Delve into what will be one of the best experiences of your life. From the mainland of Florida, they extend 177 km to the Atlantic, an impressive chain of 1700 islands connected by the Overseas Highway, known as the Florida Keys. Meet about 40 bridges over the deep blue sea of the Atlantic on one side, and the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico and the Bay of Florida on the other.
A key to reach this area is an ancient coral reef that can be admired above sea level. In the Florida Keys, the cays are divided into three groups: first, the Upper Keys, having as main island Key Largo, known as Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall thanks to the famous Gangsters movie. Another important part of the area is a group of islands called Islamorada, proclaimed as the Sportfishing capital of the world.
In the Middle group you find yourself exploring Long Key, its state park and its almost intact tropical forest. Almost in the middle of the chain of the keys, you can find the small town of Marathon. There you will find the hammock reserve of Crane Point, it conserves more pre-Columbian archaeological remains than any key.
Bahia Honda, in the Lower group, contains what would be one of the most beautiful beaches in the United States, having 4 km of pure white sand and, like Long Key, being a state park itself.
In the Middle and Lower part is the Seven Mile Bridge, one of the longest bridges in the world. In the middle of the bridge, it rises 20 meters above the water to allow boats to pass underneath. This bridge has participated in innumerable films and crossing it is a crucial point in the journey.
At the end of the chain is Key West, closer to Cuba than to the United States. The atmosphere of this place is unique and alternative, a refuge for the person who wants to escape and relax for a while. It has the motto “live for today”, which has led many writers and artists to seek the tranquility necessary to boost their creativity and find inspiration. There is one in particular that is a symbol of Key West:Ernest Hemingway. This man lived and worked in this place for several years, in fact, his house in Whitehead Street is now a museum.
There is a characteristic plant of the site: the Everglades, humid plants of swamp that are in the coast of the continent, giving it a contrast with the cays of Florida. In fact, there is the Everglades National Park, famous for alligators and home to a great variety of birds. You can reach this park from the top of the overseas highway.
To the keys of florida you can arrive without loss from Miami, one of the best connections of international flights in the United States. You must take into account the hurricane seasons, although they will not always be hit by hurricanes, it is better to avoid them.
If you loved this article or found it useful, don’t forget to share it with your adventurous and travel-hacking friends! If you want more post like this, follow us on Youtube, Instagram, Pinterest, Twitter or Facebook and subscribe to our newsletter!