The Florida Keys, an archipelago of over 1,700 islands, extends south of Miami past the tip of Florida’s main land mass. Only 42 of the islands are connected by the main road, which ends at the southernmost point of the United States in Key West.

Thanks to Florida’s consistently warm weather, the Florida Keys are an ideal destination throughout the year. Even in January, it’s still warm enough to take advantage of the water activities available in the area. Scuba diving and snorkelling are popular, with plenty of places to explore the colourful underwater marine life. Those looking for outdoor adventures are spoiled for choice, with sailing, fishing and kayaking excursions available.

Filled with natural beauty, Bahia Honda State Park on Big Pine Key is an ideal spot for basking in the sunshine, while the Dry Tortugas National Park is filled with colourful reefs. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo offers glass-bottom boat tours where divers can visit the two-metre underwater statue called “Christ of the Abyss”.

Getting there

The beginning of the Florida Keys is about 1.5 hours from downtown Miami by car. It’s another two hours from there to Key West, where you’ll cross the famous Seven Mile Bridge with stunning island views along the way.