Florida Keys
Florida

Florida Keys

Destination Overview

White sand beaches, turquoise waters, coral reef, fresh seafood and vibrant culture are just some of many reasons why a Florida Keys honeymoon is a great getaway. Couples can switch to island time and disconnect from the mainland.

The Florida Keys archipelago is made up of 800 small islands which are often split up into groups: the group of islands farthest north are known as the Upper Keys, below them are the groups known as the Middle Keys and the Lower Keys (Key West is located in the Lower Keys) and the fourth group is known as the Outer Keys.

A honeymoon in the Florida Keys can mean lazing on a lounge chair sipping daiquiris seaside or it can be action-packed with snorkeling, fishing and sailing — couples have the freedom to design their day as they please. Naturalists will have no shortage of wildlife to explore, whether it be a visit to the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory or the Turtle rescue & rehabilitation center in Marathon. Fishing enthusiasts will find paradise in Islamorada: the self-proclaimed sport fishing capital of the world. But if it’s sunbathing you’re after, charter a catamaran for the day and bronze in style.

Visit Key West for fantastic nightlife with bars, shops, and entertainment venues. The area is widely known for its openness and celebration of pride and is a popular destination for LGBTQ couples. The area even has permanent rainbow crosswalks and a 10-day Fantasy Fest celebration hosted every October.

LGBTQIA+ Inclusivity
LGBTQIA+ couples will feel right at home in the Florida Keys thanks to its celebration of diversity and inclusion. Key West is well-regarded as one of the United States’ preeminent destinations for honeymooning couples, and its “One Human Family” motto attests to how everyone is welcome. From LGBTQIA+ accommodations and clubs to gay-owned cafes and restaurants, it is a paradisaical destination for those looking to rest and relax. Plus, there are plenty of activities with an LGBTQIA+ focus, including outdoor sports and The Tennessee Williams Museum.

The honeymoon pleasures extend far outside of Key West, though, with welcoming beaches located throughout the Keys. Adventure seekers will find plenty to love in Key Largo and the quaint charms of Islamorada are not to be missed.

About Florida Keys

At a Glance

  • The Keys famous Seven Mile Bridge is one of the longest segmental bridges in the world and the centerpiece of the Florida Keys Overseas Highway, It winds throughout the entire island chain. Fun fact: despite its name, The Seven Mile Bridge is actually only 6.79 miles.
  • Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the most underrated places in the U.S. National Parks System. The park consists of seven islands that are bursting with wildlife above and below the water. Make your visit extra special by arriving via seaplane!
  • The Mallory Square Sunset Celebration takes place each evening beside Key West Harbor. There couples can enjoy the energetic street performers, view artisans’ handmade wares and ogle an unforgettable sunset.• Take a selfie together at Key West’s Southernmost Point marker, located just 90 miles from Cuba. The red, black and yellow buoy marks the southernmost spot in the continental United States. Find it overlooking the Atlantic Ocean on Whitehead Street.
  • Since 1981 more than 23 artificial reefs have been created in the waters off the Keys, mainly through the sinking of ships, and these provide a home to many corals, tropical fish and other marine life.

Honeymoon Hints

  • Key West International Airport (EYW) is the main airport to access the islands.
    Visitors can fly to Key West International airport via connections or direct flights from a
    host of Florida cities.
  • Late December, right after the holidays, through May marks peak tourist season in the
    Florida Keys. Travelers who don’t mind a bit of humidity may consider a visit during the
    summer months in order to avoid crowds and take advantage of better hotel deals.
  • No matter what island you choose to visit, freshly caught fish and seafood is a staple on
    nearly every restaurant menu in the Keys. And no visit is complete without sampling a
    local favorite: Key Lime Pie.
  • The climate of the Florida Keys is classified as tropical. The weather is hot and humid
    from June to October and relatively drier and cooler from November to May. The Keys
    are the only frost-free place in Florida.
  • Key West is also the southernmost city in the continental USA and is actually nearer to
    Havana, Cuba than to Miami, Florida.
  • In July celebrate Hemingway Fest in Key West — a nod to the area’s most famous literary resident.

Destinations to Explore

Additional honeymoon destinations in Florida Keys you may want to consider: