The Florida Keys may be famous for laid-back vibes and sunset cocktails, but they’re also an incredible destination for families.
Stretching from Key Largo to Key West, the Florida Keys offers a mix of outdoor adventure, wildlife encounters, and easygoing attractions that kids and adults can enjoy together. Whether you’re traveling with toddlers, teens, or grandparents, the Keys deliver memorable experiences without the stress.
Here are some of the best ideas that can be tried by those looking for some family fun in the island chain.
Explore the Underwater World through Snorkeling
Explore the Underwater World
One of the biggest draws of the Florida Keys is the water, and families have plenty of ways to enjoy it. In Key Largo, known as the “Diving Capital of the World,” families can snorkel at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Calm, shallow waters make it easy for beginners to spot colorful fish and coral formations. Glass-bottom boat tours are another great option for younger kids who want to see marine life without getting wet.
The Florida Keys are ideal for low-pressure outdoor activities. Kayaking through mangrove tunnels is a favorite family experience, offering calm waters and the chance to spot fish, birds, and even small sharks. Many outfitters provide tandem kayaks, making it easy for parents to paddle with younger children. Biking is another popular option, especially in flatter areas like Key West and along scenic island paths.
“At the end of your life, you will never regret not having passed one more test, not winning one more verdict, or not closing one more deal. You will regret time not spent with a husband, a friend, a child, a parent.”—Barbara Bush
While the Keys aren’t known for long stretches of sandy shoreline, they do have several excellent family-friendly beaches. Bahia Honda State Park is often considered the best beach in the Keys, with soft sand, clear water, and picnic areas. Its shallow swimming areas are ideal for kids, and the views of the old railroad bridge make for great family photos.
For a dose of culture, families can explore the unique history of the Keys. In Key West, the Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum brings maritime history to life with artifacts and interactive exhibits. The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, complete with its famous six-toed cats, is surprisingly engaging for older kids and teens.
Animal lovers will find plenty to enjoy throughout the Keys. The Turtle Hospital in Marathon offers guided tours that teach kids about sea turtle rescue and conservation in a fun, educational way. In Islamorada, Theater of the Sea combines marine animal shows with opportunities to see dolphins, sea lions, and tropical birds. These attractions balance entertainment with learning, making them a hit for families.
Sometimes the best family moments in the Florida Keys are the simplest ones: watching the sunset together, enjoying fresh seafood by the water, or spotting chickens roaming the streets of Key West. The relaxed pace encourages families to slow down, reconnect, and enjoy being together.
With its mix of nature, adventure, and easygoing fun, the Florida Keys prove that paradise isn’t just for adults, it’s a place where families can create unforgettable memories, too.
Enjoy watching the Wildlife in the Florida Keys
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You won't run out of family-friendly activities when you choose to go to the Florida Keys.