Florida Keys Map

About Florida Keys Map

Expore the map of Florida Keys, these are a coral cay archipelago situated off the southern coast of the state of Florida, forming the southern most part of the continental U.S.

About Florida Keys

The Florida Keys are a chain of tropical islands located off the southern coast of Florida. They stretch for about 120 miles (193 kilometers) from Key Largo to Key West, and are connected by a series of bridges and causeways. The Florida Keys are known for their pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere, making them a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

The Florida Keys consist of five major islands: Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, Big Pine Key, and Key West. Each island has its own unique character and attractions, and visitors can easily spend a week or more exploring all that the Keys have to offer.

Key Largo is the first island in the chain, located just a short drive from Miami. It is home to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, which is the only underwater state park in the United States. Visitors can snorkel or scuba dive to explore the park's colorful coral reefs and marine life, or take a glass-bottom boat tour to view the underwater world from above.

Islamorada is known as the "Sport Fishing Capital of the World" and offers a variety of water activities, including fishing, snorkeling, and diving. Visitors can also explore the History of Diving Museum, which showcases the evolution of diving equipment and techniques over the years.

Marathon is a popular destination for families, with its numerous parks and beaches. Visitors can also visit the Turtle Hospital, which is dedicated to rehabilitating injured sea turtles and educating the public about their conservation.

Big Pine Key is home to the National Key Deer Refuge, which is home to the endangered Key deer, as well as a variety of other wildlife. Visitors can take a hike through the refuge to observe the wildlife and learn about the area's unique ecosystem.

Key West is the most famous island in the Florida Keys, known for its colorful history, lively nightlife, and beautiful beaches. Visitors can explore the historic Old Town, which features unique architecture and landmarks such as the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. They can also take a sunset cruise, enjoy a day at the beach, or sample some of the island's famous cuisine, such as conch fritters and key lime pie.

In addition to these major islands, there are numerous smaller islands and cays throughout the Florida Keys, each with its own unique attractions and activities. Visitors can take a day trip to Dry Tortugas National Park, which is located 70 miles (113 kilometers) west of Key West and features a historic fort and some of the best snorkeling and diving in the Keys.

The Florida Keys are also known for their festivals and events, such as the Key West Fantasy Fest, which is a 10-day celebration of creativity and expression held each October. Other popular events include the Key West Food and Wine Festival, the Marathon Seafood Festival, and the Islamorada Beer Company Anniversary Party.

The Florida Keys offer something for everyone, whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or a little bit of both. With their beautiful beaches, rich history, and unique culture, the Keys are truly a one-of-a-kind destination that should be on every traveler's bucket list.

History of Florida Keys

The Florida Keys is a chain of small islands located off the southern coast of Florida, stretching approximately 120 miles from Key Largo in the north to Key West in the south. The area has a rich and complex history, shaped by the interaction of various indigenous peoples, European explorers and settlers, and pirates.

Indigenous Peoples

The first inhabitants of the Florida Keys were likely indigenous peoples who migrated from mainland Florida as early as 10,000 years ago. These groups included the Calusa, Tequesta, and Matecumbe, who were skilled at fishing, hunting, and gathering. They built villages and used canoes to navigate the shallow waters surrounding the Keys.

European Exploration and Settlement

The first European explorer to reach the Florida Keys was Juan Ponce de Leon, who landed near present-day Key West in 1513. He named the area Los Martires ("The Martyrs") in honor of the Christian martyrs he believed to have been killed by the indigenous peoples. The name was later changed to Cayo Hueso (Bone Key), which eventually became Key West.

In the 16th century, Spanish explorers used the Florida Keys as a stopping point on their way to the New World. They built forts and established small settlements, but they also faced attacks from indigenous peoples and pirates.

During the 18th century, the British claimed control of the Keys and established plantations to grow tobacco, indigo, and cotton. They also used the islands as a base for smuggling goods into the Spanish colonies in the Caribbean. However, the British were forced to abandon their settlements during the American Revolution.

