Key Largo to Key West: 23 Amazing Stops You Can’t Miss

The Florida Keys Overseas Highway follows U.S. Route 1 from Key Largo to Key West, stretching about 100 miles and crossing 42 bridges that connect dozens of small tropical islands. If you drive straight through, it takes roughly two and a half to three hours, depending on traffic and weather.

What makes this highway so special is its history. Much of it was originally part of the Overseas Railroad, built in the early 1900s by Henry Flagler. After the railroad was badly damaged in the 1935 Labor Day Hurricane, the state of Florida bought the remaining bridges and roadbed for just $640,000 and turned it into the scenic highway we drive today.

Keep an eye out for the mile markers (MM) along the way—they start at 0 in Key West and count up to 106 in Key Largo. Locals use them for directions, and most businesses list their exact mile marker on signs and websites, which makes finding places easy. And don’t forget to grab a photo at the famous Mile Marker 0 sign, right at the corner of Whitehead Street and Fleming Street in Key West—it’s the perfect way to mark the end of your Florida Keys journey.

GOOD TO KNOW: Once you pass the Florida City / Monroe County line, there are no tolls on the Overseas Highway—so you can relax and just enjoy the ride.

Hands down, spring and fall are the best times to plan a trip to the Florida Keys. The weather is comfortable, with temperatures between 70°F and 80°F, and the water is warm enough for swimming and snorkeling. Rain is minimal, and humidity is lower.

Winter is also a great time to visit. Temperatures hover between 65°F and 75°F, and it’s usually sunny and pleasant.

My personal recommendation is to avoid summer, if you can. From June through early November, it’s hurricane season, and the combination of heat, humidity, and sudden afternoon storms can make your trip less enjoyable.

There’s no shortage of great places to stay in the Florida Keys, and where you stay depends on how much time you have and the kind of trip you want. If you’re doing the Key Largo to Key West drive over several days, consider staying in two or three areas—Key Largo or Islamorada, Marathon, and Big Pine Key or Key West—so you can explore each stretch at a comfortable pace.

Here are some excellent options along the way, each with its own charm and vibe:

Atlantic Bay Resort (Tavernier) – A peaceful, well-kept bayside resort. There’s a small beach, kayaks and paddleboards, and a pool with a beautiful sunset view. Rooms are simple and comfortable, and some have full kitchens.

Grassy Flats Resort & Beach Club (Marathon) – A stylish, eco-friendly spot midway down the Keys with a boutique feel. There’s a relaxed tiki bar, two pools (one adults-only), and plenty of room to unwind. The shoreline is more for views than swimming, but the atmosphere is pure island calm.

Playa Largo Ocean Residences (Key Largo) – Beautiful ocean-view homes perfect for families or small groups. Each has a full kitchen, balcony, and access to Playa Largo Resort amenities. It’s pricier than standard hotels, but ideal for longer stays or travelers who like space and comfort.

Deer Run on the Atlantic (Big Pine Key) – A true hidden gem. This adults-only, eco-friendly bed and breakfast sits right on the ocean and runs completely on solar power. You’ll wake up to the sound of waves, enjoy a vegan organic breakfast, and might even see Key deer wandering by. Peaceful, personal, and very Keys.

PRO TIP: The Florida Keys stay busy year-round, especially between December and April. For smaller crowds and better rates, book in spring or fall. If you can, split your stay between Islamorada or Marathon and Key West, you’ll get the best mix of quiet relaxation and lively island energy.

If you’re planning this as a road trip, use the map below to plan your route and group stops by region—Upper Keys (Key Largo to Islamorada), Middle Keys (Marathon area), and Lower Keys (Big Pine to Key West).

Key Largo to Key West: 23 Amazing Stops You Can’t Miss

If you only make one stop between Key Largo and Key West, make it John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.

It is the first undersea park in the United States, protecting about 70 nautical square miles of reef inside the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. This is an easy place to get on the water: snorkeling, scuba, glass-bottom boat tours, or renting kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards to explore the mangrove creeks.

If you’ve never snorkeled before, try it here. The reefs are lively and close, and the boats run short trips out to the sanctuary. A popular option is the Half-Day Snorkel Trip on Reefs in the Florida Keys, which includes your snorkel gear and vest and takes you to the sanctuary and Pennekamp’s reef sites.

