Looking for a family vacation destination that offers the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, natural beauty, and historic sites? The Florida Keys is the answer. The island chain offers a unique and diverse experience for all ages.
Why is the Florida Keys the best destination for a family vacation? From jet skiing to exploring historical landmarks, and enjoying stunning sunsets, the Florida Keys have something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking fun outdoor activities, educational adventures, a place to unwind, or a mix, the Florida Keys provides the ideal setting for creating unforgettable family memories.
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Are you wondering which is the best Florida Key for families? Let’s dive in and find out the answer!
1) Key West – A Bucket List Destination For Families
Key West is one of the more well-known keys and a popular destination for spring break and other special events. From its beautiful sunsets, beaches, and great food to endless fun, the list of activities is endless.
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Mallory Square – The square comes alive every evening at sunset thanks to street performers and magicians entertaining the crowds.
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Tours – There are a couple of tour options. Hop on the Old Town Trolley for a narrated tour of Key West. The Conch Tour Train is free for children 12 and under and a fun way to learn about the area. Free walking tours are available, though reservations may be required.
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Educational programs – The Key West Aquarium offers daily shark feeding, touch tanks, and interactive exhibits. Families will love The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, an indoor rainforest filled with butterflies and exotic birds. Don’t miss a visit to the Key West Shipwreck Museum to learn about Key West’s maritime history and enjoy the panoramic views from the lookout tour.
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Southernmost Point Buoy – The buoy, located at the southernmost point in the Continental United States, is ideal for a family photo.
Fun Fact: Key West is home to sixed-toe cats. Ernest Hemingway gave one to a captain as a gift and many of the cats are descendants of Hemingway’s cats.
2) An Unforgettable Family Adventure Around The Sandbars Of Key West
When we take our kids on vacation, we hope for lasting memories. That’s what you do when you plan a trip with Key West Paddle. Gather the gang and enjoy a day out on a magical sandbar tour. The shallow waters are perfect for younger children to splash around and ideal for older children to explore and learn how to snorkel.
Are you looking for a more adventurous and unforgettable outing? We are the only company that offers a guided night kayaking tour through the mangrove tunnels of Key West! Lights illuminate the clear bottom of the kayak, giving you a glimpse of the vibrant marine life below. It’s a truly magical experience as you paddle through the serene waters under the stars!
Our guides are ready to take your entire family, ages four and up, on some unforgettable adventures! Come join us for a day of fun and exploration – visit our website to discover all the exciting tours we have in store for you!
3) Seven Mile Bridge – A Family Fun Destination
The Seven Mile Bridge is known as the “Eighth Wonder of the World” thanks to the incredible construction required to keep it standing.
Originally part of the Florida East Coast Railway, the bridge was damaged by a hurricane and later converted into a highway. In the early 1980s, a new bridge was built, and the Old Seven Mile Bridge was turned into a 2.2-mile walking bridge.
Here are some highlights that make this iconic bridge a must-visit:
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Stunning views – The beautiful vistas of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico make it a must-see spot. It’s perfect for capturing memorable photos, so don’t forget your camera to document the breathtaking scenery.
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Exercise – Grab some bikes for a fun adventure, and enjoy the fresh air while exploring the old bridge at your own pace.
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Go fishing – Whether your family members are experienced anglers or new to the sport, there are plenty of fishing spots along the bridge. You can bond over the thrill of catching fish while enjoying the serene surroundings.
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A learning moment – The bridge plays a significant historical role in the history of the Florida Keys. Take the opportunity to share fascinating stories about its construction and the impact it had on the region.
Fun Fact: The bridge appears in several movies and television shows. One of the most famous movies is True Lies, starring Arnold Schwarzenegger and Jamie Lee Cutis, making it a fun spot for film buffs to visit!
4) Discover The Wonders Of Marathon
Are you looking for a Florida key to become your base during your vacation? Marathon is the perfect destination. Marathon is called “the heart of the Florida Keys” because it is in the middle of the Lower and Upper Keys.
Not only is the Middle Keys an ideal location, there are many activities and attractions:
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Family friendly accommodations – Many hotels and resorts offer family packages and discounts. It is easy to find a hotel room to accommodate any special needs, ensuring a comfortable stay for everyone in your family.
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Water activities – The crystal-clear waters make it a great place for children to play and for older kids to enjoy snorkeling and diving. With so many options available, your family can create unforgettable memories while exploring the vibrant underwater world.
