Google Earth Florida Keys

Are you planning a trip to Florida Keys? Look no further than Google Earth to help you plan your next adventure. With its interactive maps and stunning satellite imagery, Google Earth is the perfect tool to create a comprehensive travel guide for Florida Keys. From the top attractions to hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports, this guide will take you on a journey through the best of Florida Keys.

Top Attractions in Florida Keys

There’s so much to see and do in Florida Keys, but these are the top attractions that you simply cannot miss:

1. Dry Tortugas National Park

Located about 70 miles west of Key West, Dry Tortugas National Park is a remote island paradise that is only accessible by boat or seaplane. The park is home to Fort Jefferson, a 19th-century fort that is surrounded by crystal-clear waters and coral reefs. Visitors can snorkel, swim, and sunbathe on the pristine beaches, or explore the fort and its history.

2. Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory

Step into a world of butterflies at the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory. This indoor oasis is home to more than 50 species of butterflies, as well as exotic birds, plants, and flowers. Visitors can walk through the lush gardens and watch the butterflies flutter by.

3. Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum

Papa Hemingway lived in Key West for more than 10 years, and his former home is now a museum that offers a glimpse into the life of the legendary writer. Visitors can see the typewriter on which he wrote some of his most famous works, as well as the six-toed cats that still roam the property.

Hidden Gems in Florida Keys

While the top attractions are definitely worth seeing, there are also some hidden gems in Florida Keys that are off the beaten path:

1. Indian Key

Located just a short boat ride from Islamorada, Indian Key is a tiny island that is steeped in history. The island was once a bustling community with a hotel, post office, and shops, but it was destroyed by a raid in 1840. Today, visitors can explore the ruins and learn about the island’s fascinating past.

2. No Name Pub

Tucked away on Big Pine Key, No Name Pub is a local institution that is famous for its pizza and quirky decor. The walls are covered in dollar bills, license plates, and other memorabilia, and visitors are encouraged to add their own mementos to the collection.

3. The Turtle Hospital

Located in Marathon, The Turtle Hospital is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating injured sea turtles. Visitors can take a guided tour of the hospital and learn about the turtles, their habitats, and the threats that they face in the wild.

Food Scene in Florida Keys

Florida Keys is a foodie’s paradise, with an abundance of seafood and local specialties. Here are some must-try dishes:

1. Conch Fritters

Conch fritters are a staple of Florida Keys cuisine. These deep-fried balls of dough are stuffed with tender chunks of conch, a local shellfish, and served with dipping sauce.

2. Key Lime Pie

No trip to Florida Keys is complete without trying the famous Key lime pie. Made with tart Key lime juice and a graham cracker crust, this sweet and tangy dessert is a local favorite.

3. Stone Crab Claws

Stone crab claws are another local delicacy that are not to be missed. These meaty claws are served cold with mustard sauce, and are only available from October to May.

Budget-Friendly Tips in Florida Keys

While Florida Keys can be an expensive destination, there are also plenty of ways to save money:

1. Visit in the Off-Season

The summer months are the busiest and most expensive time to visit Florida Keys. Consider visiting in the winter or spring, when the crowds are thinner and the prices are lower.

2. Take Advantage of Happy Hour

Many restaurants and bars in Florida Keys offer happy hour specials, with discounted drinks and appetizers. Do your research and find the best happy hour deals in your area.

3. Stay in a Vacation Rental

Instead of booking a hotel, consider renting a vacation home or condo. This can often be a more affordable option, especially for families or larger groups.

Outdoor Adventures in Florida Keys

With its crystal-clear waters and abundant wildlife, Florida Keys is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are some of the best outdoor adventures:

1. Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

The coral reefs that surround Florida Keys are some of the most beautiful in the world. Take a snorkeling or scuba diving trip to see colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine life up close.

2. Kayaking and Paddleboarding

Explore the mangrove forests and shallow bays of Florida Keys by kayak or paddleboard. This is a great way to get some exercise and see the natural beauty of the area.

3. Fishing

Florida Keys is a world-renowned fishing destination, with opportunities for deep-sea fishing, fly fishing, and everything in between. Book a fishing charter and try your luck at catching tarpon, bonefish, or sailfish.

Family-Friendly Activities in Florida Keys

Florida Keys is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities that will keep kids entertained:

1. Dolphin Encounter

Interact with dolphins at Dolphin Research Center in Grassy Key. Visitors can swim with the dolphins, feed them, and learn about their behavior and habitat.

2. Aquarium Encounters

Aquarium Encounters in Marathon is an interactive aquarium that allows visitors to get up close and personal with marine life. Feed sharks, rays, and turtles, or take a guided tour of the facility.

3. The Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters

Located in Islamorada, The Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters offers a variety of activities for families, including snorkeling, feeding tarpon, and a touch tank where kids can interact with sea stars and other creatures.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences in Florida Keys

If you’re looking for something a little more unique, check out these off-the-beaten-path experiences:

1. Ghost Tour

Explore the haunted side of Florida Keys with a ghost tour. Learn about the area’s spooky history and visit haunted sites like the Hemingway House and the Key West Cemetery.

2. Sailing Adventure

Take a sailing trip around the Keys and visit secluded coves and hidden beaches. This is a great way to see the area from a different perspective.

3. Backcountry Safari

Explore the backcountry of Florida Keys by Jeep or on foot. This is a great way to see the natural beauty of the area and spot wildlife like alligators and bald eagles.

Natural Wonders in Florida Keys

Florida Keys is home to some truly breathtaking natural wonders. Here are a few that you should add to your itinerary:

1. Seven Mile Bridge

The Seven Mile Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in Florida Keys. This historic bridge spans seven miles over the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico, and offers stunning views of the surrounding islands.

2. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

Located in Key Largo, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is the first underwater park in the United States. Visitors can snorkel, dive, or take a glass-bottom boat tour to see the colorful coral reefs and marine life.

3. Bahia Honda State Park

Bahia Honda State Park is a hidden gem in Florida Keys. This pristine beach is surrounded by turquoise waters and lush vegetation, and offers some of the best snorkeling and swimming in the area.

Vibrant Nightlife in Florida Keys

When the sun goes down, the party starts in Florida Keys. Here are some of the best places to experience the vibrant nightlife:

1. Sloppy Joe’s

Sloppy Joe’s is a Key West institution that has been serving drinks since 1933. This lively bar is famous for its rum runners and live music, and is a must-visit for