One of the most famous spots is Christ of the Abyss (also called Christ of the Deep), a bronze statue resting in about 25 feet of water; on clear days, you can see the top from the surface. Around the statue, look for groupers, snappers, grunts, angelfish, nurse sharks, and moray eels.

Paddling is great here, too. You can rent a canoe, kayak, or paddleboard and wind through shaded mangrove tunnels and quiet lagoons. If you prefer a guide, the Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Adventure in Key Largo is a fun, educational small-group tour.

If you want to stay dry, the Key Largo Glass Bottom Boat Adventure Tour is the most relaxing way to see the reef—sit back and watch the corals and fish glide beneath the viewing panels.

Location: 102601 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037 (MM 102.5)
Hours: 7 days a week, 8 am–7 pm

PRO TIP: Reserve boat tours in advance on weekends/holidays.

If you’re stopping for lunch or dinner between Key Largo and Key West, make it The Fish House. This is one of those true local favorites that has been around for decades, and it’s still known for some of the freshest seafood in the Florida Keys. The owners buy directly from local commercial fishermen and fillet everything on-site, so what you get is straight from dock to table.

Their signature dish—and one you shouldn’t miss—is Today’s Catch prepared Matecumbe style. It’s topped with fresh tomatoes, shallots, basil, capers, olive oil, and lemon juice, then baked to perfection. It’s a house specialty and has been featured on the Food Network with Bobby Flay and Guy Fieri on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives.

Another standout is the Shrimp & Scallops Key Lime—large shrimp and scallops sautéed in lime juice, white wine, garlic butter, mushrooms, scallions, and a touch of hot sauce, served over rice. It’s one of those dishes that captures the Keys perfectly—fresh, bright, and full of flavor.

The restaurant itself feels relaxed and authentic, with nautical decor and friendly service. You can also visit the Fish Market next door to pick up fresh local seafood to cook later, including mahi-mahi, grouper, yellowtail snapper, and lobster when it’s in season.

PRO TIP: Try to arrive early for dinner, especially during weekends or high season—the dining room fills quickly. Ask for Matecumbe-style fish and save room for their Key lime pie, which is one of the best on the island.

Location: 102401 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037 (MM 102.4)
Hours: Daily, 11:30 am – 10 pm

Locals love Sharkey’s Sharkbite Grill, and it’s easy to see why. This easygoing spot has been around since 2001 and has that laid-back, “real Keys” feel—part pub, part dockside hangout, and 100% local flavor. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a snorkeling trip or stop for a casual meal on your Key Largo to Key West drive.

The first floor houses Sharkey’s Pub and Taphouse, with 32 beers on tap and a full bar. Upstairs, you’ll find a quieter family-style dining room with plenty of space and a great view of the canal. If the weather’s nice, sit out on the patio, watch the boats glide by, and soak up the Keys atmosphere.

The highlight here is the hogfish—a true Florida Keys delicacy and something every seafood lover should try at least once. It’s a sweet, flaky white fish, somewhere between scallops and grouper, and Sharkey’s prepares it perfectly. You can get it grilled, blackened, or fried, but the blackened hogfish sandwich is a favorite among locals.

If you’re not into seafood, the menu has everything from burgers and tacos to pasta and salads, all generous portions and full of flavor.

Location: 522 Caribbean Dr, Key Largo, FL 33037 (just east of MM 99.7)
Hours: Daily, 7 am – 12 am

If you want a true taste of the Florida Keys, stop at Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen, the longest-running restaurant in Key Largo and a local landmark since the 1970s. Their motto—“Eat Well, Laugh Often, Live Long”—says it all. This is where locals go for comfort food done right.

Start with the Konk Chowder, a rich tomato-based soup with conch, herbs, and just the right amount of spice. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the alligator tenders or lobster bites; they’re surprisingly tender and full of flavor. The Caribbean-style crab cakes are another favorite, packed with real crab meat and served with honey mustard aioli.

If you’re in the mood for something lighter, go for the Fish-On-A-Bun or Superfishwich.. And if you love chili, don’t miss their award-winning chili, known as the best in the Florida Keys. It’s hearty, slightly spicy, and made fresh daily.

Of course, no stop here is complete without a slice of their famous Key lime pie. It’s the perfect balance of tart and creamy, with a buttery graham cracker crust. Many locals swear it’s the best you’ll find between Key Largo and Key West.

