travel service center key largo fl

Your FIrst Destination!

Welcome to the florida keys visitor center - vacation in the keys.

The first stop Southbound as you enter the Florida Keys!  

Located on your right at:

106240 Overseas Hwy

Key Largo, FL 33037

Let's plan your florida keys vacation!

GUIDED KAYAK & PADDLEBOARD TOUR

Venture through the mangrove tunnels on a guided kayak or paddleboard tour. Your expert guide will point out where some of our manatees, dolphins, stingrays, turtles, birds, fish, and nurse sharks live and hide.

KAYAK & PADDLEBOARD RENTALS are also available.  Rent by the hour and explore on your own!

BOAT ECO TOUR & SUNSET CRUISE

The most relaxing way to enjoy Florida Bay and see the mangroves is on a captain-guided eco tour on the bayside. Enjoy one of the five daily 6-passenger boat tours through the mangroves where you’ll look for birds, manatees, and dolphins.

SUNSET CRUISE

Cruise Florida Bay and enjoy our beautiful sunset. The boat holds 6 people.  Feel free to bring your own food and beverages. Ask about bringing your pet if you'd like.

SWIM OR INTERACT WITH DOLPHINS

Interact with our Atlantic bottlenose dolphins! Choose dockside meet-and-greet, shallow water wade, deep water swim or trainer for the day. Parents observe and take photos for a minimal entrance fee. This 

not-for-profit organization helps dolphins rescued in the Florida Keys that are unable to return to the wild.

SNORKEL or SCUBA DIVE

In the Atlantic Ocean off of our coast you can explore the only living coral reef in the continental United States. You’ll travel offshore 5 miles so you must know how to swim. Most trips visit 2 stops (captain’s choice) where you can see tropical fish and colorful coral while snorkeling. Snorkelers, certified divers, and observers are on the same boat! Dive-only trips are available. Hire a guide or dive buddy if needed.

SANDBAR SNORKEL

Enjoy a relaxing boat ride out to the reef, snorkel in our clear tropical waters and then head to a local sandbar where you can hang out with the locals.

SCUBA IN A DAY

Great if you want to try Scuba Diving but do not have time to spend 2 to 3 days getting your diving certification. Under the direct supervision of your certified instructor, you’ll complete your coursework, have your morning lesson in the pool, and then take two afternoon dives in the ocean.

GLASS BOTTOM BOAT

Enjoy panoramic views of the beautiful ocean from the open-air sun deck as you cruise out to the reef. Once in the climate-controlled cabin (equipped with restrooms) look out of the large viewing windows as the tour guides explain our beautiful coral reef and point out sea creatures and tropical fish!

BOAT RENTAL

Take your family fishing, snorkeling or just hang out in Florida Bay. We have pontoon boats, center console boats or a slide boat available for full-day and half-day rentals throughout the Keys.  

Be your own captain or hire a captain! 

Most boats hold up to 6 people.

OFFSHORE FISHING

Our expert captains, located throughout the Keys, know the best places to catch fish! Choose offshore, inshore reef or flats fishing 

for a full-day, 3/4 day, or half-day. 

Some locations offer private charters for 4 to 6 people, split charters for single participants, or join a larger party boat holding up to 10 people.

JET SKI RENTAL & TOUR

Rent for 30 minutes, 60 minutes or 90 minutes (holds 2 people). 

Ask about the 1-1/2 hour guided tours.

parasailing

Single, double or triple flyers can enjoy the view from high above the Keys! Some boats allow paid riders.

everglades and alligators

Experience a 20 to 25-minute airboat ride (you’ll get wet!) through the Florida Everglades. There you can see alligators, fish, turtles, snakes, and birds. Headsets are provided. You’ll also enjoy the alligator show and alligator feeding. If you dare, get your photo with a baby alligator!

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Florida Keys Visitor Center

106240 Overseas Highway, Key Largo, Florida 33037, United States

305-712-6596

Copyright © 2024 THE Florida Keys Visitor Center - All Rights Reserved.

