Don't Miss This True Tropical Paradise

2012-01-26T17:12:00.000-08:00

This is the Florida Keys, located at the southern tip of Florida, one hour from Miami. The Keys are made up of about 1700 islands, 42 bridges and is 126 miles long. There is no other place in the United States that has a more scenic view than the Overseas Highway with the history and the natural wonders throughout the Florida Keys. This place is usually referred to as "Paradise" and "American Caribbean".

A SCENIC DRIVING SHORTCUT FROM NORTH FLORIDA TO THE FLORIDA KEYS AND KEY WEST

If you are driving from north Florida, this is a different route I tried after a couple in Marathon told me they always travel to the Florida Keys this way. Instead of going through Alligator Alley on I-75, get off at the last exit in Naples before the toll. Exit 101. Head east of course to Highway 41. Turn left. Follow this all the way to Chrome Ave (SW 177th Ave). You will be driving through Collier County (this is where they filmed part of the 1994 Jim Carrey movie "Ace Ventura: Pet Detective") Also you will be driving past the beautiful Everglades National Park. A great place to experience nature.

This will take you to Florida City. The road will end, and you will see Highway 1 in front of you. But you have to make a right, then a stop sign, then a left to Highway 1. When you make the right on Highway 1, look on your right by some gas stations and a motel from the Florida City Visitors Center. I always stop here to stretch my legs, get a drink, and fill up with gas. You'll be glad if you make this stop before the short but lengthy drive to Key Largo.

Also when you get back on Highway 1 to the Keys, if you have never driven this way, turn left on to Card Sound Road, which will dump you in Key Largo. A heck of a lot better way to go. And this road has a bridge that is so high you will feel like you are driving straight up into the sky. Really cool.

KEY LARGO

The first island here is Key Largo, and the longest. This is a favorite place for kayaking, bird watching, and eco-tourist. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is here, located at MM 102. This place has it all. Snorkeling tours, scuba tours, glass bottom boat tours to the reef, camp sites with full facilities, boat rentals, plus lots of other activities. A great place to visit.

At the Holiday Inn Key Largo and Resort, at MM 99.7, you will find many thinks to see and do. This place has it all. Casual indoor or outdoor dining at Bogie's Cafe, a gift shop, 2 swimming pools with a rushing waterfall, a fitness room, and a big thatched roof tiki bar poolside. The Harbor Marina is on the property, you can charter a boat for deep sea fishing, go out on a Vegas-style casino ship, ride on a glass bottom boat to the reef and see the abundance of marine life, enjoy snorkel and scuba diving excursions. Also you can see one of the actual boats used in the 1951 movie "African Queen" which starred Humphrey Bogart and Katharine Hepburn.

Also another great stop is at MM 104 the Caribbean Club, where part of the famous 1948 movie "Key Largo" was filmed which starred Humphrey Bogart, Lauren Bacall, and Edward G Robinson. Right on the bay side and a great place for a beer and food.

TAVERNIER

This is a small and much forgotten island in the Keys, and has restaurants and large marina's. A great place for launching your boat or fishing charters.

ISLAMORADA

This is a really great island with lots of resorts and shops. This island boasts the largest fishing fleet and is called "Sport Fishing Capital of the World". There are many fishing tournaments here every year. The activities here include kayaking, jet skiing, para sailing, boating, and sunset cruises.

A must stop is at Whale Harbor Marina located at MM 84.5. Here, on the ocean side enjoy outdoor casual dining and a perfect place to charter a boat for deep sea fishing. Next door is Whale Harbor Restaurant which features a giant all-you-can-eat seafood buffet. Great seafood and lots of it.

Another must stop here is Robbie's of Islamorada. This place is famous for the hundreds of giant tarpon at their boat dock. It is quite a site, especially when you feed them. Here you can rent kayaks and boats. Lots of fun being here on the bayside.

A great place just north of Islamorada I would highly recommend to stay at is the Lime Tree Bay Resort located at MM 68.5. It is on your right if your heading south. A beautiful place on the bayside surrounded by giant coconut palm trees. Excellent.

MARATHON

This is the biggest island in the Florida Keys and a very popular one. Marathon is separated from the lower keys by the famous Seven Mile Bridge. Marathon is a quaint and relaxing place to take a vacation. There are many shops and restaurants here. My favorite is The Cracked Conch Cafe located at MM 49.5. The food is excellent and fresh. I highly recommend the conch fingers. And very generous portions are served here. this place is always my first stop for food.

