The Florida Keys: Off the Beaten Path Travel

If you wish to visit paradise without leaving America, you should go to the Florida Keys. You can find countless tropical islands from Key Largo to Key West. There are around 1700 total islands to explore and experience like few other places offer in America. They begin in the southeastern edge of the Florida peninsula and run south to southwest across 110 miles. Life in the Keys is different than what most are accustomed to. It is a lifestyle of relaxation and fun, set in a spectacular tropical surrounding. You may not want to go back after you encounter the Keys, they will leave you yearning for more!

Origins of the Florida Keys

The Keys were formed from the major sea level changes that initially started around 130,000 years ago. The drastic transitions were from glaciers that were in the region at that time. The Keys were created from a coral reef that rose above sea level. You can still see much of the limestone from Miami to Key West that remained after the water levels dropped.

The Five Areas of the Florida Keys

The numerous islands are grouped into five sections. Each section has many islands and little towns offering their own style of life. Causeways and bridges link these islands, but not all are accessible by motor vehicle. Some of the islands can only be reached by boat. The five designated regions are known as:

Key Largo - the largest island of all the Keys. Known as the Diving Capital of the World and the location of the world's biggest artificial reef.

Islamorada - these islands are known as the Village of Islands. They are also called the Sportfishing Capital of the World.

Marathon - this area is situated in the middle of the Keys. It is often referred to as the heart of the chain of islands.

Lower Keys and Big Key Pine - there are numerous islands in this designated area of the Keys. There are several of these islands that are full of abundant wildlife and natural settings, which is not found elsewhere in the islands.