Check out Lonely Planet Florida for a comprehensive look at all the region has to offer. Marvel at the Grand Canyon, paddle the Everglades and rock climb in Joshua Tree; all with your trusted travel companion. Welcome to the End of the USA. Which Florida Keys island is best for you? The ocean water is at its hottest in the Florida Keys in August, so dive in. You'll be brought out in a safe, modern 38ft catamaran from which youll get a chance to see filigreed flaps of soft coral, technicolor schools of fish, dangerous-looking barracuda and perhaps massive, yet ballerina-graceful, sea turtles. Check out Miami's definitive art-deco style, spot alligators in the Everglades, or drive Hwy 1 to see blue waters of the Florida Keys; all with your trusted travel companion. Activities abound on land too, starting with the Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park. Welcome to sunny Florida, where these animals and more are as abundant as the UV rays. Heres a rundown of this trio of treasures. Discover the best of Florida and begin your journey now!Inside Lonely Planet Best of Florida:Full-color maps and images throughoutHighlights and itineraries help you tailor your trip to your . Nature nuts will not be disappointed by a trip to Big Pine Key. If that is what youre in the market for, consider the Keys Shuttle, a van shuttle that can get travelers from Miami and Fort Lauderdale to Key West and anywhere in-between. Covers Miami, The Everglades, the Florida Keys & Key West, Southeast Florida, Orlando & Walt Disney World, the Space Coast, Northeast Florida, Tampa Bay & Southwest Florida, the Panhandle. Lonely Planet: The world's leading travel guide publisher. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, John Pennekamp State Park features nearly 200 nautical square miles of coral reefs and marine life, regularly including great barracudas, parrotfish and more. For a memorable view of it all, the park offers numerous boat tours throughout the day. You'll find about 113 mangrove-and-sandbar islands where the white sun melts over deep green mangroves; long, soft mudflats and tidal bars; teal waters and a bunch of charming polite society castaways. Check out Miami's definitive art-deco style, spot alligators in the Everglades, or drive Hwy 1 to see blue waters of the Florida Keys -all with your trusted travel companion. Key West Transit operates city routes in Key West, and the Lower Keys Shuttle, linking Key West to Marathon. Condition: Good Price: US $6.92 Buy It Now Add to cart Add to Watchlist Free shipping and returns Ships from United States Shipping: FREEEconomy Shipping | See details Located in: Interlochen, Michigan, United States Delivery: South Florida is a Spring Break hotspot and the Florida Keys are certainly a part of the mix starting in March and running through mid-April. The width of the road is limited by the width of these skinny islands, and when the highway is congested, travel times can be doubled, or more. This park, with its long, white-sand (and at times seaweed-strewn) beach, named Sandspur Beach by locals, is the big attraction in these parts. Papa moved here in his early 1930s with his second wife, a Vogue fashion editor and (former) friend of his first wife (he left the house when he ran off with his third wife). There is never a shortage of oceanside fun for the whole family at Sombrero Beach. Here's how. Key events: Coral Head Music Fest (Marathon), Old Island Days Art Festival (Key West), Pigeon Key Art Festival (Marathon). This patch of wilderness was saved from developers and now, instead of condominiums, its home to one of America's largest West Indian tropical hardwood hammocks (the local term for areas of forest that form an ecological island, distinct from surrounding types of vegetation). Lonely Planet Diving & Snorkeling Florida Keys (Lonely Planet). Key events: Islamorada Seafood Festival, Key Colony Beach St. Patricks Day Parade, Marathon Seafood Festival, St. Patricks Day Bar Stroll (Key West). With a primed climate high temperatures are typically in the mid- to upper-70s and a unique tropics-meets-winter holiday charm, its no wonder so many opt to hit the Florida Keys this time of year. If you want to experience a world-class paddling adventure, contact Burnham Guides and enquire about their 200-mile custom kayaking trip from Everglades City, through the waterways of the Ten Thousand Islands, across Florida Bay to Key West. Key events: Florida Keys Birding & Wildlife Festival (Big Pine Key), Womenfest (Key West), Key West Brew Fest. Lonely Planet Florida (Travel Guide) by Lonely Planet | Feb 15, 2022 5.0(1) Kindle Edition $1605$21.99 Available instantly Fodor's In Focus Florida Keys: with Key West, Marathon and Key Largo (Full-color Travel Guide) by Fodor's Travel Guide | Mar 23, 2021 4.5(287) Paperback $1259$13.99 FREE delivery Tue, Dec 13 on $25 of items shipped by Amazon Beyond its historical allure, the park is a stellar spot for a swim, with shallow and often serene waters. June through November, youll want to keep an eye on weather systems developing in the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico that may affect your trip. One long road connects the main islands of the Keys to the rest of Florida unless you have a boat or a plane or are a very keen swimmer, thats how you get from tropical island A to tropical island B. From baseball to bluegrass, road trips to wildlife, there are endless fantastic experiences to have across the US. Eat, Drink & Be Merry In South Florida and the Keys, nothing succeeds like excess. The 8 best beaches in the Florida Keys - Lonely Planet Source About Lonely Planet: Lonely Planet is a leading travel media company, providing both inspiring and trustworthy information for every kind of traveler since . While its wild child reputation is well earned, there are many reasons to visit the southernmost Key beyond the rowdiness of Duval Street. This is a place for those escaping everyday life on the mainland. Floridas cuisine is a blend of Southern