Top Things to Know Before You Visit the Florida Keys
Helpful tips, can't-miss spots, and insider info for your tropical adventure.
Planning a trip to the Florida Keys? You’re in for a treat—picture turquoise waters, island vibes, epic sunsets, and yes... roaming chickens. Whether you’re road-tripping down the Overseas Highway or flying straight into Key West, here’s everything you should know to make the most of your time in paradise.
1. Visit the Dry Tortugas – But Plan Ahead!
One of the absolute highlights of the Florida Keys is Dry Tortugas National Park, located 70 miles west of Key West. It’s home to Fort Jefferson, the largest brick masonry structure in the United States, made with over 16 million bricks! You can explore its towering walls, historic cannons, and stunning views.
Getting there? You’ve got two options:
Ferry (2.5 hours each way): More budget-friendly and includes breakfast, lunch, and snorkeling gear.
Seaplane (about 40 minutes): Way faster and offers epic aerial views—but it’ll cost ya.
🎟️ Tip: Book early! Tours sell out well in advance. No walk-ups, no luck.
2. Snap a Photo at the Southernmost Point
This colorful buoy in Key West marks the “Southernmost Point in the Continental U.S.” It’s iconic and Instagrammable—but it’s also popular. Expect a line for your pic and plan to park a few blocks away (parking is limited). Still totally worth it.
3. Chickens. Everywhere.
Yes, you read that right. The Florida Keys are home to free-roaming chickens. You’ll find them strutting around Walgreens, parking lots, sidewalks, and even outdoor cafés. It’s weird. It’s wonderful. It’s the Keys.
4. Stick to the Speed Limit
Seriously. Cops are everywhere—especially along U.S. 1 (not I-5 😉). The speed limit changes often, sometimes dropping from 55 to 45 without much warning.
🚨 Pro tip: Use a GPS or map app that gives you live speed alerts and police notifications. And set that cruise control. You’re on island time anyway.
5. Bike to Pigeon Key
For a peaceful and scenic ride, hop on your bike and take the Old Seven Mile Bridge path to Pigeon Key. It’s about 4 miles and totally worth it. The ride offers gorgeous 360° views of blue water. Parking is limited (and tight), but manageable.
🚲 Note: The bike path has marked lanes for both directions—so ride right and soak in the scenery.
6. Sometimes… the Keys Smell
Depending on the season, Sargassum seaweed washes up and starts decomposing along parts of the shore. It can smell a little funky. Not a dealbreaker, but don’t be surprised.
7. Sea Turtle & Shark Sightings
Keep your eyes peeled—you may spot sea turtles gliding through the shallows or sharks cruising the marinas. We saw a nurse shark combing the marina floor, and another group pulled in a 6-foot nurse shark after a 20-minute fight on the line. Wild!
8. Soak in the Sunsets
Sunsets in the Keys are next-level. Think cotton candy skies, water reflections, and views that belong on a postcard. Wherever you are, carve out time in the evening to pause and take it all in. 🌅
9. Golf Carts are a Thing
Locals and visitors alike cruise around the smaller Keys and neighborhoods in golf carts. If you have one—or rent one—you’ll fit right in.
10. Bring Your Snorkel Gear
Snorkeling in the Keys is easy and amazing. From off-shore adventures to stepping into the water at your campground, the fish are always nearby. At Dry Tortugas, snorkeling gear is included with your ferry or seaplane ticket—but feel free to bring your own if you prefer.
11. Charter a Fishing Boat
🎣 If you love fishing, consider booking a charter trip. The waters around the Keys are rich with fish—from mahi to snapper to tarpon. We didn’t book one this time, but it’s definitely on our list for next time!
Final Thoughts
The Florida Keys are more than a destination—they’re a vibe. With a little planning and a laid-back mindset, you’ll be well on your way to unforgettable memories, crystal-clear waters, and maybe even a chicken selfie or two.
See you on the backroads of paradise. 🌴
