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.

Key West

Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center

Marine sanctuary protecting reefs, seagrass, mangroves & heritage in the Florida Keys.

The Lower Keys

Little Duck Key Veterans' Memorial Beach

Explore Little Duck Key Veterans Memorial Beach - history and views.

Marathon

Marathon Community Park

A vibrant 13.5-acre all-ages park in Marathon with sports fields, courts, playgrounds, picnic areas & more.

Key Largo

Peace Park At Nelson Government Center

Bayfront park with pavilions & scenic picnic views in Key Largo

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.

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

Key Largo

Old Settlers Park

Old Settlers Park: pavilion, playground & pet-friendly green space in Tavernier.

Key West

Little Hamaca

Quiet nature trails and boardwalks through mangroves and hammocks—Key West’s hidden natural escape.

Marathon

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.

Key West

Wicker Sports Complex

Wickers Sports Complex — versatile city-run sports park in Key West featuring leagues, youth football, and open play fields.

Key West

Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum

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

Marathon

Marathon Wild Bird Center

Rescue, rehab, and release wild birds in the Florida Keys—join the mission!

Key Largo

JD's Bait & Tackle, Marina and Beach Park

Explore JD's Outdoor Adventures: boats, reels, and gear for Florida anglers.Outdoor gear, boats & bait — your Keys outfitter for every angler’s dream.

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.