Sargassum Can’t Stop Paradise
Sargassum may occasionally affect portions of The Florida Keys’ shoreline, but it does not have to affect your vacation. From offshore fishing and backcountry adventures to snorkeling, lobstering, museums and family attractions, there are plenty of ways to experience the Keys beyond the beach.
Sargassum is a naturally occurring seaweed that supports marine life while floating offshore. When winds and currents carry larger amounts toward land, it may temporarily affect the appearance or smell of certain shorelines. Conditions often vary considerably from one location to another, making flexibility the key to an enjoyable Keys getaway.
Fortunately, The Florida Keys are much more than a traditional beach destination. Visitors can head offshore for deep sea fishing, explore the calm waters of Florida Bay, take an eco-tour, snorkel the coral reef, join a seasonal lobstering charter or spend the afternoon discovering museums, parks and family-friendly attractions from Key Largo to Key West.
Water Adventure
Offshore and Reef Fishing
Offshore charters travel into deeper Atlantic waters, where anglers can experience open-ocean fishing and target powerful migratory species. Between summer and September, catches may include tuna and mahi-mahi. Reef fishing offers another option, with mangrove snapper and yellowtail snapper commonly found around the reefs and wrecks.
These trips are a great choice for visitors who want to leave the shoreline behind, enjoy expansive ocean views and experience the excitement of deep-water or reef fishing.
Water Adventure
Backcountry Fishing
Backcountry charters explore the shallower, more protected waters of Florida Bay and the Gulf side of the island chain. These trips often travel through mangrove shorelines, grassy flats and small islands, creating a calmer and more scenic experience.
Depending on conditions, anglers may encounter sea trout, snook, smaller tarpon, mangrove snapper and goliath grouper of many sizes. Backcountry trips can be especially appealing to families, first-time anglers and visitors who prefer a more relaxed day on the water.
water adventure
Eco-Tours
Explore quiet mangrove shorelines by kayak or paddleboard, or join a small guided eco-tour by motor or sailboat to explore quiet and exquisitely beautiful shallow water areas around the Keys, especially on the bay or Gulf away from most sargassum accumulations. Watch for dolphin, spot multiple species of birds and enjoy the clear turquoise waters while learning about the islands chain’s fragile ecosystem from experienced guides.
Water Adventure
Snorkeling and Lobstering
Snorkeling charters operate throughout the year, carrying families and adventurers to reefs, wrecks and clear-water marine habitats away from affected shorelines. Many excursions welcome beginners and provide equipment, instruction and guidance from experienced local crews.
When Florida’s recreational lobster season is legally open, visitors can also book guided lobstering charters. Local captains can help guests understand the equipment, techniques and regulations involved while leading them to appropriate areas. Regulations and conditions should always be reviewed before heading out.
EXPLORE CORAL REEFS
Key Largo
Key Largo is home to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and serves as a gateway to the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Snorkeling, diving and glass-bottom boat excursions take visitors beyond the shoreline to coral reefs filled with tropical fish and other marine life.
Families who would rather remain on land can explore the park’s visitor center, aquarium exhibits, nature trails and paddling opportunities.
Head Offshore or Bayside
Islamorada
Islamorada gives anglers access to both the Atlantic Ocean and Florida Bay. Offshore charters may pursue mahi-mahi, tuna, yellowtail snapper and mangrove snapper during this sargassum period, while backcountry captains target trout, snook, tarpon, mangrove snapper and goliath grouper.
Visitors can also trade fishing rods for snorkeling gear, join a sandbar excursion to visit the legendary Islamorada sandbar or cruise through the mangrove islands on an eco-tour.
Experience Island Culture
Islamorada’s museums, galleries and historic sites tell the story of the area’s fishing traditions, pioneering families and creative community.
Make It a Family Day
Marathon
Marathon offers plenty of activities for families seeking a break from the shoreline. Visitors can meet marine animals, learn about conservation, discover sea turtle rehabilitation or try an indoor surfing experience.
Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters combines hands-on marine experiences with educational exhibits, while Dolphin Research Center introduces visitors to dolphins and sea lions through presentations and interactive programs. The Turtle Hospital offers guided tours focused on the rescue, rehabilitation and release of sea turtles.
Surf Style’s Marathon location adds another indoor option, featuring a FlowRider experience where participants can bodyboard or practice stand-up riding on a continuous indoor wave.
Get Out on the Water:
Marathon’s central location provides convenient access to offshore fishing, reef fishing, snorkeling, lobstering and calm backcountry waters. Families can choose a short snorkeling trip, spend the day fishing or book a guided seasonal lobster excursion when the legal season is open.
Explore the Quiet Side
Big Pine & Lower Keys
The Lower Keys are known for open spaces, peaceful backcountry waters and abundant wildlife. Guided fishing, kayaking and eco-tours travel through mangrove islands and shallow flats, providing opportunities to see native birds, rays, sharks, turtles and other marine life.
Sandbar and snorkeling excursions offer additional ways to enjoy the water away from Atlantic-facing shorelines as well as more catch & cook activities like lobstering and fishing.
Connect With Nature
Land-based adventures highlight the unique habitats and wildlife of Big Pine Key and the Lower Keys.
Spend the Day Exploring
Key West
Key West has one of the most extensive collections of museums, historic homes and cultural attractions in The Florida Keys. Visitors can explore maritime history, literary landmarks, tropical gardens, military sites and centuries-old architecture, creating a full itinerary without relying on a beach day.
- Key West Museum of Art & History at the Custom House
- Mel Fisher Maritime Museum
- Key West Lighthouse and Keeper’s Quarters
- Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
- Key West Shipwreck Museum
- Truman Little White House
- Fort East Martello Museum
- Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory
- Key West Aquarium
- Audubon House & Tropical Gardens
- Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
- Local galleries, shops and visitor attractions
Sail Away From Shore
Visitors can also book snorkeling trips, dolphin-watching excursions, fishing charters, sandbar outings and sunset sails. Offshore waters provide opportunities for tuna, mahi and some variety of deep water snappers during this sargassum time. Backcountry trips explore calmer waters where bonefish, permit, snook, mangrove snapper and other species may be found.
Find a Different View
Sargassum conditions can change with the wind, tides and currents, so a shoreline affected one day may look completely different the next. Check with accommodation and activity providers for local conditions, remain flexible and use the opportunity to experience another side of the destination.
Whether that means reeling in a tuna, snorkeling above a coral reef, exploring a mangrove trail, learning about rescued sea turtles or stepping inside a historic Key West home, there is always another way to enjoy The Florida Keys.
