DK Travel : Miami : The Keys

The Florida Keys are a string of wild, variegated gems hung in a necklace of liquid turquoise. These islands still have abundant wildlife, including unique flora and fauna, as evidenced by all the parks and family attractions focusing on encounters with nature. Even so, at least 20 different species of Keys plant and animal life are endangered or threatened. This is a place for outdoor activities: water sports of all kinds, sportfishing, and hiking through the nature preserves and virgin tropical forests. Along the only route (US 1) that takes you from the mainland all the way out to Key West, you’ll find everything from plush resorts to roadside stands selling homegrown produce.

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Hemingway Days

Since it’s held in the middle of the low season, the third week of July (Hemingway’s birthday was July 21st), this party is mainly for the “Conchs.” Consequently, it seems to be the celebration most loved by the locals. Hemingway lookalikes help lead the celebrations and tributes to the island’s most famous writer.
Herons

These elegant birds include the great blue heron (white phase, too), the little blue heron, the tri-colored heron, the greenbacked heron, and the blackcrowned night heron.
Hog’s Breath Saloon

One of the best-known bars due to a far-reaching ad campaign – it’s part of a Florida chain. Expect lots of heavy drinking and live music every night.
In Touch

Lots of amusing erotica, cards, sexy clothing, toys, and other same-sex fun stuff for both gay men and lesbians.
Indian Key State Historic Site

Tiny Indian Key has a surprising amount of history for its size (10.5 acres/4.25ha). An ancient Native American site, it was settled in 1831 by Captain J. Houseman, an opportunistic wrecker. A small community flourished under his autocratic rule, but in 1840 Seminoles attacked, killing the settlers. The Key was abandoned, and today only the outlines of the village remain, overgrown by vegetation impressive for both its variety and rampant growth. These are the descendants of plants belonging to Dr. Henry Perrine, a botanist who was killed in the raid. An observation tower provides splendid views.
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

Most famous for its stunning offshore coral reef, where snorkeling, scuba diving, and glassbottom boat rides are great favorites.
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

The park is best known for its fabulous underwater reaches, providing an unforgettable glimpse of coral reef life. You can also rent canoes, dinghies, or motorboats, as well as snorkeling and scuba gear, or choose a glass-bottom boat ride. Most destinations are actually located in the neighboring Florida Keys (Key Largo) National Marine Sanctuary. The shallow waters of White Bank Dry Rocks is especially good for snorkeling, as well as nearby Molasses Reef. At Key Largo Dry Rocks, the Christ of the Deep, a submerged statue, is popular for underwater photos.
Key Deer

The diminutive Key deer (max. 32 in/81 cm tall) are found primarily on Big Pine and No Name keys. Docile and endearing, these tiny animals have returned from the brink of extinction in the last 40 years.
Key Largo Hammocks State Botanical Site

The largest remaining stand of tropical West Indian hardwood and mangrove is a refuge for protected indigenous flora and fauna.
Key West

Rich in history and breathtaking beauty, the self-styled Conch (pronounced “conk”) Republic seems truly a world apart from the rest of the US