How do dolphins, sea turtles, and stingrays sound? How about beautiful year-round weather, and a fun yet laid-back island culture? The Florida Keys offer visitors all of that and so much more.

However, as is the case when planning a vacation to any destination, it’s important to do your research beforehand to ensure that you have the best trip possible. So, what details do you need to nail down?

Keep reading for a guide that will help you plan the Florida Keys vacation of a lifetime.

Decide on a Time

The first thing that you’ll need to figure out is what time of year you’ll visit the Florida Keys. As is the case with most touristy spots, there’s a high season and a low season, with each period having different pros and cons.

The high season stretches from the middle of December to April. During this time, hurricane season has passed, and you get to avoid the hottest and stickiest months of the year. However, you’ll have to deal with crowds of people, as well as the most expensive hotel rates.

The low season extends throughout the rest of the year. Hurricanes can be a problem and the weather is at its hottest, but you get to miss out on the throngs of people. You also get to enjoy the lowest rates of the year.

Get in

After you decide on when you want to go, it’s time to figure out the logistics. Again, depending on what you’re comfortable with, there are different entry modes to choose from.

Most people fly into the larger Miami airport, then drive down to the Keys. If you’re going to Key West, it’ll take you around four hours, but you get to enjoy picturesque views of the water along the way. Make sure to stop from time to time to take it all in.

If you don’t want to worry about driving or don’t have access to a car, you can fly directly into the Keys. Key West has its own airport, and while it’s small, it offers connecting flights to major cities, such as New York, Atlanta, and Chicago.

Pack the Essentials

If you’re coming from a cold state in the north, you’ll be happy to know that you can leave most of your winter clothes at home. The average temperature throughout the year falls between 65 and 91 degrees Fahrenheit, meaning that it never gets too cold.

For the most part, the style is comfortable and casual. You’ll be fine bringing swimsuits, summer clothes, a lightweight jacket (just in case), and a pair of pants. For shoes, sandals, flip-flops, and other summer varieties are the name of the game.

One thing that you can’t forget about bringing or buying is sunscreen. Everyone wants a tan, but many people don’t realize that the sun ages you and can also cause skin cancer. Stay youthful and safe by applying sunscreen every day.

Plan Your Itinerary

Most people who visit the Florida Keys stay on one of four islands: Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, or Key West. Although the islands are all close in proximity to one another, each provides visitors with a unique experience.

If you’re a wildlife lover, staying on Key Largo or Islamorada could be your best bet. Key Largo provides amazing opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and other aquatic activities, while Islamorada features world-class fishing.

Marathon is the middle island and is a good option for families. You can see the world’s tiniest deer before driving across Seven Mile Bridge, a famous crossing surrounded by water.

As the southernmost point in the US, Key West is the most popular destination in the Keys. It’s beautiful and combines nature, history, art, and diversity into an irresistible package.

Must-See Attractions

If you’re interested in seeing wildlife, you’re in luck. The Florida Keys offer visitors the chance to see a huge variety of animals, both on land and in the water. From dolphins and sharks, to pelicans and green parrots, you won’t know where to look.

If you’re looking for a more cultural experience, consider walking around the palm-lined streets of Key West. For unparalleled views of the beauty that the Keys have to offer, consider booking a helicopter tour at this site: https://www.ultimate-helitours.com/tours/25-60-minute-tours/seven-mile-bridge-lighthouse-tour/.

The Florida Keys are also a foodie’s paradise. Mouthwatering fish, fresh shrimp, and tangy key lime pie are some of the many delicacies you’ll get to enjoy.

Stay Safe

The Florida Keys are a safe place to travel to, but it’s a good idea to follow general precautions regardless.

Staying safe is especially important if you’re traveling by yourself. Make sure to keep people back home posted about what you’re doing each day and trust your intuition. If a situation doesn’t feel right, don’t be afraid to get out of it.

Of course, staying safe in 2020 also means protecting yourself and others from COVID-19. If you’re traveling sometime soon, make sure to avoid crowds, distancing yourself from large groups whenever possible. You should also make a point to wear a mask whenever you’re in public.

Plan the Ultimate Florida Keys Vacation

Although the CDC recommends avoiding travel at the moment, it’s never too early to begin planning your next trip for the future. A Florida Keys vacation will provide you with beautiful weather, opportunities to see wildlife, and fun island vibes that can’t be beaten.

Do you have a better idea of how to plan a trip to the Florida Keys? Before you go and book your flights, take a moment to check out some of our other blog posts for more guides and tips.