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Dolphin Research Center – The center offers educational programs and opportunities to swim with the dolphins. This unique experience allows families to learn about these amazing creatures while creating lasting memories together.
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The Turtle Hospital – Enjoy a guided tour and learn how injured sea turtles are rehabilitated. Kids love seeing the turtles and are often able to feed them, making it an interactive and educational experience.
Fun Fact: Marathon is also known for its annual events, such as the Marathon Seafood Festival, which celebrates the local fishing industry with delicious food, live music, and family-friendly activities.
5) Key Largo – Attractions And Activities For All Ages
It is part of the Upper Keys and its proximity to mainland Florida makes it a popular choice for families. It always has a variety of activities to offer, from historical sites to outdoor fun:
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John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park – Grab scuba gear and head into the water to visit the underwater park. Glass bottom boat tours are available to see the vibrant colors of the only living coral barrier reef in North America.
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Key Largo Undersea Park – Families can snorkel or dive to get close to the underwater sculptures and marine life. This unique opportunity allows everyone to explore the beauty of the ocean while learning about the importance of marine conservation.
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Florida Keys Wild Bird Center – They rehabilitate injured wild birds and give educational tours. Visitors can witness the incredible work being done to protect local wildlife, fostering a sense of appreciation for nature in children and adults alike.
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African Queen Canal Cruise – Relax and enjoy a scenic ride through the canals. This leisurely cruise offers a chance to take in the stunning views while learning about the area’s history and ecology.
Fun Fact: Its nickname is the “Dive Capital of the World”. With over 600 species of fish and vibrant coral reefs, it attracts divers from all over the globe seeking to explore its underwater wonders!
6) Duck Key – A Family Friendly Destination
Duck Key, located in the Middle Keys, was transformed into a resort community in the mid-1950s. The island focuses on conservation and its natural beauty. There are plenty of family activities for everyone to enjoy:
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Hawks Cay Resort – The resort offers seaside dining, a wide range of accommodations, and plenty of activities, including kayaking, snorkeling and diving. Families can easily spend their entire vacation enjoying the resort’s amenities without ever needing to leave the property.
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Swim with the dolphins – Regardless of your age, swimming with dolphins never gets old. Dolphin Connection offers an interactive dolphin experience for the entire family, creating unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.
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Fishing charters – Consider heading out on a fishing adventure. Your family can enjoy catching bonefish, tarpon, snook, and more, making it a thrilling experience for both novice and experienced anglers.
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Boat rental – Rent a boat and take your family on a boat tour of the area and enjoy the stunning surroundings and the beautiful waters of Duck Key.
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Keys Cable Park – Gather the family and take a short drive to this exciting adventure park. The many activities include wakeboarding, a waterpark, and a botanical beer garden, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Pro Tip: Duck Key is known for its stunning sunsets, which can be enjoyed from various vantage points around the island, providing a perfect end to a day of family adventures.
7) Big Pine Key – Home To The Tiniest Deer
Big Pine Key, located in the Lower Keys, is a nature-lovers paradise with plenty of family activities. It was not settled until after WWII and still did not have electricity or water. However, today, it’s a place where people go to enjoy the unique wildlife and natural beauty.
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National Key Deer Refuge – Home to the endangered Key Deer, the smallest white-tailed North American deer. The tiny deer attract a lot of attention because they are not found anywhere else. This place also offers a fantastic opportunity to see over 20 endangered animals and plants up close, making it a must-visit for nature lovers.
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Blue Hole – It was a former rock quarry. The rock was used to construct the Overseas Highway. Now, filled with fresh water, it is the drinking spot for the local wildlife. Take the trail to the observation deck to see Key Deer, birds, iguanas, and possibly alligators.
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No Name Pub – The pub has a rich history and is an iconic landmark. It began as a general store, and in 1936, an additional room was added to include a restaurant. The pub is known for its delicious pizzas and hearty chili, making it a favorite hangout for locals and visitors alike.
Pro Tip: Bring along some binoculars for the kids to spot wildlife at the National Key Deer Refuge and Blue Hole; it makes for a fun and educational experience as they search for the tiny Key Deer and other fascinating animals!
An Unforgettable Evening Adventure Beneath The Night Sky
There are so many things to do in the Florida Keys for families that it may be hard to narrow down the list. However, the one thing you do not want to miss out on is an unforgettable adventure with Key West Paddle. Our local guides are ready to help you explore the best that Key West has to offer.
Our guided night kayaking tour is a one-of-a-kind experience that your family will never forget. Make this the best family vacation ever. Call us today to book your unforgettable experience!