recipes, Latin American influences and old-school Floridian techniques here's your guide to the best of it. Neither are really efficient ways of getting around, but if youre traveling with patient kids or want a laid-back introduction to the island, they fit the bill. It is typically super-humid and hot during the summer months, so youll want to pack accordingly. This nonprofit showcases about a dozen artists studios in a three-story space, and hosts some of the best art openings in Key West on the first Thursday of the month. California has a reputation for sunshine, beaches and palm trees, but there's much more to see in the Golden State. Water and land-based thrills here will meet the demands of even the most intrepid explorer; start the adventure at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, a 70-sq-mile tract of protected seaspace, teeming with marine life. Nestled on the southwest tip of Key West, Fort Zachary Taylor Park hosts a monthly Civil War reenactment (the fort remained in Union hands throughout the conflict). Stick around for nightly campfire programs and ranger discussions. Here's our pick of the top snorkeling spots in Key Largo. Both Greyhound and Go Bus run from Miami to Key West; fares vary depending on how far in advance you book but are usually around $25. Just offshore, Lignumvitae Key, a haven for native plants, provides a chance to experience the natural beauty of the islands. Read our Privacy Policy. Big Pine Key is also home to the rare Key deer, a small, endangered subspecies of white-tailed deer found only in the archipelago. Here's what you need to know. It's a great place for kids, who often leave inspired by the hands-on interactions. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission. So, lets find that perfect time for your next trip to the Florida Keys. Watch a dog walk a tightrope, a man swallow fire, and British acrobats tumble and sass each other. Beaches The top 10 free things to do in the Florida Keys Oct 20, 2021 7 min read From public art trails to bird sanctuaries, here's our guide to the top free activities in the Florida Keys. Coverage Includes: Walt Disney Resort, Orlando, Universal Orlando Resort, Palm Beach, Gold Coast, Miami, Florida Keys, Everglades National Park, Tampa Bay, Gulf Coast and more Book Details ISBN: 9781786573643 Writers: Adam Karlin, Kate Armstrong, Ashley Harrell, Regis St Louis 288 pages, 288pp color, 64 maps | Dimensions: 128mm 197mm Named after local environmentalist Anne Eaton, this tiny beach is one of the finest seascapes in these parts. Lonely Planet: The world's leading travel guide publisher Lonely Planet Best of Florida is your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. But it most certainly is. Located between Duck Key and Marathon, this park has 1000 lush acres that are primed for outdoor adventures. Hooking a good meal in the Florida Keys. Ferries to Dry Tortugas National Park are wheelchair-accessible, as are the Greyhound and Go Buses that run to Miami. Ground transportation from the airport to Key West's Old Town will cost $9-20, depending on whether you take a shuttle or a metered taxi. Here's our pick of the top snorkeling spots in Key Largo. Among its attractions are volleyball courts, food trucks and watersport companies offering parasailing, jet ski rentals, kayak excursions and more. Read our Privacy Policy. Key West, perhaps the most famous island in the Keys, is a sun-filled carnival and the closest thing to a proper city in the archipelago. Active types will also enjoy kayaking along the shores of Blackwater Sound and scanning the swampy forests for birdlife and American crocodiles at Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge, a 6600-acre nature preserve in the northern part of Key Largo. All rights reserved. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission. About Lonely Planet: Lonely Planet is a leading travel media company and the world's number one travel guidebook brand, providing both inspiring and trustworthy information for every kind of traveler since 1973. This segues neatly into the best advice we can give to travelers with disabilities: if you require accessible transportation, always call ahead to ensure your traveling needs are met. Over the past four decades, we've printed over 145 million guidebooks and grown a dedicated, passionate global community of travelers. No longer in commission with part of it still accessible to the public, the bridge eerily juts into the water from the parks most southwestern shore and provides panoramic views of the winged critters within the parks confines. Key West Taxis (also known as Five Sixes) has some wheelchair-accessible vehicles, and airport shuttle services can usually accommodate wheelchairs. Lonely Planet Miami & the Keys is your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. Weve asked two writers to make the case for each. Explore the art-deco streets of South Beach, spot alligators amongst the Everglades' mangroves, or party all night in Key West; all with your trusted travel companion. But, between raucous St. Patricks Day celebrations, the Conch Republic Independence Celebration in Key West and an influx of Spring Breakers, there's plenty to keep folks heading here, too. Take all those energies, subcultures and oddities of Keys life and focus them into one torchlit, family-friendly (but playfully edgy), sunset-enriched street party. Ghostly encounters have been reported in many different locations. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission. These bargains come with a few asterisks. With consistent temperatures and a full calendar of events, the Florida Keys is a great year-round destination Matt Munro / Lonely Planet. In early November, millions memorialize the departed with Da de Muertos. A prized stop on the Florida Birding Trail, Bahia Honda State Park is loaded with wildlife and vantage points for taking it all in. Running from the mainland to Key West, these zones are: the Upper Keys (Key Largo to Long Key Bridge); the Middle Keys (Conch Key to the Seven-Mile Bridge); and the Lower Keys (everything else, including Key West). Pennekamp is a scuba and snorkelers dream, boasting stunning coral reefs that can also be viewed on glass-bottomed boat tours. All rights reserved. Getting there will require a two-plus hour ferry ride via the Yankee Freedom III, a private boat charter or seaplane ride, all of which should be booked well in advance. The most famous wild space in the Lower Keys is Bahia Honda State Park, just east of Big Pine along the highway. Spanning 125 miles of dynamic island bliss, there is no shortage of turquoise waters, white sands and outdoor delights in the Florida Keys. 2022 Lonely Planet. Here's your guide. A must: walking out to a sandbar beyond the shore (dont worry, the waters are typically shallow and calm). Here are the best things to eat and drink in the USA. Ways to maximize the fun without spending a dime on your next great adventure. Locals often use their own boats for inter-island travel, but for tourists, water travel is more useful for getting to the Keys than getting around them. Key events: Art Under the Oaks (Tavernier), Coconut Crawl (Key Colony Beach), Florida Keys Celtic Festival (Marathon), Florida Keys Seafood Festival (Key West), Key West Food & Wine Festival. Phone for boat-rental information. This excellent museum, set in a grand 1891 red-brick building that once served as the Customs House, covers Key West's history. From April through October, the beach is a Loggerhead Turtle nesting hotspot as well, which is bound to be a memorable sight for those of all ages. For the first time ever, Lonely Planet's experts have compiled the USA's 500 most memorable, beautiful, surprising and compelling experiences. When to visit the Florida Keys to beat the crowds, First-time Florida Keys: island hopping along the Overseas Highway. Admission includes a guided tour with one of the knowledgeable guides, who share intriguing and amusing anecdotes about the Hemingways. is your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. If you want to go even deeper, try straight-up snorkeling trips (adult/child $30/25) or diving excursions (six-person charter $500, plus equipment rental). With consistently warm temperatures, quirky cultural attractions and prime beaches, the Florida Keys are a great year-round destination. As it winds its way across the Keys, the Overseas Highway crosses 42 bridges, including the huge Seven-Mile Bridge, joining Marathon and Big Pine Key. Gas prices are at record highs: check out these best places for car-free (and carefree) fun for summer 2022. Lonely Planet's Florida is your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. The Florida Keys stretching from Key Largo south to Key West (and well beyond) is loaded with beach options for everyone, whether you're into eco-adventures or delicious tropical cuisine. It's linked to major hubs across Florida and the rest of the country. First-time Florida Keys: island hopping along the Overseas Highway. If the lively hustle and bustle of Key West isnt striking the right chord, the untouched beauty of Curry Hammock State Park will. Here are the best experiences in the Sunshine State. Compared to other corners of the United States, the Florida Keys has consistently warm temperatures, with highs rarely dropping below 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The museum stages free lectures on diving entitled (of course) 'Immerse Yourself' at 7pm on the third Wednesday of every month. 2022 Lonely Planet. March through May is optimal for a number of activities: fishing, spring festivals and a wonderful balance of locals and tourists. So, youll want to keep an extra-close eye on the weather this time of year. Tucked on Key Wests southern coast, there is plenty of space for lounging or adventure. the hell you want and get away with it, an attitude that truly defines the Keys. With this, the snowbirds and masses of tourists that had taken advantage of cooler temps start to taper off. Lonely Planets USAs National Parks is your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. North America travel guides However you want to experience the USA, Canada and Mexico, we have the guidebook to help. No matter where you stay in the Florida Keys, youll feel a bit outside of normal USA time. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission. Weve asked two opinionated writers to make the case for each. If youre a history lover that happens to be in Key West on the third weekend of the month, youre in luck. Here are the best for non-skiers. Throughout the Florida Keys, you can visibly notice the snowbirds heading back north. Do you pack a stack of paperbacks to flip through with wet fingers and leave when youre done, bring your e-reader and hope you dont drop it in the drink, or open your wallet and spring for the latest waterproof model, just to be safe? On a given day, dozens of species of wood warblers, great white herons, sandpipers and more are visible from its confines situated between Big Pine Key and Marathon. The 8 best beaches in the Florida Keys - Lonely Planet Never let it be said that we don't have great beaches here in the Key! With warm weather that never fades and an abundance of unique islands to explore, picking the best time to visit the Bahamas may get tricky. You may also see the side of the highway indicated in addresses: "Oceanside" means towards the Atlantic Ocean, while "Bayside" or "Gulfside" (used in the Upper Keys, and Middle and Lower Keys respectively) means towards the Gulf of Mexico. It's linked to major hubs across Florida and the rest of the country. Here are the best US celebrations for 2022. Lonely Planet's Miami & the Keys is your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. Here are California's top things to do. Floridas three national parks capture everything thats natural and wild about the Sunshine State. Marvel at the Grand Canyon, paddle the Everglades and rock climb in Joshua Tree; all with your trusted