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Florida Keys Visitor Center

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Florida Keys Visitor Center - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• (0.20 mi) WATERFRONT DREAM!!!!
• (0.26 mi) Come, enjoy warm weather and breathtaking sunsets
• (0.31 mi) Waterfront Luxury Home with Private Dock, Pool & Ramp
• (0.34 mi) Key Largo updated Mobile Home 3/1.5 with 60 ft on canal with large tiki
• (0.37 mi) Bayside home with dock!
• (0.31 mi) The Buzzard's Roost
• (0.46 mi) Shipwreck's Bar and Grill
• (1.18 mi) Blackwater Siren Bar & Grill
• (2.18 mi) Jimmy Johnson's Big Chill
• (3.88 mi) The Fish House

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FloridaKeys.com

Key Largo & Upper Keys vacation & travel planning

Key Largo is the first stop on your journey through Florida’s tropical and charming chain of Keys. An outdoor and water lover’s paradise, it is surrounded by the warm waters of Florida Bay, the Florida Straits, the Atlantic Ocean and the only living coral reef system in the United States. Part of the Upper Keys, along with Islamorada and Marathon, Key Largo sits between mile markers 90 and 106. It is the longest of the islands in the Florida Keys.

Key Largo travel itineraries include deep sea fishing, diving, snorkeling, kayaking and visiting state and national parks as well as marine attractions and boat tours. Snorkel and dive among the unique underwater world of statues, fish and trails at John Pennekamp Coral Reef Park, which was the first underwater marine park in the U.S. Florida Keys big game fishing ranks among the best in the world. Catch mahi-mahi, tuna, tarpon and grouper on deep sea fishing charters.

After a day of adventure, sightseeing and water sports, spend your Key Largo vacation in relaxing comfort. Hotels include luxury resorts, small inns and other Key Largo vacation rentals. There are many rentals within close proximity to marinas and yacht clubs if you are traveling by boat.

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TollFree:  (800) 524-6240

http://www.vacationtravelclub.com

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Attire : Casual

Parking : Lot

Phone: (305) 853-5800

Address: 94500 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037

Website: http://www.vacationtravelclub.com

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Vacation Travel Club

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• 94500 Overseas Hwy Key Largo, FL 33037
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Vacation Travel Club is located at 94500 Overseas Hwy in Key Largo, Florida 33037. Vacation Travel Club can be contacted via phone at 305-853-5800 for pricing, hours and directions.

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Q what is the phone number for vacation travel club.

A The phone number for Vacation Travel Club is: 305-853-5800.

Q Where is Vacation Travel Club located?

A Vacation Travel Club is located at 94500 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037

Q How big is Vacation Travel Club?

A Vacation Travel Club employs approximately 20+ people.

Q How is Vacation Travel Club rated?

A Vacation Travel Club has a 1.8 Star Rating from 4 reviewers.

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Key Largo   Travel Guide

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10 Best Things To Do in Key Largo

Updated March 7, 2023

Part of the joy of visiting Key Largo is that there's no pressure to do anything at all. And for some, laying out on the beach all day may be the ideal vacation. But if you're looking to add some activity to your day (beyond taking naps in

• All Things To Do

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

Named after John D. Pennekamp, a former newspaper editor for the Miami Herald and noted Everglades conservationist, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park was developed in 1963 as the United States' first park under the sea. The state park is 25 miles long and 3 miles wide, and it is home to many aquatic plant and animal species, in addition to mangroves and various types of birds.

Visitors can enjoy the park in a number of ways. Water enthusiasts can admire colorful coral reef and the popular Christ of the Deep underwater statue on snorkeling and scuba diving tours , while those who would rather stay dry can sign up for a glass-bottom boat tour. There are also 47 campsites and designated spots for swimming, fishing and picnicking.

Everglades National Park Everglades National Park

Spanning 1.5 million acres of wetland across South Florida, Everglades National Park is a worthwhile daytrip for outdoor enthusiasts visiting Key Largo. There are multiple entrances into the park scattered throughout the Sunshine State; the closest to Key Largo is the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center in Homestead, which is about a 37-mile drive north.

Upon arriving at Everglades National Park (ideally in your own car, as there is no public transportation and car services have trouble navigating the area), visitors will find the largest subtropical wilderness in America. Manatees, crocodiles, alligators, Florida panthers and other wildlife all call the park home, as do a variety of plant species and diverse ecosystems. Outdoor activities abound for visitors of all ages, including biking and hiking trails, bird-watching, kayaking, camping, fishing and many ranger-led tours and programs. Past visitors were especially fond of the nearly mile-long Anhinga Trail and the tram tour through Shark Valley , and many others were floored by how easy it was to spot alligators and other wildlife throughout the park.

Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary

Most of Key Largo's dive sites exist within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, a protected area covering 2,900 square nautical miles. Developed in 1990 to protect precious coral reefs and other aquatic wildlife, the sanctuary is a joint venture between the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the state of Florida. Popular dive sites off the coast of Key Largo include Grecian Rocks, French Reef and Molasses Reef, and divers will also find several nearby shipwrecks to explore.

Recent travelers who took dive trips within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary had nothing but good things to say. Molasses Reef was deemed a great spot for snorkeling due to its shallow waters, while Grecian Rocks earned praise for its clear waters and abundance of fish.

Popular Tours

Key Largo Two Reef Snorkel Tour - All Snorkel Equipment Included!

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Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center free

The Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center is located a short 7-mile drive southwest of Key Largo in Tavernier, Florida. It consists of two facilities: an animal hospital where wounded birds are rehabilitated, and the Laura Quinn Wild Bird Sanctuary, which houses more than 90 birds (across 40 species) that cannot be released back into the wild due to sustained injuries. The sanctuary prides itself on providing humane, natural enclosures where the birds can live out the rest of their lives comfortably. Visitors can embark on a self-guided tour through the habitat to see hawks, owls, pelicans, vultures, herons and more. (Note: The animal hospital section of the center is not open to the public unless you are dropping off an injured bird.)

Recent travelers praised the friendly and informative staff, diverse bird population, live feedings and sunset views on the property. The Laura Quinn Wild Bird Sanctuary is open 365 days a year between sunrise and sunset. Admission is free, though the rehabilitation center does suggest a donation of $10 per person to keep the facility's mission running smoothly. To learn more, visit the Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center's website . 

Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park

At Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park, visitors can traverse more than 6 miles of accessible nature trails by bicycle or on foot. The park was named for Dagny Johnson, a local environmental activist. It's also home to one of the country's largest tracts of West Indian tropical hardwood hammock. The park features 84 protected plant and animal species, including flora like mahogany mistletoe and fauna like the American crocodile. For added convenience, visitors will find a picnic pavilion, as well as on-site restrooms. Most of the trails are paved, making them accessible to wheelchair users.

Recent travelers said the park is a relaxing place to stop and explore for a bit, noting that the park's relatively small size and paved trails were easy to manage for visitors of all ages. However, they stressed to load up on bug spray to combat the droves of mosquitos – especially during the summer.

African Queen Canal Cruise African Queen Canal Cruise

Built in 1912, this iconic steamboat's claim to fame is its role in the 1951 film, "The African Queen," starring Humphrey Bogart and Katharine Hepburn. The vessel has a storied history that spans more than a century and several continents, but it has resided in Key Largo since 1982. The African Queen underwent a $70,000 restoration in time for its 2012 centennial, and today it offers 90-minute dinner outings (with a stop at a waterfront restaurant) and canal cruise tours to patrons at 10 a.m., noon, 2, 4 and 6 p.m. daily.

Recent passengers offered mostly positive reviews and praised the knowledgeable, enthusiastic tour guides and relaxing ride through the canals. However, past travelers noted that an interest in the movie is a must, otherwise you may find the experience a bit dull.

Spiegel Grove Spiegel Grove

In June 2002, a retired Navy ship called the USS Spiegel Grove was intentionally sunk 6 miles off the coast of Key Largo to support the underwater ecosystem as a manmade reef. The 510-foot vessel is one of the largest ships ever to be sunk for that purpose, and it attracted fish and other marine life right away.

Fast forward to present day, and the wreck serves not only the environment, but also the diving community. It is a favorite dive spot among many recent reviewers thanks to its unique features and abundance of colorful fish. However, because of the massive size and positioning of this artificial reef (the ship resettled nose-up in 2005 after Hurricane Dennis, with its deepest spot at 130 feet), instructors recommend that only experienced divers take on Spiegel Grove. In fact, some areas of the ship are considered too dangerous even for those with high-level certifications.

