Adventure in Key West!

Mallory Square

Why Visit?

Adventure Lover’s Guide to Mallory Square, Key West

Welcome to Mallonry Square, the pulsating heart of Key West, where adventure and history blend seamlessly under the Floridian sun. This iconic location is not just about picturesque sunsets but is a gateway to thrilling experiences around Key West’s historic waterfront.

Morning Expedition: Maritime Marvels

Start your adventure early by diving into the rich maritime history of Key West at the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum, a short walk from the center of Mallory Square. Here, you can marvel at treasures from 17th-century shipwrecks including the famous Atocha and Santa Margarita. The museum opens at 8:30 AM, allowing you to beat the crowds and immerse yourself in tales of pirates and precious cargo lost beneath the seas.

Midday Adventure: Eco-Discovery Tour

Next, head to the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center, just a 5-minute walk east of the square. This facility offers a fantastic view into the local ecosystems through interactive exhibits and a live-streaming video from the only underwater ocean laboratory, the Aquarius. It’s a free adventure that’s both educational and inspiring, perfect for understanding the delicate coral reefs and diverse marine life that make the Keys so unique.

Sunset Spectacle

Return to Mallory Square for the world-renowned Sunset Celebration. Adventurers can enjoy street performers, local artisans, and food vendors that animate the area starting two hours before sunset. Each evening, the square transforms into a lively festival where the spirit of Key West comes alive.

Evening Kayak Tour

Cap off your day with a guided night kayak tour in the mangroves. Companies like Lazy Dog Adventures offer sunset paddles that transition into the serene ambiance of twilight. Paddle under the stars and explore the mysterious, shadowy paths of the mangroves. It’s the perfect end to an adventure-packed day, immersing you completely in the natural charm of Key West’s quieter side.

Each activity is easily accessible on foot from Mallory Square, making it convenient to move between high-energy explorations and the relaxing, laid-back atmosphere of Key West.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary

Why Visit?

Embark on a thrilling aquatic adventure through the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, a 3,800 square mile underwater playground that stretches from south of Miami westward to encompass the Florida Keys. Renowned for its vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and historic shipwrecks, this sanctuary offers an unparalleled adventure for water enthusiasts.

Day 1: Arrival in Key Largo

Fly into Miami International Airport and rent a car for a scenic drive south towards Key Largo via US-1, known as the Overseas Highway. This route offers breathtaking ocean views and leads directly to the upper Keys. Check into a locally-owned waterfront resort, and prepare for a journey beneath the waves.

Day 2: Snorkeling and Diving at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

Begin your underwater exploration at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the first undersea park in the U.S., located in Key Largo. Join a guided snorkeling or diving tour to explore the vibrant coral formations and teeming marine life. Don’t miss the famous Christ of the Abyss statue, an underwater bronze statue that has become an iconic image of the area.

Day 3: Kayaking and Wildlife Watching at Marathon

Drive to Marathon, a family-friendly key known for its conservation efforts. Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard to navigate the mangrove-fringed shores. The shallow waters are perfect for spotting juvenile reef fish, rays, and occasionally manatees.

Day 4: Shipwreck Diving at Key West

Conclude your adventure in Key West, the southernmost point of the continental U.S. Dive into history by exploring sunken wrecks like the USS Vandenberg, one of the largest artificial reefs in the world. Each dive offers a chance to discover hidden marine life and the mysterious allure of these underwater time capsules.

Whether it’s snorkeling through coral gardens, paddling among mangroves, or diving to historical wrecks, the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary caters to every shade of adventure spirit.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Dry Tortugas National Park

Why Visit?

Dry Tortugas National Park Adventure Itinerary

Day 1: Journey to the Isle

Embark on your adventure from Key West aboard the Yankee Freedom III, a high-speed ferry that promises a scenic 2.5-hour voyage across crystalline waters. As you approach, behold the mesmerizing sight of Fort Jefferson, a colossal but unfinished coastal fortress that dominates Garden Key. Upon arrival, join a guided tour to uncover this fortress’s enigmatic past, including its role as a prison during the Civil War.

Fun Fact: Keep your binoculars handy — the surrounding waters are a haven for spotting vibrant sea life, from majestic sea turtles to playful dolphins.

Day 2: Snorkeling the Shipwrecks

Gear up for a thrilling snorkeling expedition around Fort Jefferson. The surrounding coral reefs are part of the third largest barrier reef in the world and offer an underwater showcase of maritime heritage and biodiversity. Explore sunken shipwrecks and vibrant coral formations. Look out for the elusive moray eel and the bright parrotfish.

