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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Marathon

Sombrero Beach

Sombrero Beach — Marathon’s palm-lined jewel for swimming, picnicking, and family beach days.

The Lower Keys

Big Pine Community Park

Big Pine Community Park is a vibrant, waterfront recreation hub on Big Pine Key, offering tennis, basketball, bocce, a skate park, playgrounds, a fitness trail, and a spacious community center.

Islamorada

Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park

Lignumvitae Key: boat-access tropical hammock and historic Matheson home.

Islamorada

Rain Barrel Village

Explore Rain Barrel Village: Florida Keys' vibrant artisan shops, tropical gardens, and iconic Betsy the Lobster!

Key West

Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum

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

Key West

Key West Aquarium

Explore Key West Aquarium's vibrant marine life and interactive touch tanks!

Key West

Key West Lighthouse & Keeper's Quarters

Climb 88 steps for sweeping views, explore historic keeper’s family quarters, and learn about maritime heritage at the Key West Lighthouse & Keeper’s Quarters Museum.

Key West

Rest Beach

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

Marathon

The Rhum Runner Aqua Park

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

Key West

South Beach

South Beach in Key West is a free, lively public beach located at the southern end of Duval Street, near the Southernmost House and the famous southernmost point buoy.

Key West

Pines Park

Shaded picnic spot under pines—great for plane-spotting in Key West

Key West

Indigenous Park

Quiet native-tree and bird sanctuary in Key West.

The Lower Keys

Palm Villa Park

This small park has a picnic table overlooking Bogie Channel. No water access.

Key West

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.