
Whether you’re a thrill seeker looking for some sandbar hopping or a relaxed beachcomber searching for sea life along a beautiful shoreline, you’ll find what you’re looking for at Bahia Honda State Park. Don’t miss out on the chance to escape from reality and explore one of nature’s best-kept secrets!
Location
Bahia Honda State Park is located at 36850 Overseas Hwy in Big Pine Key, Florida.
History of Diving Museum
Have you ever wanted to explore the mysteries of the deep sea without diving in? Now, with a visit to the History of Diving Museum in The Florida Keys, you can! Located on a beautiful tropical island where calm Caribbean waters meet an array of vibrant marine ecosystems, this incredible museum offers visitors an opportunity to dive into sunken shipwrecks and experience rare finds from decades past under the shimmering surface of local reefs.
Dive into centuries worth of knowledge sure to spark your inner explorer and appreciation for human engineering feats daring divers have achieved since ancient times. Discover fascinating stories spanning multiple countries in a colourful journey through time that will capture your imagination while inspiring appreciation for this humble pastime.
Through priceless artifacts, interactive exhibits, and informative displays, guests can learn about every aspect of diving’s rich history – from its maritime roots to its innovation throughout subsequent generations. Whether you’re already an experienced diver or just want to explore this exciting activity first-hand, a trip to see what awaits within these walls will be nothing short of eye-opening.
Location
The History of Diving Museum is located at 82990 Overseas Hwy in Islamorada, Florida. Parking is available on site.
Old Seven Mile Bridge and Pigeon Key
Have you ever wanted to take a trip back in time and explore the golden era of The Florida Keys? Well, if so then I suggest planning a visit to Old Seven Mile Bridge, an iconic stretch of bridge nestled in the heart of the island chain. And just offshore lies scenic Pigeon Key – which for more than 100 years has been a symbol of resilient history and picturesque beauty in The Keys.
During my recent trip there, I had the amazing opportunity to explore the historic Old Seven Mile Bridge and Pigeon Key via The Pigeon Key Express – a “train” service that runs from the Visitor Center in Marathon. While it is possible to walk or cycle on the bridge, a ride on the Pigeon Key Express is unique in that it not only takes you to and from Pigeon Key, it also is narrated by an experienced guide, who outlines the history and importance of Pigeon Key and the Old Seven Mile Bridge.
Once on the Island, you can explore at your own leisure, or take a guided tour. You’ll get to travel back in time to the Henry Flagler era when you visit the museum. There are models that show the instruments used to build the bridges that connect the Florida Keys. You’ll also get a glimpse of how life was for the crews that built the bridges.
If you are a photographer, you’ll thoroughly enjoy all of the picture opportunities on Pigeon Key. From the break in the Old Seven Mile Bridge, to standing right underneath the bridge, to the scenic pier… there is no shortage of great photo opportunities.
Visiting both places will no doubt make for great memories that will last a lifetime.
Pro Tip: The train travels on the Overseas Highway for a short distance, and there are no seatbelts. Best to hang on tight – the ride can get a bit bumpy.
Location
The Old Seven Mile Bridge and Pigeon Key train leaves from the Visitor Centre located at 1090 Overseas Hwy in Marathon, Florida (Mile Marker 47.5 bayside between Faro Blanco Resort and the Marriott Hotel). Parking is available on-site.
Enjoy Your Time in Paradise!
The Florida Keys is a place like no other, and there are plenty of activities to keep you busy. Whether you want to explore the crystal clear waters or try your hand at some of the local cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this slice of paradise.
From Key Largo to Key West, the Florida Keys are a great place to travel if you’re looking for some fun in the sun. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head on down to the Florida Keys – you’re sure to have a blast!
Cheers,
Big Daddy
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Craig Silva
Craig is a husband, a father, team leader, travel and food writer, senior youth group coordinator, designer, brander, community builder, volunteer, and social media strategist. Craig likes to travel, go camping, go on road trips, watch movies, build stuff, operate the grill, and sing with his band. Craig is a member of the Travel Media Association of Canada. In June 2017, PR firm Cision identified Craig as one of Canada’s top 10 most popular male bloggers in the parents and family space.
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