If you haven’t been island hopping in the Florida Keys, you haven’t experienced true leisure sailing. Yachting in the Keys is perfect for those who want to enjoy a mixture of adventure and leisure and have their share of fair weather. This article shows the main highlights you can look forward to if you decide to explore Miami and the Florida Keys by yacht.
Suited to All Sailing Styles
Did you know that the Florida Keys span 200 nautical miles and consist of over 1,700 islands? It’s relatively easy to navigate the islands by yacht, and there are tons of activities for every type of sailor to enjoy. And the weather in the Keys is tropical all year round!
Island hopping in the Keys can mean a leisurely cruise enjoying stunning scenery along the shallow basins of the bay or some adventurous sailing on the open waters of the feisty Atlantic Ocean.
Every Day is a Perfect Day
Breathtakingly beautiful coves make it easy to drop anchor and explore the stunning beaches and clear waters. There are many entertainment options – you can fish, spend a few hours soaking up the sunshine and swimming, or snorkel in the clear waters where you’ll explore America’s only coral barrier reef and its inhabitants.
There are over 6,000 species of marine life to become acquainted with underwater. Not to mention several shipwrecks and archeological sites you can explore at your leisure.
When you get hungry, dock at a seafood restaurant for some Florida Stone Crabs and a couple of Rum Runners. Enjoy a delicious slice of Key Lime Pie (and a few more drinks if you want!) and watch the sunset after a perfect day.
Must-See Keys and Why
Here are some of our top picks and why you should consider stopping by when you’re island hopping in the Florida Keys.
Key Largo
If yachting in the Keys in winter appeals to you, Key Largo offers a relaxing atmosphere. The marina has everything from a golf course and a spa to watersports, tennis courts, and even a cooking school.
In upland Key Largo, you can stop over for snorkeling and diving adventures or spend the day lazing around in a tropical hammock. If you haven’t had enough of the water and want a different experience of it, this is the place to go canoeing or kayaking through mangrove swamps.
Islamorada
“Purple Island” is a prime fishing spot that’s also perfect for swimming with dolphins and other sea creatures. The marina offers a pool, tennis courts, and several excellent restaurants and art galleries.
It also offers dockage for yachts up to 100 feet long and is where you’ll find the well-known Holiday Isle tiki bar. They’re famous in the Florida Keys for their cocktails!
And if that’s not enough island hopping, you could also try these Keys:
- Duck Key is known for its family-friendly resort, but only for experienced sailors. It takes some navigating to get into the entrance channel!
- Marathon – The most developed city with several marinas and amenities.
- Little Palm Island – Perfect for those looking for the most romantic and unique resort in the Florida Keys, complete with luxurious thatched roof bungalows.
- Key West is the southernmost point in the Keys and offers incredible 19th-century architecture, galleries, great food, unique bars, nightclubs, and street performances.
What are You Waiting For?
Book your Florida Keys adventure now. Yachting in the Keys is an exciting way to island hop through Florida. It will be easy to fill each day with fun activities, or take it easy – whatever you prefer. The Florida Keys are the ideal place for island hopping.