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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Islamorada

Anne's Beach

Anne's Beach is located at Lower Matecumbe Key, Florida. The Islamorada Beach is dedicated to local environmentalist Anne Eaton.

The Lower Keys

Big Coppitt Volunteer Fire Department Park

The park includes a basketball court, roller hockey rink, and a handball court. There are six tables and benches available for use.

Key Largo

Rowell's Waterfront Park

Scenic waterfront park with swimming & kayak launch in Key Largo

Marathon

Coco Plum Beach

This secluded beach on the Atlantic side of Marathon offers calm, shallow waters perfect for kayaking, with free parking, restrooms, and a shower.

Key West

Smathers Beach

Smathers Beach — Key West’s scenic oceanfront escape for sun, swim, and seaside strolls.

Key West

Tennessee Williams Museum

Tennessee Williams Museum — dedicated to the life and works of the famed playwright in Key West’s Little White House complex.

Key Largo

Friendship Park

Family-friendly Key Largo park with playgrounds, sports courts, and picnic areas.

Marathon

Marathon Wild Bird Center

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

Key West

Astro City Playground

Astro Park Playground is a family-friendly outdoor recreation area in Key West featuring a playground, beach access, barbecues, and beach wheelchairs, open daily from 7:30 AM to sunset.

The Lower Keys

Sammy Creek Landing

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

Islamorada

Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park

Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park — a unique blend of geology, history and nature trails in Islamorada.

Key West

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

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

Key West

Fort East Martello Museum

Explore Civil War history, unique art, and the eerie legend of Robert the Doll at Fort East Martello Museum.

Islamorada

Rain Barrel Village

Explore Rain Barrel Village: Florida Keys' vibrant artisan shops, tropical gardens, and iconic Betsy the Lobster!