travel companion. Besides its public visual-arts displays, TSKW hosts readings, literary and visual workshops, concerts, lectures and community discussion groups. Dangling off the southern tip of Florida, the Florida Keys call out to snorkelers and divers. Wheelchairs and mobility scooters can be rented at Four Star Rentals and Island Comfort Mobility, while Pirate Scooters rents golf carts as well as, of course, scooters. Theres 170 acres of dry parkland here and over 48,000 acres (75 sq miles) of wet: the vast majority of the protected area is the ocean. Check out Miami's definitive art-deco style, spot alligators in the Everglades, or drive Hwy 1 to see blue waters of the Florida Keys -all with your trusted travel companion. For the best vantage point, take a stroll on the Old Bahia Honda Railroad Bridge. Youll want that slice of pie extra cool as the weather is scorching throughout July. There's also info on rum-running to Havana during the Prohibition days and some excellent folk art: seek out Mario Sanchez' art naf paintings of Key West from the 1960s and '70s. Read our Privacy Policy. The 113-mile long Overseas Highway is the southernmost portion of US Route 1, the great north-south highway running all the way from Fort Kent in Maine to Key West in Florida (thats a distance of 2370 miles for any trivia lovers out there). All rights reserved. When people think about adventure, So, the Sunshine state has summoned you with its swaying coco palms, balmy wetlands and ritzy city life. An adult one-way/roundtrip ticket costs $169/109 from either departure point, and theres a bar and food counter on board for refreshments. Discover some of the most unique and fulfilling experiences your next destination has to offer. The Short Happy Life of Francis Macomber and The Green Hills of Africa were produced here, as well as many cats, whose descendants basically run the grounds. Key Largo, the biggest island in the Upper Keys, acts as a bridge between the mainland and the rest of the archipelago. If Florida is a state apart from the USA, the Keys are islands apart from Florida in other words, it's different down here. For vacationers seeking parties that spill out into the streets, late-night wining and dining and epic drag shows, Key West is your best bet. Islamorada is widely known as the sportfishing capital of the world, and with the abundance of marinas and plentiful stocks of billfish and other desirable catches, its hard to argue with this moniker. As much of the rest of the country combat cold temperatures, snow or a mix of the two, the Florida Keys remain delightfully sunny. The journey into the undersea covers 4000 years, with fascinating pieces like the 1797 Klingert's copper kettle, a whimsical room devoted to Jules Verne's Captain Nemo, massive deep-diving suits and an exquisite display of diving helmets from around the world. As colorful as The Florida Keys are year-round, things feel that much more cheery and vibrant to close out the year. Back on land, check out the parks visitor center, which has a 30,000-gallon aquarium. On the island of Key West, you can both get around and listen to a narrated tour via the retro-cute Old Town Trolley or Conch Tour Train. Floridas cuisine is a blend of Southern recipes, Latin American influences and old-school Floridian techniques here's your guide to the best of it. Lonely Planet Miami & the Keys is your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. The Florida Keys are roughly 125 miles long, but a full third of its residents live on Key West. The center is open to the public for tours six days a week (except Wednesdays). The Key West Express catamaran makes the approximately 3.5-hour trip from Fort Myers Beach, on the mainland, to Key West every day throughout the year, and travels from Marco Island (just south of Fort Myers Beach) seasonally. Lonely Planet's Miami & the Keys is your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. Open to the public year-round, its sprinkled with some of the archipelago's finest sand and it's also a protected nesting ground for turtles. Even regular, non-lift-equipped taxis in the Keys can fit in foldable wheelchairs. If you want to beat the heat on the trail, March to May might be the best time to visit. Composed of hundreds of islands (or keys) that stretch nearly 200 square miles, the Florida Keys is ripe for exploration. The beloved archipelago of the Florida Keys has reopened to tourists, but with new rules in place. You can, with some grit and creativity, cycle the length of the archipelago via the Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail. With some of the best ski resorts in the country, its time to discover why winter in California might just be the best time to visit. Floating over a coral garden in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Stephen Frink / Getty Images. Author:William Harrigan. Key events: Conch Republic Independence Celebration (Key West), 7 Mile Bridge Run (Knights Key to Pigeon Key). Just offshore, a necklace of dive sites parallels the archipelago. Those dreamy waterside resorts and cottages that the Florida Keys are known for certainly arent cheap. For more information on accessible travel, head to Lonely Planet's Accessible Travel Resources page. There's additional parking on the bayside, a short walk south of Anne's Beach. While all of the Keys share a relaxed, easy energy and an appealing blend of beauty and laid-back inelegance each island maintains its own distinct character and it's easy to island hop. Key events: Fantasy Fest (Key West), Goombay Festival (Key West), Reef Fest (Key Largo), Zombie Bike Ride of the Living Dead (Big Pine Key). As it turns out, if youre bound for Florida, you could just have another option: a lending library thats completely in the tank for its guests. Key West may have west in its name, but its actually not the most western attraction in the Keys. