Hidden Gems of The Florida Keys
The Florida Keys & Key West are known worldwide for their unmatched natural beauty, laid-back atmosphere and year-round warmth. But they also offer environmental, cultural and adventure activities that can’t be enjoyed anywhere EXCEPT in the island chain. Make lasting vacation memories by experiencing these hidden gems.
Cruise on the original African Queen
Take an unforgettable 90-minute Key Largo canal cruise on the African Queen, the actual vessel from the 1951 film starring Humphrey Bogart and Katharine Hepburn. Step aboard the venerable boat, restored to look much like it did in the film, and imagine yourself on the silver screen.
Get hooked in the Sport Fishing Capital of the World
Book a skilled charter captain or guide in Islamorada, called the Sport Fishing Capital of the World, for exhilarating offshore or backcountry angling. The Keys claim more saltwater fishing world records than any other location anywhere — and you can target everything from bonefish to powerful blue marlin.
Discover tiny Key deer
On Big Pine Key, you can glimpse a real-life “Bambi” that’s about the size of a large dog. Miniature Key deer, an endangered species that live only in the Lower Keys, can be seen grazing especially in the early morning and at dusk.
Meet “patients” at a pioneering sea turtle hospital
Encounter rescued sea turtles during a behind-the-scenes tour of the planet’s first state-licensed veterinary hospital for these fascinating creatures. Marathon’s Turtle Hospital treats, rehabilitates and nurtures sick and injured turtles and, whenever possible, releases them back into the ocean. Turtle releases are open to the public and usually held on Keys beaches, so take part in one if you can.
Drive across the Seven Mile Bridge
It’s a “bucket list” experience to drive over the landmark Seven Mile Bridge, one of the longest segmental bridges in the world and the centerpiece of the iconic Florida Keys Overseas Highway. The majestic span, stretching above the blue Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico, connects Marathon to the Lower Keys.
History buffs can ride in a presidential limousine once used by Harry S. Truman, who spent nearly six months of his presidency in Key West. (Photo by Steve Panariello)
Ride in Truman’s presidential limo
At Key West’s Harry S. Truman Little White House — Florida’s only presidential museum — take the VIP White Glove Tour that includes a ride in one of Truman’s official limousines. It’s a truly awesome experience to sit in the car that carried America’s 33rd president. (Truman, by the way, spent nearly six months in Key West during his 1945-1953 tenure, running the United States from the island city.)
Feeding wild tarpon at Robbie’s in Islamorada is a Keys tradition enjoyed by kids and adults from around the world. (Photo courtesy of Robbie’s)
Feed the “resident” tarpon at Robbie’s Marina
Discover a colorful mix of outdoor shops, food vendors and watersports options at Robbie's Marina in Islamorada. Buy a bucket of bait fish to feed the resident tarpon, getting up close and personal with the huge “silver kings” as they leap to grab their treats. The quirky activity is sure to make you smile.
Watch scientists perform hands-on coral reef restoration
Take a complimentary tour of one of Mote Marine Laboratory’s Summerland Key facility or their coral nurseries in Islamorada and Key Largo. If you’re a diver, you can volunteer help the team at I.CARE outplant coral on the continental United States’ only living coral barrier reef.
Take a “southernmost selfie”
Key West’s red, black and yellow Southernmost Point marker buoy isn’t terribly picturesque, but hundreds of visitors take their photos beside it every day. Why? Because the ungainly buoy replica marks the southernmost spot in the continental United States. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean on Whitehead Street, its brightly-painted body bears lettering that proclaims it’s just 90 miles from Cuba. What better place for a photo op? NOTE: On September 4, 2025, a temporary buoy was established at the southern end of Duval Street (1499 Duval) while the original buoy, seawall and roadway repairs are underway.
Of course, the Florida Keys also are home to many other one-of-a-kind adventures and hidden gems. What gem will you discover?
