Honeymoon Guide to the Florida Keys

When Jimmy Buffet wrote the “Margaritaville” lyrics, Nibblin on sponge cake / Watchin the sun bake / all those tourists cover with oil / strumming my six-string / on my front porch swing / smell those shrimp they’re beginning to boil, he was writing about the Florida Keys. Decades have passed since the song came out in 1977, but this colorful archipelago continues to attract and inspire tourists with its clear waters, lush plant life and abundance of festivities and adventure, making it an ideal destination for honeymooners.

Key West Conch Block Party

The shores of The Florida Keys are an adult playground at which newlyweds can get their hearts pounding with pursuits like parasailing, wind surfing and jet skiing; widen their eyes with activities like sea kayaking and sailing; and relax with world-class yoga and strolls along serene beaches as the setting sun paints the clear sky with effervescent shades of orange and yellow. While there are numerous coastal highlights, visitors to Marathon Beach will have the opportunity to enjoy both sand and wetland, as well as see plenty of nesting turtles. Additionally, when honeymooners make a trip to Bahia Honda State Park, they will be greeted by a tropical paradise that is rich with mischievous shorebirds and wading birds, and is adjacent to the breathtaking Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary.

Bahia Honda State Park, Florida 

As much beauty as there is above the water, there are even more exotic wonders to discover below the surface. Newlyweds will want to make their way to the Great Florida Reef, the only coral barrier reef in the United States and the third largest in the world. Here, couples can snorkel or dive into the turquoise waters to swim in a world of brilliant coral, vibrant angel fish and parrotfish, bold lion fish, sting rays, exotic jellyfish, playful dolphins and even sunken treasure. Military enthusiasts will especially like the underwater “shipwreck trail” as divers can explore historic ships that were sunk to help create new reefs. Honeymooners who want to dive into new experiences can stay overnight at Jules, the world’s only underwater hotel.

Sea Turtle in Key Largo, Florida 

Another unique experience that will amaze couples is a trip to the Everglades National Park. The third largest national park in the Continental US, the Everglades is home to hundreds of different animal species that create a visual rainbow of wildlife. When venturing through, couples can see alligators, herons, flamingos, turtles and perhaps even a panther or majestic manatee. Equally as exciting and diverse is the plant life that range from cypress trees to swaying saw-grasses to colorfully tinted flowers. Whether you are hiking, kayaking or taking a guided airboat tour, there is natural splendor around every bend.

Key West Sunset 

Much like Earnest Hemingway and Tennessee Williams, many free-spirits have found their muse among the palm trees and have made the small city of Key West their home. Couples can bike about the youthful community and explore the streets lined fresh seafood markets, Cuban-influenced cafes, dozens of art galleries, museums with local heritage and merry nightlife. The Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Gardens and the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory both provide romantic settings of delicate and exotic natural loveliness. For something a bit wilder, couples can join the celebrations along the famous Duval Street.

Dolphins in Key West, Florida 

Whether they crave thrill and excitement, history and art, tropical beaches and adventurous hiking trails that cut deep into jungles, the rich culture and ecosystem of the Florida Keys is guaranteed to delight honeymooners.