Florida Keys Visitor Center Florida Keys Visitor Center free

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• SCUBA Diving/Snorkeling in Key Largo
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• SCUBA Diving & Trip Insurance
• New SCUBA Diver Certification
• Continuing Education
• PADI ReActivate SCUBA Refresher Program Course
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Discover the Underwater Wonders of Key Largo: Your Ultimate Scuba Diving Destination Florida, a state known for its stunning beaches and vibrant marine life, is a paradise for scuba diving enthusiasts. Among its many diving havens, Key Largo stands out as a gem. Here at the Key Largo Dive Center, we've witnessed first-hand why this […]

The ocean: a vast, captivating expanse hiding a wealth of secrets in its depths. With its vibrant ecosystems, fascinating creatures, and surreal landscapes, it’s no wonder many are drawn to explore its underbelly. Scuba diving presents an incredible opportunity to experience this aquatic wonderland. But before you can plunge into this aquatic adventure, there’s an […]

The Florida Keys Visitor Center

Review Highlights

“ Kenny Stanley has priceless advice on the tours times and if they are worth actually doing!! ” in 2 reviews

“ Every time we go down to Key West we make sure to stop by the visitor center. ” in 4 reviews

“ If you are looking for some guidance on snorkeling and/or scuba diving, I would highly recommend The Florida Keys Visitor Center. ” in 2 reviews

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106240 Overseas Hwy

Key Largo, FL 33037

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Your first stop Southbound as you enter the Florida Keys! Contact us for Tours & Activities, Activities for Kids, Hotel Rooms, Restaurants & Live Music, Snorkel & Dive Trips, Fishing Charters, Boat Rentals & Sunset Cruises, and Souvenirs & Shopping. …

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Nice visitor center offering lots of magazines, pamphlets, information and resources on things to do in the Keys..not only Key Largo. We asked a few questions to the lady working here and she was very patient and very friendly. Nice clean bathroom and lots of nice souvenirs.

See all photos from Robert S. for The Florida Keys Visitor Center

Nice bathroom More like a gift shop (found a great Hawaiian shirt) No maps or pamphlets Seemed that that upsold to sea escapes, fish trips and scuba adventure- no good suggestions

More like a souvenir shop

This is basically a travel agent trying to sell activities and lodging. They have a variety of souvenirs for sale at reasonable prices. I think the chamber of commerce visitor center would be more helpful.

David was exceptional! Knowledgeable, personable, and very informative. He gave us maps, discount cards, shared info about the weather and wave heights regarding boat rides David shared options for sunset cruises and different ways to go to Dry Tortuga National Park. David helped us make decisions & plan our exciting adventure!

If you are looking for some guidance on snorkeling and/or scuba diving, I would highly recommend The Florida Keys Visitor Center. Vicky took care of us and set us up an a tour with Horizon Divers. They took exception care of us and showed us a nice day on the water taking us to shallow reefs for viewing lots of coral reefs and tropical fish. Great for beginners to advanced. The captain and mate were great helping all and telling silly jokes! Thanks Vicky for the recommendation and making the reservation for us!

Tequila Dave was fantastic! We had a great time learning about the area, listening to fun stories, and he helped us book some amazing tours. He also guided us towards events that weren't bookable in advance due to COVID, and gave us advice on other area sights to see. I highly recommend a stop here!

This is the place to go for any bookings, reservations, souvenir shop. Anything you need make sure to stop by here! Ask for Dave. Great person and will welcome you like family. Every time we go down to Key West we make sure to stop by the visitor center. Highly recommend it. We got sunset cruise and Dry Tortugas

Thought this was the "official" visitors center, and when I entered I realized it wasn't. No literature.....and when I asked, I was given a map.

My wife and I stopped in here two years in a row. Captain Kenny was so knowledgeable and helpful in planing the activities we were interested in. All it cost us was a tip. The first time we stopped my wife accidentally took a book and when we got down the road she seen a price tag on it. So a year later I paid for the book when we stopped in and Kenny was understanding. Please stop in and talk to him. It is way faster than searching the web to be where you want to go.

Suuuuuper sweet lady at the front desk. Helped us a lot. Had very useful information. Felt welcomed. Loved it.

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Reader's Digest

Your Guide to a Florida Keys Road Trip: Key Largo to Key West

Posted: March 12, 2024 | Last updated: March 13, 2024

Your road trip guide to the Florida Keys

One of the best state road trips in America has to be the sun-kissed drive from Key Largo to Key West in the Florida Keys. This road, known as the Florida Keys Overseas Highway, takes you through a 125-mile island chain that begins just south of Miami. It hopscotches over 42 bridges and five islands, and has turquoise waters stretching in every direction into the Atlantic Ocean, Florida Bay and Gulf of Mexico.

So if you're looking for the perfect Atlantic Coast road trip or cheap beach vacation , look no further than this road trip guide from Key Largo to Key West. And if you'd rather travel from Key West to Key Largo, rest easy—the route works either way. There are shuttles that run from Key Largo to Key West, but keep in mind, you'd be missing out on all the fun in between.