There are two Mrs. Mac’s locations in Key Largo, but make sure you visit the original at 99336 Overseas Highway. The walls are covered with license plates from around the world, and the old-fashioned diner vibe adds to its charm.

PRO TIP: Come early for breakfast or lunch; the place fills up fast. And yes, get the Key lime pie to go if you’re too full. You’ll thank yourself later.

Location: 99336 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037 (MM 99.3)
Hours: Monday–Saturday 7 am – 9:30 pm, closed Sundays

If you want a true local breakfast stop, Harriette’s Restaurant is one of those old-school Keys diners you’ll remember long after your trip. It’s been serving for decades

Two things you can’t miss here are the biscuits and the Key lime muffins. The biscuits are fluffy, buttery, and baked fresh each morning—perfect with honey or a side of sausage gravy. And the Key lime muffins? They’re legendary. Sweet, tangy, and moist, they taste like sunshine in a bite.

Location: 95710 Overseas Hwy, Key Largo, FL 33037 (MM 95.7)
Hours: Daily, 6 am – 3 pm

The Laura Quinn Wild Bird Sanctuary, part of the Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center, is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of injured and displaced wild birds, as well as long-term care for those that can’t survive in the wild.

It’s not a large place, but it’s worth a stop. You’ll walk along a peaceful boardwalk that winds through the mangroves, passing enclosures housing pelicans, egrets, hawks, owls, herons, and other native species. The birds that live here permanently were rescued but can’t be released, and many have fascinating stories shared on signs along the trail.

If you visit near sunset, you might catch the pelican feeding, which is a favorite moment.

The sanctuary runs completely on donations and volunteer work, so even a small contribution helps keep the operation going.

Location: 93600 Overseas Hwy, Tavernier, FL 33070 (MM 93.6)
Hours: Open daily, sunrise to sunset
Admission: Free (donations appreciated)

The Blond Giraffe Key Lime Pie Factory is a must-stop for anyone who loves dessert—or even just wants to compare Key lime pies along the drive. It’s been a Florida Keys favorite for years.

The filling is smooth and creamy with that classic tangy lime flavor, topped with a light, toasted meringue. It’s not overly sweet, and the crust is made from fresh, buttery graham crackers that hold just the right amount of crunch.

Take a few minutes to relax in their beautiful garden area, where you can enjoy your slice under the shade of tropical trees. There’s also a little walkway lined with “love locks,” where you can hang a padlock as a keepsake.

PRO TIP: Try the classic Key lime pie first—then, if you have room, sample one of their frozen chocolate-dipped Key lime pie bars. They’re cold, creamy, and absolutely addictive on a hot day.

Location: 92220 Overseas Hwy, Tavernier, FL 33070 (MM 92.2)
Hours: Daily, 9 am – 8:30 pm

Marker 88 is one of those classic Keys spots where the food and the view compete for your attention — and both win. Located right on the water in Islamorada, it’s one of the best places to have dinner with your feet in the sand and a sunset that’ll stop you mid-bite.

If you can, book a table before sunset and aim for an outdoor seat near the beach. Watching the sky turn orange and pink over the bay while the palm trees sway, it’s the kind of moment you plan a Florida Keys trip for.

The menu focuses on fresh, locally caught seafood. Try the onion-crusted Mahi Mahi, coconut shrimp, or the Florida lobster tail if it’s in season. And of course, finish with their Key lime pie, creamy, tart, and made right. The cocktails are great, too; their mojito and Key lime martini are local favorites.

It’s a bit pricier than casual fish shacks, but the location, service, and view make it well worth the stop.

Location: 88000 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33070 (MM 88)
Hours: Daily, 11 am – 9 pm

You’ll know you’ve reached Rain Barrel Village the moment you spot Betsy the Giant Lobster. It’s a massive 30-foot sculpture that’s become one of the most photographed roadside attractions in the Florida Keys. Pull over, snap a photo, and stretch your legs for a bit.

Rain Barrel Village is a quirky collection of local art galleries, handmade craft shops, and tropical gardens. You’ll find everything from ocean-inspired jewelry and driftwood art to colorful paintings and sea-glass decorations. It’s a fun stop for browsing unique souvenirs that actually come from local artists, not just mass-produced trinkets.

That said, it’s not a place you’ll spend hours at; 20 to 30 minutes is plenty to walk around, shop a little, and grab a refreshing drink or local ice cream.

