Come Back to the Keys Starting Oct. 1

The Florida Keys are reopening to visitors Sunday, Oct. 1, following recovery efforts after Hurricane Irma impacted the island chain Sept. 10. Recovery is progressing well and the spirit and resilience of Keys residents is strong, despite the difficult hurricane impacts and aftermath. Many Keys special events — including Key Largo’s Oct. 18-22 Humphrey Bogart Film Festival, Key West’s Oct. 20-29 Fantasy Fest and Marathon’s Oct. 21 Stone Crab Eating Contest — are to take place as planned.

By Carol Shaughnessy|2021-01-17T19:10:53-05:00September 27, 2017|

The Florida Keys’ Road to Recovery

The southern stretch of U.S. Highway 1, running from mainland Florida throughout the Florida Keys to Key West, has been called the Overseas Highway, the Highway That Goes to Sea, and -- for those of us who love the island chain -- the road home. Now, following Hurricane Irma’s assault on the Keys and parts of mainland Florida, it's also an enduring symbol of our road to recovery.

By Carol Shaughnessy|2017-09-16T21:29:10-04:00September 16, 2017|

A Partnership to Protect Keys Visitors

For those of us whose job and passion it is to showcase the Florida Keys to visitors, major storms are something to take seriously — and be proactive and honest about. As concerns about Hurricane Irma loom for so many people, the Keys tourism website is featuring the latest updates about the storm and its potential path, strength and timing, and vital evacuation information.

By Carol Shaughnessy|2017-09-06T00:34:42-04:00September 5, 2017|

Five Hidden Gardens Showcase Keys’ Rare Beauty

Experience an in-depth sojourn in the subtropical Florida Keys & Key West, and you’re likely to discover some fascinating indigenous species in hidden, tucked-away gardens nestled throughout the 125-mile-long island chain. Here’s an intriguing look at five gardens well worth exploring.

By Laura Myers|2021-05-13T15:36:02-04:00August 2, 2017|

Underwater Music Festival ‘Makes Waves’ for Reef Protection

For more than three decades, the Lower Keys Underwater Music Festival has spotlighted coral reef protection and environmentally responsible diving. The unique “submerged songfest” takes place in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary at beautiful Looe Key Reef (about six miles south of Big Pine Key).

By Carol Shaughnessy|2021-05-13T15:35:24-04:00July 5, 2017|

Simply Saltwater: Florida Keys Water Adventures Beckon

The Florida Keys offer a terrific choice of sea-based adventures that you can discover at your own pace, according to your own energy level. With options that range from paddleboarding to snorkeling, you only need one basic ingredient to have an exhilarating outdoor experience in the Keys: simply saltwater!

By Julie Botteri|2021-05-13T15:35:22-04:00June 28, 2017|

‘Keymandments’ Encourage Simply Sustainable Enjoyment

Encouraging environmentally responsible behaviors is vital in protecting the Florida Keys' natural resources — including the continental United States’ only living coral barrier reef. Visitors can share Keys residents' commitment to preserving the unique ecosystem by following the “10 Keymandments.”

By Julie Botteri|2017-06-21T17:24:47-04:00June 21, 2017|

A Florida Keys Escape Means Simply Serenity

When work schedules and responsibilities seem especially stressful, the siren song of the subtropical Florida Keys can be almost impossible to resist. And why resist? The inviting island chain offers SO many ways to treat body and mind to “unplugged” relaxation, both on and off the water.

By Julie Botteri|2021-03-24T10:42:21-04:00June 14, 2017|

Simply Delicious: Unforgettable Keys Cuisine

Florida Keys diners feast on local fish, shrimp, lobster and stone crab — often flavored with tropical fruits and spiced with influences from the island chain's rich melting-pot history. As well as fueling many local eateries’ success, this simply delicious cuisine has inspired culinary experiences from festivals to classes.

By Carol Shaughnessy|2017-06-07T16:52:36-04:00June 7, 2017|

Don’t Call it the ‘Kontch’ Republic

If you want to be mistaken for a Florida Keys resident — or at least a savvy regular visitor — don’t ever say “kontch.” The widely-used word “conch” is pronounced “konk" on the island chain that's proudly known as the Conch Republic.

By Carol Shaughnessy|2021-01-17T19:41:19-05:00April 12, 2017|

Big Pine Key & the Lower Keys