Vacation volunteerism, often called “voluntourism,” contributes to the self-sufficiency and sustainability of destinations like the Florida Keys. In the Keys, advocacy groups and learning-based attractions offer hands-on experiences that visitors can discover and enjoy — helping them find out more about impacts on Florida's reefs and environment and how the average person can help as a citizen scientist.
Calm summer seas in the Florida Keys mean easygoing and easy-on-the-environment watersports powered by people or the rays of the sun. Low-impact on-the-water activities include cruising warm, clear waters on a hydrobike, standup paddleboarding through the backcountry flats, or taking a dolphin watch and snorkel tour on the Keys’ first electric-powered charter boat.
As the Florida Keys ease into summer, the “Connect & Protect” program continues to encourage awareness of sustainable opportunities and memorable activities for visitors. Mindful travelers can boost their eco-awareness and take positive action through everything from a plastic-free challenge or a boater education course to connecting with the Coral Restoration Foundation.
The Florida Keys' shallow-water backcountry is home to one of the most diverse assortments of marine life in the world, and the tranquil region is an ideal place to explore nature by kayak. Eco-conscious visitors and nature lovers can immerse themselves in the honest, unspoiled Keys on a backcountry kayak adventure.
A rainbow flag can now be seen on the 523-foot-long Vandenberg, the second-largest ship in the world to be sunk as an artificial reef. Lying about seven miles off Key West, the "Vandy" draws divers from around the world ... and its rainbow flag is believed to be the first one ever displayed on an artificial reef.
The Florida Keys are home to the continental United States’ only living coral barrier reef. Underwater enthusiasts can help protect it by employing eco-friendly reef etiquette, using reef-safe sunscreen, taking the Nature Conservancy's #RespectOurReef pledge and other actions. Protection of this unique natural system is essential for enjoyment today and in the future.
Most Florida Keys anglers embrace the mantra that “a fish is too valuable to be caught only once.” While conservation of fish didn’t originate in the Florida Keys, the region is now the world’s poster child for it. Even novice anglers release every bonefish, permit and tarpon — generally all species except those that make tasty dinners.
Want to log a world-class, bucket-list dive experience? Then head for Key West this Memorial Day weekend for the 10-year “on-the-bottom” anniversary of the USNS Gen. Hoyt S. Vandenberg. Sunk May 27, 2009, it’s the world’s second-largest vessel intentionally scuttled to become an artificial reef — and the anniversary events will be unforgettable.
Some of the world’s most incredible natural resources can be found in the Florida Keys — including the continental United States’ only living coral barrier reef. Visitors can discover them, and become motivated to protect them, during soft-adventure activities, eco-travel experiences, diving or kayaking treks and stops at environmental attractions and wildlife refuges.
It’s easy to “unplug” in the Florida Keys & Key West. But a visit to the Keys is also a great opportunity to connect with — and become inspired to protect — the priceless environment of the United States’ southernmost island chain. Explore earth-friendly options and activities to make the next Keys adventure unforgettable.