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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Crane Point Hammock Museum & Nature Trails
Crane Point Museum & Nature Center in Marathon is a 63-acre nature preserve featuring tropical hardwood hammock trails, a natural history museum, wildlife exhibits, and kayak rentals.
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.
Coco Plum Beach
This secluded beach on the Atlantic side of Marathon offers calm, shallow waters perfect for kayaking, with free parking, restrooms, and a shower.
Sunset Bay Park on Grassy Key
Sunset Bay Park (Grassy Key) — serene waterfront park on Grassy Key ideal for sunset viewing and island relaxation.
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.
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.
Astro City Playground
Astro Park Playground is a family-friendly outdoor recreation area in Key West featuring a playground, beach access, barbecues, and beach wheelchairs, open daily from 7:30 AM to sunset.
Friendship Park
Family-friendly Key Largo park with playgrounds, sports courts, and picnic areas.
Rosalynn Carter Butterfly Garden
Discover the Little White House’s butterfly garden, dedicated to First Lady Rosalynn Carter.
Marathon's Dog Park
Marathon’s Dog Park offers a safe, off-leash space with separate areas for large and small dogs to play, run, and socialize from dawn to dusk.
Wilhelmina Harvey Park
Wilhelmina Harvey Park — a neighborhood rec park with playground, picnic area and walking trail on Big Pine Key.
Fort East Martello Museum
Explore Civil War history, unique art, and the eerie legend of Robert the Doll at Fort East Martello Museum.
Mallory Square
Mallory Square is Key West’s iconic waterfront plaza where nightly sunset celebrations come alive with street performers, food, and local artisans.
Smathers Beach
Smathers Beach — Key West’s scenic oceanfront escape for sun, swim, and seaside strolls.
JD Butterfly Garden and Nursery
JD Butterfly Garden & Nursery — butterfly garden, plant nursery & bistro in Key Largo, where you’ll stroll tropical gardens, shop native plants and relax at a charming café.