Interesting Fact: The waters around Dry Tortugas are home to nearly 300 species of birds. Be sure to scan the skies and shoreline during your snorkeling breaks.

Day 3: Kayaking to Loggerhead Key

Rent a kayak and paddle your way to Loggerless Key, the largest island in the park, known for its historic lighthouse and serene, unspoiled beaches. En route, enjoy the isolation and pristine natural beauty that makes Dry Tortugas a true adventurer’s paradise.

Day 4: Star Gazing and Departure

Cap off your adventure under the celestial canopy. Due to its remote location, the park boasts some of the darkest skies, perfect for stargazing. Reflect on the serenity and mystery of your surroundings before your return to Key West the following morning, carrying memories of a truly epic escapade.

Pro Tip: Camping at Garden Key is a fantastic option for those who wish to experience the night sky at its fullest glory. Just be sure to reserve your spot well in advance!

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Fort Zachary Taylor

Why Visit?

Embark on an exhilarating adventure to Fort Zachary Taylor, a historic gem located at the southern tip of Key West, Florida. Known for its rich history and stunning natural landscapes, this destination promises an unforgettable experience for adventure lovers and history buffs alike.

Getting There: Fort Zachary Taylor is accessible via car or bicycle from downtown Key West. Park at the end of Southard Street in Truman Annex and follow the signs leading to the state park. For those feeling more adventurous, rent a bike and enjoy a scenic ride through Key West’s charming streets, which will lead you directly to the park.

Adventure Activities

1. Historic Tour: Start your visit with a guided tour of the fort, built in 1845 and rich in Civil War and naval history. Discover hidden artillery rooms and learn about the fort"s strategic importance. Tours depart daily at 11:00 AM.

2. Snorkeling: After exploring the fort, gear up for some snorkeling. The waters around Fort Zachary Taylor are teeming with vibrant marine life and are known for some of the best snorkeling in Key West. Bring your own equipment or rent onsite.

3. Nature Trails: The park offers nature trails that wind through beautiful coastal landscapes. Grab a trail map and embark on a self-guided tour to observe local wildlife and tropical plants.

4. Beach Relaxing: End your day relaxing on one of Key West’s most picturesque beaches located within the park. Enjoy swimming in the clear waters or simply sunbathe on the sandy shore.

Lunch Spot: Pack a picnic or enjoy lunch at the park’s beachfront café, which offers a variety of refreshing drinks and local seafood.

Interesting Fact: Fort Zachary Taylor played a crucial role during the Civil War and Spanish-American War. It was also an important naval base during the Cuban Missile Crisis.

This adventure-packed visit to Fort Zachary Taylor offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and relaxation, guaranteed to enrich your travel experience.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Southernmost Point of the Continental USA

Why Visit?

Day 1: Arrival in Key West

Fly into Key West International Airport, a convenient entry point just a few miles from the city center. Rent a bike, an eco-friendly and enjoyable way to navigate this compact island. Head to your hotel to drop off your luggage and prepare for an exhilarating trip.

Day 2: Explore Key West

Start your morning with a visit to the Southernmost Point Buoy, a vibrantly colored, anchored concrete buoy marking the southernmost point of the continental U.S. It’s a perfect photo op – the buoy boldly claims you’re just 90 miles from Cuba. Arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy uninterrupted views.

Pedal over to Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, a mere 20-minute bike ride away. Here, adventure meets history; explore Civil War-era fortifications or snorkel in clear waters to see vibrant marine life. Pack a picnic to enjoy on one of Key West’s most beautiful beaches.

As the evening sets in, bike to Mallory Square for its famous sunset celebration. Street performers, musicians, and food vendors create a festive atmosphere. Enjoy the stunning sunset views that Key West is famous for.

Day 3: Eco-Adventure at the Key West National Wildlife Refuge

Take a guided kayak tour in the morning from Key West to the Key West National Wildlife Refuge. This remote area is accessible only by boat and offers pristine waters and untouched mangrove islands. It"s a haven for bird watchers and nature lovers. Paddle through the mangroves, and if you’re lucky, you might spot the elusive Key deer.

Spend your afternoon on a charter boat for deep-sea fishing or, for the more daring, try shark fishing. The waters around Key West are teeming with life, offering one of the best fishing experiences in the U.S.

Day 4: Departure

Before your departure, stroll down Duval Street for last-minute souvenirs. Grab a bite of Key Lime pie, a must-try local delicacy, to savor the sweet taste of Key West one last time.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.