🏝️ Discover the Florida Keys

Stretching south from mainland Florida into the turquoise waters of the Straits of Florida, the Florida Keys are a chain of tropical islands connected by the spectacular Overseas Highway.

Each Key has its own character, from Key Largo, famous for its reefs and water-based adventures, through Islamorada and Marathon, to the laid-back beauty of Big Pine Key and the colourful, wonderfully eccentric Key West.

Expect turquoise waters, coral reefs, palm-lined roads, fishing, sailing, kayaking, wildlife and spectacular sunsets. The Keys are perfect for slowing down and enjoying Florida’s tropical side.

🌴 You don’t have to stay in the Keys

The Florida Keys work brilliantly as part of a longer Florida itinerary — but you don’t necessarily need to stay overnight to experience them.

A day trip from Miami is possible, following the Overseas Highway south and experiencing some of the Keys before returning to the mainland. I’ve done this myself from Miami, making it a great option if you’re already staying in the city and want to experience a taste of island life.

For a more relaxed experience, staying a few nights allows you to travel further along the chain and discover more of what makes the Keys special.

Whether you visit for a day or linger for longer, the Florida Keys offer a completely different side of the Sunshine State. 🌊🌴🐢🐸

🐔 Wild Chickens & Keys Food

One of the quirkiest things you’ll notice in the Florida Keys is the wild chickens wandering around towns and neighbourhoods. They are particularly associated with Key West, where you’ll often hear their distinctive calls before you spot them strutting along the streets. They have become part of the character of the Keys — and a great source of amusement for visitors! 🐔🤣

And then there’s the food. 🌴🍤

Being surrounded by water, it’s no surprise that fresh seafood is a big part of the Keys food scene. Look out for stone crab, shrimp, lobster, conch and fresh fish, often served simply and accompanied by tropical flavours.

You also can’t visit the Keys without trying Key lime pie — the region’s signature dessert, traditionally made with tart Key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk and a biscuit-style crust.

From casual waterfront seafood shacks to colourful restaurants and sunset bars, food is very much part of the Florida Keys experience.

And if you spot a chicken wandering past your table… well, that’s just Keys hospitality. 😂🐔🌴