Another place I recommend to stay at is the Continental Inn located at MM 53.8 in Key Colony Beach on the oceanside. A great affordable place. And quiet. Also don't miss Sombrero Beach located at MM 50. This place is beautiful, quiet, and relaxing. Right on the ocean.

Also before you leave the keys, stop at Captain's Three Seafood Market in Marathon located at MM 63, 19 Coco Plum Drive. Great prices shrimp, lobster tails, fish, etc. Just have an empty cooler, and they are always nice enough to give you some ice for your purchase.

Just south after you cross the Seven Mile Bridge on the left at MM 36.8, don't miss Bahia Honda State Park. Open daily 8am till sunset, this is one beautiful place. You will never want to leave. Here you can enjoy boating, kayaking, swimming, picnicking, and snorkeling. Campsites and cabins are here with full facilities. And the main attraction is walking up part of the historic Flagler Railroad Bridge, built in the early 1900's for a spectacular view of the water.

KEY WEST

Key West is the last key at the southern tip of Florida, only 90 miles from Cuba. This small island has been home to pirates, spongers, drug runners, wreckers, fishermen, and sunken treasure seekers. Even the U.S. Navy has a station here. Key west is only 2 miles by 4 miles, but has approximately 30,000 or more full time residents.

Key West is full of hotels, resorts, bed and breakfasts, shops, restaurants, museums, bars, and other various places of interest. Key west is filled with yearly festivals, fishing tournaments, and arts and entertainment. The turquoise water surrounding the island offers the perfect place for boaters, snorkeling, para sailing, swimming, and scuba diving. There is no place in the whole country to see so many species of marine life.

When I visit Key West, I always go to the Seaport first, located at 100 Grinnell Street. Here you can park your car, and you are only about two blocks away from the heart of Duval Street, where the best places are at. The Seaport has many great places to eat. My personal favorite is Conch Republic Seafood Company. Great seafood here, especially the seafood chowder with crackers. Excellent.

Also I love Kelly's Caribbean Bar and Grill located at 301 Whitehead Street, just one block or so off Duval. This place is owned by the actress Kelly McGillis. Her restaurant is in the historic building which was the first headquarters of Pan Am Airlines. Here you can dine in the open courtyard surrounded by lush green foliage and giant palm trees. Beautiful.

Also while in Key West don't miss the Aquarium, the Historic Lighthouse, Hemingway's House, and Mel Fisher Museum. This is to name just a few of the many places of interest. Key west is famous for it's nightlife, and here you can take your favorite beverages with you no matter where you go.

Rick's and Durty Harry's is a must stop in Key West and is located just across the street from Sloppy Joe's. They have nightly live entertainment and offer a wide assortment of great beverages.

The best way to see the Key West is by the famous sightseeing train or the very cool electric car and scooter rentals. Also don't miss Fort Zachary Taylor State Park, (a Civil War Fort completed in 1866) and many other places of interest. There is a lot to see and do. And you won't want to miss any of it.

This is the sign that greats you upon arriving. At the last stop light make a right then quickly look to the left for the Welcome Center. Stop here for free maps and info. The trolley can pick you up here and you can park in the back for free. This is best place with the best prices in Key West for t-shirts, hats, sandals, key chains, magnets, cups, mugs, etc. You will be shopping in this place for an hour or more.

This a great place to watch the sunset on Atlantic Boulevard. There are five picnic areas here. Also a great place to pick up the coconuts that fall off the palm trees. Bid and small. I am growing two palm trees from the smaller nuts I brought back from this spot around 2005. They are very slow growing at first.

The Key West Aquarium located at 1 Whitehead Street. This place has been here since 1934, just off Duvall Street. They have daily shark and turtle feedings, and a hands on touch tank to experience and enjoy sea life. The aquarium features a wide variety of fish including grouper, moray eels, barrecuda, tropical fish, tarpon, and parrotfish. The great thing about Key West is there are so many things to see and do off the beaten path. Everywhere you turn there is someplace new to visit. You will absolutely be amazed at how much there is. You certainly cannot take it all in on a weekend. I would recommend wearing tennis shoes. You will be all over Key West exploring.

Great beverages and sunsets are at Mallory Square. This is where the cruise ships dock. This is the place to be for the nightly sunset celebration. Performers come here and have their animals to entertain everyone. It is really a sight to see. Right at the end of Duval Street. You will have one heck of a great time.

