The hidden side of the Florida Keys is calling! It’s natural to picture luxurious resorts or cozy beachfront rental houses where you can unwind when thinking of a Florida Keys vacation. After all, there’s no shortage of opportunities to embrace resort life here.
You’ll also have ample opportunities to enjoy the deliciously crowded nightlife scene around Duval Street and Old Town in Key West. However, there’s also so much waiting off the beaten path. You’ll be shocked by the natural attractions and exotic landscapes located just a short jump away from mainland Florida.
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In fact, even many of the most secluded attractions in the Florida Keys are actually accessible via the Overseas Highway that’s connected to U.S. Route 1. If you use the highway to jump between the Upper Keys and Lower Keys, a portion of your journey will be over the famous Seven Mile Bridge.
As it stretches over the ocean, Seven Mile Bridge offers some of the most breathtaking views in the Florida Keys. The drive is truly surreal! Of course, some of the items on this list are only accessible by boat or plane.
Where do people who really know the Florida Keys go when they visit? We’re spilling the details! Don’t finish planning your itinerary until you know about these 7 Florida Keys hidden gems.
1) Discover Hidden Sandbars Of Key West
Did you know that you can take a private charter to explore Key West’s magnificent sandbars? Sandbars offer opportunities to see dreamy landscapes, play in shallow water, and snap unforgettable photos. Of course, the best part of a sandbar tour is that you can get away from the crowds to feel like the waters of the Florida Keys are yours to discover!
Key West Boat Trips is the premier provider of sandbar tours in Key West. We offer unique itineraries that can be customized for your group. Choose from:
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Sandbar hopping in Key West featuring the mangrove trails of Mud Keys and time with locals at Snipe Point.
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Key West sunset cruising through backcountry waters.
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Cruising through Mud Key Sanctuary to take in views of nature in paradise’s coastal countryside!
When you jet around with Key West Boat Trips, you’ll be able to sit back and relax while enjoying our top-of-the-line small-group boat fleet. Some of our excursions even include a fresh lobster feast. There’s no better way to recharge during your Florida Keys vacation! Book your spot with Key West Boat Trips today!
2) Discover The Beauty Of Bahia Honda State Park
Get ready to experience an enduring Florida Keys landmark when you visit Bahia Honda State Park. Located at mile marker 37 in the Florida Keys, this attraction is famed for its award-winning beach and historic bridge. One of the best hidden gems in the Florida Keys, Bahia Honda covers more than 500 acres.
Here are some fun experiences you won’t want to miss during your visit:
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Stunning Beaches – Enjoy pristine sandy shores and crystal-clear waters, perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
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Scenic Trails – Explore miles of nature trails that wind through lush landscapes, offering opportunities for birdwatching and photography.
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Water Activities – Engage in kayaking and paddle boarding to experience the vibrant marine life up close.
- Historic Sites – Visit the iconic Bahia Honda Bridge and learn about the park’s rich history and significance in the Florida Keys.
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Camping Opportunities – Spend a night under the stars at one of the park’s campgrounds, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Keys.
Good to know: There’s also an offshore island within the boundaries of the state park that offers exceptional snorkeling. While you’ll feel miles from anywhere at Bahia Honda, you can enjoy a gift shop and snack bar.
3) Explore The Wonders Of Dry Tortugas National Park
You’ll need to board a ferry if you want to explore this world-class landmark located 70 miles off of Key West! Dry Tortugas National Park is actually made up of seven small islands that are rich in biodiversity. These islands form what is considered to be the southwesternmost portion of the Florida Keys.
This state park is famous for two main things. The first is that it’s home to a Civil War-era prison called Fort Jefferson. The second is that it’s one of the best snorkeling spots in North America. Snorkelers come here to admire the robust marine life attracted to the living coral reef and seagrass beds. This is also a hot spot for sea turtles.
You don’t have to come for snorkeling in the coral reef to understand why this is a great place to unwind and discover nature. The secluded beaches of Dry Tortugas are absolutely pristine! Spend your day sunbathing as breezy palms cool the air around you.
Here’s what else makes this park one of the true hidden gems in the Florida Keys:
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Access to the Windjammer wreck on nearby Loggerhead Reef.
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Views of the Loggerhead Lighthouse that’s believed to be the lighthouse located the greatest distance from the mainland in the world.
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Amazing snorkeling and diving opportunities in life-filled seagrass beds, coral reefs, and hard-bottom areas.
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Possible sightings of the sea turtles that nest here.
Don’t miss the rich history of a national landmark and natural wonder!
