Lower Keys

Nestled between the famous Seven Mile Bridge and the island of Key West lies the Florida Keys best kept secret: the Islands of the Lower Keys.  The unspoiled islands of the Lower Keys boast some of the most beautiful wilderness areas and pristine stretches of ocean in the Florida Keys. There are no shopping malls, all-inclusive resorts, or all-night dance clubs to detract from the natural beauty of the Lower Keys.  What we do have is crystal clear water, glistening beaches, majestic wilderness areas, friendly people, and charming accommodations.  The Lower Keys boast fantastic scuba and snorkeling along the many reefs, wrecks, and mangrove shorelines.  You could spend hours or even days exploring this underwater paradise.  Or explore from on the water in a kayak, on a paddleboard or sailboat.

Lower Keys fishing is world-class, due to the Lower Keys’ offshore location and proximity to the Gulf Stream on the south side huge numbers of big-game sport fish species are found just offshore. Battle with high-flying marlin and sailfish, go toe to toe with feisty dolphin fish (mahi-mahi), and wahoo, and engage in rod-bending thrills and excitement fighting the mighty tuna.  The deep sea fishing simply doesn’t get any better than in the Lower Keys.  On the north side of the Lower Keys is the Gulf of Mexico.  Many shipwrecks dot the bottom of the Gulf around the Lower Keys and are home to healthy populations of grouper, cobia, permit, snapper, barracuda, and sharks.  This type of fishing is ideal for anglers of any skill level and is a perfect family fishing adventure.  The shallow waters between the islands of the Lower Keys create many channels, inlets and bays that are ideal for light-tackle backcountry fishing.  Tarpon, bonefish, barracuda, shark and permit inhabit these calm, clear backwater areas making for some fun and thrilling sight fishing opportunities.

The Lower Keys consist of many small islands with charming names, and graceful landscapes.  Big Pine Key has the majority of shopping and accommodations, but still boasts miles of secluded beaches and lovely wilderness areas. Big Pine Key is also home to the tiny and endangered Key Deer. Venture off the beaten path and it is a safe bet that you will see some of these diminutive and beautiful creatures. Bahia Honda State Park encompasses over 500 acres and boasts world-class snorkeling at Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary, hiking trails, kayaking, and what many consider the most beautiful beach in Florida. Cudjoe Key, No Name Key, Sugarloaf Key, Big Coppit Key, Summerland Key, Big Torch Key, Little Torch Key…all of the wonderful Islands of the Lower Keys are worth a visit with their charming Inns and Hotels, amazing snorkeling and diving, beautiful beaches and shorelines, and charming and friendly people.   The Lower Keys are a real escape from the hustle and bustle of our busy lives. Plan your next family vacation, corporate retreat, romantic getaway, wedding, honeymoon, or weekend escape in Florida’s Lower Keys and you will discover a paradise of islands that are truly “Low-Key”!