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
Clarence S.Higgs Memorial Beach Park
Higgs Beach Park in Key West features sandy beaches, turquoise waters, historic sites like Fort West Martello, a beachside café, a children’s playground, and recreational amenities including snorkeling, kayaking, and tennis.
Key West
Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum
Explore the legendary Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum in beautiful Key West!
Key West
Smathers Beach
Smathers Beach — Key West’s scenic oceanfront escape for sun, swim, and seaside strolls.
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
The Lower Keys
Watson Field Park & Big Pine Key Dog Park
Watson Field Park & Big Pine Key Dog Park — multi-use recreation park with athletic courts and a fenced off-leash dog area on Big Pine Key.
Key Largo
MOTE Key Largo Coral Nursery
Mote Marine Laboratory’s Florida Keys Research Campuses are dedicated to coral reef science and restoration.
Key West
Nancy Forrester's Secret Garden
Nancy Forrester’s Secret Garden is a parrot sanctuary and environmental art garden in Key West that rescues, rehabs, and educates about parrots, especially macaws.
Marathon
Oceanfront Park
Oceanfront Park in Marathon offers ocean views, picnic spots, kayak launches, fitness stations, and a dog-friendly field for outdoor fun.
Key West
Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
Key West’s historic fort meets beach paradise — snorkeling, history, sunsets.
Key West
Elizabeth Bishop House & Garden
Elizabeth Bishop House — historic home of poet Elizabeth Bishop in Key West, where literary heritage meets island charm.
Key Largo
Peace Park At Nelson Government Center
Bayfront park with pavilions & scenic picnic views in Key Largo
Islamorada
Indian Key Historic State Park
Historic island ghost-town accessible only by boat / kayak.
Key West
Key West Wildlife Center (24 hour rescues)
Rescue and rehabilitate native wildlife in Key West to protect nature.