Location: 86700 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036 (MM 86.7)
Hours: Daily, 9 am – 5 pm

Theater of the Sea is one of the classic Florida Keys attractions — it’s been welcoming visitors since 1946 and remains one of the best places in the Keys to see marine life up close.

The park features daily dolphin, sea lion, and parrot shows, along with guided lagoon tours and fish and reptile exhibits. What makes it special, though, are the interactive programs; you can swim with dolphins, sea lions, or even stingrays. The most popular experience is the Swim in the Dolphin Lagoon, where you snorkel in the same lagoon as the dolphins, a once-in-a-lifetime kind of adventure.

If you’re short on time, you can still enjoy the shows and take a bottomless boat ride through the lagoon to spot tropical fish, sea turtles, and rays.

PRO TIP: Booking ahead is a good idea, especially during weekends or holidays when tours and dolphin encounters fill up quickly.

Location: 84721 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036 (MM 84.5)
Hours: Daily, 9:30 am – 5 pm
Admission: Adults $45, Children (3–10) $30, Seniors $40;
Interactive programs are priced separately.

The Florida Keys History of Diving Museum is one of those small but fascinating stops you might overlook, and you shouldn’t.

The museum was founded by two passionate divers, Drs. Joe and Sally Bauer, who collected one of the largest displays of historic diving equipment in the world. Inside, you’ll find everything from early wooden diving helmets and deep-sea suits to artifacts from shipwrecks and the early days of underwater exploration.

PRO TIP: Don’t miss the exhibit called “The Story of Man’s Quest to Explore Under the Sea” — it’s the heart of the museum and beautifully told. The gift shop also has great marine-themed souvenirs and kids’ books about ocean exploration.

Location: 82990 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036 (MM 83)
Hours: Daily, 10 am – 5 pm
Admission: Adults $15, Children (6–11) $7, Under 5 free

If you’re looking for that perfect “toes in the sand” sunset spot, Morada Bay Beach Café & Bar is it. Set right on the beach, this open-air café sits under swaying palms with turquoise water just steps away. It’s as tropical and peaceful as it gets.

The vibe here is relaxed. Come in time for dinner and stay for sunset. Tables fill up fast, so a reservation is a good idea. The views are stunning, especially when the sky glows pink and orange over the bay.

The menu blends Caribbean and American flavors, using fresh local seafood and produce. Try the Thai Key West shrimp tacos or the grilled mahi sandwich, and order one of their big Morada Bay Margaritas served in a mason jar.

GOOD TO KNOW: Every few weeks, they host a Full Moon Party with live music, bonfires, and beach dancing. If you’re lucky enough to catch one, it’s a night to remember.

Location: 81600 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036 (MM 81.6)
Hours: Daily, 11 am – 9 pm

A road trip through the Florida Keys isn’t complete without a stop at Robbie’s of Islamorada. This waterfront spot is famous for one thing: feeding the tarpon!

Walk out onto the wooden dock, buy a small bucket of bait fish, and get ready for the show. Massive silver tarpons, some over six feet long, leap out of the water to snatch the fish right from your hand. Just watch out for the pelicans! They hang around hoping for a free meal and aren’t shy about stealing your bait.

Beyond the dock, Robbie’s is part marina, part open-air market, and part restaurant. You can grab a bite at The Hungry Tarpon, which serves great fish tacos, conch fritters, and a refreshing Key lime colada. The small market behind the docks has local art, jewelry, and handmade crafts.

Location: 77522 Overseas Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036 (MM 77.5)
Hours: Daily, 6:30 am – 9 pm
Cost: Dock admission $2.50 per person; bucket of fish $4

If you’re craving a peaceful spot to stretch your legs, Long Key State Park is one of the most underrated stops on the drive from Key Largo to Key West. It’s quiet, uncrowded, and gives you a glimpse of what the Keys looked like before resorts and marinas took over.

The highlight here is the Golden Orb Trail, an easy 1.2-mile loop that winds through a tropical hardwood hammock and out to the shoreline with beautiful views of the Atlantic.

GOOD TO KNOW: If you have more time, the park also has a small picnic area, great for a quiet lunch.

Location: 67400 Overseas Hwy, Long Key, FL 33001 (MM 67.5)
Hours: Daily, 8 am – sunset
Admission: $4.50 for one person, $5.50 per vehicle (plus 50¢ per additional person)

If you want to visit a place that truly cares for its animals, make time for the Dolphin Research Center on Grassy Key. This not-for-profit marine mammal sanctuary has been rescuing, rehabilitating, and providing lifelong homes to dolphins and sea lions since 1984.

