20 Attractions to Explore Near Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters

Crane Point Hammock, offers visitors a unique combination of tropical plants, wildlife and recreation. Home to two museums and a butterfly sanctuary, Crane Point Hammock is anything but ordinary. Wander the trails or take a guided tour of the nature center to learn about the local ecology including wetlands and mangroves. Bring your own gear or rent their kayak or canoe for an afternoon out on the water. Don't miss a visit to the seaside aquarium.

Curry Hammock State Park is a paradise for nature lovers and water enthusiasts. With over 1,500 acres of mangrove forests, tropical hammocks and beaches, Curry Hammock State Park offers the perfect backdrop for a day outdoors. Visitors can kayak or canoe along crystal clear waterways, take a dip in the lagoon or explore the shoreline full of starfish and crabs. The park's habitats are home to various wildlife including roseate spoonbills, pelicans, ospreys and painted buntings.

Sombrero Beach is an iconic beachknown for its beautiful white sand and crystal clear waters. Located near Marathon, this beautiful stretch of coastline is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, sailing or kayaking. Visitors to the beach can also enjoy fishing off of one of the many jetties located along the shoreline. For animal lovers, there's a plethora of native wildlife that frequents the sands and shallows such as seabirds, dolphins and sea turtles.

Grassy Key is an idyllic paradise island situated between Key Largo and Marathon and is a perfect getaway for those looking for fun in the sun. The stunning turquoise waters of the nearby Atlantic ocean are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and fishing. Nature trails provide miles of outdoor exploration full of local wildlife. Grassy Key is also famed for its seafood restaurants offering up the day's freshest catch!

Pigeon Key, is a 2.5-acre island in Monroe County boasting a rich and unique history. It originally served as the working headquarters for Flagler's Overseas Railroad project, a monumental undertaking that connected population centers on the mainland with those in the Florida Keys via a railway bridge. The island currently offers visitors an opportunity to explore its historic significance through guided tours, interactive museum displays and even overnight accommodations.

It connects Knight's Key (part of the city of Marathon, Florida) in the Middle Keys to Little Duck Key in the Lower Keys. There are two bridges in this location. The modern bridge is open to vehicular traffic; the older one only to pedestrians and cyclists. The total length of the bridge is 35,862 ft (10,931 m) or 6.79 miles (10.93 km). The bridge carries the Florida Keys aqueduct, supplying water to points west, as well as fiber optic cables, providing telecommunications to and from the lower K

Conch Keys, is a great place to relax and soak up some sun. Located off the Overseas Highway amidst the crystal-clear waters of the Florida Keys, It offers breathtaking views of its beaches and coral reefs. It is also the perfect spot for swimming, fishing, boating, or lounging by the sea. For those looking for adventure, plenty of diving spots can be found in the area for exploration. With its lush mangrove forests and delightful wildlife, Conch Keys provides a great escape from reality.

The park features a mile-long bridge that connects several islands, allowing visitors to explore various areas of the island chain. In addition, the park’s six bayous and lagoons are home to countless species of wildlife and vegetation. One of the most popular activities of Long Key State Park is kayaking and canoeing through its waters while taking in the beautiful scenery. Observing local wildlife, such as manatees, dolphins, pelicans, sea turtles, bald eagles and herons can also be done here.

Located in the middle of the Florida Keys, and connected to the mainland by bridges, this unique island offers visitors a chance to experience some of nature's most beautiful sights. With its miles of unspoiled beaches, lush tropical forests and crystal-clear Caribbean waters. Whether it's fishing, kayaking or simply relaxing on the beach and soaking up the sun, Bahia Honda Key provides an array of memorable experiences.

Long Key is a man-made island spanning six miles of beachfront with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. It is mainly used as a vacation and recreational spot, but its calm bays, lush foliage and exotic wildlife also make it perfect for nature lovers. Exciting outdoor activities abound for visitors including kayaking, fishing, swimming and sunbathing by day and stargazing by night. there are various campsites and cabins available nearby there are museums, aquariums and fishing stores.

