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.

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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Woman and two children with life vests sitting on a boat, smiling under sunny sky.

Kids Can Explore Keys’ Underwater World

Family vacations in the Florida Keys mean moms, dads and kids can enjoy adrenaline-fueled fun in the 125-mile island chain that parallels the continental United States’ only living coral reef.

Person wearing a sun hat and sunglasses, fishing by a lake.

Captain Karen Creates Comfort on Venus Charters

Captain Karen Luknis of Venus Charters cut power to the Suzuki engine as I watched her Pro-Line coast across Garrison Bight to a gentle stop at the dock, after helping another group of clients make lifelong memories.

Lain Goodwin: ‘Dirty Waters’ Are Good for the Upper Keys

Captain Lain Goodwin, owner of Dirty Waters Charters, knows that muddy waters — where fresh water spills from Florida Bay’s backcountry and Everglades National Park into the Gulf of Mexico’s salty waters — are rich with the world’s best fishing.

David Kaufelt literary landmark Judy Blume

Key West Literary Seminar’s Founder Honored with Literary Landmark

David Kaufelt’s greatest accomplishment, and the one that made perhaps the most lasting impact, was founding the superb and critically acclaimed Key West Literary Seminar.