ddipetrillo, if you are going to the Keys for beaches, don't. Bahia Honda is just okay; it is talked about because it is a rare decent natural beach on the Keys. Snorkeling is done from boat tours, because the reefs are 5-6 miles offshore. If you want a place mush closer with a Caribbean-like feel, go to Sanibel Island on the southwest coast near Ft.Myers. Very nice Gulf Coast beaches, lots of beachfront accommodations, restaurants, some shopping and sightseeing. Only 4-5 hours from Orlando.

I will give you one Florida native's opinion. I have been just about everywhere in Florida, and I love the beach (especially surfing- which isn't always even decent in many places). I think that different places in florida have different appeals for most people. I don't like the west coast because I like to surf and I am not much of a fan of the Gulf in general. But the beaches there can have great shells (sanibel is probably the most famous) great resorts and great fine sugary beachs.

I would recommend to fly into Ft. lauderdale (NEVER Miami - what a headache), rent a comfortable car (a convertable would be ideal) and drive to KW. There are no mountains, obviously, but once you get out of Miami and into the keys, it has a more true taste of Florida. This includes run-down areas, mangroves, and water in addition to everything else. On a sunny day, the water shines, the drive is pleasant (but slow.. which is OK - why be in a rush? Safety of you, other drivers, and animals like key deer all depend on driving slowly and carefully), and I always feel that is where my attitude starts to transform into a more "island" sort of feel. This may sound cheesy, but I don't know how else to put it. Also, I would recommend stopping at the Tiki Bar on Islamorada (or is it marathon?) and letting your gf have a nice cold drink (or whoever isn't driving). It is cheesy, but fun, and part of my trip down. It is a nice 4-5 hour drive from miami. When in KW, maybe stay at a B&B instead of a hotel. Beaches are rocky, but Smathers Beach in KW is nice enough for a swim or for tanning. Snorkeling is good everywhere in the keys, but I would agree that Key Largo is the best.

Be sure to do the Duval crawl once, if you like that sort of thing.

Let us know how it was too.

Most are suggesting take the Florida Turnpike or even fly. If you decide to take US-27/SR-997 you will be one of the few cars on the road. Sure you will encounter some traffic but god forbid, you may see something besides the lug nuts on an 18 wheeler. Enjoy your visit to the SunShineState.

GoTravel - the Marathon airport is currently accepting regular flights. Not sure exactly when it started, but very recently...maybe just a few weeks ago. My brother-in-law and his wife flew into Marathon last week.