By the way, once you embark on the Florida Keys Overseas Highway, you'll notice that many sites along the way use mile markers (MM) in their address. We use those mile marker points in this story to help you navigate the drive.

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Mile marker: 108–90

The first of the Florida Keys you'll hit after driving about an hour south from Miami en route from Key Largo to Key West is, well, Key Largo. Often referred to as the Dive Capital of the World, Key Largo includes one must-see stop: John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park (MM 102.5), the first underwater preserve in the United States.

Experienced and novice snorkelers and SCUBA divers will be enthralled by the teeming marine life that lives just below the water's surface, like parrot fish, barracudas and sea turtles. More experienced divers enjoy exploring the USS Spiegel Grove, one of the largest ships ever intentionally sunk to create an artificial reef where pretty fish can thrive.

Back on dry land, travelers can wander nearly six miles of trails at Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park, home to more than 80 species of plants and animals. You can also peruse the work of local artists at myriad galleries.

Best beach: Cannon Beach, found within John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, has shallow waters that are perfect for wading. You may even spot cannons and anchors on the beach that remain from a 1715 Spanish shipwreck.

Where to eat: Dig into the catch of the day at The Fish House, Key Largo Conch House or Snook's Bayside Restaurant & Grand Tiki Bar, some of the best traditional restaurants in the area. If you'd rather turf than surf, check out Jimmy Johnson's Big Chill.

Where to stay: If you can't get enough of the underwater world, stay at Jules' Undersea Lodge , the world's first underwater hotel. If you'd rather keep dry, try the adults-only Bungalows Key Largo .

Mile marker: 90–63

Next up en route from Key Largo to Key West is the fisherman's paradise known as Islamorada. Considered the Sport Fishing Capital of the World, it's where backcountry sport fishing and saltwater fly-fishing got their start. Countless seasoned boat captains are ready for hire to take you out to catch the wahoo, marlin, mahi-mahi and tuna that swim in these waters.

There's an even quirkier way to interact with fish here: hand-feeding the tarpon off the docks of Robbie's Marina (MM 77.5). Since 1976, countless Keys visitors have stopped to feed them, and more than 100 kinds of fish gather at the docks for their daily snacks. Feeding the fishies there is so popular, it's been named the No. 1 activity in all the Florida Keys.

Islamorada is also a terrific spot to kitesurf, stand-up paddleboard, go for a hike or take a bicycle ride. Stop by the Laura Quinn Wild Bird Sanctuary, where injured or displaced birdies now make their homes. Or visit the History of Diving Museum, which boasts one of the world's largest collections of diving helmets.

Best beach: Anne's Beach is popular with families (and dogs) because of its shallow waters and lack of waves. Take a walk along the boardwalk or enjoy a picnic at one of the covered tables.

Where to eat: For a quintessential casual Florida Keys meal, go to the Hungry Tarpon. If you want more elegant fare, make reservations at Chef Michael's for creatively inspired local dishes.

Where to stay: When it's time to lay your head for the night, check in to one of the new oceanfront suites at Cheeca Lodge & Spa , or your own cottage at The Moorings Village & Spa .

Mile marker: 63–40

Marathon is the island chain's top boating destination—and for good reason. The area boasts nearly 2,400 boat slips and plenty of facilities to accommodate sailors passing through. But you don't need your own boat to enjoy Marathon and its waters.

For a truly different experience, hop on over to Cruisin' Tikis and have a floating tiki bar adventure. Sunset, mangrove and harbor cruises are all available, as is a swim-stop cruise for a chance to jump into the water.

While you're here, you should also visit Pigeon Key, an island that is accessible by boat, trolley or walking the 2.2-mile Old Seven Mile Bridge. It has a museum to explore, either on a guided tour or on your own. The Bridge is open for walking, running, bicycling, rollerblading and, of course, watching the killer sunrises and sunsets.

Best beach: Sombrero Beach is one of the prettiest beaches in the Florida Keys—not to mention one of the best beaches in Florida . And it's not just popular with humans; sea turtles nest here between April and October.

Where to eat: For any meal, stop by Castaway, which has been serving guests for more than 70 years. Or make a night of it at Hide Away Café, which has an extensive wine list.

Where to stay: The Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club is set on the waterfront and gives you a taste of marina life. Lime Tree Bay Resort on Long Key has spacious townhomes for rent.

