The Florida Keys is a beautiful archipelago between the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico. This stunning location is often misunderstood, but it offers more than just a vacation destination. Rich in history, the Keys are home to many fascinating marine life forms and exciting facts. If you’re curious about the area, you might wonder how many Keys there are or what makes this spot unique. From Seven Mile Bridge to the charming towns, the Keys hold a unique allure for those planning a trip or visiting the area. It’s not just a place to relax but a destination full of fascinating tales and secrets waiting to be discovered.

A popular and improbable story from the Florida Keys involves Donna Whitney, a mermaid who plays a harp during the annual Lower Keys Underwater Music Festival. This event, designed to promote reef preservation, showcases the quirky side of the island chain. It’s one of many tales about the Keys that mix factual events with unexpected and surprising moments. One such story even connects the Keys with Arnold Schwarzenegger’s action-packed movie True Lies—featuring helicopter stunts and a dramatic explosion on the Middle Keys bridge. While some stories in the Keys might sound like tall tales, many are surprisingly accurate, adding to the area’s charm and fascinating history.

How Many Keys Are In The Florida Keys?

Let’s begin with the big question: how many keys are in the Florida Keys?!To figure this out, we first need to define what a “key” is and learn how the Florida Keys came to be named. This will take us on a brief journey through the history of Florida!

Exploring the History of the Florida Keys

The Florida Keys have a rich and intriguing history that dates back centuries.”Key” comes from the Spanish word “cayo,” a small island. These islands were originally inhabited by the Native American Calusa and Tequesta tribes, who thrived in the region long before European explorers arrived. In the 16th century, Ponce de Leon, while searching for the Fountain of Youth, stumbled upon Florida and its beautiful islands. The Spaniards then charted the Florida Keys and referred to them as “Los Cayos,” marking the beginning of their historical significance.

As time passed, the Keys became an essential part of history. Key West was initially called “Cayo Huesso,” meaning Bone Island, because the Spaniards discovered the island covered in bones! The island’s name evolved; when it reached the ears of English sailors, it sounded like “Kay Way-so,” which eventually morphed into the name we all know today—Key West. This quirky transformation is a prime example of how the Keys have a story for every corner.

The Florida Keys have continued to captivate the imagination of many, becoming a place full of surprising tales. One of the most exciting moments in the Keys’ history was in the 1990s when Arnold Schwarzenegger starred in the film True Lies. The film featured a sequence of helicopter stunts and a dramatic explosion on the iconic Middle Keys bridge. Although the blast wasn’t absolute, the narrow expanse of roadway above the blue water made it look like the real thing.

Throughout the Keys, you’ll hear many unlikely stories, some of which sound like tall tales, but many are surprisingly accurate. The Keys have always been where adventure and quirkiness meet, just like the islands. Whether you’re enjoying the turquoise waters or learning about the Keys’ rich history, there’s always a story that adds to the charm of this unique part of Florida. These islands continue to turn heads and fascinate travelers and locals alike.

Discovering the Total Number of Keys

The Florida Keys comprise over 800 keys stretching 120 miles from Key Largo to Key West. These islands vary in size, some more significant and others more minor, but they all have one thing in common: they’re all named! The keys are low-elevation islands above a coral reef, forming a beautiful and unique archipelago. The fact that there are so many named keys in this stunning stretch of land is pretty cool, especially for anyone planning a trip to this breathtaking destination. Whether you’re dreaming of the small islands or marveling at the bigger ones, the Florida Keys offer an incredible diversity of landscapes and experiences that are hard to match.

The Inhabited Keys in the Florida Keys

In the Florida Keys, there are over 800 named Keys, but only about 30 of them are inhabited and reachable by car. Not all these inhabited keys are popular tourist destinations, but some are perfect for a vacation or a relaxing stay. The Calusa and Tequesta tribes were the first to live in the Keys, long before it got its more relaxed name from the Spanish word cayo, meaning small island. If you’ve ever dreamed of the turquoise waters of the Keys or are planning your next trip, there are plenty of fun facts to learn. You might even want to pack your bags or impress your friends at trivia night with your newfound knowledge about this beautiful archipelago!

Exploring the Major Keys

Around 30 inhabited keys attract visitors to the Florida Keys, but there are 10 significant Keys that most people choose to stay on when visiting. From north to south, these are Key Largo, Tavernier, and Islamorada (which is actually a town made up of 6 different keys). Other popular keys include Long Key, Duck Key, Marathon (also a city, made up of 10 keys), Bahia Honda Key, Big Pine Key, No Name Key, and Key West. Whether you’re looking for a quiet getaway or a lively destination, these primary keys offer a range of experiences for all types of travelers.

Discovering the Location of the Florida Keys

The Florida Keys are a stunning archipelago stretching just south of Florida’s peninsula. If you’ve ever seen a map of the state, you’ll notice how these islands extend in a gentle arc into the ocean, eventually leading to the famous Key West. Before reaching this tropical paradise, travelers often stop at Florida City, the central town near the Keys entrance. This spot is close to Homestead, where many visitors grab gas and snacks before embarking on their road trip.

The adventure begins on US1, the Overseas Highway, which connects the mainland to the islands. The first stretch of the journey, commonly called The Stretch, is an 18-mile section of road that links Florida City to Key Largo. As soon as you cross into Key Largo, the scenery transforms into a breathtaking coastal drive, setting the tone for an unforgettable trip through the Keys. Whether heading to Key West or exploring stops, this route is essential to the experience.

