The Florida Keys

 

 

The Florida Keys are an exciting archipelago of islets connected by hundreds of miles of highway—most of it over water. It takes about two and a half hours to drive southwest from Key Largo to Key West, but it's nearly impossible to make the trip in so short a time, given all there is to see and do along the way. 

 

There's something for everyone here, from tiny beach cottages to country club estates. And no matter where you go, the people are friendly, the water's warm, and everyone's always having a fantastic time. 

 

• Relaxed atmosphere
• Resort lifestyle
• Close-knit communities
• Many natural spaces to explore

 

Whether you live in an easy-to-care-for bungalow or a palatial waterfront villa, you'll feel like you're staying at a luxe resort when you live on the Florida Keys. Moreover, you'll experience a sense of community among your neighbors. 

 

If you're a local, the best shopping in the archipelago is in Key West. Further north, most people gravitate toward the mainland for fashion, housewares, upscale dining, and energetic nightclubs. On the islands in between, shops tend to focus more on the tourist trade. But no matter where you go, the food is fresh and delicious. 

 

On Duck Key, the local hotspot is Angler & Ale, where the decor is as fresh and modern as the seafood dishes. Frank's Grill on Marathon Key is an understated and underrated Italian hole-in-the-wall known for its Alfredo dishes and lobster bisque. This key is also home to the humble Castaway Waterfront Restaurant & Sushi Bar, an iconic fusion restaurant known as much for its lionfish tacos as it is for its raw seafood. Further down the highway is No Name Pub, the perfect place for sangria and seafood pizza. Once you arrive in Key West, you'll have several fantastic eateries to choose from.

 

The Florida Keys are famous for viewing wildlife from under the water's surface, paddling the mangroves, or walking along nature trails in the area's state parks and sanctuaries. You can swim with dolphins, charter a fishing boat, or book a day at a world-class spa. And if you bring your own boat, you're sure to find the right-sized slip from over 50 marinas.

There are several golf opportunities in the Florida Keys. Fabulous courses open to the public include Crandon Golf at Key Biscayne and Key Colony Beach Golf. However, you might consider a membership at one of the many private courses on the archipelago.