People hiking through lush greenery under a partly cloudy sky.

Beaches, Parks & Gardens

Think “beach day,” Keys-style. Here, sandy stretches pop up in a few special spots, but most water access comes with a twist—limestone rocks, shady mangroves, and clear shallows that feel like your own natural swimming pool. Add in tropical gardens, local parks and playgrounds, and trails perfect for wandering, and you’ve got plenty of ways to play outside. From state parks to secret picnic spots, these listings prove you don’t need miles of sand to enjoy paradise—you just need a sunblock and a little curiosity.

Filters
Destination
Category
Marathon

Marathon Community Park

A vibrant 13.5-acre all-ages park in Marathon with sports fields, courts, playgrounds, picnic areas & more.

Key West

Mallory Square

Mallory Square is Key West’s iconic waterfront plaza where nightly sunset celebrations come alive with street performers, food, and local artisans.

Islamorada

Green Turtle Hammock Nature Preserve

Peaceful tropical hammock preserve with short trails and bayside views in Islamorada.

The Lower Keys

Great White Heron National Wildlife Refuge

Protected sanctuary in the Florida Keys for wading birds, sea turtles, and marine life.

Key West

Fort Zachary Taylor Beach

History and beach at Key West’s iconic Fort Zachary Taylor — snorkel, stroll, sunset.

Marathon

Marathon Wild Bird Center

Rescue, rehab, and release wild birds in the Florida Keys—join the mission!

Key West

Rest Beach

Quiet oceanfront escape & picnic spot in Key West’s C.B. Harvey Park

Key West

Rosalynn Carter Butterfly Garden

Discover the Little White House’s butterfly garden, dedicated to First Lady Rosalynn Carter.

Key West

Mama's Garden Center

Mama’s Garden Center: the largest nursery in the Florida Keys, offering native plants, palms, trees, hardscaping, design & installation services.

Key Largo

Peace Park At Nelson Government Center

Bayfront park with pavilions & scenic picnic views in Key Largo

Key West

Dog Beach

Visit this small dog-friendly beach where your best friend can swim!

Key West

Bayview Park

Bayview Park in the center of Key West and has the following amenities: Basketball courts Five public tennis courts and a Pro Shop Open area for picnics and family gatherings Pavilion Pepe Hernandez softball field Playground equipment area Six restrooms

Key West

Wilhelmina Harvey Park

Wilhelmina Harvey Park — a neighborhood rec park with playground, picnic area and walking trail on Big Pine Key.

Key West

Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum

Explore the legendary Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum in beautiful Key West!

Key Largo

MOTE Key Largo Coral Nursery

Mote Marine Laboratory’s Florida Keys Research Campuses are dedicated to coral reef science and restoration.