Those who delight in the thought of visiting a destination consisting of delightful islands warmed by the sunshine, mile-long beaches where colorful frangipani and hibiscus blossom, and surrounding towns where people enjoy alfresco dining and meals of fresh crab and lobster usually consider visiting the Caribbean. However, all of this can be found in the Florida Keys, which is an affordable, attractive alternative to exotic, tropical, island destinations.

The Florida Keys consist of over 1,700 islands. Some of these islands are connected by man-made bridges and are only a short, 15-mile drive south of Miami. The largest portion of islands are grouped together, stretching 106 miles in an arc shape that ends at the Dry Tortugas. This system of islands are comprised of three regions–the Lower, Middle, and Upper Keys.

Florida Keys - Key West

Key West

One of the most well-known island of the Florida Keys, Key West, is where 30% of the Keys’ population calls home. Besides their top-notch diving and fishing facilities, Key West has several wildlife reserves, parks, and shopping plazas. Duval Street, which is its main thoroughfare, is an historical street where the legendary Ernest Hemingway once passed his time in its taverns. The Conch Train tours and the daily sunset performances make this a relaxing, yet entertaining island.