Bahia Honda State Park is a stunning beach destination. Located on the Gulf of Mexico, this park boasts over 500 acres of serene sandy beaches, crystal clear waters for swimming and snorkeling, and a variety of diverse wildlife throughout the area. Nature trails are plentiful for exploring or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll immersed in lush vegetation. Kayaks and boats can be rented to tour different parts of the park with spectacular views along the way.

The Bahia Honda Railroad Bridge is a testament to the beauty and history of the Florida Keys. Built at the turn of the twentieth century, it stretched nearly six thousand feet across Bahia Honda Key connecting upper and lower Florida Keys with seven spans, including five original tall trusses. The bridge was an integral part of the Overseas Railroad which began service between 1912 and 1935. Sturdy considering its age, it served as a vital link for two decades before being abandoned in 1938.

Anne's beach is a fantastic place to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The sandy shoreline stretches for miles along a turquoise gulf, providing plenty of space for swimming, boating, picnicking and hiking. An abundance of sea life can be found just offshore where you can swim with colorful fish and explore the coral reef. The beaches offer breathtaking sunsets as well as spectacular star-gazing opportunities at night.

The National Key Deer Refuge Nature Center provides a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about the fascinating ecology of the Florida Keys. From the boardwalk, visitors can view an array of native wildlife, including endangered Key deer and migratory waterfowl. Inside is a museum featuring interactive exhibits that explain local environmental issues and educate visitors on how humans have affected nature over time. The center also hosts numerous educational programs throughout the year.

The Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail is a 106-mile multi-use recreational trail that stretches from Key Largo to Key West, Florida. It offers a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty and island culture of Monroe County, allowing visitors the chance to appreciate an array of wildlife and sea life. For cyclists particularly, the trail offers incredible views and invaluable insight into architecture, marine life, tropical vegetation, archaeological sites and much more.

Lower Matecumbe Key is a small island town situated at the furthest south point of the Florida Keys and offers many unique activities for visitors to take part in. Enjoy swimming or sunbathing on its white sand beaches, take a guided tour of its lush tropical vegetation, or even go deep sea fishing - Lower Matecumbe Key has something for everyone! The city also boasts a variety of restaurants and local attractions such as museums, galleries and art centers that are all worth exploring.

Blue Hole is truly a sight to behold. It has depths as deep as 90 feet and an incredibly clear body of water that makes many people come here to enjoy snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, and swimming in the pristine waters. The serenity created by the crystal blue water paired with the lush tropical atmosphere provided by nearby mangroves and beaches are second to none. Those looking for a unique underwater experience can find it at this popular tourist destination.

Little Torch Key is an island with vibrant culture that visitors can experience year round. With its white sandy beaches, golf courses, and shopping centers you are never without something to do on this picturesque island! It's also a great spot for snorkeling, fishing and diving due to the plentiful coral reefs off shore. If history interests you, there are also archaeological sites around Little Torch Key which offer some incredible insight into the region’s past life.

Robbie's of Islamorada, located in the beautiful Florida Keys, is known for its welcoming nature and local charm. Not only is it a great place to enjoy fishing and other watersports, but visitors can also explore incredible sights like the colorful coral reefs and native wildlife. Visitors are also sure to love the spot's tasty, traditional seafood dishes that use fresh locally-caught fish. With access to bike trails, boat rentals, kayaking trips and so much more.

San Pedro Underwater Archaeological Preserve is a fascinating spot perfect for scuba divers and snorkelers alike. Filled with beautiful coral reefs surrounding thirteen historic sites, it offers visitors glimpses of fascinating artifacts from the 18th and 19th centuries while they explore the incredible sea life below. There are options to take a guided tour of the site with an educational ranger or you can rent your own boat or kayak and adventure through on your own schedule.