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

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

Discover Pennekamp Park: Nature, adventure, and fun await you!

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.

The Lower Keys

Sugarloaf Shark Park

Sugarloaf Shark Park — scenic waterfront park on Sugarloaf Key with fishing, picnicking, and waterside views.

Islamorada

Green Turtle Hammock Nature Preserve

Peaceful tropical hammock preserve with short trails and bayside views in Islamorada.

Key Largo

Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge

Established in 1980, Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge protects tropical hardwood hammocks, mangroves, and salt marsh habitats as part of the Florida Keys NWRs complex.

Key West

Dog Beach

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

Marathon

Sunset Bay Park on Grassy Key

Sunset Bay Park (Grassy Key) — serene waterfront park on Grassy Key ideal for sunset viewing and island relaxation.

Marathon

Marathon Wild Bird Center

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

Key West

Edward B. Knight Pier

Popular with residents and tourists alike, the Edward B. Knight Pier is dog-friendly!

The Lower Keys

Great White Heron National Wildlife Refuge

Protected sanctuary in the Florida Keys for wading birds, sea turtles, and marine life.

Marathon

Oceanfront Park

Oceanfront Park in Marathon offers ocean views, picnic spots, kayak launches, fitness stations, and a dog-friendly field for outdoor fun.

Key West

Clarence S.Higgs Memorial Beach Park

Higgs Beach Park in Key West features sandy beaches, turquoise waters, historic sites like Fort West Martello, a beachside café, a children’s playground, and recreational amenities including snorkeling, kayaking, and tennis.

The Lower Keys

Big Pine Community Park

Big Pine Community Park is a vibrant, waterfront recreation hub on Big Pine Key, offering tennis, basketball, bocce, a skate park, playgrounds, a fitness trail, and a spacious community center.

Marathon

The Lagoon on Grassy Key

Experience thrilling wakeboarding, aqua park fun, and vibrant beer garden vibes at The Lagoon!

Islamorada

Robbie's of Islamorada

Robbie’s of Islamorada offers thrilling tarpon feeding, fishing, water sports, and vibrant local dining in the heart of the Florida Keys.