The Florida Keys experience is all about a laid-back attitude, a sense of welcome, and an approach to living that blends individuality and a deep appreciation for relaxation. But it doesn’t have to end when a vacation ends. With a little imagination, the essence of the Keys experience can be savored all year long.
As many as 800,000 divers travel to the Florida Keys each year to discover the wonder and beauty of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, whose waters surround the island chain. Here, Keys dive pros offer tips for safe, successful and memorable dive experiences — and suggestions about giving back to the marine environment.
Now that 2025 has arrived with all its fanfare and festivities, far too many people are facing snowy winter weather and the return to a monotonous daily routine. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Instead of enduring the post-holiday blahs, take a break — and relax and recharge in the Florida Keys.
Recently the Florida Keys’ Conch Republic lost a beloved guiding spirit: Captain Finbar Gittelman. Owner and master of the majestic Schooner Wolf, he was the longtime First Sea Lord and Supreme Commander of the Keys’ picturesque Conch Republic Military. Now those who loved him, and the Conch Republic, will carry on his legacy.
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.
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 …
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.
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, 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.
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.