Distance from Orlando to the Florida Keys

If you’re planning a trip to the Florida Keys, you might wonder how long it takes to reach this beautiful island chain from Orlando. The journey to Key West is about 400 miles, requiring approximately 6.5 hours of drive time.

A Shorter Route to Key Largo

For those looking for a quicker getaway, Key Largo—the first significant island in the Keys—is 300 miles away and takes around 4.5 hours to reach. It’s a great starting point to experience the tropical charm of the Keys.

Covering More Areas on Your Trip

A well-planned visit to the Florida Keys can easily cover different areas within a few days. Whether you want to explore multiple islands, drive the scenic Overseas Highway, or spend time in Key West, the journey becomes part of the adventure.

A Longer Stay for the Full Experience

If you have time for a more extended stay, you can soak in the relaxed island lifestyle and enjoy the unique attractions each Key has to offer, from stunning beaches to local seafood spots and hidden gems along the way.

Discovering the Largest Florida Key

Regarding size, Key Largo takes the crown as the largest of the Florida Keys. Spanning an impressive 33 miles, it’s much longer than Key West, which is only 4 miles long. If you’re planning a trip to the Keys, renting a car is highly recommended, especially if you’re not just visiting Key West but also exploring other parts of the Upper Keys.

In the Upper Keys, main attractions are more spread out, making a 30-minute drive from Key Largo to Islamorada quite common. Most visitors will make this trip to ensure they hit all the popular spots throughout the area. If you’re unsure how to navigate the Keys, check out RentalCars.com to compare pricing across various companies, ensuring you get the best deal for your needs.

Bridges of the Florida Keys

The Florida Keys are connected by 42 bridges that link the various islands. The most famous is the Seven Mile Bridge, which connects Knight’s Key to Little Duck in the Middle Keys. This stunning bridge spans 35,716 feet and offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. As you travel along the Overseas Highway, you’ll pass over these incredible feats of engineering.

In the Middle Keys, you can visit the Pigeon Key via the newly opened Pidgeon Key Express, a tram ride that takes you to this historic site. Henry Flagler originally built the Overseas Highway, stretching 113 miles, for the Florida East Coast Railway. After the devastating hurricane in 1935, the railroad was destroyed, and the bridges were repurposed as roadways. Today, you can drive across these fishing bridges and enjoy the views. The shortest of the bridges is the Harris Gap Bridge, which is just 37 feet long, while the longest bridge stands proudly as the Seven Mile Bridge.

The Best Time to Visit the Florida Keys

The Florida Keys are a popular destination year-round, but the best time to visit is primarily based on your preferences. For many, the most popular time is during winter, especially between December and January. However, as a local, I avoid this period due to the high hotel prices, long restaurant waits, and the crowds that come with it. Instead, my favorite time to visit is from April to May, when the weather is mild and the ocean is comfortably warm.

This is a perfect window if you prefer to avoid the rainy summer afternoons and hurricane season. November is also a great time to visit, with similar springtime conditions, though it may be slightly colder. On the other hand, if you’re open to the heat and humidity, the summer months (from June to September) are considered off-season, which means fewer crowds. Just be prepared for potential hurricanes, always plan for the worst, and opt for refundable bookings.

Packing for the Florida Keys

When heading to the Florida Keys, there are a few essentials to pack for a comfortable and enjoyable trip. First, you’ll need sunscreen—and not just any kind, but reef-safe sunscreen. Many sunscreens contain harmful chemicals that can damage the coral reefs, which are living ecosystems. Protecting the reefs is important; reef-safe options help preserve the stunning underwater landscapes.

In addition to sunscreen, bring other beach essentials like sunglasses, after-sun lotion, and a beach towel. If you’re into snorkeling, don’t forget your snorkel gear, or you can use the gear provided by most snorkel tours. Lastly, if you’re prone to seasickness, I highly recommend packing Non-Drowsy Dramamine pills—they’ve saved me on many occasions during boat trips!

CONCLUSION:

The Florida Keys are a stunning archipelago with fascinating stories and vibrant history. With over 800 keys stretching from Key Largo to Key West, these islands offer incredible experiences for everyone. From breathtaking bridges to quirky events like the Lower Keys Underwater Music Festival, the Keys are more than just a relaxing place—they’re full of adventure. The Calusa and Tequesta tribes originally inhabited the islands and later became significant in the history of European exploration. The Florida Keys have seen famous figures like Henry Flagler shape the landscape with his railroads. Whether you’re planning a trip to Key West or simply passing through, these islands have something for every traveler.

FAQs:

Q1:What is so special about the Florida Keys?

A: The Florida Keys are special because they’re unique islands with crystal-clear waters, a rich history, and a laid-back atmosphere. The Keys are home to incredible marine life, scenic bridges, and historic landmarks. You can also find the only living coral reef in the U.S. here, making it a hotspot for divers and snorkelers.

Q2:What is a fun fact about Key West, Florida?

A: A fun fact about Key West is that roosters and chickens roam freely in the streets! These birds are descendants of chickens kept by locals long ago, and now they’re a quirky part of the island’s charm.

Q3: What is the most famous Florida key?

The most famous Florida key is Key West. It’s well-known for its lively atmosphere, beautiful sunsets, historic sites, and being the southernmost point in the U.S. It’s a popular vacation spot for people seeking relaxation and adventure.

Q4: Why are the Florida Keys called Keys?

A: The Florida Keys are called “keys” because the word comes from the Spanish word “cayo,” meaning a small island. When the Spanish explorers first arrived, they named these islands “Los Cayos,” over time, the name evolved into “keys.”