The Lower Keys

Mile marker: 40–4

After crossing the Old Seven Mile Bridge out of Marathon, you'll find yourself in the Lower Keys, where natural habitats and wildlife refuges thrive. It's no wonder this part of the Florida Keys is known as the Natural Keys. You might even want to consider taking an electric vehicle on this road trip so you don't disturb the animals.

Your best chance to spot a native Key deer, a subspecies of the Virginia white-tailed deer that somehow made its way south, may be in the National Key Deer Refuge, comprised of 9,200 acres stretching from Bahia Honda Key to Sugarloaf Key on the edge of the Gulf of Mexico. More than 20 endangered and threatened plant and animal species can be found within the refuge. Take a quiet walk at dusk or dawn for your best chance to glimpse a Key deer, or join a ranger-led tour to learn more about the area.

Aside from all the eco-friendly fun, Stock Island is well worth a stop. Their maritime history goes back generations, and the marina is filled with shrimping and fishing boats. Artists have been flocking to Stock Island, too, and share their works in galleries dotted across the small island.

Best beach: The shallow, clear water and white sand at Calusa Beach make it a locals' favorite. The beach is a perfect spot for snorkeling too.

Where to eat: In addition to the freshest of seafood, Big Pine Rooster serves up ribs and a special-recipe meatloaf. Or sip like the locals at No Name Pub, located on Big Pine Key.

Where to stay: Consider the waterfront Sugarloaf Lodge , stay in an Airstream at Big Pine Key Resort  or pop a tent on one of the reserved campsites at Bahia Honda State Park.

Mile marker: 4–0

You've made it to the end! Closer to Cuba than Miami, Key West is known for its nightly sunset celebrations, party atmosphere and laissez-faire vibe, but it's really so much more.

If you're a writer or bookworm, you'll certainly want to make plans to visit the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum, where you should keep an eye out for the famous six-toed cats. Then wander through Key West's Bahama Village, a 12-block area of historic homes and restaurants.

Consider a day trip to Dry Tortugas National Park, about 70 miles west of Key West in the Gulf of Mexico, where you'll find some hidden gems . The island, accessible by boat or seaplane, is popular for snorkeling and feeling like you're on your own private island, not to mention touring the Civil War–era fort.

Best beach: Fort Zachary Taylor Beach—or Fort Zach, as locals call it—predates the Civil War and boasts the island's very best sandy stretch.

Where to eat: No visit to Key West is complete without a meal at Blue Heaven, where you can dine with wandering roosters for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Or snag a spot on the tiny balcony at Santiago's Bodega for tapas and flowing wine.

Where to stay: The boutique Gardens Hotel , the adults-only Kimpton Hotels Ridley House  or the new Capitana Key West , to name a few. Wherever you stay, you're sure to find your place in Key West, and it's likely you'll follow so many others' lead and start planning your return visit before you even leave.

Art and history in the Florida Keys

Road-tripping from Key Largo to Key West, it's easy to appreciate all the natural beauty. That said, the Keys aren't just a terrific destination for eco-travelers, but artists and history buffs too.

It's easy for artists to find inspiration throughout the Florida Keys. Fortunately for road-trippers, there are many spots to stop and admire their work. One of the largest artists' communities in the Florida Keys is Stock Island in the Lower Keys, just about three miles from the commercial area of Key West. What was once a shrimping boat marina is now a blend of fishermen and painters, sculptors and other artisans who have created an energetic and supportive community.

For history buffs, in addition to Pigeon Key in Marathon and the Civil War–era Fort Jefferson in Dry Tortugas National Park, other must-stops in Key West include the Audubon House & Tropical Gardens, Harry S. Truman Little White House and the Southernmost Point in the continental United States.

Planning your Florida Keys road trip

Now that you're inspired to hit the road, it's time to start planning. After budgeting for a road trip , your next step is to decide whether you will travel south from Key Largo to Key West, or north from Key West to Key Largo. Or maybe you'll opt for a roundtrip.

If you're starting off in Key Largo, it's important to note that the Florida Keys Overseas Highway begins at the Miami-Dade/Monroe County line. So if you're flying to Florida, Miami International Airport (MIA) is the way to go. If you begin in Key West, the airport (EYW) is on the island.

If you're already driving one of the best road trip cars to get to Florida, you're all set. But if you need a loaner, choose one of the best cars to rent for a road trip . Consider packing these road trip essentials and download some of the best podcasts for road trips to make the miles fly by.

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