Love for the Florida Keys
The Florida Keys have always called to us with their crystal-clear tropical waters, breathtaking coral reefs, delicious key lime pie, and abundant sunshine. This slice of paradise in the USA quickly became a must-visit destination on our travel list, promising unforgettable memories.
On our first adventure to the Florida Keys, we embarked on a journey that would forever change our perspective of this iconic archipelago. Key West, with its lively Duval Street and vibrant energy, welcomed us warmly. Coming from the bustling scenes of New Orleans, Duval Street's nightlife initially captivated us. However, as the days passed, we found ourselves yearning for a quieter, more serene experience to truly savor the essence of the Keys.
For our subsequent trip, we chose to anchor ourselves in Key West but opted for the tranquility offered by Casa Marina, a haven of elegance booked through Ocean to Bay. Nestled away from the bustling thoroughfares yet close enough to feel the island's pulse, Casa Marina provided a month-long retreat where we could fully immerse ourselves in the island's charm. Days were spent exploring beyond Duval Street, uncovering hidden gems tucked away in the corners of Key West.
During this extended stay, we reconnected with a dear friend we had met during our initial foray into the Keys. Her hospitality exceeded all expectations, inviting us to join her on her boat for an authentic local's tour through the mangroves. As she navigated the winding waterways, she shared tales of the Keys' rich history and pointed out secret spots known only to longtime residents. The highlight of this excursion was our impromptu sailing lesson in Garrison Bight and the adjacent mooring basin aboard Hobie Cats. Gliding over the clear waters, the wind in our sails, we felt a newfound connection to the maritime culture that defines the Keys.
Eager to expand our exploration, our third trip saw us renting a charming home near the cemetery in Key West's historic Old Town. This location afforded us both tranquility and easy access to the cultural tapestry that defines Key West. Yet, our thirst for discovery led us further north to Islamorada, where the iconic Cheeca Lodge & Spa became our sanctuary for a few memorable days. Surrounded by the natural beauty of Islamorada, we embarked on exhilarating adventures, including a mesmerizing ride through the mangroves guided by another newfound friend. These experiences deepened our appreciation for the Keys' ecological diversity and reinforced our love for its serene landscapes.
Throughout our journeys, maintaining an active lifestyle and engaging with the local community remained paramount. We frequented gyms to stay fit and found a welcoming Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu dojo where we honed our skills and forged connections with fellow enthusiasts. A serene yoga studio became our sanctuary, offering daily classes that nurtured both body and spirit. To complement these wellness pursuits, we indulged in pampering sessions at esteemed spas such as Amri, Ocean Wellness Spa, and Keys Med Spa. Here, rejuvenating massages, expert hair care, and luxurious facials provided the perfect balance to our days of exploration and adventure.
Culinary delights continued to be a cornerstone of our Keys experience. From the laid-back vibes of Blue Heaven in Key West, where Caribbean-inspired dishes tantalized our taste buds, to the culinary sophistication of Santiago's Bodega, where tapas and cocktails created culinary symphonies, each meal was a celebration of the Keys' diverse flavors. Key Largo's Fish House became a favorite haunt, offering fresh seafood in a welcoming ambiance that epitomized Keys hospitality. Anytime we travel north through the Keys, our journey begins with a stop at Baby's Coffee for their renowned brew—a must for any caffeine enthusiast. A perfect end to our day often includes a sunset dinner at Hogfish Bar & Grill on Stock Island, known for its delightful hogfish sandwiches. Finally, in Islamorada, the Square Grouper Bar & Grill provided a perfect ending with its picturesque views and flavorful dishes, completing our culinary journey through the Florida Keys.
Driving down the iconic Overseas Highway from Key Largo to Key West became a ritual that bookended our adventures. Each journey along this scenic route offered breathtaking vistas of turquoise waters and lush tropical landscapes. From the art galleries of Islamorada to the natural wonders of Marathon, every Key revealed its unique charm and contributed to our evolving love affair with this enchanting destination.
Our experiences in the Florida Keys have left an indelible mark on our hearts. The allure of its natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality continues to beckon us back, promising new discoveries and cherished memories with each return. As we eagerly anticipate our next journey to uncover more hidden gems and create new stories in the Florida Keys, we reflect fondly on the transformative power of this remarkable gem.
Reflecting on our experiences in the Florida Keys and eagerly anticipating our next journey to uncover more hidden gems, we have decided to split our time between two paradises: the Keys and the Emerald Coast. We have fallen in love with the beauty, culture, and community of both regions, inspiring us to continue managing vacation homes in these enchanting destinations. This decision marks a new chapter in our lives, embracing the opportunity to share our passion for these coastal havens with others. To view all of our destination offerings, including mountain cabins in the Smokies, you can visit our website.
