Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) Market
Often referred to as America’s Caribbean, the Florida Keys and Key West is an island chain that begins where the megalopolis known as South Florida ends and extends 126 miles all the way to the Southernmost Point in the Continental U.S. Once you arrive in Key West, you are closer to Havana, Cuba than you are Miami.
The Florida Keys are made up different regions including the Upper Keys, Middle, Lower Keys, and Key West; each has its own unique flavor and offerings. Finding the right fit for your program is easiest when you understand what makes each one appealing for your group’s needs.
In, on, or under the water is the best way to describe the advantages of the Upper, Middle and Lower Keys. Water activities take center stage no matter where you decide to work and play. Diving, Deep Sea Fishing, Flats Fishing, Boating, Sailing, Snorkeling, Kayaking, Paddle Boarding, Wind Surfing, Jet Skiing and Kiteboarding offer a diversity of experiences for all skill levels and interests. If your attendees prefer a relaxing afternoon swimming on a secluded sandbar or a highly charged morning of kiteboarding, there is something for everyone and all takes place within the backdrop of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. In Key West, the entire town is your destination to explore. With more than 600 buildings on the National Historic Registry, the historic “Old Town” neighborhood is the perfect setting to discover eclectic eateries, funky music venues and local artist galleries. The island’s tree lined streets with charming architecture and tropical foliage are well suited for walking and biking.
Upper Keys: including Key Largo and Islamorada
The Upper Keys are a great way to transition programs that have been on the mainland of Florida before. Using familiar airports of Southeastern Florida (Miami, Ft. Lauderdale and West Palm Beach), clients get a chance to ease into an offshore experience without leaving the United States. Key Largo is an hour drive from Miami International Airport and Islamorada is just another 30 minutes. Shorter 3-4 night programs enjoy many of the meeting properties while longer 5-7 night programs indulge themselves in the destination resorts and all their pampering amenities. Activities such as deep sea fishing on the Atlantic Ocean and amazing flats and back country fly fishing charters on the Florida Bay side are among some of the most popular group activities. Educational opportunities and personal growth experiences can be achieved through day trips to the unique and unparalleled ecosystem within Everglades National Park. The only living coral reef in North America is at its closest and shallowest point in the Upper Keys and offers unprecedented views and access to undersea vistas and marine life.
Middle and Lower Keys
The half-way point on the journey down the historic Overseas Highway of the Florida Keys brings you to Marathon. Just two hours away from the mainland of Florida, Marathon is immersed in environmental wonders and is home to the Sea Turtle Hospital, Dolphin Research Center and Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters; all of which offer interactions with the marine life in a positive, educational and “once-in-a-lifetime” way. Marathon is ideally suited to create an immersive offshore experience and an environment to deliver a focused message to attendees. When the work is done, Marathon is easily accessible to explore the Upper Keys, as well as Key West.
Florida Keys Marathon International Airport is currently limited to general aviation use. The airport gives executives easier access into and out of the event, whether they charter a flight or fly their own aircraft. The airport recently added the ability to clear customs for international flights into the U.S.
Key West
Closer to Cuba than to Miami, the island has a “live and let live” attitude and boasts the “One Human Family” mantra. “Cookie cutter” and “big box convention” accommodations are left on the mainland. Each of our properties is as unique as the groups they cater to and finding the right “fit” for your program is paramount for the success of your event. Our tropical island offers an array of resort options for any group, whether it be the historic “Old Florida elegance” feel or a more contemporary modern vibe, you will surely find the perfect location for your group on our 2x4-mile island.
Incentive programs enjoy all kinds of area activities, such as the Key West Golf Club, a Rees Jones designed public golf course, plenty of water sports and activities, as well as the multiple state-of-the-art spa facility options.
Key West International Airport has scheduled daily jet service with major legacy carriers connecting through Miami, Atlanta and Charlotte. Regional air service is available through several Central and South Florida gateway airports. Many attendees take advantage of utilizing a South Florida airport for a couple days before the event and enjoying a leisurely drive down “America’s Scenic Highway”. At the conclusion of the program, they can easily return the car and fly home from Key West.