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The Florida Keys is a string of about 1,700 islands in the southeast United States. This archipelago begins at the southeastern tip of the Florida peninsula and extends to arc gently southwest, westward to Key West, and then on to the uninhabited Dry Tortugas. These islands lie along the straits that divide the Atlantic Ocean to the east and the Gulf of Mexico to the west, defining one edge of the bay. The unique geography explains why snorkeling in Florida Keys is such a unique experience.
Imagine you’re on a fascinating cruise of the Florida Keys. Here, we’ll explore five main areas. So, put on your shorts, slip on your flip-flops and enjoy this tour of the “Conch Republic”:
* Tropical Big Pine Key
This gateway to the Lower Keys is an unspoiled tropical wilderness of more than one hundred small mangrove islets. Big Pine Key was named for its extensive pine forests, and was once the homestead site of Keywesters of Bahamian decent in the 1890’s. This is an absolute Mecca for those who love snorkeling in the Florida Keys. It has a wide diversity of fish that inhabit the shallows and the deep blue waters of the Gulf Stream. This area is excellent for nature trails that will take you through the exotic pinewoods and tropical foliage.
* Beautiful Islamorada
Islamorada, which means “purple isles”, has plenty of local color to take in. This is the self-proclaimed “sport fishing capital of the world”, which explains why so many people choose this spot for snorkeling in Florida Keys. Former US president George Bush fell in love with everything Islamorada has to offer. Searching for the elusive bonefish is one of Bush’s favorite activities. There is a famed coral reef that extends for miles into the ocean and provides feeding and breeding grounds for hundreds of aquatic species.
* Marathon, “Heart of the Keys”
Known as the “heart of the keys”, Marathon has truly lived up to its reputation. What began as a bustling fishing village in the early 1800’s has since developed into a metropolis dotted with hotels, malls and restaurants. This modernization does not mean that Marathon has lost its charm as a great spot for snorkeling in Florida Keys. This is the home of Duck Key, Key Vaca, Boot Key and Grassy Key, each of which is home to an abundance of sea creatures. There are trout, snappers, manatees, tarpons, groupers and other aquatic creatures.
* Famous Key Largo
This corner is home to a chain of coral reefs. Key Largo is legendary for its history, rich with pirates and sunken treasure, making it very popular for snorkeling in Florida Keys. It’s known for excellent water visibility, and John Pennekamp State Park is its lead diving destination. Key Largo is home to more than 600 species of psychedelic tropical fish and 40 types of bright corals and is protected by the Florida Keys Marine Sanctuary.
* Visiting Key West
Just 150 miles from Miami and a mere 90 miles from Cuba, Key West’s natural beauty has made it a popular destination for tourists and snorkelers visiting the Florida Keys. Are you looking for a quiet solitary vacation? Key West is also the ideal spot to retire in a hammock between two palm trees as you delight in the sound of the breeze and sunlight kissing your skin. There is an undeniably romantic sunset here, turning dusk into a daily special occasion.
Tagged with: Florida • snorkeling
Filed under: Family Vacation