19 Outdoors- Other to Explore in Monroe County

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.

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.

Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge is a tranquil refuge for many species of plants and animals. The 7,531-acre site is comprised mostly of sawgrass marshes and hardwood hammocks. In addition to providing essential habitat for local wildlife, the Refuge also supports an array of recreational activities such as wildlife viewing, canoeing, hiking and fishing. Visitors can observe alligators, wading birds and other unique species during their visits.

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.

This Park is a stunning nature park located in Monroe county, Florida. It spans over 600 acres of tropical hardwood hammock and is home to an abundance of wildlife, including vibrant birds, curious alligators, and playful dolphins. The park also offers a variety of recreational activities such as canoeing, fishing, camping and hiking trails through the lush forest. It provides breathtaking views of the surrounding turquoise waters and the abundant habitats that comprise this incredible region.

The Dry Tortugas is home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in the world. It is made up of seven small islands and has been a national monument since 1908. It offers excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities, with beautiful reefs teeming with hundreds of fish species and colorful coral. The surrounding waters are filled with colorful sponges and other marine life, as well as several shipwrecks that attract divers from around the globe.

This is an incredible wilderness experience that allows visitors to explore and appreciate the beauty of the Everglades. Spanning approximately 99 miles of protected waterways along the southwestern coast, this unique waterway provides access to some of the most amazing natural scenes in the entire state. Along with calm waters and a variety of wildlife, visitors can also enjoy boat tours as well as terrestrial hikes and bike rides through mangrove forests, sand spits, and islands.

Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters offers unforgettable experiences with its diverse collection of marine life. It is the perfect place to go for a vacation. At this attraction, visitors have the chance to touch stingrays, observe unique animals from different ecosystems, and even go diving to explore the vibrant underwater world. Additionally, there are lectures held by knowledgeable staff that offer insight into marine biology and conservation efforts taking place throughout the Florida Keys.

Indian Key Historic State Park, is the perfect outdoor destination for history-lovers and beach-goers alike. This seven-acre island was once a bustling fishing village in the 19th century and a refuge for pirates and soldiers during the War of 1812. Visitors can explore ruins of homes, a courthouse, several shops, and wharves. Not only is it possible to take boat tours around the island, but there are plentiful opportunities for fishing or snorkeling near shore.

Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park, is a stunning slice of paradise straight out of the tropics. Not only does the park provide visitors with beach access, fresh salt water fishing and unique coral formations, but also botanical attractions such as three species of native palms, Strangler Fig and Wild Olive Trees. One of the most breathtaking aspects of this tropical retreat are its lush mangrove swamps, full of wildlife both large and small.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Sunset Key is a small island,with beautiful beaches and stunning sunsets. You can go snorkeling and explore miles of coral reef or enjoy water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding. On Sunset Key, you will also find luxurious beachfront villas, perfect for relaxing and taking in the views. The island also has a marine laboratory and an outdoor classroom to gain knowledge on the local ecosystem. With its abundant activities, stunning sunset views, and peaceful atmosphere.

Truman Annex Park is a breathtaking destination for anyone looking for a high-quality place to spend their leisure time. This beautiful park offers many great features for its visitors, such as disc golf, tennis courts, playgrounds and walking paths, a large pavilion that can be rented out for events, picnic tables and barbeque grills scattered throughout the entire area and charming ponds. The grounds are also well maintained and even have pet waste stations.

This is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. This wide-open area boasts stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, Keys reef, and Caribbean vibes. Multi-colored reefs below the surface offer unbeatable visibility for snorkelers and divers to explore diverse marine life like barracuda and sea turtles. Above ground, the park serves as an archaeological gem, with walkways furnished with fossilized coral rocks that depict different stages in its 60 million year formation history.