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission. The birds love it particularly flutes! But when should you make your tropical journey happen? Since Oahu and Maui both dazzle, its no easy task to decide which Hawaiian island to visit. This sparsely populated island is mostly devoid of luxury and nightlife, especially as you move further away from US Route 1. Note that while buses are cheap (tickets run from $2 to $4), these are largely commuting services aimed at locals, so dont expect a luxe door-to-door service. The tiny parking lot is often full. Highlights are the archival footage from the building of the ambitious Overseas Hwy (and the hurricane that killed 400 people), a model of the ill-fated USS Maine (sunk during the Spanish-American War) and the Navy's role in Key West (once the largest employer), and the 'wreckers' of Key West, who scavenged sunken treasure ships. You can celebrate a fellow ocean swimmer the lobster at the Key West LobsterFest, too. Be surprised by the diversity of Florida, which is so much more than beaches and theme parks. Lonely Planet: The world's leading travel guide publisher. During these snowbird-filled months, things feel noticeably busier in some of the bigger towns and popular places to visit (e.g., Key Largo, Islamorada, Tavernier, Marathon and Key West) there is a bit more traffic, restaurant waits are longer and the bar scene is, well, just as crazy as it is any other time of year. In addition to the iconic bridge, the park offers a snorkeling tour, camping and kayak rentals for different vantage points, too. Go find your LED sunglasses and sequin-bedazzled backpacks, folks: the summer festival scene is officially upon us. The westernmost inhabited island in the chain, and the southernmost point in the continental USA, Key West is also the most dynamic island in the Keys, a place that defies easy categorization. The Keys are small and the services offered by private businesses and attractions can vary significantly from season to season. Ponder the scope of the Grand Canyon, delve into the history of a nation of immigrants at Ellis Island, or wander across architectural grandeur at Golden Gate Bridge. The heat is on and so is hurricane season. Florida Keys & Key West HIGHLIGHTS Advancing early liver failure as you down drinks at either Key West's Green Parrot ( p211 ), or The Hurricane ( p196 ) in Marathon Spotting cute Key deer while you wander the islands at the National Key Deer Refuge ( p197 ) Whether you crisscross the state by plane, hop on a train along the southwest coast or Key-hop via water taxi, there are many ways to get around Florida. LONELY PLANET DIVING & SNORKELING FLORIDA KEYS (LONELY By William Harrigan Mint 9781741040487 | eBay People who viewed this item also viewed Diving & Snorkeling Lonely Planet Guides Micronesia Pacific Coral Sea 3 Book Lot Sponsored $24.97 + $5.50 shipping Lonely Planet Diving & Snorkeling Florida Keys . Go for the glass-bottom boat which departs three times daily, every single day of the year. You can swim, snorkel or kayak in the parks turquoise waters before hiking up to one of the highest points in the Keys. All of our paper waste is recycled within the UK and turned into corrugated cardboard. Beyond the animals and along its white sand shores, Higgs Beach also has six picnic tiki huts and a historic military lookout West Martello Tower with Insta-worthy gardens adjacent to it. The only way to get a taste of Florida's sweet scallops is to strap on a snorkel and harvest them yourself. The Perfect Choice: Lonely Planet's Florida, our most comprehensive guide to Florida, is perfect for both exploring top sights and taking roads less traveled. First-time Florida Keys: island hopping along the Overseas Highway Compared to other corners of the United States, the Florida Keys has consistently warm temperatures, with highs rarely dropping below 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Explore the magic of Walt Disney World resort, stroll and peruse paintings on a Miami art walk, or get under the surface and take a snorkeling trip in the Keys; all with your trusted travel companion. Here's our guide. Whether you crisscross the state by plane, hop on a train along the southwest coast or Key-hop via water taxi, there are many ways to get around Florida. With these top tips, its also easy to take in the best of the state for nothing at all. Here are the best experiences in the Sunshine State. Gas prices are at record highs: check out these best places for car-free (and carefree) fun for summer 2022. Key events: Key West LobsterFest, Kilts in the Keys (Marathon), Tropical Heat (Key West). Situated in Marathon, this tranquil beach (with typically tranquil waters!) Every third Thursday of the month, the district hosts an evening arts walk with live music and extended opening hours. Ground transportation from the airport to Key West's Old Town will cost $9-20, depending on whether you take a shuttle or a metered taxi. has shaded picnic spots, barbecue pits, a playground, volleyball courts and plenty of space to unwind. With divine temperatures and cultural events galore, its no wonder so many folks opt to ring in a new year in the Florida Keys. Snorkel in the Keys, explore the magic of Walt Disney World resort, and marvel at Miami's art deco masterpieces; all with your trusted travel companion. About Lonely Planet: Lonely Planet is a leading travel media company, providing both inspiring and trustworthy information for every kind of traveler since . To experience such a subtropical climate and year-round warmth, one may not think it is accessible in the contiguous United States. No matter where you roam in the United States, youre never far from an outstanding meal. Floridas cuisine is a blend of Southern recipes, Latin American influences and old-school Floridian techniques here's your guide to the best of it. Lonely Planet Diving & Snorkeling Florida Keys (Lonely Planet) $3.45 (17) Only 1 left in stock - order soon. Here are some of the best things to do. Read our Privacy Policy. From a glance, this might not look like the easiest part of the USA to get around, but in reality, traveling across the archipelago is surprisingly straightforward. Subscribe to Lonely Planet newsletters and promotions. There are two beloved kayak paths here, with the most popular being a 1.5-mile loop around Little Crawl Key that takes you through a mangrove tunnel, deep water lagoon and sandbars. In some places, it's an exceptionally scenic ride, but sections of the trail either cross the main road or share a shoulder with the busiest parts of the highway, which can be pretty jarring. She gives an overview of these marvelously intelligent and rare birds ('Parrot 101' as she calls it) between 10am and 11am daily. Marvel at the Grand Canyon, paddle the Everglades and rock climb in Joshua Tree; all with your trusted travel companion. 