The Road Home
The southernmost stretch of U.S. Highway 1, running some 110 miles from mainland Florida throughout the Keys to Key West, has earned many names over the years. It’s been called the Florida Keys Overseas Highway. The Highway That Goes to Sea. But for those who love the Keys, it’s simply the road home.
Chris Bergh: The Nature Conservancy’s Steward in the Keys
Chris Bergh, The Nature Conservancy’s Florida field program director based in the Lower Keys, is optimistic about the Florida Keys’ future and ability to adapt to environmental challenges in the coming decades. His priorities include protecting the Keys’ water quality and environmental biodiversity to save endangered and rare species such as Key deer.
The Magical Mission of Santa Keys
Traditionally, people spend Christmas Eve anticipating a visit from Santa Claus. Yet those who love the Florida Keys (but can’t spend the holidays in the island chain) await another jolly bearded fellow: the legendary “Santa Keys.” Of course, as expected from a colorful Keys character, he does things a little bit differently …
Deck the Hulls in the Florida Keys!
Maybe it’s because the Florida Keys have never experienced a traditional white Christmas. Or because Keys residents are passionate about celebrating special occasions. But whatever the reason, despite the subtropical climate, people in the island chain go a little bit overboard with holiday decorations — and even “deck the hulls” for festive boat parades.
Choose Key West for a Dream-Come-True Wedding
There are many beautiful places to celebrate love with your toes in the sand, but nothing compares to a beachfront wedding in subtropical Key West. This idyllic island at the southernmost tip of the Florida Keys offers an enchanting, laid-back vibe that’s irresistible to couples looking for a memorable and magical destination wedding.
Valerie Preziosi: Steward of Endangered Key Deer
Valerie Preziosi, founder and president of the nonprofit Save Our Key Deer Inc., works to save the diminutive, indigenous and federally protected herd of about 800 Key deer from human-provoked tragedies. Also an avid nature photographer, she is opening a new state-authorized Key deer rehabilitation facility on Big Pine Key in late December.
Lights and Subtropical Warmth Flavor Florida Keys Holidays
In the Florida Keys, the holidays are celebrated with festivities that range from traditional to eccentric — with a unique island twist. Despite the lack of typical “winter” weather, people throw themselves gleefully into extended merrymaking. Discover some of the Upper and Middle Keys’ creative, colorful and heartwarming events sure to spark seasonal cheer.