Pirates and Wreckers

The Florida Keys were also a popular destination for pirates, who used the area as a base for attacking Spanish treasure ships. Among the most notorious pirates was Black Caesar, a former slave who operated from a hidden cove on Key Largo. Another famous pirate was Captain Kidd, who allegedly buried treasure on Garden Key in the Dry Tortugas.

In the 19th century, the practice of wrecking (salvaging goods from shipwrecks) became a major industry in the Keys. Wreckers would wait for ships to run aground on the treacherous reefs surrounding the islands, then salvage the cargo and sell it for a profit. However, the practice was also dangerous, as many wreckers lost their lives while attempting to salvage goods from wrecked ships.

Modern Development

During the early 20th century, the Florida Keys began to develop as a tourist destination. The construction of the Overseas Highway in the 1920s, which connected the Keys to mainland Florida, made the area more accessible to visitors. The Keys also became known for its fishing, diving, and boating opportunities.

In the 1950s and 1960s, the Keys experienced a period of rapid growth and development. This era was marked by the construction of numerous hotels, motels, and other tourist amenities, as well as the establishment of numerous environmental protection efforts to protect the unique ecosystem of the area.

Today, the Florida Keys remain a popular destination for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts. The area is home to several national parks, including the Dry Tortugas National Park, and is known for its coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and diverse wildlife. However, the area also faces challenges, such as rising sea levels and the impacts of climate change, which threaten the fragile ecosystem of the Keys.

Geology of Florida Keys

The Florida Keys are a chain of islands located in the southernmost part of Florida. The islands are located in the Gulf of Mexico to the west and the Atlantic Ocean to the east. The Florida Keys are a popular destination for tourists, known for their beautiful beaches, clear blue waters, and diverse marine life. However, the geology of the Florida Keys is equally fascinating.

The Florida Keys are made up of limestone, which was formed over millions of years from the remains of marine organisms. The limestone is composed of tiny shells and skeletons of marine creatures that accumulated on the ocean floor. Over time, these shells and skeletons were compacted and cemented together to form limestone.

The limestone of the Florida Keys is part of the larger Florida Platform, which extends from the eastern Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean. The Florida Platform is a broad, shallow region that was formed by the accumulation of carbonate sediment over millions of years. The Florida Keys are located at the southern end of the platform, where the carbonate sediment is exposed at the surface.

The limestone of the Florida Keys is porous and contains many solution holes, caves, and tunnels. These features were formed by the dissolving action of rainwater and seawater on the limestone over thousands of years. The solution holes and caves are important habitats for a variety of marine life, including fish, lobsters, and other invertebrates.

The Florida Keys are also home to a unique type of limestone called oolite. Oolite is formed from tiny spheres of calcium carbonate that are deposited in shallow, warm water. The spheres are made up of layers of calcium carbonate that form around a nucleus, such as a shell fragment or a sand grain. Oolite is often used as a building material in the Florida Keys and has a distinctive appearance that is reminiscent of sandstone.

The Florida Keys are also known for their coral reefs, which are some of the most diverse and productive ecosystems on the planet. The coral reefs of the Florida Keys are made up of a variety of coral species, including staghorn coral, elkhorn coral, and brain coral. These corals provide habitat for a variety of marine life, including fish, crustaceans, and mollusks.

The coral reefs of the Florida Keys are under threat from a variety of factors, including rising sea temperatures, pollution, and overfishing. Climate change is also a major threat to the coral reefs, as warming waters can cause coral bleaching and disease outbreaks.

The geology of the Florida Keys is a fascinating topic that is closely tied to the marine ecosystem of the region. The limestone of the Florida Keys provides a unique habitat for a variety of marine life, while the coral reefs are among the most diverse and productive ecosystems on the planet. Understanding the geology of the Florida Keys is important for protecting these delicate ecosystems and ensuring their survival for generations to come.