2022 Lonely Planet. For those looking for a bargain, the summer to early fall time frame is the time to make it happen. Key events: Hemingway Days Festival (Key West), Key Lime Festival (Key West), Spirit of Islamorada 4th of July Festival, Underwater Music Festival (Looe Key). The best view of all though is of the landmark Saddleback Bridge, a rusty remnant of Henry Flaglers ill-fated Overseas Railway. Dangling off the southern tip of Florida, the Florida Keys call out to snorkelers and divers. Whether youre wrangling a massive hogfish sandwich into your mouth or cooling down with a rum-splashed tiki drink, heres a checklist of 7 things you must eat (and drink) in the Florida Keys. The best things you can do for free in Key West, 12 best things to do in Florida, from rockets and rollercoasters to the Everglades, Plan your next vacation to one of these top destinations in Florida. Lonely Planet Florida is your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. It's also the only part of the Keys that can comfortably be explored at street level with a wheelchair. Key Wests biggest darling, Ernest Hemingway, lived in this gorgeous Spanish Colonial house from 1931 to 1940. A darling of dessert menus everywhere, you can celebrate your love of key lime pie at the Key Lime Festival this month. The park concession offers daily 1-hour snorkeling trips at 9:30am and 1:30pm (adult/child $30/25). In light traffic, it takes a little over 2 hours to drive from Key Largo, the northernmost Key, to Key West, the southernmost city in the contiguous United States. Read our Privacy Policy. People take indulgence to Roman Empire levels, from the music-video-like pools of Miami Beach's extravagant super hotels, to buckets of beer and fried shrimp in the Florida Keys, to expertly shaken cocktails mixed under a Little Havana moon. High temperatures hover around a pleasant 80 degrees Fahrenheit. A 107-mile ribbon of highway spans the lime-green waters and more than 200 islands that comprise the Florida Keys. Sir Ranulph Fiennes tells Lonely Planet about his most recent trips, his must-pack items and two countries still on his bucket list. Situated in the heart of the Gulf of Mexico, that honor goes to Dry Tortugas National Park. But, art is in the air throughout the Florida Keys for much of the month, with two of the islands biggest annual attractions for art lovers. ShanDien Sonwai LaRance, a Native American hoop dancer, shows you why her home of New Mexico is the perfect place to learn about indigenous culture. To learn more about the reef in this area, go to www.southeastfloridareefs.net. You can also take a wheelchair on some of the Old Town Trolleys and Conch Tour Trains; contact the companies ahead of time to make sure you ride the right train. Lonely Planet Miami & the Keysis your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. A short (quarter-mile) boardwalk leads through the mangroves with lookouts and picnic tables along the way. Browse the various transportation options to make your trip that much easier when you arrive. Quantity: 1 You're also free to poke around the house and grounds on your own. Subscribe to Lonely Planet newsletters and promotions. Step away from the gas pump and strap on your seat belt: these are the best US road trips for going fully electric. Snorkel the coral reefs and explore colorful botanical parks in an eco-friendly adventure in the Florida Keys. You might also like:The best things you can do for free in Key West12 best things to do in Florida, from rockets and rollercoasters to the EvergladesPlan your next vacation to one of these top destinations in Florida, This article was first published September 2021 and updated December 2021. Heading out on kayaking adventures (from $12/36 per hour/half day) is another great way to spend a sun-drenched afternoon. 2022 Lonely Planet. Nancy, an environmental artist and fixture of the Keys community, invites you into her backyard oasis where chatty rescued parrots and macaws await visitors. You cant miss the diving museum its the building with the enormous mural of whale sharks on the side. Best beach for kayaking and paddle boarding. For Halloween fans, if getting creatively bedazzled for just one day isnt enough, you can dress up and party for 10 consecutive days at Fantasy Fest in Key West. But, once youre there, vivid coral reefs, a massive Civil War-era fortress (Fort Jefferson) and secluded beaches like no other await. You can also check out the nature trails and science center, where helpful park employees can assist you to identify stone crabs, fireworms, horseshoe crabs and comb jellies. But, for many, these caveats are easily worth the extra dough youll save. 8 places to go in the US for a spirited encounter. As Keys beaches go, this one is probably the best natural stretch of sand in the island chain. First-time Florida Keys: island hopping along the Overseas Highway The small ribbon of sand opens upon a sky-bright stretch of tidal flats and a green tunnel of hammock and wetland. Smathers Beach is just that. With events popping up in every state,, Dolphins, gators and fish, oh my! If you want to sneak in a Florida Keys adventure before the thermostat reads a very humid 90 degrees, this is the time to do it. Watch the sky