Sure, we all love the Disney and Universal theme parks in Orlando, but there’s a world of fun just south of Orlando – a string of small islands in the southern tip of Florida known as the Keys.
Forming a barrier between the Atlantic and the Gulf of Mexico, the year-round tropical climate from Key Largo to Key West make it a desirable destination in any season. As an added bonus, you get the Caribbean vibe without the hassle of obtaining passports for the whole family.
The Keys have a laid-back, retro charm that is appealing to children and parents alike, and there are a variety of activities that run the gamut from relaxation to water sports. Here are some things to do in the Florida Keys with kids.
Beaches
The calm waters along much of the Keys make it especially attractive for families with young children who like to wade in tranquil, bath-water warm water, collect sea shells along the coastline and build castles in the soft sand. Anne’s Beach on the island of Islamorada, Fort Zachary Taylor State Park on Key West, and Sandspur Beach in Bahia Honda State Park on Big Pine Key are among the favorites.
Water Activities
For families with older children, there is no shortage of water sports to pique their interests. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park on Key Largo is arguably the best place for snorkeling in the United States. A catamaran whisks passengers daily out to the crystal aqua and azure waters of the undersea park. The coral reef is considered one the most beautiful and diverse in the world, teeming with healthy marine life such as parrotfish, stingrays, trumpet fish, and other varieties of fish. The reef and marine life can also be viewed in a glass-bottomed boat.
Tweens and teens will also love activities like kite-boarding, kayaking, water-trampoline, wave runners, and parasailing. Viator Tours offers a full day power adventure which allows participants to experience several water activities in one day.
Read the rest of Florida Keys with Kids in The Momiverse.
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