Connect to Florida Keys Environment with New Eco-Experience Trail Pass

This Green Scene story spotlights an environmentally focused attraction, event, person or place that enriches the Florida Keys

FLORIDA KEYS — People making plans to explore the Florida Keys can now do it in a whole new way — a way that’s fun, fascinating and focused on nature. Visitors can now discover the island chain’s eco-attractions and environmental offerings by using the free Florida Keys Eco-Experience Trail pass. 

In a nutshell, it’s a mobile-exclusive digital pass that enables users to check in at area enterprises and earn points while exploring the rich natural world and wildlife of the Keys — the appealing, intriguing southernmost island chain in the continental United States.  

The Eco-Experience Trail pass includes nearly 50 geo-tagged, bookable activities that encourage people to experience and connect with the Keys’ environment and sustainability initiatives. It was created by the Florida Keys tourism council and technology company Bandwango, and plans call for even more activities and offerings to be added in 2024.

So how does it work? The first step is to access the pass at fla-keys.com/experience and activate it. After that, passholders can begin exploring parks and nature tours, wildlife centers and refuges, coral restoration opportunities, eco-adventures and much more from Key Largo to Key West. 

The pass also features fishing, diving and snorkeling tours in the protected waters of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary that surrounds the Keys — many conducted by sanctuary-certified Blue Star operators who are committed to promoting responsible and sustainable recreation practices that reduce environmental impact.

Upon checking in at a location on the pass, passholders receive points based on the level of the experience. When a specific number of points is earned, they can be exchanged for Keys-focused prizes. In addition, some participating businesses provide value-added offerings or incentives. 

“The Eco-Experience Trail pass is an easy-to-use, mobile-based ‘passport’ that introduces visitors to the best of the Florida Keys’ natural attractions,” said Rita Irwin, chair of the tourism council. “Once they connect with the island chain’s environment, they can make eco-conscious choices that help protect it.” 

And who wouldn’t want to protect and preserve that one-of-a-kind environment? Everyone who appreciates the natural world is encouraged to check out the pass today and start planning an “eco-experience” escape to the Keys.