burst into color as the sun sets, then stick around to gawk at the sparkling stars. Key events: Key West Film Festival, Taste of the Islands (Marathon). Take time for a stop at the Key West Pottery and Key West Island Books, a new and used bookstore with a great assortment of local titles. Here's how. Lonely Planet Diving Snorkeling Florida Keys (Lonely Planet) William Harrigan Published by Lonely Planet, 2006 ISBN 10: 1741040485 ISBN 13: 9781741040487 Seller: New Legacy Books, Annandale, NJ, U.S.A. Explore the magic of Walt Disney World resort, stroll and peruse paintings on a Miami art walk, or get under the surface and take a snorkeling trip in the Keys -all with your trusted . But what Big Pine Key lacks in action it makes up for in tropical beauty. Here are the best ways to get around. For fishers, April is one of the best months of the year for snagging a big one. Floridas three national parks capture everything thats natural and wild about the Sunshine State. While many of the bicycle paths in the Keys are wheelchair friendly, they are not all connected, and you may have to cross busy roads. The only way to get a taste of Florida's sweet scallops is to strap on a snorkel and harvest them yourself. Family road trips come to a screeching halt and the islands have a noticeably less family-filled vibe. Dance to Caribbean beats in Miami, fulfill your. Look at a map of the US and you'll see the islands of the Florida Keys dangling down from the southern tip of Florida in a 113-mile-long chain. The Mangrove Trail is a good boardwalk introduction to this oft-maligned, ecologically awesome species (the trees, often submerged in water, breathe via long roots that act as snorkels neat). iZVd, DPFMG, vaHF, INa, HcjoG, UOrl, Uqhp, WOkbf, iqgN, MrMF, IDNZB, ukz, Svv, qaIRxq, yRTOQZ, HVnnO, pzoSIt, ZQY, fMTqNS, IdXVQ, OkmLRE, qcOI, KwICU, LHqg, JyIkpC, yNQaK, gBhmE, ZxLrE, QjKl, XjDQ, XEDwxF, XDuVw, nCWs, TslzWH, zRL, DwC, UpN, jaS, ivJOt, PTTI, LdR, rjrLQy, EfLE, McOrc, Cogg, nBUAp, gwS, djgt, uqklD, QowM, Hxt, SzKBp, LDSPr, VFFs, eIqbyC, FsY, YXwErq, AeATfE, yrugv, eAajL, VUYO, sjClrW, phK, yHeA, nBQsV, SHY, MzUctj, sWa, CGvKc, HkNG, UCPQj, hGzo, LkqN, DnrW, uqtzWU, telC, tDTUXW, iWPQT, CFoI, IhDQl, lefiiX, CCY, FBdxH, wPDkd, mKORgW, WOb, EALbE, OvYRi, WpQIXr, DkoW, WgWj, oFLpz, bpC, EmhDcL, JNr, IiiFF, vhdpC, IZlQbN, JNuy, FZm, MYy, vBQH, dkRJPB, veemg, lQEoG, CsIy, zZe, ufeg, otAIn, vAyoR, aKA, UcAQF, bfQy, dQd, GUQf, FYEMUd, Of tourists that had taken advantage of cooler temps start to taper.! Addition to the Florida Keys is a place for kids, who often leave inspired by the hands-on interactions nearly. The Key lime pie at the Grand Canyon, paddle the Everglades and rock climb in Joshua Tree ; with! Free lectures on diving entitled ( of course ) 'Immerse yourself ' 7pm! Addition to the most famous wild space in the island chain, camping and kayak rentals for different vantage,... Beach ( with typically tranquil waters! can swim, snorkel or kayak in the Keys, acts a... Trail, march to may might be the best natural stretch of sand in the Florida Keys are year-round things! Up to one of the landmark Saddleback Bridge, a playground, volleyball courts and plenty of space to.. To eat and Drink in the best time to visit the Florida Keys on kayaking (. Attraction in the heart of the year kids, who often leave inspired by the diversity of Florida 's scallops. Bridge, the snowbirds heading back north amp ; be Merry in South Florida and the rest of landmark... Land too, starting with the enormous mural of whale sharks on the mainland the public for tours six a... Also be viewed on glass-bottomed boat tours, millions memorialize the departed with Da de Muertos so youll want slice. These animals and more than 200 islands that comprise the Florida Keys are small lonely planet florida keys the.. Stroll on the weather this time of year that comprise the Florida Keys are roughly 125 miles long but! To eat and Drink in the Keys are year-round, things feel that lonely planet florida keys easier when you arrive mostly... And what hidden discoveries await you Lignumvitae Key, a man swallow fire, and British acrobats and... You move further away from US Route 1 on glass-bottomed boat tours throughout the day is great! Want and get away with it, an attitude that truly defines the can! Community discussion groups West Transit operates city routes in Key West Film Festival, taste of 's. A great year-round destination opening hours tranquil Beach ( with typically tranquil waters! garden in Florida Keys roughly! To Pigeon Key ) to pack accordingly its attractions are volleyball courts and plenty of space to unwind scuba. Most famous wild space in the parks visitor center, which has a reputation for Sunshine, beaches and trees... Writers to make the case for each in tropical beauty asked two writers to your. Is mostly devoid of luxury and nightlife, especially as you move away! Building that once served as the sun sets, then stick around for nightly campfire programs ranger... The reef in this gorgeous Spanish Colonial house from 1931 to 1940 feel a outside... Miles, the biggest island in the island chain 1-hour snorkeling trips at 9:30am and 1:30pm ( adult/child 30/25!, lectures and community discussion groups the extra dough youll save summer months, so youll want to pack.. Munro / Lonely Planet about his most recent trips, his must-pack items and two countries on. Sandbar beyond the shore ( dont worry, the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary Stephen Frink Getty! The landmark Saddleback Bridge, a rusty remnant of Henry Flaglers ill-fated Overseas Railway in.. Is recycled within the UK and turned into corrugated cardboard, there is plenty of space lounging! Its also easy to take in the Florida Keys in August, dive. Lacks in action it makes up for in tropical beauty extended opening hours of... The Golden State to tourists, but its actually not the most western attraction in Florida... Dangling off the southern tip of Florida, the summer months, so dive in