What makes this center so special is that it’s calm, educational, and deeply respectful. You can tell the staff genuinely love what they do, and the dolphins seem happy, playful, and well cared for.

There are several interactive programs where you can meet or even swim with dolphins. The Dolphin Encounter and Family Dolphin Splash are two of the most popular options. Each session is small and personal, so you’ll have time to really connect and learn about the animals. Even if you skip the encounters, it’s still worth visiting to watch training sessions and talks; they’re included with general admission.

Location: 58901 Overseas Hwy, Grassy Key, FL 33050 (MM 59)
Hours: Daily, 9 am – 4:30 pm
Admission: Adults $28, Military/Veterans $25, Children (4–12) $23;
Interactive programs are priced separately.

If you’re looking for a quiet place to enjoy nature between Key Largo and Key West, Curry Hammock State Park is one of the most peaceful and scenic stops along the drive. It’s the largest undeveloped stretch of land between Key Largo and Big Pine Key, offering a perfect break from the busier parts of the Keys.

Kayaking is one of the most popular activities here, and there are two paddling routes to choose from. The short loop around Little Crawl Key is about a mile and a half long and takes roughly an hour. It winds through mangrove tunnels, calm lagoons, and sandy flats — perfect for beginners or anyone looking for a relaxing paddle. The longer route stretches about five miles and takes around four hours to complete, giving you time to explore the mangroves and the open ocean at your own pace.

You can rent kayaks or paddleboards right at the park. Single kayaks are $17.20 for two hours, and double kayaks or paddleboards cost $21.50 for the same amount of time.

PRO TIP: If you’re visiting on a Friday, try to join the ranger-led Mangroves Matter Kayak Tour at 10 am. It’s a fun, educational way to learn more about the area’s fragile ecosystem while paddling through the mangroves.

Location: 56200 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050 (MM 56)
Hours: Daily, 8 am – sunset
Admission: $4.50 for one person; $5.50 per vehicle (plus 50¢ per additional person)

I have to honestly say that this is probably my favorite place in the Keys, and if you love marine life, then Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters is a great stop. It’s part aquarium, part hands-on learning center, and part adventure park, with plenty of opportunities to get up close to the sea creatures that call the Keys home.

You can walk through the open-air exhibits and watch sharks, stingrays, turtles, and colorful reef fish glide through crystal-clear tanks. But what makes this place special are the interactive encounters. You can sign up to feed stingrays in the shallow lagoon, snorkel in their coral reef tank, or even feed adult nurse sharks from a safe distance in Shark Bay.

If you prefer to stay dry, it’s still worth visiting for an hour or two to wander through the exhibits and watch the daily feedings. It’s a fun and educational experience.

PRO TIP: I am recommending this Full-Day Tour of the Florida Keys, including Aquarium Encounters from Key West.

Location: 11710 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050 (MM 53)
Hours: Daily, 9 am – 5 pm
Admission: Adults $24.50, Children $17.50; Encounters and snorkeling experiences are priced separately.

Make time for Sombrero Beach in Marathon. It’s one of the prettiest and most accessible sandy beaches along the drive from Key Largo to Key West.

The beach has everything you need for a relaxing stop: soft white sand, clear turquoise water, picnic tables, restrooms, showers, and even volleyball courts. It’s a great place to take a swim, snorkel near the shore, or simply spread out a towel and enjoy the sunshine.

GOOD TO KNOW: Sombrero Beach is also a turtle nesting site, mainly for Loggerhead turtles. From April through October, the beach is monitored carefully, and it’s not uncommon to see marked nests or conservation volunteers working in the area. If you visit during that time, remember to respect the signs and keep the beach dark at night to protect the hatchlings.

Location: Sombrero Beach Rd, Marathon, FL 33050 (MM 50)
Hours: Daily, 7 am – dusk
Cost: Free

Make sure to stop at The Turtle Hospital in Marathon. It’s one of the most inspiring and educational places in the Keys, and you’ll leave with a whole new appreciation for sea turtles.

The Turtle Hospital is a fully functioning veterinary clinic dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of injured sea turtles. The facility has been operating since 1986 and is home to both recovering patients and permanent residents that can’t return to the wild.

