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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Key West

The Key West Nature Preserve

The Key West Nature Preserve – a hidden coastal oasis of mangroves, native wildlife, and quiet beachfront tucked behind bustling Key West.

Key West

Elizabeth Bishop House & Garden

Elizabeth Bishop House — historic home of poet Elizabeth Bishop in Key West, where literary heritage meets island charm.

Key West

Pines Park

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

The Lower Keys

Bernstein Park

Bernstein Park on Stock Island is a vibrant community recreation area featuring baseball, soccer, and basketball fields, playgrounds, a fitness court, and a community center—all open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Key West

Higgs Beach & Reynolds Street Pier

Beach & pier park in Key West with courts & sunset views.

Marathon

Jess Hobbs Park

Family-friendly park with playground, basketball court & restrooms in Marathon.

Marathon

Marathon Community Park

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

The Lower Keys

Sammy Creek Landing

Peaceful shoreline park with a kayak launch and fishing opportunities, plus picnic areas and views.

Islamorada

Florida Bay Forever

Non-profit dedicated to preserving Florida Bay through restoration, advocacy, and education.

Key West

Truman Waterfront Park

Truman Waterfront Park — scenic public waterfront park in Key West offering picnic spots, a playground and stunning harbor views.

Islamorada

Founders Park

45-acre recreation park in Islamorada with beach, pool, sports & playgrounds.

Key West

Key West Wildlife Center (24 hour rescues)

Rescue and rehabilitate native wildlife in Key West to protect nature.

Key West

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

Key West’s historic fort meets beach paradise — snorkeling, history, sunsets.

Key West

Key West Veterans Memorial Garden at Bayview Park

Located in Bayview Park, this Veterans Memorial Park commemorates all those who served and sacrificed.