The Florida Keys combine the features of a welcoming American small town with those of a Caribbean destination rich in mañana mindset, irreverent humor and unexpected joys.
In other words, the Keys aren’t just another vacation destination where all you do is get some sun, take a sightseeing tour or two, sample the regional cuisine and shop for a few souvenirs.
Paddle boarding, kayaking and kiteboarding with friends in the turquoise waters surrounding the Keys are activities often recommended by locals.
Certainly you can enjoy those activities almost anywhere along the 125-mile subtropical island chain. But the area’s vibrant and diverse vacation opportunities enable you to do much more than passively “see the Keys.”
The best way to have an extraordinary experience is to make a connection with Florida Keys locals. One of the island chain’s greatest “natural resources” is the friendly, easygoing people who make it their home.
As you explore the Keys, you’re likely to meet charterboat captains, artists, restaurateurs, animal rescuers, attractions operators, musicians and many others. Strike up conversations with them and you’ll find that insights from these creative, quirky, independent people offer a unique window into the island chain’s distinctive environment and culture.
But don’t just have conversations — take their advice on activities and places to go, and your vacation can become even more enjoyable than you might imagine. Instead of simply “seeing” the individualistic islands, you can experience them exuberantly and actively as a participatory adventurer.
For example, try kiteboarding with one of the Middle Keys’ experts, fueled by the ever-present breeze on the shallow flats. Catch and release a silvery tarpon under the guidance of an Islamorada charterboat captain, feeling that throat-catching wonder when you let it slip back into its saltwater home.
Savor the flavor of cool, tart Key lime pie at a waterfront restaurant while the sound of an island band sets your feet tapping — and ask the servers and musicians where their favorite local hangouts are. Plunge into the spectacular underwater world off Key Largo on a professional dive or snorkel excursion, and soak up crewmembers’ insights into the Keys’ lesser-known subsea spots.
Few people visit the Florida Keys without sampling a few pieces of Key lime pie. And local residents are happy to recommend their favorite spots for tasting the creamy dessert.
Connect with the unique ecosystem while kayaking through the tranquil Lower Keys backcountry, watching graceful sea birds and tropical fish as a naturalist/guide points out hidden wonders. Reawaken your creativity during classes led by Key West artists and artisans, or satisfy your sense of heritage by following the route of the historic Florida Keys Over-Sea Railroad.
You can even make a lasting difference during your vacation by joining Keys-based scientists and volunteers helping to preserve the region’s coral reef environment.
When you open yourself to chatting with Keys residents, seeking their insights and recommendations for off-the-beaten-path adventures, you can begin to sample the authentic lifestyle of the colorful, magical islands.
In fact, rather than being a typical “tourist,” you can practically become a part-time local — enjoying a vacation experience that fills your senses and leaves you feeling vibrantly alive. And what could be better than a getaway that results in new friends and a heart full of memories?
If you want to get Keys locals’ advice about their favorite places to relax and explore BEFORE you arrive — advice that can help you plan a richly satisfying sojourn in the island chain — just click here.
