27 Islands to Explore in Florida

Checkout places to visit in Florida

Florida

Florida is distinctive for its large Cuban expatriate community and high population growth, as well as for its increasing environmental issues. The state's economy relies mainly on tourism, agriculture, and transportation, which developed in the late 19th century. Florida is also renowned for amusement parks, orange crops, winter vegetables, the Kennedy Space Center.

Activities Around

Islands to Explore in Florida

Sand Key Park

Sand Key Park is a beautiful place to visit if you're seeking adventure and relaxation. With its miles of sugar sand beaches, visitors can soak up the sun or explore the vibrant coral reefs just off shore. Whether you're out for an afternoon stroll on the beach or for a fishing expedition on one of their many boats, Sand Key Park promises an exciting day at sea. For those looking for something more, amenities such as picnic areas, paw parks, bike trails, and kayak rentals are also available.

Shell Island

Shell Island, a seven-mile strip of land located in Bay County, Florida, is the perfect destination for a day on the beach. With over five miles of accessible coastline, visitors to Shell Island will find plenty of secluded spots to build sandcastles and take a refreshing dip in the crystal blue waters. Those looking to explore further can join excursions that focus on the local marine life including bottlenose dolphins and loggerhead sea turtles or even journey out to nearby wrecks.

Thousand Islands

A group of natural, modified, and spoiled islands in the Banana River Lagoon are known as the Thousand Islands. Florida acquired the Thousand Islands in 1988. It leased them back to Cocoa Beach in 1991 under the condition that they are used for recreation and conservation.

Virginia Key Beach Park

Virginia Key is an 863-acre barrier island in Miami, Florida. The island is mainly occupied by the Virginia Key Beach Park, Miami Seaquarium, Miami-Dade's Central District Wastewater Treatment Plant, and the University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science.

Weedon Island Preserve

A 3,190 acre natural area predominately an estuarine preserve composed of upland and aquatic ecosystems such as mangrove forests, pine/scrubby flatwoods, and maritime hammock, and is home to a variety of native wildlife.

Weedon Island, Florida

Weedon Island is a wildlife refuge and historical preserve. It provides the perfect landscape for outdoor activities, such as bird watching, fishing and kayaking. There are scenic trails to explore throughout the area - leading visitors to nearby beaches and boardwalks. Weedon Island is also home to several ancient Native American sites, including shell mounds, middens and burial grounds.

Windley Key

Windley Key is a unique place located in Monroe County, Florida. This island community is characterized by its mix of tropical beauty and quirky charm - from iguanas scurrying along sandy pathways to old-time wooden fishing docks protruding over the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Windley Key provides its inhabitants with a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, while offering exquisite views of nature at its finest.

Map of Islands to explore in Florida