The Florida Keys are some of the most beautiful islands in all of the US. The Keys consists of over 800 keys of varying sizes over 180 miles. The stunning turquoise water instantly transports you to island life where palm trees are plentiful, the key deer roam freely, and it’s always 5 o’clock somewhere. Let’s check out the top 4 things to do in the keys.
Sea Turtle Hospital
One of the Keys’ most majestic creatures, the sea turtle, is often on the receiving end of the harshness of living in the ocean. Ingesting debris, entanglements, boat hits, and tumor growths are major reasons as to why these turtles may find themselves in need of human aide. The Sea Turtle Hospital receives many turtles each year and helps get them rehabilitated and, if possible, reunited with their natural ecosystem. On the tour, you can see turtles of all ages, ailments, and abilities being lovingly cared for by the staff that live on property. You can even watch surgeries live on the tour if one happens to be going on during your visit. If you’re a lover of ocean life, make sure you don’t miss this stop in Marathon, Florida. As of Summer 2023, tours can be reserved in advance for $30 per person.
Hemingway’s House
Have you ever seen a cat with six toes? How about a whole house full of them? These famous cats can be found at none other than Ernest Hemingway’s home in Key West, Florida. Open every day from nine to five, you can take a step back in time and explore one of America’s most famous authors’ homes. The home includes a look into his living arrangements, photos with famous people, the beautiful gardens, and his office where he wrote his most famous works like Old Man and the Sea, The Sun Also Rises, and For Whom the Bell Tolls. As of Summer 2023, adult tickets are $18 per person and it includes a guided tour.
Conch Train/Trolley
If you want a good overview of Key West, Florida without having to put in all the steps, you’ll want to ride the Conch Train or Trolley. The difference between them is what you travel in – i.e. the trolley car or the train, and the number of stops is different for each one. The trolley car makes 12 stops at various points of interest all over the island, whereas the train makes 3 stops. Along the way, you’ll see places like the Southernmost point, Hemingway’s House, the lighthouse, Duval Street, and Mallory Square. We used this tour to help us get to different destinations around the island and it was a great way to see everything we wanted to see in the most time-saving way as possible. As of Summer 2023, the conch train will cost you about $37 per person, while the conch trolley is $47.
Catamaran Sunset Cruise
Want to see Key West by boat? There’s no better time of day than once the sun is setting and the temps are mild. This fury catamaran cruise set out of port and sailed through the beautiful turquoise water. While aboard, we listened to a live band play a ton of popular cover songs (both oldies and current hits), and enjoyed appetizers with unlimited beverages (both alcoholic and non). If you’re lucky, you might be selected as one of the crewmates to help hoist the sail as we leave the harbor. The views on shore were beautiful, but there was nothing better than watching the sun set into the water. The stunning display of oranges, yellows, and pinks filled the sky and the sailboats lining the horizon made for a perfect photo op. This romantic cruise would be perfect for a date night or even a family outing. As of Summer 2023, this cruise will run you about $70 per person.
Where to Stay in the Florida Keys
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