Escape to Key Largo
Key Largo, the northernmost island in the Florida Keys, offers a friendly, welcoming vibe and vast natural beauty both on land and underwater. Known as the Diving Capital of the World, the area includes many extraordinary sites where divers and snorkelers can immerse themselves in the profound, quiet wonders of the marine ecosystem.
The Sea Monster of Carysford Reef
In the 1800s, the wrecking industry made Key West the richest city per capita in the United States. The Florida Keys wreckers were famed for their courage in salvaging crews and cargoes from sinking ships. Yet few people know they once salvaged a sea monster off Key Largo’s Carysford (today called Carysfort) Reef.
Experience Outdoor Dining at Morada Bay Keys Beach Café
Dining outdoors while watching the picturesque sunset is a signature Florida Keys experience, enjoyed by countless visitors to the subtropical destination. One of the primary places to enjoy it is Islamorada’s Morada Bay Keys Beach Café & Bar, an outdoor Mediterranean bistro café set in the sand that’s known for spectacular sunset views.
Four ‘COOL’ Things to Do This Summer in Key West
Key West is well-known for its frost-free climate, warm breezes, abundant sunshine, low precipitation during winter months and summer temps that rarely surpass the low 90s. But if summer days feel too hot, it’s easy to head for the island’s picturesque beaches, retail stores, restaurants/bars, museums or galleries that keep their A.C. cranking.
Mike Goldberg: Steward of Islamorada’s Coral Reef
In his previous life, Mike Goldberg was a Bear Stearns money manager. But things change, and a year ago, he and marine biologist Kylie Smith, a Florida Wildlife Commission scientist, spearheaded the founding of I.CARE — the Keys’ only Islamorada-based reef restoration organization — partnering with Mote Marine Laboratory and the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation.
Sea Turtles and Manatees Find Help in the Keys
As well as human visitors who come to the Florida Keys for rest and renewal, marine creatures in need also come calling. Some have health problems, while others are injured, orphaned or lost. Throughout the island chain, ailing sea turtles, manatees, dolphins and whales encounter dedicated professionals and volunteers ready to provide care.
Five Things to Love About Key West
Key West offers a delicious variety of restaurants, a supremely pet-friendly atmosphere, plenty of opportunities for on-the-water adventures, and a beach nicknamed to honor Elizabeth Taylor. Plus the island is famed for its subtropical year-round weather, enthusiastic diversity, and laid-back vibe that's light-years away from the hectic pace of the "real world."