Key Takeaways
- The Upper Keys are home to some of the Florida Keys’ most popular attractions, including coral reefs, state parks, and historic sites.
- Visitors can enjoy snorkeling, fishing, kayaking, boating, and wildlife viewing throughout the region.
- Islamorada is known as the Sport Fishing Capital of the World and offers excellent dining and outdoor recreation.
- The Florida Keys History & Discovery Center provides valuable insight into the culture, environment, and heritage of the Keys.
Planning a Florida Keys vacation? The Upper Keys offer a mix of outdoor adventure, natural beauty, and fascinating history. Stretching from Key Largo through Islamorada, this region is known for crystal-clear waters, world-class fishing, and easy access to some of the country’s most remarkable marine ecosystems.
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, here’s where to go and what to do in the Upper Keys.
Explore John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
No Upper Keys travel guide would be complete without highlighting John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Established in 1963 as the first underwater park in the United States, it protects part of the Florida Reef, the world’s third-largest coral barrier reef system.
Popular activities include:
- Snorkeling and scuba diving
- Glass-bottom boat tours
- Kayaking through mangrove trails
- Wildlife photography
The park remains one of the top attractions in Key Largo and a must-see destination for nature lovers.
Discover the History of the Florida Keys
While the turquoise water often steals the spotlight, the Upper Keys also have a rich cultural heritage worth exploring.
Located in Islamorada, the Florida Keys History & Discovery Center offers engaging exhibits on the area’s maritime history, environmental conservation efforts, Indigenous cultures, hurricanes, and the development of the Florida Keys. For travelers looking for meaningful things to do in Islamorada, the Center provides valuable context that brings the region’s stories to life.
A visit early in your trip can deepen your appreciation for many of the sites you’ll encounter throughout the Keys.
Experience the Best of Islamorada
Known as the “Sport Fishing Capital of the World,” Islamorada attracts anglers from around the globe. The area offers exceptional offshore, backcountry, and flats fishing opportunities.
Beyond fishing, visitors can enjoy:
- Waterfront restaurants and fresh seafood
- Sunset cruises
- Paddleboarding and kayaking
- Boutique shopping and local art galleries
The Florida Keys History & Discovery Center is also located here, making Islamorada an ideal base for exploring the Upper Keys.
Visit Nearby State Parks and Nature Areas
Outdoor enthusiasts should also consider:
- Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park
- Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park
These parks showcase unique habitats, native wildlife, and the geological history that shaped the Florida Keys.
Plan Your Upper Keys Adventure
From snorkeling vibrant coral reefs to uncovering centuries of local history, the Upper Keys offer something for every traveler. Be sure to include the Florida Keys History & Discovery Center on your itinerary!
