From vibrant Key West to the mysteriously named No Name Key, the Florida Keys offer historical intrigue and geographical wonder in a graceful archipelago, stretching out from the Everglades towards Havana. Postcard-worthy turquoise waters make the Keys a popular destination for sports fishing, scuba diving, and boating. If you fancy a more leisurely set of activities during your visit, boat rides in the tropical sun and snorkeling let you set your own pace for exploring the dazzling coral islands.

The strong culinary culture of the Keys is centered around fresh seafood, from mahi-mahi to snapper to blackfin tuna, alongside other edible delights, like Key lime pie on a stick. For those wanting to explore both land and sea, consider venturing into the Mel Fisher Maritime Heritage Museum or the Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum, both of which are excellent forays into the impact the ocean has had on the history of these islands.

The best time to look for Florida Keys vacation rentals is between March and May. There are typically fewer crowds during this time and the weather is still warm without being humid, unlike in the muggier summer months.. The islands also host a variety of events in the spring. The 7 Mile Bridge Run in April is an annual marathon spanning the entirety of one of the island’s bridges. The Taste of Key West, also in April, is an annual celebration of the various cuisines that call the archipelago home, and feature everything from fine dining to seafood shacks and food trucks. The Key West Songwriters’ Festival in May has been going strong for 25 years and features dozens of performers across genres such as country, reggae, and rock.

Duval Street

Duval Street, running from Mallory Square to the Southernmost Point marker, is one of Key West’s most lively streets. Host to museums, shops, galleries, and cafes, Duval Street is great not only for people-watching, with its many annual parades and events, but also for learning about the history of the Florida Keys, with attractions such as the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, and the former Strand Theater.

Dry Tortugas National Park

Dry Tortugas National Park, 70 miles from Key West, is only accessible by boat or plane, but is a worthwhile stop on any trip to the Florida Keys. An archipelago of seven beach-ringed islands, one is taken up entirely by the preserved ruins of Fort Jefferson, which stands guard over the coral, seagrass, and shipwrecks that welcome snorkelers from around the world. Popular snorkeling spots are the Historic Coaling Pier, Fort Jefferson's moat wall, and Garden Key. Boaters can explore around Loggerhead Key's Little Africa Reef and the Windjammer Wreck.

Marathon

Not to be confused with the activity, or the location of the same name in Greece, Marathon is the sportfishing center of the Florida Keys. Charters are easily arranged here for deep-sea, reef, and flats fishing. A variety of beaches and beachfront restaurants line the strip, while the former Seven Mile Bridge on the island makes a scenic path for walkers, joggers, and cyclists.