Flora of Florida Keys

The Florida Keys are a chain of islands that extend off the southern tip of Florida into the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. These islands are home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, with many unique species found nowhere else on Earth. In this article, we will focus on the flora of the Florida Keys, exploring the different plant species that can be found in this fascinating region.

The Florida Keys are home to a variety of plant communities, including mangrove swamps, hardwood hammocks, pinelands, and seagrass beds. These habitats provide a diverse range of niches for different plant species to thrive in, each with its own unique adaptations to the local environmental conditions.

One of the most distinctive plant communities found in the Florida Keys is the mangrove swamp. These swamps are dominated by several species of mangrove trees, including the red mangrove (Rhizophora mangle), black mangrove (Avicennia germinans), and white mangrove (Laguncularia racemosa). These trees have adapted to living in the brackish waters of the Florida Keys by developing specialized root systems that allow them to breathe air through pneumatophores. Mangroves provide important habitat for a variety of aquatic and terrestrial animals, including fish, birds, and reptiles.

Hardwood hammocks are another important plant community found in the Florida Keys. These forests are dominated by a variety of hardwood trees, including gumbo limbo (Bursera simaruba), mahogany (Swietenia mahagoni), and strangler fig (Ficus aurea). These forests provide important habitat for a variety of bird and mammal species, including the endangered Key deer (Odocoileus virginianus clavium).

Pinelands are another important plant community found in the Florida Keys. These forests are dominated by pine trees, including slash pine (Pinus elliottii) and Caribbean pine (Pinus caribaea). These forests provide important habitat for a variety of bird species, including the endangered white-crowned pigeon (Patagioenas leucocephala).

Seagrass beds are another important plant community found in the Florida Keys. These underwater meadows are dominated by several species of seagrass, including turtle grass (Thalassia testudinum) and manatee grass (Syringodium filiforme). Seagrass beds provide important habitat for a variety of marine animals, including sea turtles, manatees, and a variety of fish species.

In addition to these dominant plant communities, the Florida Keys are home to a variety of other plant species, including many native and exotic species. Some of the most notable native species include the saw palmetto (Serenoa repens), cocoplum (Chrysobalanus icaco), and sea grape (Coccoloba uvifera). These plants provide important habitat for a variety of bird and mammal species, as well as important food resources for both animals and humans.

Unfortunately, the flora of the Florida Keys faces a variety of threats, including habitat destruction, invasive species, and climate change. Human development and agriculture have destroyed much of the natural habitat of the Florida Keys, with many species facing extinction as a result. Invasive species, such as Brazilian pepper (Schinus terebinthifolius) and Australian pine (Casuarina equisetifolia), have also invaded the region, outcompeting native species and disrupting local ecosystems. Climate change, including rising sea levels and increased temperatures, is also threatening the flora of the Florida Keys, with many species struggling to adapt to these rapidly changing environmental conditions.

The flora of the Florida Keys is diverse and fascinating, with a variety of plant communities and species found.

Fauna of Florida Keys

The Florida Keys, a chain of islands located off the southern coast of Florida, are home to a diverse array of flora and fauna. Due to their unique location, the islands are an important ecological hotspot with a wide variety of ecosystems, including mangroves, coral reefs, and seagrass beds. The warm, subtropical climate and ample sunshine make it an ideal habitat for a variety of species, many of which can only be found in the Keys.

Let's take a closer look at some of the fascinating fauna that call the Florida Keys home.

Key Deer

One of the most iconic animals in the Florida Keys is the Key Deer. These small deer, standing only about 3 feet tall at the shoulder, are found only in the Florida Keys. They are a subspecies of the white-tailed deer, and their diminutive size is thought to be a result of their isolation on the islands. They are listed as an endangered species, with only about 800 remaining in the wild.

American Crocodile

Another endangered species found in the Florida Keys is the American Crocodile. These crocodiles can grow up to 14 feet long and are one of the largest predators in the area. They are found primarily in the mangrove forests of the Florida Keys and are considered a threatened species due to habitat loss and human interference.

