The Florida Keys
The Florida Keys are a haven for all those who who want to drop off the map and wake up in another world. A long line of land that drifts and drags in parts from the tip of the state of Florida, The Florida Keys is for many the ultimate vacation destination between food, fishing, fun and fabulous weather.
On my recent trip there, I made a few stops!
KEY LARGO
To stay – Amoray Dive Resort – This is considered one of the best scuba dive destinations in the world, with an extra touch in style, comfort and service located in Key Largo, Florida. Amoray Dive Resort offers a favorable location with spectacular views of the sunset over bay waters. Step out from one their rooms directly onto our 45 ft catamaran dive and snorkel boat, located conveniently at the resort.
To eat – Sundowners – Here you can experience sunset at it’s best whilst sipping on a Key Lime Martini and munching on appetizers like their crispy fresh Tuna Pizza with olives and jalapenos or Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes with Pommery mustard. Main wise, their Caribbean Glazed Mahi Mahi with spinach and kale, accompanied by some Oregano and Sea Salt Cauliflower is a stand out dish.
To experience – The African Queen – The iconic vessel the African Queen is located in Key Largo Florida. Made famous in the 1951 movie of the same name starring Humphrey Bogart and Katherine Hepburn she still remains a timeless classic. This famous steamboat is available for daily canal cruises and dinner cruises in the Port Largo Canal area and also for private events, and is well worth the nostalgic experience.Amoray Dive ResortAmoray Dive ResortSundowners FishThe African Queen
MARATHON
To eat – Tarpon Creek – The restaurant’s water-side Tiki Bar is known as a spot where folks meet and mingle from early in the day to the cool of the night. However more than tropical drinks and good cheer are is served here. Food wise, it’s worth stopping in for lunch or dinner to try everything from their wood fired pizzas (prepared fresh on site in their wood fire stove) to fresh fish dishes and unique salads such as their Signature Watermelon Salad, with arugula, fresh watermelon, feta, olives and balsamic glaze (add the grilled shrimp for a sensational touch!) Clean this off with a slice of their Key Lime Pie, and you are set.
To experience – The Sea Turtle Hospital – Which provides a unique look at the lives of one of the area’s most beloved creatures through on site tours of the turtles that reside their. The Turtle Hospital (Hidden Harbor Marine Environmental Project, Inc.) is a charitable corporation and fully functioning veterinary hospital for sick and injured sea turtles. Here they rescue, rehab, and release sea turtles in the Florida Keys, whilst providing an eye opening and educational experience for all ages.Sea Turtle HospitalTarpon CreekTarpon Creek SaladTarpon Creek
KEY WEST
To Stay – The Perry – Inspired by the industrial nature from which Stock Island has developed, The Perry Hotel Key West at Stock Island Marina blends smooth wood finishes with rustic metal details, paying homage to the area’s iconic maritime heritage. Perched at the edge of a brand new state-of-the-art 220-slip marina (the largest deep water marina in the Florida Keys) the 100-room boutique hotel’s pool deck overlooks the working waterfront. Guest rooms with spacious, private balconies and waterfront views welcome visitors from all walks of life, while two ‘boat-to-table’ seafood-driven restaurants, Matt’s Stock Island Kitchen and Bar and The Salty Oyster Bar and Grill offer classic Key West comfort food with an innovative twist.
To eat –The Stoned Crab – Experience Paul’s culinary magic in action during this three-course fresh seafood extravaganza at The Stoned Crab restaurant, located on Ibis Bay’s marina. The seafood caught earlier that day by Ibis Bay’s commercial fishermen is prepared for you that same night. Grab a drink from their eco bar, featuring cocktails made only with fresh local fruit and sustainable liquors and head to dinner. Guests should be sure to tuck into the restaurant’s We Smoked It Fish Dip, Conch Fritters or Key Lime Ceviche Salad before moving onto any of the pasta or Steamer Dishes, all decorated with the freshest fish around.
To experience – Ibis Bay Nightboarding – There’s no better way to enjoy the twilight hours of Key West than on LED-lite stand-up paddle boards or kayaks in the Ibis Bay. Led by an expert tour guide, you can explore the underwater world of Ibis Bay after dark, when the lobster, fish, and coral are most active and vibrant.