pocohontas3

We're staying in Islamorada for a week soon and wonder if it would be worthwhile to drive up to Miami for a tour. We would be real tourists - looking for a tour company that would be easy to reach from the keys area. And, that would be FUN for our sons 14, 12, and 10 years old. Suggestions? Or, stay in the keys?

keymom

There's a duck tour of Miami that might be appealing to your group.
In terms of the Keys - lots to do. check out the website at Robbies.com -you can snorkel, fish, kayak, etc.
One night, go bowling at the Fish Bowl. Surprisingly good food for a bowling alley.
Another night, head to Morada Bay. It's upscale but outside. The kids can run around a bit there.
THere's always dinner and a movie, too. Although that's closer to Key Largo (mile marker 90 or so)
We like Chili Willies for lunch with the kids because there is an arcarde there that keeps them entertained for a while.
Get the local papers and see if there are some special events. I've always wanted to do the "float in" movie shown at the swimming pool in Islamorada.
I hope you'll get to the Everglades during the trip - it's on the way to Miami.

pocohontas3

keymom:

We are definitely planning a day or day and a half at the Everglades! That was actually what spurred us to look into the Keys as our base for a winter warm-up.

I'll have to find out where the Duck tour departs from in Miami...

montereybob

Be sure that whatever you choose, it includes the harbor boat tour. It's beautiful, fun, and fascinating.

pocohontas3

any advice on a place to go with our boys for "Beginner" snorkeling? We've never been, but the kids are old enough...

keymom

Glad to hear you will be stopping in the glades! I like the boats from Pennekamp state park because they are big and stable. There's also an aquarium in the park so you can see in advance what you'll be seeing.
If you want a smaller boat, Quiessence only takes 6 people at a time. People on the tripadvisor board also like Morningstar charter.

pocohontas3

Having never been to the Keys - what should be expect for water temperature this February? We're considering the snorkeling, but we don't want to freeze! Yes, we're from up north and our water bodies have been frozen for more than a month...

keymom

You are asking the wrong girl about water temp in the Keys! I am so thin blooded now I won't go in again until May or June. But lots of folks go snorkelling in the winter - I think renting a wetsuit on the snorkel trip is a good idea so you don't have to worry about the temp.
One other tip for you - if you shop at the Winn Dixie, you should get their "frequent shopper" card. It's free and you'll save a bundle on every shop.
I didn't mention a night time fishing trip. That could be fun for your guys. It's a "party boat" which means that it is not a private charter (i.e., other folks are on board). It also means you'll spend less. If you catch fish, they will clean them for you and local restaurants will cook them.
There are boats like this from Whale Harbur and Robbies. Stop by and check out the schedules when you are there. If anyone is prone to seasickness, take Bonine or other product!