The Islands of the Florida Keys make for an unforgettable vacation

The Florida Keys are made up of about 1700 islands. The inhabited Keys are connected by Highway US1, which is also known as the Overseas Highway. It was completed in 1938.

Stretching 126 miles, the stunning Florida Keys are a perfect escape

Some animals of the Keys: Key Deer, Lower Keys Marsh rabbit, Key Largo wood rat, Manatee, Caribbean Monk Seal, sea turtles, osprey, bald eagle, and so many more.

Florida Keys

The first inhabitants of the Florida Keys were Indigenous people the Calusa and the Tequesta. The first European to explore the Florida Keys was Juan Ponce de León. He arrived in Florida in 1513. The Native people defeated his attempts to colonize the region for Spain. In August 2005 New Orleans was hit by Hurricane Katrina. Much of the city was flooded and many building were destroyed. Yet, New Orleans gradually recovered from the disaster. People began to return to the city and in 2006. Many residents have since rebuilt their homes and businesses. Today tourism in New Orleans is booming. In 2019 the population of New Orleans was 390,000. New Orleans is a soft after vacation spot. With any attractions and sights for tourists to enjoy and experience.Key West began to grow into Florida's largest town due to its proximity to Cuba and the Bahamas. It was also a trade route to New Orleans. In 1822, the Keys became an official part of the United States. By the early 1900s Key West's prosperity began to decline as better navigational techniques reduced area shipwrecks. The Florida Keys are often divided into several different groups. These groups are the Upper Keys, the Middle Keys, the Lower Keys, and the Outlying Islands. The Upper Keys are those located the farthest north and closest to Florida's mainland, and the groups extend out from there. The city of Key West is located in the Lower Keys. The Outer Keys consist of islands that are reachable only by boat.

Places to Visit

Reef Snorkeling Excursion

Spend an afternoon off the coast of Key West on this half-day cruise. Hop aboard a catamaran and sail to North America's only living coral barrier reef to go swimming and snorkeling. There, you’ll have the chance to spot colorful fish, coral, and other local sea life.

Snorkeling

Key West Sunset Sail

Watch sunset over Key West—without the crowds—on this catamaran sailing cruise that includes fresh appetizers, full liquor bar, sparkling wine, and beer all while sailing aboard a 70’ catamaran. A relaxing way to end a day in Key West with live music featuring local musicians

Sunset Sail

Shark Viewing Adventure

See wild sharks, dolphins, stingrays and other marine life in action on this Key West boat tour that lets you get up close while staying dry. The captain and professional guides drops bait to lure a variety of sharks right to the side of the boat for a safe yet thrilling swarm.

Shark & Wildlife Viewing

Interesting Facts

• The first inhabitants of the Florida Keys were the Native American tribes Calusa and Tequesta.
• The term “Key” comes from the Spanish word “Cayo” which means small island.
• A few miles offshore from the Florida Keys is the Florida Reef. It is the only living coral reef system in the United States and is the third largest barrier reef in the world.
• In total there are over 1,700 Islands that make up the keys.
• 43 Keys are connected via bridges.
• The Florida Keys Overseas Highway is 113 miles long and 18.8 of those miles are made up of bridges.
• The Seven Mile Bridge is one of the longest segmental bridges in the world.
• Located just a few miles offshore from the Florida Keys is the Florida Reef. It is the only living coral reef system in the United States and is the third largest barrier reef in the world.
• There are nine historical underwater shipwrecks that extend from Key Largo to Key West.
• The Florida Keys are home to an endangered species, the key deer.
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• Key West is the southernmost city is closer to Havana, Cuba than Miami, Florida.