Highlights

Pucker Pros Take Center Stage in Key West’s ‘Conch Honk’

Maybe chart-topping rock stars aren’t abandoning their guitars to play the conch shell. But that’s okay — because the “pucker pros” playing pink-lined shells were treated like rock stars at Key West’s recent Conch Shell Blowing Contest. The event saluted the Florida Keys’ seafaring heritage and centuries-old use of the “conch horn” for signaling.

By |2024-03-13T12:46:25-04:00March 13, 2024|

Explore the Family-Friendly Florida Keys

From special animal encounters to meeting sea turtles in their own hospital, the Florida Keys & Key West offer family-friendly activities to captivate visitors of all ages. Families can explore unique aquariums; lush botanical gardens; nurturing facilities for dolphins and wild birds; or a wildlife refuge that protects tiny indigenous Key deer.

By |2024-02-07T12:41:06-05:00February 7, 2024|

Seeing Stars in the Lower Keys

The Lower Keys are so well known as a stargazer’s paradise that, for four decades, the tranquil region has been the site of an exclusive gathering called the Winter Star Party — a gathering beside the Atlantic Ocean that provides an unparalleled opportunity for astronomers and enthusiasts. This year, it’s set for Feb. 5-11.

By |2024-01-18T11:29:48-05:00January 17, 2024|

Only-in-the-Keys Dive Spots for Your Underwater Bucket List

As well as the continental United States’ only coral barrier reef, the Florida Keys feature unique dive spots that provide unparalleled adventures for underwater enthusiasts. The majestic "Christ of the Deep" statue, an artificial reef created from a historic Florida Keys Over-Sea Railroad bridge, and much more await divers in the island chain.

By |2024-01-10T15:51:03-05:00January 10, 2024|

Sea Creatures Find Care in the Keys

Viewing a sea turtle release, and seeing the rehabilitated creature return to the Florida Keys waters where it belongs, can make you cry. There’s something about watching a turtle slip into its saltwater habitat and swim joyfully away that touches the heart and inspires a powerful sense of oneness with the natural order.

By |2023-11-08T13:42:06-05:00November 8, 2023|

Fantasy Fest Brings Exuberant Revelry and Costuming Creativity Oct. 20-29

Fans of the Florida Keys’ quirky creativity and whimsical spirit can celebrate both —and the island chain’s 200th anniversary — during Key West’s eagerly anticipated Fantasy Fest. The fabulous costuming and masking festival is scheduled Oct. 20-29, with a jam-packed schedule that includes masquerade balls, costume competitions, glamorous galas and a spectacular grand parade.

By |2023-10-18T16:43:40-04:00October 18, 2023|

Key West Remembers Jimmy Buffett

Legendary singer/songwriter Jimmy Buffett, who passed away Sept. 1 at age 76, is remembered and honored in Key West, the island where he developed his engaging tropical-flavored style. Jimmy discovered Key West in the early 1970s and it was his home for many years — inspiring classic tunes like the iconic “Margaritaville.”

By |2023-09-06T14:41:14-04:00September 6, 2023|

Saluting Diana Nyad on 10th Anniversary of Epic Swim

On Labor Day 2013, Diana Nyad walked ashore onto Key West's Smathers Beach — becoming the first person to swim from Cuba to the Florida Keys without a shark cage. Keys Voices marks the 10th anniversary of Diana’s iconic feat with a look back at the challenges and perseverance that led to its accomplishment.

By |2023-08-30T19:52:20-04:00August 30, 2023|

Gerrit Marshall’s Birthday Gift: Just Call Him ‘Papa’

Meet the newest “Papa.” White-bearded Wisconsin man Gerrit Marshall has won the 2023 Hemingway Look-Alike Contest, a highlight of Key West's Hemingway Days festivities. The retired television broadcast engineer triumphed over nearly 140 other contest entrants on his 68th birthday — just a day after the July 21 birthday of the original "Papa" Hemingway.

By |2023-08-07T12:22:14-04:00July 26, 2023|

Relaxing and Renewing in the Upper Keys

The Florida Keys are a relaxing and renewing locale with a unique natural environment designed for meaningful, enriching getaways — ideal for visitors craving restorative experiences for body and mind. In the Upper Keys, opportunities for self-care include inspirational guided art experiences, healthful yoga sessions, serene sunset cruises and tranquility-inducing spa treatments.

By |2023-07-05T17:34:24-04:00July 5, 2023|
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