Local’s Guide to the Florida Keys

Planning a trip to the Florida Keys can feel overwhelming — from choosing which island to stay on to deciding how many days you need and what activities are worth booking.

Below, you’ll find my best Florida Keys itineraries, island-by-island guides, essential travel tips, hotel recommendations, and activity ideas — all organized to help you plan faster and travel smarter.

I’m Natalie, a travel expert and points strategist who helps travelers plan stress-free trips using smart planning and points when possible. I’ve spent over a decade living in the Keys, and this page serves as the hub for all of my Florida Keys content.

Natalie at 'secret beach' in Key Largo

Florida Keys Island Guides


Each island in the Florida Keys offers a completely different experience. These island-specific guides break down what makes each Key unique so you can choose the best place to stay based on your travel style.

Florida Keys Itineraries


Not sure how many days you need or how to structure your trip? These Florida Keys itineraries take the guesswork out of planning by showing you exactly how to spend your time — whether you’re visiting for a long weekend or a full week.

Best Things to Do in the Florida Keys

From snorkeling coral reefs to sunset cruises and hidden beaches, the Florida Keys are packed with unforgettable experiences. This section highlights the best things to do across the Keys for couples, families, and adventure-seekers.

jon pennekamp dive boat

Fishing & Boating

Islamorada is the Sportfishing Capital of the World, so you should definitely add fishing to your itinerary when visiting the Florida Keys.

You can find pretty much any boating activity here, so if you prefer to see the fish in the sea (or you plate), you can still enjoy the water on stunning sunset sails and fun afternoons at the sandbar.

Top Fishing Charter
Sunset Sail with Bites and Drinks
Boat Party at the Sandbar
natalie snorkeling

Snorkeling & Scuba

Key Largo is the Scuba Diving Capital of the World, and the Keys is sprinkled with shipwrecks and shallow reefs that make for colorful marine sanctuaries.

Explore this magical world under the surface by snorkeling, scuba diving, or for the faint of heart- via a glass bottom boat ride.

Best Snorkeling Tour in Key Largo
My Favorite Snorkel Spot in the Lower Keys
Scuba Diving Shipwrecks
Glass Bottom Boat Tour
Natalie paddle boarding and Bryan kayaking through the mangroves of islamorada

Kayaking & Paddleboarding

The Florida Keys has endless coves and bays that provide calm waters that are perfect for watersports. Kayaking and paddleboarding is one if the most accessible ways to explore the Florida Keys.

There are some state parks that you can rent kayaks from to chart your own course, or you can join a tour to find local hidden gems. For a more thrilling ride, rent a jet ski!

Best Beaches in the Keys
Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Tour in Key Largo
Jet Ski Rental

Plan Your Florida Keys Trip


If you’re short on time or want help putting together the perfect Florida Keys itinerary, I offer 1:1 trip planning and consulting services — from choosing the right island to booking hotels and activities.

If you have points & miles, I can help you maximize them for this trip.

fishing rods fl keys

Frequently Asked Questions