Florida Keys
Overseas Highway, Key West, Coral Reef Diving, Sportfishing, Sunsets, Key Lime Pie, Dry Tortugas, Island Life
The Florida Keys are a chain of coral islands curving south-west from the tip of mainland Florida towards Key West, the southernmost city in the continental United States. They are linked by the Overseas Highway, a road of more than 100 miles that hops from island to island across a string of bridges.
The Keys sit beside the only living coral barrier reef in the continental United States, which makes them a favourite for snorkelling, diving and fishing. Key Largo is known for its underwater parks, Islamorada calls itself the sportfishing capital of the world, and Marathon is home to a turtle hospital and family-friendly beaches.
At the end of the road, Key West blends colourful conch houses, lively bars and a famous sunset celebration at Mallory Square. Ernest Hemingway lived here, and boats and seaplanes run to Dry Tortugas National Park, a remote cluster of islands and a 19th-century fort.
Top Reasons to Visit the Florida Keys
1. The Overseas Highway
Drive one of America's great road trips over island bridges, including the famous Seven Mile Bridge, with turquoise water on both sides.
2. Snorkelling and Diving
Explore the coral reef at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo, the first underwater park in the United States.
3. Fishing in Islamorada
Charter a boat for tarpon, bonefish and offshore species in waters celebrated by anglers around the world.
4. Key West
Wander Duval Street, visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, and join the nightly sunset celebration at Mallory Square.
5. Dry Tortugas National Park
Take a ferry or seaplane to this remote national park to snorkel around Fort Jefferson.
6. Island Flavours
Try key lime pie, fresh stone crab in season and conch fritters at waterfront restaurants along the Keys.
