With its turquoise waters, sunny islands, and laid-back atmosphere, it’s difficult to find a reason to stay indoors when you’re in the Florida Keys. If you and your family are eager to bond over nature, wildlife, and ocean views, we’ve got a few activities you should add to your Florida Keys itinerary.
Top 7 Outdoor Activities for Families in the Florida Keys
Whether you’re simply looking for new ways to spend time with your kids or are planning to take a short cruise that stops off in the Keys, here are a few outdoor activities you’re sure to love!
1. Visit the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservancy
The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservancy is pure magic. Here, you’ll get to walk through a glass-domed tropical butterfly habitat, where hundreds of free-flying butterflies and colorful birds will surround you. There’s a reason why this is dubbed as one of the best places to take kids in the Florida Keys—you won’t forget it!
2. Spend the Day at Bahia Honda State Park
When you’re in the Florida Keys, for families exploring with kids, Bahia Honda State Park is a top pick for beach-lovers. The water is generally calmer and shallower, and the facilities are very family-oriented. Plus, the kids can hunt for starfish in the tidal pools.
3. Head to the Wild Bird Center
This inspiring sanctuary rescues and rehabilitates injured and orphaned birds native to the Keys and allows visitors to see them up close. Pelicans, herons, and owls are just a few birds you can expect to see here. The overall setting is also serene and has several trails you can meander along. Plus, you’ll be supporting a meaningful cause. It’s a win-win!
4. Feed the Tarpon at Robbie’s
Robbie’s Marina of Islamorada is another top stop for families who want to get outdoorsy and see some really, big fish. However, the main event is that you get to feed giant tarpon fish. All you need to do is buy your bucket of fish and head to the nets over the water, where you can safely feed the tarpon. Just watch out for the pelicans!
5. Snorkel Along the John Pennekamp Coral Reef
Located in Key Largo, this is part of the only living coral barrier reef in the continental U.S. It’s teeming with colorful marine life like parrotfish, sea turtles, and angelfish, so you and your kids can expect an unforgettable adventure. You don’t need your own equipment either, as the park rents it out.
6. Paddle Through Mangroves
Another activity that you can add to your day at the John Pennekamp State Park is kayaking. The park has 2.5 miles of mangrove trails where you’ll be able to spot some amazing wildlife, including the gentle manatee, which is often found in shallow water.
7. Explore Old Town By Bike
For the day that you’re in the mood for some history, hire some bicycles and explore Old Town in Key West. The streets are lined with colorful Conch-style houses and iconic landmarks like Ernest Hemingway’s Home and the Southernmost Point. The terrain is also flat, so it’s an easy activity for all ages.
A Day Out In the Keys
If your family loves the outdoors, the Florida Keys has some of the best activities on offer. Thanks to the almost consistent warm weather, you and your kids can keep busy for hours on end.
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