I am planning on driving from Tampa airport to Lower Keys end of May beginning of June (7 days). Driving through alligator alley. Any tips on places to stop along the way? I have done the Key West thing, I was thinking of staying on a different key and snorkeling and such. Not interested in Miami.

Islamorada in the keys.

Why not fly from TPA to EYW for ~$100 one way on Southwest, rent a car there and make your way back somewhere in the middle keys then drive back to TPA and return the car there. It would save you a lot of time driving from Tampa to Key West, about 8-10 hours, and the cost may be the same when you consider ga$, etc.

I agree with AAFF about the length of the drive - Florida is a surprisingly long state and that seems like too much time to spend on the road if not absolutely necessary. Just an opinion, you know.

Good thinking! I would rather spend my time soaking up rays than driving. How about beaches for snorkeling and shell collectors?