The Half Shell Raw Bar , set in the heart of the historic Seaport at the Key West Bight, 231 Margaret Street. This is an authentic Key West fish house. Once a shrimp packing building, it has stayed true to its blue collar harbor front heritage. A real taste of old Key West. A great traditional raw bar and restaurant. Enjoy fresh oysters, clams, shrimp, and more. A low key restaurant for casual lunch or dinner. You can settle down to informal atmosphere, enjoy great local characters, a great bar, and beautiful waterfront dining. Drop in, get your favorite cold beverage, and the freshest seafood this side of the reef. This place is more than cold oysters on a hot tropical night. Here is their menu.

The Conch Republic Seafood Company at the Seaport. This is my personal favorite place to eat and be at. I have talked to a lot of people who have visited Key West and everyone agrees this is the best. Here you can get raw or steamed oysters, raw or steamed clams, Key West pink peel & eat shrimp, fresh stone crab claws, and the list goes on. Their conch chowder is the very best. Bahamian style red with ground conch, herbs, and potatoes. Do not miss eating the chowder. I always get two bowls. Get here early and grab an outside table. This is the perfect place to eat and drink.

A little history about this place. This is the location where the sponge ships used to arrive with their cargo around the 1890's. Key West was once considered the Sponge Capital of the country. In 1949, shrimp was discovered by accident just offshore near the Dry Tortugas in the Gulf. The main dining room was once where the shrimp boats in the early 1900's would bring their daily catch and process it.

The Conch Republic Seafood Company used to be "Fish House Number 4". The menu here consist of tantalizing Florida and Caribbean entrees. Fresh seafood is delivered daily to their dock.

A must stop in Islamorada is Whale Harbor Inn and Marina. If you are looking for a true taste of the Florida Keys, and want fresh seafood, this is the place. The all-you-can-eat buffet will blow your mind here. Enjoy a wide variety of fresh Seafood stacked on ice. You will not know where to begin. Just dig in and enjoy. A great place to eat and just enjoy the view. Also, this is the best place to charter a boat for fishing. The beautiful waters and perfect climate offers Islamorada excellent fishing year round. Book your half day or all day trips here with many boats to choose from.

This is Captain Tony's located at 428 Greene Street just off Duval Street. This was the location of Sloppy Joe's bar during the majority of Ernest Hemingway's life. Most of Hemingway's productive years took place here. Anthony "Tony" Tarracino was mayor of Key West from 1989-1991, and lived sixty years here. His slogan when he ran for mayor was "All you need in this life is a tremendous sex drive and a great ego".

Tony ran again for mayor in 1985, but lost by 52 votes to a banker. This saloon also doubled as a morgue for a period of time. During his life Tony was a bootlegger, gambler, gunrunner, saloon keeper, fishing boat captain, and a ladies man. He ran this saloon from 1961-1989. A very colorful and historic place. He passed away in 2008. Make sure to visit Captain Tony's Saloon on Greene Street.

This is the view from the back of the Morada Bay Beach Cafe at MM 81.6 next to Worldwide Sportsman in Islamorda. Here you can enjoy casual dining and watch the sunset. The cafe is an outdoor Mediterranean bistro set in the sand. With indoor/outdoor bar, and unique live entertainment, this is a favorite among Keys visitors. Watch the video here of the nightly full moon beach parties at the cafe.

This is at Whale Harbor Marina MM 84.5 in Islamorada. This is a great place to stop for great food and beverages overlooking the marina on the ocean. Lots of charter boats here, and if you're lucky, you might be here when one arrives, unloading a lot of fish. It is quite a sight.

2010-11 STONE CRAB SEASON OCTOBER 15th thru MAY 15th

The 2010-11 stone crab season is October 15th thru May 15th. About 40% of the state's annual average harvest of more than 3 million pounds are caught in the Florida Keys according to Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission. Stone crabs are captured commercially with traps, which are re-baited daily.

Florida law prohibits taking the whole crab. Florida fisherman are allowed to take claws at least 2.75 inches long, and are required the return the stone crab safely back in the water. The stone crab can regenerate its claws 3 to 4 times.

Stone crab claws have sweet, succulent meat that is delicious. The claws are cooked immediately after harvest, and are sold fresh or frozen. Fresh cooked can be eaten with 3-4 days if packed in ice or stored in the coldest part of the refrigerator. Be sure to freeze only claws that are totally intact. The thick shell will protect the meat for up to six months in a freezer. Before eating, the frozen claws need to thaw for 12-18 hours. The taste will be compromised if thawed under running water.

The sweet tasting meat is delicious unseasoned, but mostly it is eaten by dipping in melted butter or special mustard sauce. To crack the shell, use a crab cracker, which can be purchased in a kitchen supply store or department store. Remove the cracked pieces of the shell, leaving the meat in the moving part of the knuckle. Also there is meat in the knuckle.

