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.

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Key West

Edward B. Knight Pier

Popular with residents and tourists alike, the Edward B. Knight Pier is dog-friendly!

Key West

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

Key West’s historic fort meets beach paradise — snorkeling, history, sunsets.

Key Largo

Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Established in 1980, Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge protects tropical hardwood hammocks, mangroves, and salt marsh habitats as part of the Florida Keys NWRs complex.

The Lower Keys

Blue Hole Observation Platform

Visit the trail and observation deck at Blue Hole, a cenote-like pond that is the largest body of fresh water in the Florida Keys.

Marathon

The Rhum Runner Aqua Park

Rhum Runner — scenic floating playground and bar at The Lagoon on Grassy Key with waterside bites & cocktails.

Key West

Key West Wildlife Center (24 hour rescues)

Rescue and rehabilitate native wildlife in Key West to protect nature.

Key West

Oldest House Museum & Gardens Key West

Old Island Restoration Foundation — preserving historic buildings & culture in Key West since 1960.

Key West

Sunset Pier

Ocean Key Legacy Resort & Bar — iconic Key West destination featuring the famed Sunset Pier with cocktails, live music & nightly views.

The Lower Keys

Big Coppitt Volunteer Fire Department Park

The park includes a basketball court, roller hockey rink, and a handball court. There are six tables and benches available for use.

Key West

The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory

Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory — a tropical glass-domed haven where hundreds of free-flying butterflies, exotic birds, and flamingos enchant visitors in the heart of Key West.

Marathon

Pigeon Key and Marine Science Center

Historic island tours, snorkeling & Bridge-tram ride at Pigeon Key

Key Largo

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

Discover Pennekamp Park: Nature, adventure, and fun await you!

Key Largo

JD's Bait & Tackle, Marina and Beach Park

A bait shop with a private beach attached, at mile marker 104 bayside right next door to the Caribbean Club. Wet slips, dry storage, beach day passes, and the doors open at 5:30 on weekend mornings.