The Florida Keys is like no where else in the United States.
Key Largo, Florida is the largest and the first Key you will encounter when heading South on Route 1.
We have unique weather; although only 20 minutes North to Homestead on the mainland, the weather here is more like the Bahamas. We are called the American Caribbean for a reason:)
We have walking trails through forest at Dagny Johnson Park, mangrove creeks of the Southern Everglades, the Coral Reefs at John Pennekamp State park, and a few 'beaches' for example. Our beaches are more like what you might encounter by a lake, some with natural sand like baby powder and some more rocky with sand added. There is a bike trail through most of Key Largo and South.
The flavor, energy and vibe of the area is easy, low-key, open minded and the people know how to have fun in the sun and water. Just pop to one of the local bars and you'll meet vacationers and locals alike.
I help guests get a sense of what the Keys are about; it can help with planning the number of days, where to go, and what we have to offer.
Here is one such note to our guest:
A few comments, just as suggestions:)
Arriving at 8PM at Miami airport is a good time. The the drive is an easy 1 1/2 hr. drive in the evening.
During the day, traffic can be bad.
So, if you want to check in that first night, let us know, we welcome you:)
The Southern Everglades is a 15 minute kayak ride from our properties. ( I can see the mangroves from my window as I write to you)
The alligator farm, also where you can take an airboat ride into the Everglades is 30 minutes from our properties here in Key Largo.
If you want to go further west and north, then yes, find a place North of Miami airport before coming to the Keys. The Everglades is very vast and has many different settings from pine forest to marsh to mangrove creeks. We have some forest, marsh and mangrove creeks. 6 miles North on Key Largo is Dagny Johnson Botanical Park-a beautiful forest.
Weather wise, at the time you are coming to Florida, you should not have to worry about getting out to the Coral Reefs. However, I always recommend if this is something you want to do, try to do it first.
Getting out onto the coral reefs with the fish is pretty special:) Just keep in mind, the weather can be a factor.
You will see manatee:) at our place, more in the Fall, Winter and Spring and less in the Summer. You may need to go for a swim, hang out on the dock or kayak up the canal. Once they know you are there, they will come investigate:)
Regards, Chanoch Shiloh
Just an example to help with your Planning!
