The Keys, although technically a part of Florida, seem like their own private island paradise. In fact, there was a short time in the 1980s when the Keys declared their independence from the United States. Upset that the border patrol was demanding passports for travelers who return to mainland Florida from the Keys, citizens decided if they were to be treated like another country, they would become one. The Conch Republic was born, seceding from the Union and declaring war. The dispute was peacefully settled 24 hours later when the Conchs surrendered to the Coast Guard and immediately applied for foreign aid. (The antics worked; you no longer need your passport to travel from the Keys to mainland Florida, so don't pack it.) The Conchs still celebrate their independence day annually.
In this idyllic setting of sandy beaches, azure waters and island breezes, there is plenty to keep active couples busy. The Keys are home to the third largest coral reef in the world, so diving and snorkeling are popular activities. Shipwrecks are submerged all along the Keys coastline. Museums, restaurants, unique shops, art galleries, restaurants and beaches add to the mix.
Each part of the Keys has something special and unique to offer couples seeking romance. From Mile Marker Zero and the Southernmost point in Key West all the way up to the mainland is a stretch of about 130 miles, making it fairly easy to hop from place to place within the Keys themselves.
Getting
There
Key West and Marathon both have small airports with regular service
from smaller providers such as ComAir and American Eagle. Another option
is to book a flight to Miami and rent a car. During a leisurely drive
down the Overseas Highway, you can enjoy the beautiful coastline before
you even reach your destination.
The
Florida Keys
Read ahead for more information on each of the diverse areas that make up the Florida Keys:
- Key Largo
Divers can get married underwater, and even stay in an undersea hotel. - Islamorada
How do you know the fish in local restaurants is fresh? You caught it yourself! - Marathon
Imagine long talks holding hands while following winding nature trails. - Lower Keys
A paradise for nature lovers, there are two state parks on this tiny island. - Key West
Explore the quaint shops and museums during the day, and do the Duval Crawl after sunset.
