Local Resources
Local Programs and Resources
Voluntourism: Volunteer in the Florida Keys! “Be local” as a visitor to the Florida Keys and as part of your vacation get involved by giving something back and making the world a better place.
Plastic Free Key West: When you are visiting Key West, you have the power to protect our oceans and waterways from plastic pollution. Plastic Free Key West is a community initiative that celebrates local businesses taking real action to reduce — and ultimately eliminate — single-use plastics.
Skip the Straw: The simplest way to keep plastic out of our ocean? Use less of it. That’s why Reef Relief is collaborating with local businesses to take a stand against single-use plastic straws. By joining the Skip the Straw campaign, businesses shift consumer habits and reduce the demand for unnecessary plastic.
Responsible Sunscreen: Protecting your skin from the sun is essential — but the type of sunscreen you use affects more than just your health; it can also harm delicate marine ecosystems like coral reefs. The good news is, you don’t have to choose between your well-being and the environment — by using coral-safe mineral sunscreen or sun-safe alternatives like hats, UPF clothing, and shade, you can do both.
Have a great volunteer opportunity that locals or local businesses should know about? Let us know at: webeditor@fla-keys.com
Upcoming Community Events
Free Line Dancing Classes: Monroe County Parks and Beaches will host free line dancing classes at Big Pine Key Community Park every Monday and Wednesday starting Oct. 20. Classes are open to all levels and led by volunteer instructor Maryse Hill. For more info email: ParksandBeachesFun@MonroeCounty-FL.gov
Walk on White Art Celebration: Walk on White, one of Key West’s most popular monthly art strolls, kicks off its 2025/2026 season on October 16 and continues monthly on every third Thursday through May, from 6:00–9:00 p.m. Centered along White Street from Southard to United, the event showcases local galleries, studios, and businesses featuring visual art, live performances, creative demos, and refreshments. Now also a platform for supporting local nonprofits, this season’s opening night includes a special performance by the Key West High School Band and a fundraiser raffle benefiting their upcoming trip to Rome. For full event details and participating venues, visit www.WalkOnWhiteKeyWest.com.
Nautical Nights Gala: Join us for the relaunch of the Nautical Nights Gala: Around the World on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at the Islander Resort! This exciting event offers an evening of dinner, dancing, and interactive passport stations that let you "travel the world" while supporting Treasure Village Montessori. Proceeds from the gala benefit the school’s teachers, small class sizes, and enriched student learning experiences. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a magical night and support a great cause in our community! Purchase tickets at Nautical Nights - Treasure Village Montessori
Hosting a community event that locals will love? Let us know at: webeditor@fla-keys.com
Jobs in the Keys
Holiday Specials
Many local restaurants in Key West are offering Thanksgiving specials, with options ranging from traditional turkey dinners to unique island-inspired twists. Here are some top choices:
Bagatelle (Key West) – Holiday-inspired features alongside signature dishes; turkey dinners begin at noon.
Banana Cafe (Key West) – Thanksgiving menu from noon until sold out ($27 per plate).
Boardwalk Bar & Grill (Big Pine Key) – Free community Thanksgiving dinner open to all.
Butterfly Café (Tranquility Bay Resort, Marathon) – Thanksgiving buffet served 2–8 p.m., featuring classic holiday favorites and island-style sides.
Café Sole (Key West) – New England-style Thanksgiving dinner with marinated turkey, smoked oyster & apple stuffing; reservations recommended.
Dante’s (Key West) – All-you-can-eat buffet for $28 per adult from noon to 5 p.m.
Flagler’s Restaurant (Key West) – Thanksgiving buffet with seafood raw bar; reservations recommended.
Four Flamingos by Richard Blais (Key West) – Thanksgiving dinner for $90 per person with island-twist menu and upscale coastal dishes.
Lazy Days Restaurant (Islamorada) – Traditional Thanksgiving meal with generous portions and ocean views; praised for its cozy family atmosphere.
Lighthouse Kitchen + Bar (Faro Blanco Resort, Marathon) – Four-course Thanksgiving menu with turkey, prime rib, or fresh-catch entrée.
Snapper’s Oceanfront Restaurant & Bar (Key Largo) – “Thanksgiving in Paradise” menu with roasted turkey and all the fixings.
Sol by the Sea (Playa Largo Resort, Key Largo) – Take-out Thanksgiving Dinner featuring roasted turkey roulade, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and seasonal pies.
Southernmost Beach Cafe (Key West) – Family-style Thanksgiving dinner for $65 per person.
Know of a business with an amazing local holiday meal within the Florida Keys? Let us know at: webeditor@fla-keys.com
