A Local’s Guide To The Florida Keys State Parks

The Florida Keys features 10 beautiful state parks, and each one offers unique landscapes and activities for all ages to enjoy. All of the state parks are suited to families and groups, but some offer more kid-friendly activities like gentle waves for snorkeling, kayaking, and other exciting outdoor opportunities. Of course, each park has its own style, including beaches lined with palm trees to more rugged parks with rocky shorelines, wild fauna, and hidden trails.

This guide will go over the best Florida Keys state parks so you can visit the ones that interest you most on your next trip. Plus, you'll learn which ones are best for certain activities along with the best time to visit so you can make the most of your stay!

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

Located on Key Largo, the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is an essential visit for all ages! This extra-large park has over 70 nautical miles full of amazing snorkeling, kayaking, and swimming opportunities where you can spot beautiful reefs along with colorful schools of fish at any hour.

Take a glass-bottom boat tour and then check out the small aquarium at the visitors center to learn all about the local sea life. With tons of activities along with unbeatable scenery, no visit to the Keys is complete without a trip to the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park!

This park is best visited in the early morning through evening so you can make full use of the rentals and snorkeling opportunities. While it does get crowded since it's a very popular Key Largo State Park, it's so large that you won't ever feel cramped for space!

Long Key State Park

Long Key State Park is a more rugged attraction that features amazing trails along with scenic mangroves with awesome bird-watching opportunities. While there may be fewer sporting activities here due to the protected landscape, Long Key State Park offers unique views and exciting trails that make it worth a visit!

While Long Key State Park is beautiful at any hour, it's best to visit from early morning to early afternoon so you can see a wide variety of birds, mangrove crabs, and other local wildlife. Luckily, the trails usually aren't too crowded so you'll be able to enjoy the rugged and unique landscapes at your own pace.

Bahia Honda State Park

Bahia Honda is a great Key West State Park that has a gorgeous, sprawling landscape with white sand beaches and turquoise waters, plus kayaking and snorkeling rentals in a beginner-friendly area. Perfect for families and groups, you can spend hours lounging around or experiencing schools of fish in crystal clear waters, and then enjoy a bite from the snack shack to complete your day!

The Bahia Honda State Park is great at any time of day, and while some seasons are a bit more crowded, it's well worth visiting yearround!

Indian Key Historic State Park

Located in Islamorada, the Indian Key Historic State Park is an offshore island park that features incredible wild fauna and coastal views! It takes about 20-45 minutes to kayak over (depending on how fast you paddle and the tide,) and once you arrive, you’re treated to an amazingly serene island filled with lush plants, historic building remnants, plus great views of the ocean and Keys.

Unfortunately, the main entrance dock has been damaged by a severe storm, and the park will remain closed until the dock is fully repaired. You can check the park's current status and reopening times on their official site before making any plans. Despite being closed at the moment, you can still kayak towards the island for some sprawling coastal views and fun in the sun!

Even though this historic park is beautiful at both sunrise and sunset, you should strive to return well before sunset so you aren't kayaking back in the dark. Otherwise, the views are great at any hour, and it's an essential visit once it's fully reopened!

The Islands of Islamorada

At The Islands of Islamorada, you have close access to all of the Florida Keys’ greatest state parks and exciting local attractions. Explore some of the region’s incredible beaches, trails, and recreation spots along with incredible dining options and more during your stay.

Plus, you can always relax and simply enjoy the sun on your own private white-sand beach that's located conveniently onsite. There’s never been a better time to explore the picturesque state parks in the Keys, and The Islands of Islamorada is the best place to start your adventure!