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The best activities for your Florida Keys vacation


October 12, 2020

With 125-miles of island chains, the Florida Keys are a fantastic destination for anyone looking for a truly unique vacation experience. From the culture and nightlife of Key West to the beautiful parks and waters of Islamorada and Key Largo, there is something for everyone to enjoy. At Calypso Sailing, we take great pride in the Florida Keys and want to give you the best sailing experience we can offer. Because of this, we have listed some fantastic activities you and your family can enjoy while vacationing in the Keys.

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling
From Key Largo to Key West, the scuba diving and snorkeling in the Florida Keys cannot be beat! With some of the best underwater sites to discover, divers of all levels can find something to enjoy. A great option to consider is exploring one of the Keys beautiful coral reef ecosystems. Interact with grouper, angelfish, hogfish, and much more at Alligator Reef in Islamorada or Sombrero Reef in Marathon. Take a scuba tour at the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park (the first underwater park in the nation) in Key Largo to enjoy more coral reefs, marine life, seagrass beds, and mangrove swamps.

Looking for something even more exciting? Consider shipwreck diving. The Florida Keys are home to the sunken remains of the USS Spiegel Grove, the USCG Duane, the Vandenberg, and more! Divers can explore the wreckage and learn more about the history of the Florida Keys. If you are not ready to dive, but still want to enjoy an underwater adventure- consider snorkeling! The generally warm, clear waters in Key West are perfect for gaining experience. Due to the water’s dense salt content, these areas are particularly buoyant which makes it even easier for all ages, shapes, and sizes to float along the surface.

Sightseeing
The sightseeing available in the Florida Keys rivals its amazing water adventures. With so many islands and attractions to discover, it is hard to know where to begin. For nature lovers, be sure to visit one of the many parks on the islands. From Bahia Honda State Park to the Dry Tortugas National Park, there are seemingly endless trails to hike, exotic birds to watch, and even beautiful park beaches to frolic at with family. For history lovers, consider touring one of the many historical sites in the Florida Keys like the Ernest Hemmingway Home and Museum or Fort Jefferson. For those who absolutely love diving, there is even a History of Diving Museum in Islamorada.
For those looking for a little scare, consider one of the many ghost tours available in Key West. There are also beautiful lighthouses, sandy beaches, and wildlife sanctuaries on many of the islands. For nightlife and shopping be sure to make a stop at Key West’s legendary Duval Street. With bars and attractions for all ages, Duval Street is a fantastic place to enjoy a cocktail or beer with friends! Hoping to find a breathtaking resort? Consider visiting one of the many beautiful resort options on Key Largo. There is something to enjoy on just about every island in the Florida Keys.

Fishing
If you love fishing, you will love the Florida Keys. Home to fantastic spots for deep-sea, fly, and shallow-water fishing. The Marquesas Keys are great for catching large and small fish alike. Begin in the shallows around the mangrove islands to find spectacular Snapper and Grouper. Anglers looking for larger fish can head to the rocky areas just north of the Marquesas to find Barracuda, Yellowtail Snapper, King Mackerel, and even Sharks.
For an even more intimate fishing experience, try exploring the Sugarloaf Keys, just east of the Marquesas. An area abundant with fish, these mangrove flats and creeks are perfect for a long, quiet day of fishing. If you want a local experience, consider fishing under the beautiful Bahia Honda Bridge. If deep-sea adventures are what you crave, visit the West Hump just outside of the island of Marathon. An underwater mountain, these seas have depths of over 500 feet. Test your strength against the massive Marlin and Tuna in this area, for a unique deep-sea fishing experience!

Sailing
Sailing the Florida Keys is a must for anyone visiting. Enjoy true freedom exploring the islands and taking in the crystal-clear waters. Whether it be for a day or weeks, chartering a catamaran or other vessel from Calypso sailing gives you total control over your experience. Spend hours or days at your favorite island snorkeling, swimming, or fishing. Dock one of the amazing Florida Key islands to enjoy the sights you and your family wish to see. With a sailboat charter from Calypso, you have the freedom to go where you want when you want. Why bother with traditional vacations when sailing is an option!

Worried about what food and drink to bring? Calypso sailing has you covered. With provision dining options, we will take the guess work out of finding a grocery store and worrying what to buy. By utilizing our provision packages, you can board a beautiful sailboat full of your favorite foods, snacks for the whole family, and all the ingredients you need for mealtimes. You can even opt for packages that include your favorite beverages! Because what could be better than enjoying your favorite cocktail while watching the sun sink below the sea? Have your vessel stocked with you and your friends’ favorite wine or beer. Celebrating an anniversary, retirement, or other special occasion?  We can help you design the perfect menu to ring-in these joyous events!

With Calypso sailing, there is never any shortage of fun activities you and your family and friends can indulge in! Contact our team today and we will be happy to provide you with all the important information you need to know in order to explore the Florida Keys. Our years of experience and diverse fleet of vessels can help you create memories that will last a lifetime. Book your dream sailing vacation with Calypso today!