Florida Keys
 

We are going to be in Key West for a week. We didnt know if it was possible to drive to a different key for the day... possibly to hang out on the beach. Any suggestions?

Drive up to Bahia Honda State Park. It has a couple of nice beaches, although usually seaweedy. It is 37.5 miles north of Key West.

You will find a nice beach in Marathon at Sombrero Beach. It is approx. MM50 on the ocean side. Located at the end of Sombrero road which may be found between the K Mart and the Publix store. It is free and has facilities.

Another option is the sail out to the Dry Tortugas. Research this on Google. It is a very nice day. Snorkeling is a possiblility here if that interests you.

It's possible but I don't think it's a good idea! The Keys are 100 miles long so you would end up with lots of backtracking. If you are flying into KW, then a day trip to Bahia Honda and Marathon is a good idea (the 7 mile bridge is cool). But folks find lots of stuff to do in KW so stay there and enjoy it! Now, if you are driving from Miami or Ft. L to KW, then there are many interesting stops along the way.

Yes it is possible and I'd recommend it just to get a taste of the differences of the Keys. I'd suggest you go at least as far as Marathon and Islamorada isn't out of the question. Do take time to visit Bahia Honda (it has 3 beaches, each with different characteristics), perhaps Sombrero Beach in Marathon, and have lunch there. Enjoy the drive over the 7 mile bridge and the other bridges too, noting the varying colors and the people fishing from the old bridges along the way. While on Big Pine Key be on the lookout for the diminutive Key deer. DON'T RUN OVER THEM!! They may be on the highway at any time of day. If you don't see any there, a side trip to the north at the stop light will likely get you near some. Drive slowly and watch carefully, especially in people's yards as the deer come in to eat the flowers. Take time to stop in for a drink or snack at Mangrove Mama's if you like a funky, fun place, but do not drink too much. The highways are patrolled heavily looking for drunk drivers.

Since you're going to be out & about, check out this place - www.nonamepub.com We'll often lunch there & visit Bahai Honda as well.

thanks everyone for all your incredible suggestions

If you visit Marathon, be sure and walk the pedestrian bridge to Pigeon Key from Marathon. There is a parking lot at the east end of the bridge. You will pass over flats and see shark, tarpon, baracuda, rays, and more.

Another 1000 yards east is the 7 Mile Cafe, a Keys landmark. An enjoyable place for a fish sandwich and conch chowder.

Sombrero is a very nice beach.

Keymom has some good points as there are sufficient activities in Key West to take up all the time you have, but I think my viewpoint is valid too as you get to see how the other Keys differ from Key West. I'd still advise the exploration this trip and start planning your next trip as you will find that a week is such a short time. Make sure you plan some time to get out on the water, snorkeling, glass bottom boat tour, or a sunset cruise, whatever you would like. It's a magical place.

I would strongly recommend taking a day trip from key west. The Keys are 100 miles long but the scenery along the way is beautiful. Around Mile Marker 73 (everything in the Keys is measured by Mile Markers) is Anne's Beach. It's a great park to spend the day if you want to avoid the crowds.