Florida Keys Archipelago

The Florida Keys is an archipelago of 1,700 islands southeast of the Florida peninsula. The largest of these is Key West, with its southern part separated from Cuba by only 145 kilometers. Getting to the islands is possible via an excellent highway, with a mostly two-lane road connecting most of the islands by bridges. Each of the islands is interesting and unique. Today, streams of travelers flock here from the mainland to wade in the yellowish-green water, see the measured island life, fish and snorkel or scuba dive in an idyllic setting.

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Video: Florida Keys

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General Information

The subtropical islands are more reminiscent of the Caribbean than Florida, although it is the upper part of a huge coral reef exposed when sea levels dropped. The lower islands are composed of sandstone and limestone, the products of plants and microorganisms.

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The islands are home to many endemic plant and animal species, including deer and crocodiles, many species of dolphins and porpoises, including endangered sea cows.

Key West is the most famous of the Florida Keys islands and is frequently visited by cruise ships. Tourists especially like to enjoy sunsets from the pier, and many enjoy strolling along Grand Boulevard or Mallory Square.

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Culture lovers are advised to go to the Tennessee Williams Theater, or the Arts Center, or visit the Ernest Hemingway House, where cats sleep on the steps of the wide white porch.

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The Florida Keys host two famous events each year – Spring Break, when students from all over the world come here, and Pride Fest, a week-long festival that attracts a huge number of gays and lesbians; it takes place in early June. Key West’s unofficial motto is “One Family of People,” which well reflects the spirit of freedom and individuality exalted in this perky American city.”

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What to do

Relax on fabulous beaches, go sport fishing, enjoy a romantic lunch by the sea, swim with dolphins, search for sea cows, or remember Hemingway in one of his favorite bars after a visit to the writer’s museum.

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How to get there

Airplanes land at one of the smaller airports, most often in Key West, or you can drive in via the famous Wonderful Views Highway.

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When to go

The weather is most pleasant from November through May, as it is too hot and humid in the summer.

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Worth a try

  • Book a room at one of the marvelous hotels with a circular veranda, or check into the famous Jim’s Guffey with its tropical hospitality.
  • You can’t leave without trying the “conch fritters” – clam fritters – as well as the famous key lime pie.
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