The ultimate guide to a Florida Keys State Park road trip. The Keys are gorgeous tropical islands dotting the stretch of 120 miles out to the southern tip of the U.S. state of Florida. The Keys are located between the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. They’re known for their abundant water activities! The Florida Keys are dotted with state parks on the drive to Key West. the perfect spot for exploring Florida’s State Parks! Enjoy the Florida Keys beach hopping, boating, snorkeling, or scuba diving.
Florida Keys Weekend Getaway
Logan and I took a weekend getaway through the Florida Keys in a Camaro convertible. We started our drive in Key Largo, then made the 2-hour drive south to the southernmost point of the continental U.S. Key West.
Pro Tip: if you are driving a convertible (which I highly suggest) make sure you wear sunscreen!
Each U.S. state is very different from one another. They each have their own culture, traditions, and diversity. To experience the Florida Keys as a local would, we stopped at several State Parks on our way down to Key West. Enjoying the incredible views as we drove with the top down, and the sun on our faces.
Visiting the Florida Keys State Parks
Daily passes for entry into the state parks vary depending on the number of vehicle occupants; prices range from $4.00-$10.00 USD
Here is a breakdown of the ultimate guide to Florida Keys state parks:
- John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
- Long Key State Park
- Curry Hammock State Park
- Bahia Honda State Park
- Fort Zachary Taylor State Park
- Key West
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park encompasses around 70 nautical square miles. Famed as the first undersea park in the U.S. scuba divers and snorkelers will have a unique experience underwater in the coral reefs and with marine life. While the mangrove swamps and tropical hammocks in the park’s upland areas offer hikers unforgettable trails. Although it’s the coral reefs and their associated marine life that bring most visitors to the park. Many enjoy the view of the reef from a glass-bottom boat tour, giving you a view without having to be in the water.
Canoeing, kayaking, and fishing are some of the park’s popular water activities; fishing is permitted in designated areas only. Enjoy walking on short trails, picnicking, or swimming at the beach. But before you explore this beautiful park, be sure to catch the nature shows and see The Visitor Center’s 30,000-gallon saltwater aquarium. Full-facility and Youth/Group campsites are available. Wheelchairs are available without cost.
things to do
Stay the night on a Yacht
Long Key State Park
Long Key State Park is cool because there are hike-in, tent-only campsites that are right on the ocean! So if you’re looking for a place to stay the night, here ya go! Oceanfront views on the beach. Each site comes with a picnic table, grill, and hammock stand. *GASP* did someone say hammock?! For $5.50 USD/night, I’ll take it! Despite the no electric or water hookups. But that’s not a huge deal because there are restrooms with outdoor showers/water available to campers only. The best part is…the campground is pet-friendly!
Download Long Key State Park Map
recommended stay
Lime Tree Bay Resort
Curry Hammock State Park
Stay at Tranquility Bay Beachfront Hotel & Resort
Bahia Honda State Park
Bahia Honda State Park was simply stunning. The brilliant blues of the water, sandy beaches, and easy access from the highway make it super convenient to visit, it’s no surprise it’s packed all year round. If you want a good beach day – this is your park.
Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
The Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, also known simply as Fort Taylor, is a Florida State Park and National Historic Landmark centered on a Civil War-era fort located near the southern tip of Key West, Florida. This historic fort has the largest collection of Civil War armaments in the world. Bonus: It’s located along a beach that’s popular for sunset views. Canoeing, kayaking, and kayak fishing are some of the park’s popular water activities.
Key West
We ended up in Key West, where we spent two days exploring the town. Our original plans were to take a seaplane out to Dry Tortugas National Park for the day. Unfortunately, our flight was canceled the morning we were scheduled to depart. With no Ferry Boat tickets available and no way to reach the island, we were unable to visit this time. After two days in the keys, we made the journey north back to the mainland. We spent our last day exploring the Everglades!
You Might Also Like:
Travel Checklist
Booking Checklist
Join the email list today, and receive fresh content and travel-exclusive tips sent right to your inbox!
