Join us on an unforgettable journey through the Florida Keys, where we explore stunning beaches, historic landmarks, and vibrant wildlife, all while escaping the winter chill. From Key Largo's marine wonders to the rich history of Key West, this adventure is filled with memorable experiences and breathtaking scenery.
Join us on this epic journey from Texas to the tropical paradise of Key Largo. Dive into the vibrant world of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and experience stunning beaches, historic landmarks, and wild wildlife encounters.
After spending two months in Texas preparing for our youngest son's wedding and enjoying the holidays with family, we were excited to head to Key Largo. We were fortunate enough to secure reservations for two weeks at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, located about 1,400 miles from our starting point.
Our journey included several stops, starting with a visit to Pensacola, Florida, where we spent time with family and enjoyed the beautiful sunset at Fort Walton Beach. This beach is one of my favorites, and the sunset did not disappoint.
As we continued our trip, we made a few more stops to meet up with family and friends before reaching a short stay just outside of Miami. Along the way, we spotted the iconic Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Hollywood, Florida, which is designed to look like a giant guitar.
Leaving the Florida mainland, we headed south on Highway 1, also known as the Overseas Highway, which leads to Key Largo. Key Largo, named by Spanish explorers, means "Long Island" and is the longest island in the Florida Keys, stretching about 30 miles.
Key Largo is renowned for its water sports, including kayaking, jet skiing, snorkeling, scuba diving, and sailing. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park features a visitor center with educational exhibits about marine life, and it is home to the only living coral reef in the United States. The park was added to the National Registry of Historic Places in 1972 and offers 47 campsites, with 39 having full hookups. Each site includes a charcoal grill and picnic table, along with restrooms equipped with hot showers and coin-operated washers and dryers. Keep an eye out for the local iguanas, which are a fun sight to see.
During our stay, my best buddy James joined us for a hike at the Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park. The hike was beautiful, but the mosquitoes were quite aggressive, so I recommend dressing appropriately.
On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we ventured down to Key West, a destination that had been on my bucket list for a long time. While the rest of the country was dealing with a polar vortex, we enjoyed a balmy 79°F in Key West.
Key West is rich in history and can get quite crowded. Walking around the town allows you to soak in the historical ambiance, with many houses dating back to the 19th century. Notable sights include the homes of former President Harry S. Truman and the impressive banyan trees that create a unique landscape.
Despite a cruise ship being in port during our visit, which added to the crowds, we enjoyed exploring the downtown shops and capturing a photo at the Southernmost Point of the Continental United States marker. It was a cheesy tourist attraction, but it was fun nonetheless.
After a day of exploration in Key West, we made our way back to Key Largo, aiming to return before dark. We stopped at Porky's in Marathon for a delicious seafood dinner, which was a highlight of our culinary experiences.
On another day, after the weather turned hazy and chilly at 59°F, James and I revisited Anne's Beach in Islamorada, a secluded spot that offered a peaceful retreat.
Before James returned home to Atlanta, we hiked a trail inside the park where we discovered an old salination well. This well, dug in 1965, was intended to locate a source of brackish water suitable for desalination. It produces 580 gallons of water per minute and is a fascinating piece of local history.
Our journey through the Florida Keys and surrounding areas was truly memorable. From beautiful drives and iconic landmarks to the rich history and natural beauty of the Keys, every experience added a unique flavor to our adventure. Despite unexpected weather changes and crowded spots, we cherished each moment, whether it was enjoying the warm weather while others shivered back home or exploring the secluded beaches.
As we reflect on our trip and look forward to future visits, we carry with us the warmth and charm of the Florida Keys, knowing that these moments will be cherished for years to come.
Thank you for joining us on this adventure! Have you been to the Florida Keys? Do you have plans to visit soon? Share your favorite experiences in the comments below. Also, let us know about your favorite key lime pie spots! Our community is growing, and we are excited to start a virtual store soon. If you're new here, please subscribe and stay tuned for more adventures!
