Hi there! It’s Sarah from the Sunshine Explorers, and I’m so excited to share our latest adventure with you. This time, our family—Mike, Jack (10), Emma (4), and me—packed up the car and headed to one of Florida’s most iconic destinations: the Florida Keys. It was an unforgettable trip filled with breathtaking scenery, fun activities, and plenty of bonding time. Whether you’re a family planning a getaway or just love dreaming about tropical escapes, we hope our story inspires your next adventure!
The Drive to the Keys
Getting to the Florida Keys is half the fun. The Overseas Highway, with its turquoise waters and endless ocean views, feels like a journey into paradise. Jack sat wide-eyed, pointing out the bridges that seemed to stretch forever, while Emma kept giggling every time she saw a boat passing by.
We made a pit stop at the famous Seven Mile Bridge, where we took a short walk and snapped some family photos. The view of the shimmering ocean on both sides was magical—a perfect preview of what awaited us in the Keys.
Day 1: Key Largo – Underwater Adventures
We kicked off our adventure in Key Largo, known as the “Diving Capital of the World.” Although scuba diving wasn’t an option for our little ones, we found plenty of family-friendly ways to explore the underwater world.
Our first stop was John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, where we hopped on a glass-bottom boat tour. Jack was thrilled to spot colorful fish darting through coral reefs, and even Emma squealed in delight when she saw a sea turtle swimming gracefully beneath the boat.
Later, we rented kayaks and paddled through the mangroves. It was serene and fascinating—Jack and Mike navigated one kayak, while Emma and I shared another. We even spotted some crabs and birds that call the mangroves home.
Day 2: Islamorada – Relaxation and Fun
On our second day, we headed south to Islamorada, often called the “Village of Islands.” This area offered a perfect mix of relaxation and fun activities for the whole family.
We started our morning at the Theater of the Sea, a marine park where Jack and Emma had a blast learning about dolphins, sea lions, and stingrays. The highlight of the visit was a chance to feed the parrotfish in their lagoon—it was an unforgettable moment for the kids!
Afterward, we found a quaint seafood restaurant overlooking the water and enjoyed a delicious lunch. The fresh fish tacos were a hit with Mike and me, while the kids devoured shrimp skewers.
The rest of the day was spent at a small, quiet beach where Emma built sandcastles and Jack tried snorkeling in shallow water. The peaceful atmosphere made it a perfect spot to unwind and soak in the beauty of the Keys.
Day 3: Marathon – Bridges and Beaches
Our third day took us to Marathon, where we explored more of the Keys’ natural beauty. A highlight was a visit to the Turtle Hospital, a rescue and rehabilitation center for sea turtles. Jack was fascinated by the tour, learning about the different species and the work being done to help injured turtles. Emma, of course, was enchanted by the sight of turtles swimming in their tanks.
Afterward, we spent the afternoon at Sombrero Beach, one of the best family-friendly beaches in the area. With its soft sand and calm waters, it was ideal for kids. Mike and Jack tossed a frisbee, while Emma and I splashed in the shallow waves.
Day 4: Key West – A Perfect Finale
No trip to the Florida Keys is complete without a visit to Key West, and we saved it for our last day. The drive down was beautiful, and arriving in the colorful, vibrant town felt like stepping into a postcard.
We started with a visit to the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, where Emma was mesmerized by the butterflies fluttering around her. Jack loved spotting the tiny birds hidden among the lush greenery.
For lunch, we couldn’t resist stopping at a local café to try authentic Key lime pie—a sweet and tangy treat that everyone enjoyed.
The afternoon was spent wandering around Mallory Square and taking in the sights of the historic district. Jack wanted to see the Southernmost Point Buoy, so we made sure to snap a family photo there.
To wrap up the day, we stayed for the famous sunset celebration at Mallory Square. Street performers entertained the kids while we watched the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky in stunning hues of orange and pink.
Reflections on Our Trip
As we drove back home, tired but happy, we couldn’t stop talking about all the incredible moments we’d shared. From exploring coral reefs in Key Largo to watching the sunset in Key West, the Florida Keys offered something for everyone in our family.
What we loved most about this trip was the way it brought us closer together. Traveling as a family isn’t always easy—packing, planning, and keeping everyone entertained takes effort—but the memories we created were worth every bit of it.
The Florida Keys have a way of making you slow down and appreciate life’s simple pleasures: the feel of sand between your toes, the laughter of your kids as they discover something new, and the beauty of nature all around you.
If you’re thinking about a family trip to the Keys, we can’t recommend it enough. It’s a place where adventure and relaxation come together, creating the perfect setting for family memories that will last a lifetime. Until next time, happy exploring!