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 Largo

Everglades National Park

Everglades National Park protects vast wetland, forest, and marine habitats with wildlife viewing, ranger programs, tours, and outdoor recreation in South Florida.

Key Largo

Florida Keys Wild Bird Center

Rescue, rehabilitate, and protect wild birds at Florida Keys' inspiring sanctuary.

Islamorada

The Banyan Tree Garden Boutique

The Banyan Tree Garden & Boutique — a hidden oasis in Islamorada showcasing tropical gardens, artisan gifts & women’s fashion.

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 West

Wilhelmina Harvey Park

Wilhelmina Harvey Park — a neighborhood rec park with playground, picnic area and walking trail on Big Pine Key.

Key West

Simonton Beach Key West

Picturesque city beach on Simonton Street in Key West with easy access and tropical ambiance.

Key West

Higgs Beach & Reynolds Street Pier

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

Islamorada

Indian Key Historic State Park

Historic island ghost-town accessible only by boat / kayak.

Key Largo

Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park

The park is home to 84 protected species, including wild cotton, mahogany mistletoe, and the American crocodile, with accessible trails perfect for exploring nature and wildlife.

The Lower Keys

Pine Channel Nature Park

Big Pine Key’s scenic park with boardwalks, kayak launch & picnic spots.

Key West

Dog Beach

Visit this small dog-friendly beach where your best friend can swim!

Key West

Fran Ford White-Crowned Pigeon Preserve

Conservation, birding, and community education in the Florida Keys.

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.

Islamorada

Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park

Lignumvitae Key: boat-access tropical hammock and historic Matheson home.