The Florida Keys have long thrived as a destination for travelers seeking rest and relaxation in a tropical setting: water as far as the eye can see; swaying palm trees; and warm, gentle trade winds blowing. The 125-mile island chain stretches from just south of Miami to Key West and lies in three bodies of water: the Atlantic Ocean, Florida Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.

Henry Flagler, often credited as the “inventor of modern Florida” because his developments established tourism as one of the state’s major industries, extended his Florida East Coast Railway’s Over-Sea Railroad from Miami to Key West in the early 1900s. A 1935 hurricane destroyed the railroad, and the Florida Keys Overseas Highway, built over the railway, was completed in 1938. The epic 113-mile-long road, sometimes referred to as the Highway That Goes to Sea, crosses 42 bridges and was named an All-American Road in 2009. Simply put, it’s the best way to experience the entirety of the island chain.

The Florida Keys comprise five regions, each with its own vibe. Here, we take a look at each region and how to kick back and relax during a visit to the southernmost part of the continen- tal United States.

KEY LARGO

Considered the “Dive Capital of the World,” Key Largo — the first of the Florida Keys reached when traveling south from Miami — offers an abundance of underwater adventures. Experienced and novice divers and snorkelers alike will be thrilled by teeming schools of tropical fish, vibrant coral reefs and clear waters at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the first U.S. underwater preserve.

Sportfishing enthusiasts will want to spend some time in Islamorada and out on its waters. After all, backcountry sportfishing and saltwater fly-fishing were pioneered here in what’s known as the “Sportfishing Capital of the World.” Expert charter and tournament-grade captains navigate the Atlantic Ocean, Florida Bay and the Gulf Stream that flows offshore to find schools of mahi-mahi, sailfish, kingfish, tuna, wahoo and marlin, depending on the season. These waters also prove perfect for standup paddling, kiteboarding, snorkeling and scuba diving.

Named by workers while building Flagler’s Over-Sea Railroad — “This is getting to be a real marathon!” — this 23-mile stretch of the Florida Keys is considered the island chain’s boating and family destination. Nearby Hawks Cay Resort provides a terrific spot for both groups to stay.

Perhaps the most famous site in Marathon is Seven Mile Bridge,
one of the longest segmental bridges in the world. Earlier this year, the 2.2-mile Historic Old Seven Mile Bridge reopened for walking, running, bicycling and other pedestrian activities. Below the bridge find Pigeon Key, where many workers lived during the railroad’s construction. The historic buildings and education center are definitely worth a visit.

Rather than blowing past the Lower Keys en route to Key West, take some time to explore and enjoy what are known as the Natural Keys. This part of the island chain features two national wildlife refuges — National Key Deer Refuge and Great White Heron National Wildlife Refuge, established in 1938 — as well as Bahia Honda State Park.

Just before crossing into Key West, explore Stock Island’s intriguing blend of commercial shrimping boats and a thriving artists’ community where painters, sculptors and other artisans find inspiration and create masterful works of art.

The Conch Republic marks the southernmost point in the continental United States and was once Florida’s largest city. The tropical and laid-back vibe inspired the likes of Ernest Hemingway, Tennessee Williams, Robert Frost, Jimmy Buffet and even Judy Blume. Aside from its Baha- mian and Cuban heritage, Key West boasts the largest historic district of wood-frame buildings in the country, many housing inns and restaurants like The Gardens Hotel and über popular Blue Heaven.

From historic sites to buzzing bars and sunset celebrations, everyone is invited to come as they are to Key West to take part in the revelry and splendor on an island that is whatever you want it to be.

Two airports serve the Florida Keys: Miami International Airport, about 60 miles north of Key Largo, with more than 400 flights arriving daily; and Key West International Airport in the southernmost point of the Keys, with direct flights from Asheville (AVL), Atlanta (ATL), Boston (BOS), Charlotte (CLT), Chicago (ORD), Cincinnati (CVG), Dallas (DFW), Fort Lauderdale (FLL), Houston (IAH), Indianapolis (IND), Miami (MIA), Orlando (MCO, SFB), Philadelphia (PHL), Nashville (BNA), Newark (EWR), New York City (JFK, LGA), St. Petersburg (PIE), Tampa (TPA) and Washington, D.C. (DCA, IAD). Car rentals are available, in addition to taxis and rideshares. Mile markers are commonly used to denote addresses along the Overseas Highway.

Bungalows Key Largo

This adults-only, all-inclusive resort sits on 12 acres, and all of its 135 private bunga- lows boast outdoor soaking tubs and garden showers plus verandas to watch each day’s sunrise and sunset.

99010 Overseas Highway, Key Largo
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The Capitana

Choose from elegantly appointed guestrooms, spacious suites and private cottages during a stay at this new waterfront boutique hotel with its own slice of beach.

2401 N. Roosevelt Blvd., Key West
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Sunset Key Cottages

Retreat to your private cottage and an exclusive island getaway with its own white-sand beach, exquisite dining and rejuvenating spa — all just 500 yards off Key West.

245 Front St., Key West

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Azur Restaurant

Enjoy Mediterranean flavors served in a casual yet refined atmosphere at this locals’ favorite restaurant in the heart of Old Town Key West, just a few blocks from Duval Street.

425 Grinnell St., Key West

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Chef Michael’s

The culinary team serves fresh fish prepared in myriad ways, along with fine cuts of beef and vegetarian options. Order the lionfish and help eradicate the invasive species that threatens the coral reef.

81671 Overseas Highway, Islamorada
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Latitudes

For a truly memorable fine-dining experience, make reservations at this award- winning, alfresco restaurant and watch the sun set into the Gulf of Mexico while enjoying sumptuous bites.

Sunset Key Cottages, 245 Front St., Key West

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