Sea Turtles

The Florida Keys are home to five species of sea turtles: green, hawksbill, loggerhead, leatherback, and Kemp's ridley. These turtles are all threatened or endangered and are protected by law. The turtles use the Keys' beaches to nest and lay their eggs, and the waters around the islands provide a rich feeding ground for them.

Bottlenose Dolphins

Bottlenose dolphins are a common sight in the waters around the Florida Keys. These intelligent creatures are highly social and can be seen swimming in pods, jumping and playing in the waves. The waters around the Keys are home to several dolphin research programs, which study the animals' behavior, communication, and habitat.

Coral Reefs

The Florida Keys are home to the only living coral reef system in the continental United States. The reefs are home to a vast array of marine life, including fish, sea turtles, and sharks. Unfortunately, the coral reefs in the Florida Keys are facing many challenges, including rising sea temperatures, ocean acidification, and pollution.

Birds

The Florida Keys are a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 300 species of birds found in the area. The islands are a stopover for migratory birds, and many species can be seen year-round. Some of the more common birds found in the Keys include pelicans, egrets, herons, and ibises.

Insects

The Florida Keys are also home to a variety of insects, including several species of butterflies and moths. One of the most famous is the Schaus swallowtail butterfly, which is found only in the Florida Keys and is listed as an endangered species.

Marine Life

The waters around the Florida Keys are teeming with marine life, including fish, sharks, rays, and crustaceans. Some of the more iconic species include the nurse shark, the southern stingray, and the spiny lobster. The seagrass beds around the Keys are also home to a variety of smaller creatures, including seahorses, pipefish, and sea anemones.

The Florida Keys are a treasure trove of biodiversity, with a vast array of flora and fauna found in the area. The unique location, warm climate, and diverse ecosystems make it an ideal habitat for many species, some of which are found nowhere else in the world.

Climate of Florida Keys

The Florida Keys is a unique chain of islands located off the southern coast of Florida, USA. The subtropical climate of the region is characterized by hot, humid summers and mild, dry winters. However, the Florida Keys are particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change due to their low-lying geography and proximity to the ocean.

The climate of the Florida Keys is influenced by the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean, which keep the region warm and humid throughout the year. The average temperature in the Keys ranges from around 70°F (21°C) in the winter months to 90°F (32°C) in the summer months. The warm temperatures and high humidity levels make the Florida Keys a popular tourist destination for beachgoers and water enthusiasts.

However, rising sea levels and increasingly intense hurricanes are posing a significant threat to the Florida Keys. The islands are extremely vulnerable to flooding, and even a small increase in sea level can have a major impact on the region. In recent years, hurricanes and tropical storms have become more frequent and intense, causing significant damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure in the Keys.

One of the most significant climate-related challenges facing the Florida Keys is sea level rise. The sea level around the Florida Keys has risen by around 9 inches (23 cm) since 1900, and it is projected to rise by an additional 6 to 10 inches (15 to 25 cm) by 2030. This may not seem like a lot, but it can have significant impacts on the region, particularly during storms and high tides.

In addition to sea level rise, the Florida Keys are also experiencing more frequent and intense hurricanes and tropical storms. These storms can cause significant damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure in the Keys, as well as lead to dangerous flooding and erosion.

The warming of the oceans is also having an impact on the Florida Keys. Warmer waters can lead to the bleaching of coral reefs, which are an important ecosystem in the region. Coral reefs support a diverse range of marine life and are an important tourist attraction in the Keys. However, the warming of the oceans is causing significant damage to these fragile ecosystems, which can have far-reaching consequences for the region.

To address these challenges, the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary and other organizations are working to protect the region's fragile ecosystems and prepare for the impacts of climate change. This includes measures such as restoring coral reefs, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and improving infrastructure to make it more resilient to storms and flooding.

In conclusion, the climate of the Florida Keys is characterized by hot, humid summers and mild, dry winters. However, rising sea levels, more frequent and intense hurricanes, and the warming of the oceans are posing significant challenges to the region. To address these challenges, it is essential to take action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, protect fragile ecosystems, and improve infrastructure to make it more resilient to the impacts of climate change.

