Where to stay in the Keys
 

We're planning a trip to the Keys - we'll fly into Miami then drive down. Is it best to stay somewhere in the middle. . that way we can explore both north and south. Any recommendations on lodging will be appreciated.

The keys are over 120 miles long, so this is a pretty broad question. The middle and upper keys are generally considered better for snorkeling and diving; Key West is better for restaurants and other tourist activities. What kind of trip are you looking for?

We stayed 2 nights in Key Largo and 5 in Key West. We would have been better just staying 1 night in Key Largo as there wasn't very much to occupy us.

We're just looking to drive the entire length as we've never been to the keys. We don't dive, but may try snorkeling. We thought of staying somewhere in the middle; then we could take day trips in either direction. I understand there's not too many beach areas. . is this correct?

We are going to Key West the end of the month for the first time. We are staying at the Marriott in Key Largo for the first 2 nights and then Key West for a week. The decision to stay in the upper keys was due to our flight coming in late afternoon. I have heard the keys are beautiful to see while driving down and figured we will be well rested and can enjoy the drive in the daylight versus at night. Just something to take into consideration.

We stayed right in the middle on Long Key at the Lime Tree Bay resort, which was awesome. (www.limetreebayresort.com) I have details in my trip report here: http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...p;tid=34410787

It's only half an hour south to Bahia Honda park, which is gorgeous and you can spend all day there snorkeling, kayaking, picnicking and beaching. Very cool.

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roxy

I think it's best to stay in two different places. Somewhere in Islamorada or Key Largo and then in Key West. You don't want to spend hours each day in a car.