How to Leave Winter Behind in the Florida Keys

When winter winds howl, leave the icicles and snowballs behind, and enjoy a carefree holiday getaway in the Florida Keys. There is indeed something unique about this string of islands off Florida’s southern coast, and I was “hooked” the first time I went for a seasonal getaway. A blend of bright sunshine, sparkling waters, delightful temperatures, and historic attractions makes the Keys a perfect winter vacation spot.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Casual dress
• Suntan lotion
• Sunscreen
• Snorkeling gear
• Bathing suites
• Good walking shoes

How to Leave Winter Behind in the Florida Keys

1. Drive to paradise. The Keys’ roadway is the southernmost leg of U.S.1, which extends along the East Coast. Driving through the Keys along “America’s Highway Into the Sea” is one of the most beautiful drives in the world. I really enjoyed traveling its length and was delighted by the tropical scenery, refreshing ocean breezes, and colorful communities along the coast. I suggest beginning the road trip in Key Largo, the northern-most of the Keys located 42 miles south-southwest of Miami. Visit Key Largo and Islamorada. Then drive to Marathon and Big Pine Key, stopping along the way. Top your trip off in Key West.

2. Stop at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and catch a glimpse of the world’s third longest barrier coral reef. To really get a close up view of undersea life, hop on a kayak, canoe, glass-bottom boat, or put on a snorkel mask to get a close-up view of undersea life. You’re guaranteed a spectacular snorkeling experience.

3. Explore the shops, galleries and restaurants in Old Town Key West that line Duval Street, which stretches from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic. Don’t miss a visit to the Butterfly Museum and Nature Conservatory, and then stroll to the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum, where the celebrated author of “The Sun Also Rises” and “A Farewell to Arms” wrote some of his greatest works.Hemingway, who first visited the Keys in 1928, discovered its great deep-sea fishing and ended up moving to Key West in 1933.

4. Take a ferry trip from Key West to the seven tiny islands of Dry Tortugas National Park and Civil War-era Fort Jefferson. After visiting the Fort, take in all the beauty of this remote paradise on a kayak or snorkel amid coral reefs. Scuba enthusiasts will enjoy swimming with yellow-tail snappers off the Keys.

5. Plan to visit Mallory Square, a famous Key West site. If you're in the mood for something different, you can pet a shark at the aquarium; sample conch fritters; stroll through the Sculpture Garden, and then enjoy the nightly Sunset Celebration. You'll also enjoy the Key West trolley tour, which provides character to the islands.

Tips & Warnings

• Temperatures average in the 80s most of the year. To stay comfortable, drink plenty of water and dress in cool, cotton clothing. There's a variety of accommodations throughout the Keys for every traveler's budget from campgrounds to cottages. Rates are highest in January through May, but well worth it!

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