18 Underrated Things to Do in The Florida Keys, According to a Local | Crowd-Free Guides
This guide explores the diverse attractions of the Florida Keys, from underwater shipwrecks in Key Largo to the unique wildlife of the National Key Deer Refuge. You'll discover charming local eateries, vibrant bars perfect for sunset, and serene beaches, offering a true taste of the islands beyond the typical tourist path.
USS Spiegel Grove
A world-class shipwreck dive site known for its tropical fish and potential to see sharks and eagle rays.
Sharkey's Sharkbite Grill
A local hideaway known for its "ridiculously good" conch fritters and fish tacos.
Caribbean Club
A classic Key Largo spot on Florida Bay, perfect for enjoying live music and a signature key lime rum punch at sunset.
Robbie's of Islamorada
A classic stop in Islamorada where you can hand-feed giant tarpon right off the dock.
Bud N’ Mary’s Marina
A marina offering deep-sea fishing charters, where you can also watch and feed tarpon and nurse sharks in the afternoons.
Crane Point Museum and Nature Center
A nature center featuring butterfly gardens, home to a rehabilitation center for wild Florida birds like osprey and spoonbills.
Sombrero Beach
A sought-after beach in Marathon known for its soft, fine sand, making it one of the best in the Keys.
Marathon Kayak
Offers kayak eco-tours through Marathon's backwaters, exploring tidal channels lined with red mangroves.
Castaway Waterfront Restaurant & Sushi Bar
A waterfront restaurant offering sushi made from locally caught invasive lionfish, with frequent manatee sightings in the canal.
Deer Run on the Atlantic
A beachfront boutique property on Big Pine Key, located in the Key Deer Country.
National Key Deer Refuge
A refuge dedicated to protecting the endangered Key Deer, where these small animals can be seen roaming freely.
No Name Pub
A legendary pub on Big Pine Key, known for its pizza and walls covered in dollar bills.
Kiki’s Sandbar and Grill
A beachside tiki bar on Little Torch Key, offering tuna nachos and cold beers at picnic tables in the sand.
Whistle Bar
A hyper-local bar in Key West offering an overhead view of the busy street below, providing a respite from the revelry.
Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
A historic state park in Key West featuring Civil War-era fortifications, snorkeling in deep waters, and picnicking spots.
Faust’s Food Palace
A long-standing Key West establishment (since 1926) offering Cuban sandwiches and gourmet snacks, ideal for a picnic.
Bahama Village
A colorful and historic neighborhood in Key West, perfect for cycling through its residential backstreets.
Hogfish Bar & Grill
A popular restaurant on Stock Island, located by the shrimping docks, famous for its fresh hogfish sandwich.