Major Islands of Florida Keys

The Florida Keys are a chain of islands stretching 120 miles (193 km) off the southern coast of Florida. They are divided into five main regions: Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, Big Pine Key, and Key West. Each region has its own unique attractions, landscapes, and activities to offer. In this article, we will explore the major islands of the Florida Keys and what makes each one special.

Key Largo

Key Largo is the northernmost and largest island in the Florida Keys. It is home to the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the first undersea park in the United States, where visitors can go snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking to explore the colorful coral reefs and marine life. Key Largo is also famous for its shipwreck sites, including the USS Spiegel Grove, which was intentionally sunk in 2002 to create an artificial reef. Other attractions on Key Largo include the Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center, the African Queen Canal Cruise, and the Key Largo Hammocks State Botanical Site.

Islamorada

Islamorada is located in the middle of the Florida Keys and is often referred to as the "Sportfishing Capital of the World." Its waters are home to some of the most sought-after game fish, including tarpon, bonefish, and sailfish. Visitors can go on fishing charters or take part in other water-based activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and snorkeling. The Theater of the Sea is also located on Islamorada, where visitors can interact with dolphins, sea lions, and other marine animals.

Marathon

Marathon is a 10-mile long island located in the middle of the Florida Keys. It is known for its beautiful beaches, such as Sombrero Beach, Coco Plum Beach, and Bahia Honda State Park, which has been voted one of the top 10 beaches in the United States. Marathon is also home to the Turtle Hospital, where visitors can learn about the rehabilitation and conservation of sea turtles. Another popular attraction in Marathon is the Dolphin Research Center, where visitors can swim with dolphins and learn about their behavior and communication.

Big Pine Key

Big Pine Key is the second-largest island in the Florida Keys and is home to the National Key Deer Refuge. The refuge is dedicated to the protection of the endangered Key deer, which can only be found in the Florida Keys. Visitors can take a guided tour or go hiking to see these unique animals up close. Big Pine Key is also home to the Blue Hole, a freshwater pond that is a popular spot for birdwatching and fishing.

Key West

Key West is the southernmost island in the Florida Keys and is known for its laid-back atmosphere, colorful architecture, and lively nightlife. The island is home to many historic sites, such as the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, the Harry S. Truman Little White House, and the Key West Lighthouse. Visitors can also enjoy water-based activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and sunset cruises. Key West is famous for its sunsets, which can be enjoyed at Mallory Square, where street performers and vendors gather each evening to celebrate the end of the day.

The Florida Keys offer a unique and diverse set of attractions for visitors. From the coral reefs of Key Largo to the nightlife of Key West, each island has something special to offer. Whether you're looking for outdoor adventures, historic sites, or just a relaxing beach vacation, the Florida Keys are a destination worth exploring.

Transportation in Florida Keys

The Florida Keys is a unique and beautiful chain of islands located in the southernmost part of Florida. The Keys stretch over 120 miles and are connected by a series of bridges that make up the Overseas Highway. Transportation in the Florida Keys is primarily focused on driving, but there are also other options available for getting around.

Driving is the most common mode of transportation in the Florida Keys, and the Overseas Highway is the main thoroughfare that connects the islands. The highway, also known as U.S. Route 1, spans from Key Largo in the north to Key West in the south. It is a two-lane road that is narrow in some areas, so drivers must be cautious when navigating it. The speed limit on the highway is generally 45-55 mph, but it can be slower in certain areas.

Driving in the Florida Keys can be an enjoyable experience as you pass through breathtaking views of the ocean and the various islands. However, traffic can be heavy during peak season, so it's important to plan ahead and allow extra time for travel. Parking can also be a challenge, especially in popular tourist areas. There are paid parking lots available in some areas, but finding a spot can be difficult during busy times.

