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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Great White Heron National Wildlife Refuge
Protected sanctuary in the Florida Keys for wading birds, sea turtles, and marine life.
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.
REEF Ocean Exploration Center for Marine Conservation
Explore the REEF Ocean Exploration Center: inspiring ocean discovery and conservation!
Pine Channel Nature Park
Big Pine Key’s scenic park with boardwalks, kayak launch & picnic spots.
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.
Smathers Beach
Smathers Beach — Key West’s scenic oceanfront escape for sun, swim, and seaside strolls.
The Rhum Runner Aqua Park
Rhum Runner — scenic floating lounge and bar at The Lagoon on Grassy Key with waterside bites & cocktails.
Old Settlers Park
Old Settlers Park: pavilion, playground & pet-friendly green space in Tavernier.
Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center
Marine sanctuary protecting reefs, seagrass, mangroves & heritage in the Florida Keys.
Nelson English Park
Nelson English Park is a neighborhood green space in Key West with fields, shaded areas, and walking paths for casual outdoor fun.
Little Duck Key Veterans' Memorial Beach
Explore Little Duck Key Veterans Memorial Beach - history and views.
Elizabeth Bishop House & Garden
Elizabeth Bishop House — historic home of poet Elizabeth Bishop in Key West, where literary heritage meets island charm.
Key Largo Community Park and Pool
14-acre Key Largo park: courts, pool, fields & trails open daily.