Take a trip to the magnificent Florida Keys! An archipelago comprised of dozens of picturesque coral islands, collectively known as one incredible paradise. From sun-kissed beaches to crystal-clear turquoise waters, breathtaking scenery and delicious cuisine – there's something for everyone in this captivating archipelago. Here you'll have countless opportunities to explore fabulous nature reserves, deep sea fishing spots, vibrant art galleries, and even dive or snorkel some of the best reefs — basking in spectacular year-round sunshine. So grab your bag, take some time off from work, and prepare for an adventure of a lifetime as you embark on the ultimate guide to exploring the enchanting Florida Keys!
Marathon
Joey and I started our trip in Marathon, Florida. There are plenty of resorts and hotels to choose from, all with unique charm and appeal. We stayed at Coconut Cay Resort and Marina.
We stayed in the Queen Island Room, which had a queen-sized bed, flat-screen TV and access to bikes, kayaks, fishing poles, and paddle boards. We took advantage of the complimentary bikes to ride the old Seven Mile Bridge to Pidgeon Key and to visit the Crane Point Nature Center and Museum. We also relaxed in a tropical courtyard to play cards and watch the feral chickens roam around the lawn.
Food
While in Marathon, you'll also enjoy plenty of great restaurants. On our first day, we visited La Isla Taco Grill, a food truck parked next to a tiki bar. I had the day's special of three pork tacos, and Joey enjoyed a Mahi taco and a shrimp taco. Everything was delicious!
After a long day, Joey and I decided it was time for an unexpected treat. We made our way to Sweet Savannah's of the Florida Keys, where I chose key lime ice cream in a cone while Joey went with chocolate peanut butter. Talk about sweet satisfaction!
The next day we ate at Sparky's Landing. My dad's nickname since his youth is Sparky, so we knew we had to check this place out. Not only were the reviews good, but we had to see if they had T-shirts (they did!) so I could bring one back for my dad. I ordered the tuna club, seared rare tuna, apple smoked bacon, arugula, tomato and basil mayo on sourdough. Joey ate the fish tacos: buttermilk, batter-fried dolphin fish, pickled red onion, tomatillo sauce, cabbage and cilantro lime sauce on flour tortillas.
Before heading out of Marathon, we stopped at the Wooden Spoon for breakfast. I had eggs over easy while Joey ordered an omelet. Both plates had some of the best breakfast potatoes either of us had.
Attractions
Marathon is full of hidden gems, from the Turtle Hospital to the Old Seven Mile Bridge and even Crane Point Hammock. We had one fantastic adventure after another in this little paradise on earth.
The Turtle Hospital
Our first stop was at the Turtle Hospital, a rehabilitation center for sea turtles. We took a guided tour of the hospital, where we learned about their mission of rescuing sick and injured turtles from around Florida and beyond. We could even get close to look at some resident turtles! The staff was incredibly knowledgeable, and we felt inspired by their work.
Old Seven Mile Bridge
The next day we use the complimentary bikes from our hotel to cross over the Old Seven Mile Bridge, which connects Marathon with Pidgeon Key. The bridge is steeped in history; it was built between 1905 and 1912 as part of Henry Flagler's Overseas Railroad. Nowadays, it's open to pedestrians and cyclists who are looking for breathtaking views of the ocean. It was one of my favorite experiences of our whole trip!
Crane Point Hammock
We spent our last full day exploring Crane Point Hammock—a beautiful nature preserve—where we saw lots of fish and even received a fish pedicure! After spending time in this lovely spot surrounded by nature, I can understand why some people choose to live out here permanently!
Our visit to Marathon was an unforgettable experience filled with moments that will stay with me forever. I highly recommend this destination to travelers looking for a unique adventure they will remember.
Key West
In Key West, Joey and I had the pleasure of staying at the Heron House, just a 10-minute walk from Duval Street. The hotel staff was friendly and accommodating, ensuring our stay was comfortable and enjoyable.
We stayed in the Tropical Queen Room, which was beautifully decorated. The room featured a queen-size bed with a standing shower. The hotel also has a pool, a second-story sundeck, and a tranquil courtyard where guests can relax. Each morning we enjoyed a complimentary continental breakfast. In the afternoon, there were complimentary sangrias—what more could you ask for?
Food
Key West is the perfect place to try some new and exciting restaurants. On our first night, Joey stopped by the Conch Shack on Duvall Street and ordered the "best ever" conch fritters. They were advertised as the Conch Shack's secret recipe with key lime aioli or spiky pink sauce. Joey graciously offered me a bite, and it was so good!
You must have some key lime pie in the Flordia Keys. I had the most delicious bite at Kermit's Key West Lime Pie Shoppe. Joey had a chocolate-dipped strawberry key lime pie on a stick. You don't even need to go to Key West to enjoy this delicious pie (but you should) because you can have a pie shipped right to your house!
Joey and I also went to the Schooner Wharf Bar, with beautiful views of boats coming in and going from the docks. At this charming rustic bar, I ordered fish and chips with a dark and stormy. Joey had the Philly steak n' cheese, a sliced ribeye with sauteed onions, peppers, and provolone. While we enjoyed our food, we had a good conversation with our waiter, Mark, who shared our love of Trampled by Turtles and recommended we visit the Green Parrot Bar.
Attractions
Southernmost Point
Of course, one of our main stops had to be to the Southernmost Point marker, an enormous replica of a marine buoy. It's colorfully painted red, yellow, black, and white. It reads, "Southernmost Point Continental U.S.A., The Counch Republic, 90 Miles to Cuba, Key West, FL, Home of the Sunset." A long line of people was waiting to pose in front of the buoy. Everyone was super willing to take pictures of each other.
Mallory Square
When you're in Key West, you must check out Mallory Square, where artists, musicians, and acrobats converge to perform until sunset. Joey and I went both nights we were in Key West. The first night we watched a comedic magician, and the second, an acrobat who pulled a kid in from the crowd to help him with his act.
Hemingway Home and Museum
The number one place I wanted to go to while in Key West was the Hemingway Home and Museum. Even Joey, who hasn't read Hemingway, said he enjoyed the home more than anticipated! This beautiful house was once the home of Ernest Hemingway and his second wife, Pauline Pfeiffer. Inside the home are many memorabilia, including period furnishings, family photographs, original artwork, and war medals. Another highlight of Hemingway's house is seeing the descendants of his legendary six-toed cats! You can even follow the cats on Instagram!
Key West Aquarium
Unplanned, we went to the Key West Aquarium, which has daily shark and turtle feedings. Joey was so excited about the opportunity to feed a nurse shark! They also have a small hands-on touch tank featuring starfish, queen conch, and other regional marine life. The Aquarium opened in 1934, allowing visitors to observe moray eels, barracuda, grouper, tarpon, parrotfish, sea turtles, and more!
Green Parrot Bar
Taking the recommendation we received at Schooner's Wharf, Joey and I went to the Green Parrot Bar, and I'm glad we did! The night we were there, the Marshall Morlock Band played. They're a father and son cover band, and they were damn good! I will 100% be seeing them again when we return to the Keys.
Take your love story to the beautiful Florida Keys! From its sun-kissed shores to world-class restaurants and vibrant nightlife, this romantic destination offers something special for every couple. Experience a getaway you will remember - explore this paradise together today!
So what are you waiting for? Book your trip today and get $10 off with Hopper using my code and start planning the honeymoon or getaway of a lifetime!
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