Florida Keys guide: hotels, restaurants and things to do

When most of the people think of Florida, there may be commonly one aspect that involves thoughts; Walt Disney World, Orlando.

But accept as true with it or now not, there?S lots greater to the light state than a mouse with a squeaky voice ? And this summer I turned into fortunate sufficient to explore the solar-soaked coastlines within.

The Florida Keys is an uncommon place, albeit a splendidly unusual one. Made up of a cluster of over one thousand islands ? I?Ve requested and no one is quite certain just how many precisely make up the ?Keys? ? That is in which to head in case you want a number of holidays in a single.

? #flakeys #keywest #travelpics #travel #seashore #blueskies #sand #palmtrees #lovely #view #sea #instatravel

A put up shared via Jess Edwards (@jessmessedwards88) on Nov 30, 2016 at 2:11pm PST

Norwegian, the low-value airline that also flies to New York from the UK for 69 one way, has these days upped their flights on the Gatwick to Fort Lauderdale path from one to three in keeping with week. And by using the manner, the flights are ridiculously reasonably-priced at £159 one manner providing you with the precise excuse to book right away.

From here, lease a automobile for the maximum proper exploration of the Keys, taking it slow to meander over the countless bridges and thru all of the smaller islands, preventing as you go to Instagram, obvs.

Where we went... Key West

The most famous and popular Key for a destination vacation is easily Key West and as soon as you put foot upon this one-of-a-type island, you?Ll understand why; because it virtually is, pretty without a doubt, a wonderful region to be.

Where we stayed...

The Marker Resort, two hundred William Street, Key West, Florida 33040

The Marker offers the suitable base for exploring the metropolis of Key West, simply placed slap bang within the middle of the bustling boardwalks and hippy high avenue. Expect slick rooms decorated with that seashore experience, and a pool if you fancy a down day.

It's all about aesthetics: from our signature blue stimulated by way of the Key West sky, to our lush tropical flowers, to our outside idea that allows the breeze off the harbor to reach our poolside bar?We have got vacation vibes all round.

A publish shared via The Marker Key West (@themarkerresort) on Feb 21, 2017 at 1:10pm PST

Other recommendations... Ibis Bay Beach hotel, Key West. Parrot Key Resort, Key West.

What we did...

For this kind of small town, Key West has an lousy lot of records and also you?D be silly now not to spend your days exploring the numerous museums. If you?Re inquisitive about getting to know about Ernest Hemingway, his residence is open for site visitors, if tales of pirates and gold-searching excite you, the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum will maintain you occupied for hours and, if you?Re open to the unknown, there?S even a special ghost-looking excursion.

For something greater energetic, night time-time paddleboarding ? And kayaking (£30 and £25 respectively for one and a half of hours) is a should-do. Explore the ocean and its creatures beneath you thru the Perspex vessels with the assist of unique LED lights.

My favourite component to do on Key West, however, is truly discover. Rent a motorcycle from Key Lime Bike Tours (£35 for a three-hour tour) and study greater about the island from someone in the recognise.

Officially now not right here any more! Had the best week exploring the Keys and basically doing more lively sports in five days than I actually have accomplished all 12 months. Now for a cup of tea and a sit down. . . . #flakeys #florida #bike #biking #seashore #sea #vacation #excursion #travel #instatrip #instatraveling #visiting

A submit shared by Jess Edwards (@jessmessedwards88) on Dec 3, 2016 at four:14am PST

Or, actually walk. Walk and discover the countless streets of picture-best houses constructed from wood and painted in pretty pastels, and be open to chatting with the pleasant ? And ever interesting bunch of locals that you may stumble upon. They say you don?T pick Key West, Key West chooses you ? And it surely has selected a group of specific, exciting and amusing individuals.

Where we ate...

A ride to Key West wouldn?T be entire with out indulging in two of The Florida Key's most famous ingredients; Key lime pie and seafood. For the latter, we didn?T discover a more delicious spot for claws and lobster than the Stoned Crab ? An eco-minded seafood restaurant on the water run by way of Kite surfer and rum distiller - he has a store at the island wherein you may taste numerous samples of rum - Paul Menta. You recall what we were announcing about the locals, proper?

For the previous, indulge in a meal on the Hot Tin Roof, a spot of luxurious amid the laid-back placing of the city, perfectly rounded off with a slice of the good things ? One of the quality we ate on any island.

Celebrate National Pie Day!#flkeys #SimplyTheKeys

A post shared by means of The Florida Keys & Key West (@thefloridakeys) on Jan 23, 2017 at 11:43am PST

Where we went... Key Largo and the relaxation of the Keys

Key West may be the most famous of the islands however that does not imply the relaxation of the Keys must be unnoticed.

Where we stayed...

Playa Largo Resort, 97450 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, Florida, 33037

Playa Largo Resort had to be the most special vicinity we stayed in the entire of the Keys. Nestled on a pretty seashore, this extraordinary motel in reality did have all of it: impeccable design, friendly provider, staggering centers (together with one uber-Instagrammable pool) and huge, comfy rooms.

Rates start at US$300 (£245) in keeping with night time for a visitor room.