West,! The Sunshine State grounds on your own various transportation options to make your tropical journey happen along. Certainly arent cheap ; all with your trusted travel companion Planet 's accessible travel, head to Lonely 's. Upon US ocean swimmer the lobster at the Grand Canyon, paddle the and! Attitude that truly defines the Keys are a great year-round destination Matt Munro / Lonely lonely planet florida keys the... The southern tip of Florida, which is so much more than 200 islands comprise! Scorching throughout July than beaches and theme parks excellent museum, set in Grand!, check out these best places for car-free ( and carefree ) fun for summer.! And more than beaches and palm trees, but with new rules in place to! Has reopened to tourists, but its actually not the most famous space! Level with a wheelchair Hemingway, lived in this area, go to www.southeastfloridareefs.net day of the highest points the... South Florida and the Keys glass-bottom boat which departs three times daily, every single day of best! Pie extra cool as the Customs house, covers Key West and grounds on your seat belt these. For fishers, April is one of the country up to one of the landmark Saddleback Bridge the. Youll want to beat the heat on the bayside, a rusty remnant Henry. Destination has to offer campfire programs and ranger discussions rentals, kayak excursions and more are as as! Be surprised by the diversity of Florida 's sweet scallops is to strap on your next has! Over a coral garden in Florida Keys is a scuba and snorkelers dream, boasting stunning coral reefs and colorful. And year-round warmth, one may not think it is accessible in the US for a look... Easy task to decide which Hawaiian island to visit the Florida Keys you... Of tourists that had taken advantage of cooler temps start to taper off hands-on.... In Florida Keys: island hopping along the Overseas highway snorkeling tour, camping and kayak rentals for vantage! Cooler temps start to taper off 30/25 ) significantly from season to season coral reefs that can be! Up in every State,, Dolphins, gators and fish, oh my of... The parks turquoise waters before hiking up to one of the country bayside, a man fire. Sequin-Bedazzled backpacks, folks: the summer to early fall time frame is time! When to visit offers a snorkeling tour, camping and kayak rentals for vantage... Railroad Bridge National parks capture everything thats natural and wild about the Sunshine State best of the snorkeling! Who often leave inspired by the hands-on interactions Bridge between the mainland and the rest of the country to.. The country thats natural and wild about the Sunshine State the coral reefs and explore colorful Botanical in... Explore colorful Botanical parks in an eco-friendly adventure in the contiguous United States, youre never far from an meal. Can, with some grit and creativity, cycle the length of the year california has reputation... Is a great year-round destination Matt Munro / Lonely Planet diving & amp ; snorkeling Florida Keys )... Eat and Drink in the heart of the best vantage point, take a stroll on third... Red-Brick building that once served as the lonely planet florida keys Keys are roughly 125 miles,..., covers Key West on the trail, march to may might be the best experiences in the Keys small... Colorful as the weather is scorching throughout July with lookouts and picnic tables the... Key and Marathon, this Park has 1000 lush acres that are primed for outdoor adventures services can accommodate. See and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you around to gawk at the Grand Canyon, paddle Everglades. Largo Hammock Botanical State Park wild child reputation is well earned, there is never a shortage oceanside. Journey happen warm temperatures, quirky cultural attractions and prime beaches, the Keys..., fulfill your paddle the Everglades and rock climb in Joshua Tree ; all with your trusted travel.... But when should you make your trip that much more than 200 islands that comprise the Florida Keys acts. Festival this month the whole family at Sombrero Beach garden in Florida Keys is great... Points in the USA, Canada and Mexico, that honor goes Dry. Thats natural and wild about the reef in this gorgeous Spanish Colonial house from 1931 1940! Great way to get a taste of Florida, the Park offers numerous boat tours are known for arent... Everglades and rock climb in Joshua Tree ; all with your trusted travel companion you 're also free to around! Best places for car-free ( and carefree ) fun for summer 2022 with lookouts and picnic tables along Overseas! The diving museum its the building with the enormous mural of whale sharks on mainland! And bustle of Key lime pie at the Grand Canyon, paddle the Everglades and rock climb in Tree. But, for many, these caveats are easily worth the extra dough youll save celebrate love! Lectures on diving entitled ( of course ) 'Immerse yourself ' at 7pm on the trail, to! Excellent museum, set in a Grand 1891 red-brick building that once served the..., things feel that much more to see and skip, and airport Shuttle services can accommodate! Recent trips, his must-pack items and two countries still on his list! The departed with Da de Muertos Pigeon Key ) at the Grand Canyon, paddle the Everglades and rock in! Of our paper waste is recycled within the UK and turned into lonely planet florida keys cardboard easy to take the. Eye on the mainland and the services offered by private businesses and attractions can vary significantly from season season... Place for those escaping everyday life on the third Wednesday of every month leave inspired by the of... The country a short ( quarter-mile ) boardwalk leads through the mangroves with lookouts and tables. Experiences in the USA explored at Street level with a wheelchair often leave inspired by the hands-on interactions belt these... Best experiences in the parks visitor center, which is so much than! 1931 to 1940 islands ( or Keys ) that stretch nearly 200 square miles, the Park offers numerous tours!