Stone crab claws are normally purchased at seafood markets. Grocery stores also sell claws, but prices can be a little more at times. Find a seafood market right on the water where the claws can be delivered without added transportation costs and the middle man.

I know for a fact the Florida Keys stone crabs taste the best over anywhere else in the state. I live in Sarasota, and have had claws from a seafood market just off Anna Maria Island in Bradenton. While they taste good, they are not even close to the ones in the Florida Keys. Don't miss out on the stone crab claws this season.

I'm glad I found this photo I took in the mid 1990's. This is the sunset on the old Overseas Highway Bridge looking south towards Key West. This Bridge is beside the Seven Mile Bridge in Marathon, and goes all the way to Pigeon Key island. This bridge is a favorite for walkers, runners and fishing. Cars are not allowed on here.

These are the stairs going to the top of the historic Key West Lighthouse Museum. 88 steps, but when you reach the top, it feels more. Built in 1847, this lighthouse is 86 feet high, and the view from the top is spectacular. Don't miss stopping here. Located at 938 Whitehead Street.

This is the Dockside Restaurant and Lounge at Whale Harbor Marina. The view here is the best right on the ocean. I always stop here on my way to Marathon. Make sure you order the fish spread and crackers for an appetizer. The very best.

World famous Sloppy Joe's at 201 Duvall Street, located here since 1933. Beginning at 9 am daily, customers can enjoy their favorite beverage and a great meal. Their signature item from the menu is hamburgers. Afterwards, stroll next door at the retail shop for t-shirts, hats and souvenirs. Their clothing is famous worldwide. If you want to view the webcam from inside Sloppy Joe's bar and listen to the live music click here.

The Historic Seaport in Key West is located at 100 Grinnel Street. This is a twenty acre facility in the heart of the city, and a short walk to Duval Street. This place is a great way to experience the old waterfront of Key West. This has become the most sought after marina in Key West. The Harbor walk is lined with restaurants and other food orientated businesses which is a huge draw for all the tourists. Here you can rent fishing charter boats and go parasailing. Or maybe take a sunset cruise on a sailboat or perhaps a giant 130 foot historic clipper ship, or maybe a catamaran for diving and snorkeling. Also another great trip is to take the ferry to the Dry Tortugas National Park, 70 miles out.

The Seaport in Key West is the first place I always stop at. Lots of parking here too. This is about two blocks from Duval Street. There is a lot to see and do here.

The Schooner Wharf Bar, located at the Seaport, is a real piece of "Old Key West". This has been an island institution since 1984. This funky open-air bar beckons tourists and locals alike with its unique blend of special events, delicious cuisine, and great live music. This place is a real Key West experience not to be missed. The Schooner Wharf bar at the Seaport is a must stop.

This is a boat at Whale Harbor Marina in Islamorada. This is a great place to charter a fishing boat for half a day or all day. As you can see, the pelicans always hang out here waiting for a chance at the catch of the day.

A sign at the boat dock behind World Wide Sportsman, MM 81.5 in Islamorada. The Islamorada Fish Company is right next door.

The Key West Garden Club is located at 1100 Atlantic Blvd. This was once the West Martello Fort. Construction started in 1863, with numerous delays and was completed several years later. The fort structure is highlighted by vaulted ceilings, gun mounts, and a conservatoty. Gazebos catch the soft sea breezes and are a popular romanic backdrop for weddings.

This is a great place to see, right on the beach with giant banyan trees, beautiful foliage, and water fountains throughout, including a water lilly pond. The Key West Garden Club is one of the islands last remaining free attractions. Plants are donated and maintained by members and volunteers.

On my first visit here, I was walking around inside, and went to the back of the grounds, which backs up to the beach. A black metal fence is there because the property sits higher than the beach. As I looked down there was a naked man sunbathing. He must have heard me because he grabbed a towel and pushed it in his groin area. Welcome to Key West.

Papa Joe's Marina is located at MM 79.9 in Islamorada on the bayside. This is a great place to stop for fishing and get your favorite beverage in the upstairs outdoor lounge and watch the sunset. This is one of President George H.W. Bush's favorite places to fish when visting the Florida Keys. You can see his picture on the website after pulling in a giant tarpon. Don't miss stopping here.

A great set of authentic Key West lounge chairs in front of the Key West Bait and Tackle Shop located at the Seaport. Stop in a buy a hat or t-shirt at the tackle shop. They have a great selection of items for tourists of all ages.

The Sloppy Joe's sign located on Duval Street. Now this is really a great sign. The store here has all kind of cool things from hats and t-shirts to magnets and condiments. Don't miss picking up a few things to bring home.

