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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The Lower Keys
Pine Channel Nature Park
Big Pine Key’s scenic park with boardwalks, kayak launch & picnic spots.
Key Largo
Old Settlers Park
Old Settlers Park: pavilion, playground & pet-friendly green space in Tavernier.
Key West
William Bill Butler Park
Bill Butler Park — neighborhood playground and picnic spot in Key West, Florida.
Key West
White St./Atlantic Blvd./Bocce Courts
White Street/Atlantic Blvd Bocce Courts — scenic public bocce park across from the water in Key West.
Islamorada
Green Turtle Hammock Nature Preserve
Peaceful tropical hammock preserve with short trails and bayside views in Islamorada.
Key West
Key West Lighthouse & Keeper's Quarters
Climb 88 steps for sweeping views, explore historic keeper’s family quarters, and learn about maritime heritage at the Key West Lighthouse & Keeper’s Quarters Museum.
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
Indian Key Historic State Park
Historic island ghost-town accessible only by boat / kayak.
Key Largo
MOTE Key Largo Coral Nursery
Mote Marine Laboratory’s Florida Keys Research Campuses are dedicated to coral reef science and restoration.
Marathon
Dolphin Research Center
Non-profit marine center offering dolphin, sea lion, and educational experiences in the Florida Keys.
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.
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.
Key Largo
Friendship Park
Family-friendly Key Largo park with playgrounds, sports courts, and picnic areas.
Key West
Elizabeth Bishop House & Garden
Elizabeth Bishop House — historic home of poet Elizabeth Bishop in Key West, where literary heritage meets island charm.
Islamorada
Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park
Lignumvitae Key: boat-access tropical hammock and historic Matheson home.
