First Timer's Guide to the Florida Keys

Located on the southern tip of Florida lies a string of tropical islands called the Florida Keys. With more popular destinations in Florida like Orlando, Palm Beach and Miami, the Keys are occasionally overlooked by some . It’s a real shame because I think it’s one of the most beautiful destinations in the United States! I remember seeing it for the first time while watching one of Netflix’s popular series, Bloodline and thinking to myself “Wow that place is stunning”. The gorgeous scenery and tropical vibes sparked my interest right away and next thing you know, I’m already plotting a visit to the Florida Keys!

There are three airports you can fly into: Miami International Airport, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and Key West International Airport. Although it is the furthest out of the three airports, me and my friend Mariana from Mariana’s Postcards chose to land in Fort Lauderdale because of the cheaper flights.

How to get around:

The Keys are divided into five regions: Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, Big Pine & Lower Keys, and Key West. For our trip, we mainly focused on Key Largo, Islamorada and Key West. The best way to get around is to rent a car and go on a road trip! Although it takes about 4 hours to get to Key West from Fort Lauderdale, we didn’t mind the drive thanks to the scenic, 113-mile long Overseas Highway that boasts 42 bridges that connect the islands, including the renowned seven-mile bridge. Once you get to Key West, most hotels offer free shuttle services if you want to explore Old Town Key West.

When to visit:

We visited at the end of August and it was really hot and humid. Weather forecast predicted a lot of rainy days but it only rained one day during our trip to the Keys. For the best weather, you should visit between March and May. However, an off-season visit from June to November (hurricane season) is the best time to go budget wise.

Key Largo and Islamorada

Key Largo was our first stop during our 5 day trip to the Florida Keys. It has a long history of marine conservation since the 1960’s and has been protected from spearfishing and coral collection for four decades. Nowadays, it is regarded as the Diving Capital of the World!

If Key Largo is famous for its diving spots, Islamorada is known as the Sport Fishing Capital of the World. It is where backcountry sport fishing and saltwater fly-fishing were pioneered.

Where To Stay:

Kona Kai Resort, Gallery and Botanic Gardens

97802 Overseas Highway Key Largo, FL 33037

Website: Kona Kai Resort

Our first night in Florida Keys was spent in this quaint resort located in Key Largo. Since it’s reserved exclusively for adults, this 13-suite boutique resort is perfect for those looking for a more intimate and relaxed setting. Aside from having a gorgeous waterfront location, Kona Kai also incorporated a botanic garden that has a collection of over 250 tropical species.

During our stay we enjoyed several on site amenities such as: waterfront freshwater pool and jacuzzi, beachfront hammocks, ping-pong by the beach, complimentary kayaks, stand up paddle boards and paddle boats. If that’s not impressive enough, they also have a tennis and shuffleboard court, BBQ grills, complimentary bottled water and fruits served poolside and in-suite or beachfront massage as well as private yoga.

One of the things that I absolutely loved about Kona Kai was how cute and charming the guest rooms are! Our suite had an adorable cottage style decor complete with island inspired furnishings, living room, dining room and a fully equipped kitchen. The best part? The bed was super comfy and made it easy for me to fall asleep especially after a long day of travel!

Things To Do:

Snorkeling Excursion at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

102601 Overseas Highway (MM 102.5) Key Largo, FL 33037

Website: John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is the first undersea park in the United States and encompasses approximately 70 nautical square miles. There are several activities you can do which includes scuba, glass bottom boat tours, snorkeling tours and boat and kayak rentals. One of the main attractions inside the state park is the famous statue called “Christ of the Deep” that is a replica of a statue called “Il Christo Degli Abissi” that is located in the Mediterranean Sea of Italy.

Unfortunately, due to low visibility we weren’t able to see the statue. However, the boat captain and crew brought us to another snorkeling spot and it was absolutely amazing! I saw a variety of sea creatures plus some of the most beautiful coral reef. You guys definitely have to see it for yourselves!

Snorkeling Tour (lasts 2 1/2 hours): $29.95 per person. Equipment rental available on-site.

Tarpon Feeding at Robbie’s of Islamorada

77522 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036

Website: Robbie’s of Islamorada

Robbie’s Marina is a must stop during your road trip to Key West! It has an eclectic mix of outdoor shops, food vendors and of course the popular tarpon feeding. You can stop by The Hungry Tarpon Restaurant and Bar for lunch or you can go straight to the dock and grab a bucket of fish to feed the tarpon. It was definitely one of the highlights of our trip!

Admission to dock: $2.25 per person.
Bucket of fish: $4.00 (5-8 pieces).

Where To Eat:

Mrs Mac’s Kitchen

99336 Overseas Highway, Key Largo FL 33037

Website: Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen

This Key Largo eatery is a local’s favorite spot and features a hearty menu ranging from biscuits and gravy to fresh fish straight off the dock. Aside from the delicious food, I also enjoyed looking through license plates that were donated by guests and now serves as decoration all over the restaurant.

What to order: Paula’s Texas Benedict, World Famous Homemade Chili, Award Winning “Konk” Chowder and The “Mac” Attack.

Ciao Hound at Postcard Inn

84001 Overseas Highway, Islamorada FL 33036

Website: Ciao Hound

My taste buds were absolutely surprised at how delicious the food was at Ciao Hound. Don’t get me wrong but who knew that Key Largo would have one of the best Italian food I’ve ever tasted. The service was outstanding and the ambiance was laid back, which made the experience even more amazing. Every dish we ordered was so flavorful including the bread! My mouth is watering right now just thinking of it. I love that they paired authentic Tuscan flavors with fresh Keys-sourced ingredients.

What to order: Mahi-Mahi Puttanesca (an absolute must! trust me on this), Mussels Arrabbiata, Crispy Calamari and Lobster Ravioli.

Morada Bay Beach Cafe

81600 Overseas Highway, Islamorada FL 33037

Website: Morada Bay Beach Cafe

Located in the heart of Islamorada, this Mediterranean bistro cafe offers a laid back and relaxed atmosphere. The white sandy beach filled with palm trees and Adirondack chairs is the perfect setting to watch the famed Florida Keys sunset. Their menu is a blend of Caribbean and American cuisines showcasing fresh local seafood and produce. If you’re a fan of Netflix’s popular series Bloodline, you will recognize the Rayburn inn along with the other film locations in and around the beach cafe.

Other recommendations:

Key Largo Conch House (100211 Overseas Highway, Key Largo FL 33037)
Key’s Fisheries (3502 Louisa St. Marathon, FL 33050)

Key West

Key West is the southernmost point in the continental United States and is considered by some as the heart and soul of the Florida Keys. It’s home to such literary greats as Ernest Hemingway and Tennessee Williams, who wrote some of their best-known works while living on the island.

Interesting facts about Key West:

To get to Key West from Miami, it’s a 150-mile drive down the Overseas Highway but only 90 miles to Cuba.
Key West is home to the third largest barrier coral reef in the world! Known as the Florida Straits, Key West’s coral reef extends 150 miles north towards Miami and 70 miles west to the Dry Tortugas. It’s the largest in North America and the third largest in the world behind Belize and the Great Barrier Reef in Australia.