GOOD TO KNOW: You can visit only on a guided educational tour, which lasts about 90 minutes. It starts with a short presentation about the different species of sea turtles found in Florida, the threats they face, and how the hospital helps them recover. Then you’ll walk through the rehabilitation area to see the treatment tanks and meet the turtles up close. At the end, visitors get to feed some of the permanent residents, always a favorite part of the tour.

Location: 2396 Overseas Hwy, Marathon, FL 33050 (MM 48.5)
Hours: Daily, 9 am – 6 pm
Tours: Offered every 30 minutes, with the last one at 4 pm
Admission: Adults $30, Children (4–12) $15

Driving across the Seven Mile Bridge is one of the absolute highlights of the journey from Key Largo to Key West. It’s that iconic stretch of the Overseas Highway where it feels like you’re floating between the ocean and the sky,  nothing but endless blue water on both sides.

The bridge connects Marathon to the Lower Keys and is actually two bridges side by side: the modern one you drive across, and the old historic bridge that once carried Henry Flagler’s Overseas Railroad.

The original bridge, built over a century ago, is now partly restored for pedestrians and cyclists. You can walk a short section of it to take in the sweeping ocean views.

The drive itself takes about ten minutes, but don’t rush it. Roll down your windows, and take it all in.

PRO TIP: If you have time, pull over at the Old Seven Mile Bridge trailhead near Marathon and take a short walk. The views of the modern bridge and the surrounding blue water are incredible, especially in the late afternoon light.

Location: Connects Marathon (MM 47) to Little Duck Key (MM 40)
Length: About 6.8 miles
Cost: Free

Bahia Honda State Park is one of the most beautiful places in all of the Florida Keys and a must-stop on your drive from Key Largo to Key West. With its soft white sand, crystal-clear turquoise water, and swaying palms, it looks more like the Caribbean than the U.S.

The park has two main beaches: Sandspur Beach on the Atlantic side and Calusa Beach near the old bridge. Both are stunning, calm, and perfect for swimming or snorkeling right from shore. You’ll also find restrooms, outdoor showers, picnic tables, and a small snack shop.

Don’t miss the short trail that leads up to the Old Seven Mile Bridge overlook. It’s an easy walk and gives you one of the best panoramic views in the entire Keys.

GOOD TO KNOW: If you have time, Bahia Honda also offers daily snorkeling tours to Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary, one of the most colorful and lively reefs in the Keys. Each trip lasts about an hour and a half in the water, with two departures daily at 9:30 am and 1:30 pm. Tickets cost around $30 for adults and $25 for children, and gear rental is available on-site. You can also rent kayaks to explore the calm waters around the park.

Location: 36850 Overseas Hwy, Big Pine Key, FL 33043 (MM 37)
Hours: Daily, 8 am – sunset
Admission: $8 per vehicle (two to eight people), plus a 50¢ Monroe County surcharge per person

Just past Bahia Honda, make time to stop at the National Key Deer Refuge on Big Pine Key. It’s one of the most special places in the Florida Keys, the only spot in the world where you can see the tiny, endangered Key deer, a subspecies of the Virginia white-tailed deer found nowhere else on Earth.

These gentle deer are about the size of a large dog, and they’ve adapted to life among the mangroves and pine forests of the Lower Keys. The refuge covers more than 25 islands, but your best chance to see the deer is right here on Big Pine Key, especially early in the morning or around sunset when they’re most active.

Start your visit at the refuge visitor center, where you can pick up maps and learn about current sightings. From there, you can explore a few short trails like the Jack C. Watson Wildlife Trail or the Fred Mannillo Trail

Location: 30587 Overseas Hwy, Big Pine Key, FL 33043 (MM 30.3)
Hours: Monday–Saturday, 10 am – 3 pm
Admission: Free

Before you reach Key West, make a quick stop at one of the quirkiest places in the Keys: the No Name Pub on Big Pine Key. It’s been around since the 1930s and is famous not just for its beer but for its unforgettable décor: every inch of the walls and ceiling is covered with thousands of dollar bills signed and pinned up by visitors from all over the world.

PRO TIP: Skip the full meal, just stop in for a drink, a quick bite, and a look around. The drive alone is worth it, and it’s one of those “only in the Keys” experiences you’ll never forget.

Location: 30813 Watson Blvd, Big Pine Key, FL 33043
Hours: Daily, 11 am – 10 pm