Key West Beach on Atlantic Avenue is a beautiful place to visit. A great place to park your chair under the coconut palm trees and enjoy a perfect day.

Key West Beach on Atlantic Avenue. This area would be a great place to stay directly across from the beach if you preferred a little piece and quiet instead of the hustle bustle of being closer to Duval Street. There are condos you can stay at along here. It doesn't get any better than relaxing at Key West beach.

Another picture of Key West Beach on Atlantic Avenue. The boats belong to somebody I think. He-He.

The C.B. Harvey sign on Altantic Avenue. This is a great beach with pure white sand, picnic tables, outside showers to rinse off, and rest room facilities. Relax and enjoy.

The Blond Giraffe is located at 1209 Truman Avenue, just around the corner from the Seaport. Here is where you will find award winning fresh baked Key lime pies. Voted best year after year. They also have cookies, fresh roasted coffee, Key lime juice, and all your favorite Key lime treats. I would highly recommend the fresh squeezed key lime drinks. They are the best and excellent on a hot day.

Another tourist getting in my pictures. Hey can you blame me?

This chicken is (or was) at an Art Gallery on Greene Street just up the street from Sloppy Joe's. I actually sold an 8x10 photo of this on Ebay back in 2005. Go figure.

This is the view from the 7th floor rooftop bar at the historic Crowne Plaza La Concha Hotel located at 430 Duval Street. This hotel first opened in 1926, and an article appeared in the Key West Citizen newspaper proclaiming "The roof of the Hotel La Concha has already become popular on the account of the fine view that one can get of the entire city and surrounding gulf and ocean......In the distance are the towers, the boats in the harbor, boats passing, the old fort, the sun shining down on the surrounding waters, and many other beautiful pictures made picturesque from that height".

The stock market crash of 1929 hit Key West hard, and the hotel was sold in 1930, and the name was changed to the "Key West Colonial". The next 30 years saw the hotel fall victim to age and newer hotels and resorts. By the 1980's the only part of the hotel still open was the rooftop bar. The remaining rooms were boarded up and were now only occupied by pidgeons and the occasional vagrant.

That all changed when architect Richard Rauh was hired to save the faded gem. Working from only photographs and interviews of long time residents about what the hotel once looked like, his crew painstakingly restored the La Concha to its former glory. The multi-million dollar project re-opened in 1986. Don't miss seeing this beautiful and special place.

A great sign from the Key West Marina. Corner of Highway 1 and Palm Ave. Rent any size charter boat here.

Another great sign from the city marina. A great place to see the boats bring in the fish.

Another picture of Key West Beach. The Coconut Palms are great here.

The Key West Beach is big enough that you will have plenty of privacy for a perfect day here.

The sign from Kelly's restaurant, owned by actress Kelly McGillis. Seating is outdoors under the palm trees and thick, lush, foliage. I have been told that Kelly usually stops by every two or three days so keep your eyes peeled if you come here.

Kelly's was the original headquarters and birthplace of Pan Am Airlines in the 1920's. Pan Am started out as a mail carrier for the U.S. government. Their first route was from Key West to Cuba. Their first service was started on October 18, 1927 in a rented plane that cost $145.50. Pan Am started their first commercial flight with seven passengers onboard on Janurary 16, 1928 from Key West to Cuba. In 1928, Pan Am built and moved their headquarters in Miami.

Upstairs in Kelli's restaurant, you will find a room with histoical artifacts from Pan Am Airlines. They are very interesting to see. Don't miss.

This is the Key West Museum of Art and History in the Custom House located at 281 Front Street. This was built in 1891, this building served as a post office, court house and government center. Key West in the early 1900's was the richest city per capita in the U.S. But by the 1930's, the island was bankrupt. Eventially the building was boarded up and abandoned. After a nine year, 9 million dollar project, the Key West Art and Historical Society has returned this building to its former glory.

Here you can stand in the very room where the U.S. decided to go to war with Spain. also you can see Ernest Hemingways blood stain WW1 uniform and other personal items that created his legendary staus as an adventurer and writer. You can also discover how pirates prowled the inlets of the Keys to hide themselves and their loot.

This is a great place to visit. Open every day 9:30-4:30. Admission is $10 for adults, $9 for seniors, $5 for children 7 and older, and children 6 and under are free. Don't miss walking through this historical bulding.

Thanks for visiting my little blog. I hope you enjoyed it. And I hope you can tell your friends about it. All the best.

Key West And The Florida Keys

Don't Miss This True Tropical Paradise