Couple conversing at a bar with walls covered in currency.

Insider's Guide

Explore Like a Local

Think of this as the Keys’ not-so-secret handshake. 

The Insider’s Guide is your path to hidden gems, insider’s tips and expert recommendations. From snorkeling secrets and fishing tips to stories of locals who protect these islands, this articles in this guide takes you beyond the surface, so you can travel The Florida Keys & Key West like a local.

Mother and two kids wearing life vests, smiling on a boat in sunny weather.

Florida Keys for Families

The Florida Keys is the perfect place for families to make memories that will last a lifetime.

Mother and two kids wearing life vests, smiling on a boat in sunny weather.

Presidents' Day meets Paradise

While much of the country is still knee deep in winter weather, Presidents’ Day Weekend at Truman Little White House offers a distinctly Key West way to celebrate.

Couple relaxing under canopy, toasting with drinks, overlooking the ocean.

The Travel Mom Takes on The Florida Keys

Emily Kaufman, The Travel Mom, shares her favorite spots and tips for enjoying The Florida Keys & Key West.

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Erin Allison: Steward of the Keys’ Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center

Erin Allison has been executive director of the Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center Inc. since June 2023. Though just 26 years old, she is a...

Terry Helmers: Steward of Keys Volunteerism

Terence “Terry” Helmers, known as a real-life “Aquaman,” is a Keys volunteer extraordinaire. His underwater specialty — as a volunteer and as both a...

Mill McCleary: Steward of Plastic Free Key West

Mill McCleary, executive director of the 1,300-member Reef Relief organization based in Key West, knows how to effectively utilize advocacy and...

Sue Cooper: Steward of the Lower Keys Backcountry

Sue Cooper, a Florida Keys paddleboard guru and author of the “Millionaire in Flip Flops” book series, is also the face of Lazy Dog Adventures, known...

Cindy Lewis: Steward of Keys Coral Protection

Taylor Hale: Artist/Steward of the Keys' Natural World

‘Local’s Choice’ Tips from Adam Gonzalez and Camron Martinez

Adam Gonzalez and Camron Martinez met in Reno, Nevada. Adam was in banking and Camron was in baking. They both joined the U.S. Marine Corps, and their...

‘Local’s Choice’ Tips from Chef Pedro Aviles

Pedro Aviles, the creative spirit behind the popular dishes at Key West’s Nine One Five restaurant, is a Key West local who has been a Florida Keys...

'Local’s Choice' Tips From Isis and Tony Wright

When Isis and Tony Wright moved to the Florida Keys 10 years ago, a career in the restaurant industry was the farthest thing from their minds — but in...

‘Local’s Choice’ Tips from Susan Jankowski

Islamorada artist Susan Jankowski, who teaches art classes at the Ocean Reef Art League, is a true Keys free spirit who paints impressionistic works...