Key Largo

REEF Fest, a celebration of marine conservation’s positive impact on the Florida Keys and around the world, enables ocean aficionados to experience social events, eco-adventures and presentations by renowned marine experts Thursday through Sunday, Sept. 28 through Oct. 1, in Key Largo.

An information booth geared to help travelers coming to the Florida Keys for lobster mini-season is to open Saturday, July 22, at Key Largo's Waldorf Plaza, mile marker 100 oceanside near the top of the Florida Keys Overseas Highway.

Night divers are to take to Florida Keys reefs for a chance to witness a delicate reproductive phenomenon that occurs when coral polyps release millions of gametes (eggs and sperm) in synchronized mass-spawning rituals. The event is likely to occur around the August and September full moons. 

In today’s hyper-connected, stress-filled, hurry-up world, the best vacation — like the best life — is all about simplicity. 

When work schedules and responsibilities seem especially stressful, the siren song of the subtropical Florida Keys can be almost impossible to resist. The inviting island chain offers a variety of ways to treat body and mind to “unplugged” relaxation on and off the water.

Encouraging environmentally responsible behaviors is a crucial element of the Florida Keys’ commitment to protecting the region’s natural resources, including the continental United States’ only living coral barrier reef. Visitors can share in that commitment by following the “10 Keymandments.” 

People from around the world are drawn to the Florida Keys, seeking one-of-kind opportunities to encounter the island chain’s indigenous creatures. Whether exploring the many national wildlife refuges or getting up close to a bottlenose dolphin or sea turtle, there are numerous ways for visitors to get “simply wild.” 

A trip to the Florida Keys offers an inviting array of sea-based adventures for nature lovers, adventurers and even couch potatoes. Visitors can explore the waters surrounding the islands at their own pace and energy level. 

 The subtropical Florida Keys & Key West are resplendent with indigenous species in hidden, tucked-away gardens nestled throughout the 125-mile-long island chain.