The Florida Keys, the southernmost areas of the continental United States, have long been a popular destination for visitors year-round thanks to their unmatched weather, tropical atmosphere, and incredible communities.
There is no bad time to visit the Florida Keys, but experiencing this charming region during the summer is a must. Let’s explore why visiting the Florida Keys in the summer makes for an idyllic vacation getaway.
Scenic Natural Beauty and Outdoor Recreation
The Florida Keys comprises around 1,700 small islands, most of which are connected to the mainland by a long highway. This is one of the most stunning regions in the U.S., with well-known beaches that lead to turquoise waters populated with coral reefs and other incredible marine habitats.
Those who visit the Florida Keys can enjoy some of the best fishing, snorkeling, diving, and boating scenes in the United States. The Florida Keys is a world-famous destination for anglers, who can head out on their own or hail a charter boat and fish for yellowtail, swordfish, tarpon, and sailfish in the surrounding waters. Divers and snorkelers will marvel at the incredible marine wildlife, and boaters will enjoy the many marinas and tranquil waterways in the area.
Exploring the Florida Keys is all the better in the summer. By the summer, snowbirds have flown home, and visitors can enjoy the scenery of the Keys in a more laid-back, tranquil atmosphere.
Charming Towns and Cities Offering Endless Summer Fun
The Florida Keys also offers visitors many charming and historical communities that are ideal places to settle down for a summer vacation. Let’s look at some of the popular towns and cities to explore across the Keys.
Key West: The busiest and most populous Florida Keys community, Key West hosts the southernmost point in the continental United States. This city is famous for its gorgeous architecture, lively nightlife, and calm beaches. In the summer, Key West is the venue for fishing tournaments and festivals.
Key Colony Beach: Key Colony Beach is a relatively small and quiet community known for its excellent snorkeling and fishing options. It has marinas and boat rentals for visitors looking to get on the water.
Key Largo: Key Largo, offering convenience to the mainland, is a world-famous destination for snorkelers. It is home to the world’s largest artificial reef and an excellent food scene.
Marathon: Marathon is a charming city across 13 little islands, famous for its coral reefs, sandy beaches, and world-class fishing. In the summer, Marathon hosts art shows and food festivals.
Grassy Key: Grassy Key is one of the several islands that make up Marathon. It is a historic and charming island with excellent resorts, delicious local restaurants, and uncrowded beaches.
Islamorada: Islamorada is a village that stretches across six islands surrounded by world-famous coral reefs. With a significant charter fishing industry, it is considered one of the top destinations in the world for sport fishing.
Cudjoe Key: Cudjoe Key is a scenic little community with excellent beaches and a calmer tourism industry.
Middle Torch Key: Middle Torch Key, a small island near Cudjoe Key, is another laid-back destination. It lacks the major tourism infrastructure of the bigger islands but has plenty to see and gorgeous scenery.
