What is the best way to get to your destination?

The main gateway airport for the Florida Keys is Miami International Airport, and from there clients can pick up a hire car and enjoy the scenic drive down the Overseas Highway. Key Largo, the first island, is around 60 minutes from Miami, making it an easy starting point for a fly-drive itinerary. Clients can also fly into Key West International Airport via US connections. Most visitors choose to self-drive at least one way so they can enjoy the full Overseas Highway experience, but for clients combining the Keys with southwest Florida, the Key West Express ferry can also be a good option for reaching Key West from Fort Myers Beach or Marco Island. 

What are the must-see sights or must-do activities?

Key Largo’s star attraction is John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the first underwater preserve in the United States. Pennekamp offers a variety of water-based activities and glass-bottom boat excursions to the coral reef, while local dive operators feature the famed underwater “Christ of the Deep” statue. 

Islamorada is the centrepiece of a group of islands sometimes referred to as the “purple isles”. It is celebrated for its fishing diversity and is known as the Sport Fishing Capital of the World, with the Keys’ largest fleet of offshore charter and shallow-water backcountry boats. It is also a great opportunity to stop at Robbie’s Marina, where visitors can feed the resident tarpon and soak up one of the Keys’ best-known laid-back attractions. 

Marathon is a renowned boating and family destination and is centrally located at the heart of the Florida Keys. It is home to Crane Point and The Turtle Hospital, while a drive across the Seven Mile Bridge leads to the Lower Keys. Visitors should also make time for Pigeon Key, a small historic island and museum that once housed the railroad workers who built and operated Henry Flagler’s Over-Sea Railroad, giving it a fascinating role in Keys history. 

Dubbed “the natural Keys”, the Lower Keys are noted for beautiful Bahia Honda State Park and Looe Key Reef, spectacular shallow-water dive sites, as well as a vast area of mangrove-rich backcountry that is perfect for kayak nature tours. Big Pine Key also features a national refuge for miniature Key deer, tropical forest and even a few alligators. 

Key West is the final stop on the Overseas Highway. Continental America’s southernmost city, situated closer to Cuba than to Miami, is characterised by palm-studded streets, historic homes and a uniquely relaxed way of life. Popular stops include the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum and Harry S. Truman’s Little White House, alongside the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum. Nightlife is lively and varied, and at day’s end crowds gather at Mallory Square for the nightly sunset celebration. 

What are the accommodation options?

The Florida Keys offer a wide range of accommodation, from boutique stays and family resorts to larger waterfront properties. Popular properties featured by trade-facing operators include Bakers Cay, Hawks Cay Resort, Tranquility Bay, Ocean Key Resort and Blue Flamingo. Three Waters Resort & Marina remains one of the standout newer options and is a strong sell for clients wanting a contemporary resort stay in the Upper and Middle Keys area. 

When should clients visit?

The Florida Keys is a year-round destination and the best time to visit depends on your clients’ preferences. Traditionally popular months are November to April, while the summer can offer attractive value and a slightly quieter feel. There are numerous festivals and events throughout the year, including Key West Pride in June and Fantasy Fest in Key West, one of the destination’s most famous annual celebrations. 

How long should clients visit?

We recommend a minimum of seven nights in the Florida Keys, although 10 to 14 nights is ideal to fully explore all five regions. A classic itinerary would involve time in the Upper Keys, moving down to Key West, then breaking up the return journey with a stay in Marathon or another Middle Keys location.

What tools can agents use?

We have a selection of inspirational destination guides, attraction maps, images and videos which we are happy to share.

Where can agents find out more?

Visit the website at www.fla-keys.com or reach out to the UK team for more information. 

Trade team contact details

Name: Anita Skibiel
Title: Senior Account Director
Email: info@fla-keys.co.uk / anita@axistravelmarketing.com