Another option for transportation in the Florida Keys is cycling. Many of the islands are relatively flat, making them ideal for biking. There are bike rental companies throughout the Keys, and some hotels even offer bicycles to their guests. The scenic bike path that runs along the Old Seven Mile Bridge in Marathon is a popular route for cyclists.

For those who prefer to get around on the water, there are numerous options available. Boat rentals are available throughout the Keys, and there are also several ferry services that operate between the islands. The Key West Express, for example, provides daily high-speed ferry service between Key West and Fort Myers Beach.

Public transportation is also available in some areas of the Florida Keys. The Monroe County Transit (MCT) provides bus service in Key West and Marathon, with limited service to other areas of the Keys. The Key West Transit (KWT) operates a trolley service in Key West, which is a popular and convenient way to get around the city.

The primary mode of transportation in the Florida Keys is driving, with the Overseas Highway connecting the islands. However, there are other options available, including cycling, boating, and public transportation. Visitors to the Keys should plan ahead and be prepared for heavy traffic during peak season.

Culture and Recreation of Florida Keys

The Florida Keys is a unique and picturesque chain of islands located off the southern coast of Florida. The area is renowned for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and year-round sunshine. But the Florida Keys is much more than just a destination for sunbathing and relaxation. It boasts a rich cultural heritage, vibrant arts scene, and a plethora of recreational opportunities that make it an ideal vacation spot for travelers of all ages.

Culture

The Florida Keys is a melting pot of different cultures, shaped by the history of the region. The area was once inhabited by the Calusa and Tequesta Native American tribes before being colonized by the Spanish in the 16th century. The islands later became a haven for pirates and smugglers, attracting a diverse mix of settlers from the Caribbean and other parts of the world.

Today, the Florida Keys is home to a thriving arts and cultural scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and cultural centers dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history and heritage of the region. The Keys History and Discovery Center in Islamorada is a must-visit attraction for history buffs, with exhibits covering everything from the maritime history of the islands to the impact of hurricanes on the local community. The Florida Keys Art Guild, based in Marathon, promotes and celebrates local artists and hosts regular art shows and exhibitions throughout the year.

Recreation

The Florida Keys is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, with endless opportunities for recreation and adventure. Snorkeling and scuba diving are two of the most popular activities, with crystal-clear waters teeming with colorful marine life and coral reefs just a short boat ride away from the shore. The John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo is one of the most popular snorkeling and diving spots in the area, offering visitors the chance to explore the only living coral reef in the continental United States.

Fishing is another popular pastime in the Florida Keys, with the area renowned for its abundant fish species and year-round fishing opportunities. The islands host several fishing tournaments throughout the year, including the Annual Key West Fishing Tournament, which has been running for over 50 years.

For those seeking a more laid-back vacation, the Florida Keys offers plenty of opportunities to unwind and relax. The area is home to several world-class spas, offering a range of luxurious treatments and services to help you rejuvenate and recharge. The beaches, parks, and nature reserves dotted around the islands provide the perfect setting for a leisurely picnic, a stroll along the shore, or simply soaking up the sun and enjoying the beautiful scenery.

Food

No visit to the Florida Keys would be complete without indulging in some of the local cuisine. Seafood is the star of the show, with fresh catches of fish, lobster, and shrimp readily available at the many seafood restaurants and markets around the islands. Conch, a type of shellfish found in the waters around the Keys, is a local delicacy, and can be enjoyed in a variety of dishes, from conch fritters to conch ceviche.

The Florida Keys is also known for its iconic cocktails, with the frozen daiquiri being a firm favorite among locals and visitors alike. The original frozen daiquiri was invented in Key West in the 1930s, and today, visitors can enjoy a variety of frozen cocktails at the many bars and restaurants around the islands.

The Florida Keys is a destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you're a history buff, an art lover, an outdoor enthusiast, or a foodie, the area's rich culture, diverse recreational opportunities, and delicious cuisine are sure to satisfy. From exploring the local museums and galleries to snorkeling, fishing, and enjoying the beautiful beaches, a trip to the Florida Keys is an experience that will leave you with memories last forever.