The Key West National Wildlife Refuge is a 10,670-acre refuge located just off the western coast of Key West, out to the Marquesas Keys. It is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including sea turtles, shorebirds, wading birds, and mammals. The refuge also protects important habitats, such as mangrove forests and seagrass beds.
Key West is a tropical island located at the southernmost tip of Florida. It is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and a casual laid-back atmosphere. When we think tropical AND island.... our minds immediately wander to sunshine, sand between our toes and fresh air.
There are many outdoor activities to enjoy in Key West. Most restaurants offer some type of an outdoor spot, whether it be a patio, porch, pool or waterside dining. Outdoor concerts, countless festivals, swimming and sunbathing to fishing and biking. Here are just a few of the best outdoor activities in Key West.
No matter where you live or what you do, time seems to escape us. How many times have we referred to "time flying". Despite our best intentions, popular destinations and points of interest in our own backyard that are enjoyed by visitors are always on our "things to do and see list". One of the most common phrases we hear, at Key West Express is... " I've lived in Florida for XX number of years, but I've never been to Key West." Yes, we get it but, "Why NOT? What are you waiting for?" A staycation to Key West is just what the "ho-hum" doctor ordered.
Did you know that the barrier reef off the coast of the Florida Keys, is the ONLY barrier reef in North America AND is the third largest one in the World? These reefs perform many necessary and environmentally critical functions. As the name implies, it acts as a barrier to the islands behind it, helping to reduce wave and storm action, coming in from the open ocean. It is also a wildlife habitat that is one of the most diverse, in all the world. The reef is home to those animals that never leave the waters here, both fish, plant life and the actual corals themselves. It also acts as a haven to those fish that migrate through these waters as well as a rookery for juvenile fish. Making this biodiverse ecosystem one that must be protected, not only for the enjoyment of all of us, but for our continued ecological life on the this big, blue marble.
Fabulous funky fun ONLY IN THE KEYS. About 30 miles north of Key West is Looe Key, where they host the annual Underwater Music Festival. Yes, you read that right UNDERWATER... Ok, granted that no one is really playing an actual instrument but, jamming to your favorite watery favorites with homemade replicas typically fish or shell based by design.
World renowned oceanographer and son of Jacques-Yves Cousteau, Fabien, recently came to the beautiful reefs, off the Florida Keys. His family's legacy of oceanic conservationism, exploration, education and technological advancement came with him.
Famed for its surrounding glistening, turquoise, crystal clear waters, Key West is an international destination for snorkeling, diving and fishing. If you're like me, then you remember Jacques Cousteau and his fantastic underwater adventures. Or.... If you don't know who that is (google him!!), then maybe David Attenborough and his modern day explorations into our undersea wonders, will thrill you.
On average, over 100,000 people visit Key West by ferry boat, each year.
Key West is the southernmost point in the United States. It's a popular tourist destination for water-sports, beaches, art galleries, museums and historic sites.
Whether you want to frolic in the surf or soak up the sun with a drink in hand, the beaches in Key West, Florida are some of the most beautiful in the world.
Are you planning a trip to sunny Key West?
If so, you're in good company. Over 5 million people visit the Florida Keys each year, with Key West being one of the most popular islands to explore.
There are so many fun, exciting, and historical things to do in Key West, that even despite challenging times, tourism has stable growth!