Fun fact: Did you know that Dry Tortugas National Park is home to the largest brick masonry structure in the Western Hemisphere? Fort Jefferson, built back in the 19th century, was designed to protect the Gulf of Mexico. It’s a fun piece of history you won’t want to miss!
4) Uncover The Secrets Of Blue Hole On Big Pine Key
The Blue Hole on the island of Big Pine Key is a fascinating attraction that ties into Henry Flagler’s historic Overseas Railroad that once connected paradise! Blue Hole is an abandoned rock quarry that was used to fill the railroad. Visitors who come today see a cenote-like pool that’s actually Florida’s largest freshwater body.
Life has truly returned to this former limestone quarry. As you’re perched on the observation deck overlooking the water, it’s common to see fish, alligators, and deer gathering.
Don’t miss the chance to go off the beaten track at Blue Hole on Big Pine Key in a very true sense! Check out these nature trails:
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Mannillo Trail – 800-foot out-and-back trail composed of crushed limestone.
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Watson Trail – Loop trail through pinelands, freshwater wetland, and hardwood hammock.
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No Name Key Trails – Rustic trails/fire roads that extend south of Watson Road and Old State Road. Hikers should show up prepared with water and sun protection before taking these uneven, raw trails.
Pro tip: Arrive early in the morning for the best chance to spot wildlife! The Blue Hole is a great spot for birdwatching, and you might even see some alligators basking in the sun. Plus, the peaceful morning atmosphere makes for a perfect start to your day!
5) Dive Into The Vibrant Life At Molasses Reef
Located southeast of Key Largo, the Molasses Reef Sanctuary Preservation Area is a treasured spot for scuba diving in the Upper Keys. This coral reef is actually located inside of the larger Key Largo National Marine Sanctuary.
From its boulder corals to its ultra-clear tides, this reef attracts tons of colorful fish and marine life. There’s even an old wreck dating back to the 16th century waiting to be explored on the seafloor.
Don’t miss an opportunity to experience one of the world’s best coral reefs if you’re an experienced diver! With its colorful coral formations and a variety of friendly marine life, Molasses Reef is like stepping into an underwater wonderland that you’ll remember for years to come.
Pro tip: Check the local tide charts before you dive. Diving with the tides can really amp up your experience, bringing in more marine life to see. And don’t forget to bring an underwater camera – you’ll want to capture all the amazing coral formations and colorful fish that make Molasses Reef so special!
6) Relax At Anne’s Beach
Tucked away at Lower Matecumbe Key in Islamorada, Anne’s Beach is one of the best hidden gems in the Florida Keys if you want to soak up the sun off the beaten path. What makes this beach special is that it’s dedicated to a local environmentalist named Anne Eaton.
Anne Eaton was a wonderful local who truly loved the Florida Keys and worked hard to protect its beautiful beaches and natural treasures. Her passion for the area inspired many, and she made a big difference in the community. Today, Anne’s Beach is a lovely spot where visitors can relax and enjoy the same stunning scenery that she cherished.
Good to know: You’ll find this jewel of a beach at mile marker 73.5 at the southern tip of Upper Matecumbe Key. Entry to this sandy beach is free! Spend time walking the boardwalk or enjoying warm water in the beach’s shallow swimming area.
7) Step Back In Time At Indian Key Historic State Park
Located less than a mile offshore in the Upper Florida Keys, Indian Key is a natural wonderland that’s only accessible by boat. Some visitors choose to paddle their way over seagrass flats to this 11-mile island.
When they arrive, they find a deserted wreck-salvaging community that still holds the ruins of a town from the 1800s. In addition to luring in history lovers, this spot also attracts adventurers seeking snorkeling, wildlife viewing, and hiking.
Pro tip: Bring your camera and a picnic! The park is not only rich in history but also offers stunning views and peaceful spots to relax. Enjoy a tasty lunch while soaking in the beautiful scenery and keep an eye out for the local wildlife that calls this charming island home.
Ready To See Rarities In The Florida Keys?
To wrap it up, the Florida Keys are packed with awesome hidden gems just waiting for you to explore. Whether you want to cross the Seven Mile Bridge or paddle over seagrass, there’s no shortage of adventure waiting off the beaten path in the Florida Keys.
So, ditch the usual tourist spots and dive into the unique vibes of these islands – your next adventure is calling!
Key West Boat Trips is proud to help our guests plan once-in-a-lifetime adventures on the beautiful sandbars off of Key West. Our experienced captains are here to accommodate your needs. Book your unforgettable sandbar tour with us today!
