Florida Keys

The Lower Keys

By Jim Campbell

Quiet and beyond romantic, The Lower Keys are among Florida’s best kept secrets. With a prime location directly between Key West and Marathon, the group of islands is among the most beautiful in the nation – and they’re also largely free of the business of surrounding areas. Plus, with names like Summerland Key, Big Torch, and Saddlebunch Keys, the names of the island in The Lower Keys are bound to pique the interest of honeymooners looking for creative day trips.

What separates The Lower Keys from other sections of The Florida Keys is simply the variety of honeymoon activities that couples can enjoy. Go diving into the Great Florida Reef to explore the largest coral reef ecosystem in the continental U.S. Take a leisurely stroll through one of the area’s two national wildlife refuges to see all sorts of incredible species. Indulge in local cuisine and treat your taste buds to some of the freshest fish you’ll ever have.

The possibilities are endless for honeymooners ready to embrace the natural oasis.

LGBTQIA+ Inclusivity
LGBTQIA+ couples will feel right at home in The Lower Keys, and the Florida Keys as a whole, thanks to its celebration of diversity and inclusion. The Lower Keys are well-regarded among the United States’ preeminent destinations for honeymooning couples, and nearby Key West’s “One Human Family” motto attests to how everyone is welcome. From LGBTQIA+ accommodations and clubs to gay-owned cafes and restaurants, it is a paradisaical destination for those looking to rest and relax. Plus, there are plenty of nearby activities with an LGBTQIA+ focus, including outdoor sports and The Tennessee Williams Museum.

About The Lower Keys

Most Romantic Spot in The Lower Keys

Sunsets and Florida go hand-in-hand, so The Lower Keys’ most romantic spot is naturally going to be the best vantage point for taking in the breathtaking colors. To do so, all you need to do is head over to Bahia Honda State Park on Bahia Honda Key, located just a few miles east of Big Pine Key. Before the magic hour arrives, you can enjoy 500 acres of natural beauty featuring snorkeling and kayaking rentals and a tasty snack bar. And when the sun begins to set, simply look west and take your partner’s hand in yours – you’ll thank us later.

Things to Do in The Lower Keys

  • Looe Key Snorkel from Big Pine Key – Snorkel through the truly spectacular Great Florida Reef on a private excursion. This incredibly romantic outing features a private boat ride from Big Pine Key to Looe Key and offers a prime opportunity to see rays, parrotfish, and barracuda up close.
  • Bridge Loop in Big Pine Key on Boat – Take in the beauty of Florida’s coast on this one-hour boat ride. You and your loved one will learn all about Spanish Harbor Bridge, Bahia Honda Bridge, and Seven Mile Bridge – and see them all, of course!
  • Clear Kayak Tours in the Florida Keys – A small group tour is one of the best ways to experience the Florida Keys, and seeing it all from a kayak makes it even better. Plus, true to its name, you’ll be sitting in a clear-bottomed kayak so that you can enjoy all that swims beneath the surface.
  • Veterans Memorial Park – Whether you’re looking to relax with a sunset stroll or lay back during a romantic picnic, Veterans Memorial Park’s terrific views provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor fun.
  • Jet Ski Around Big Pine Key – Few things are as integral to fun in Florida as jet skis, so book a full-day experience and enjoy the adrenaline-packed activity!

The Lower Keys Restaurants & Local Cuisine

  • Founded in 1931 as a general store and bait shop, No Name Pub has ironically made a name for itself as a favorite tavern for locals and tourists alike. The quirky spot serves up all your casual favorites in its spacious outdoor area and indoor bar, which is lined with autographed dollar bills.
  • Indulge in locally-caught seafood, creative desserts, and nearly 200 beer options at Square Grouper and My New Joint on Cudjoe Key. The two-in-one restaurant and lounge is a great place to relax on a quiet afternoon, and eco-minded honeymooners will especially love that all straws and paper products at the restaurant are made from corn!
  • Hop over to Summerland Key for a cozy breakfast at The Galley Grill. The spot is right on Overseas Highway and offers American favorites to fill you up for a day of adventuring.
  • Eclectically decorated and bursting with personality, Mangrove Mama’s on Summerland Key offers everything from authentic Cuban paella and pan-seared mahi to lobster Rubens and Philly cheesesteaks.
  • Live entertainment seven days a week makes Looe Key Tiki Bar & Grill a must for honeymooners on Ramrod Key. The waterfront tiki bar has a vibe all its own and is ideal for chilling with an ice-cold Mai Tai.

Traveling to The Lower Keys

Where are The Lower Keys?
The Lower Keys are a chain of islands located in the southernmost portion of the Florida Keys. They are situated between Key West to the west and the Middle Keys to the east, all of which are connected by the Overseas Highway (Route 1). The Lower Keys include the islands of Big Pine Key, Little Torch Key, Summerland Key, Ramrod Key, Cudjoe Key, Sugarloaf Key, and several others.

Flights to The Lower Keys
Key West International Airport (EYW) is the most popular airport for flying to The Lower Keys. The airport is approximately 25 miles west of the center of the Lower Keys and there are several airlines that offer flights to Key West International Airport including American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and Southwest Airlines.

Once you arrive at Key West International Airport, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to get to the Lower Keys. Alternatively, you can also fly into Miami International Airport (MIA) or Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), which are both located on the mainland, and then rent a car or take a shuttle service to the Lower Keys. The drive from Miami or Fort Lauderdale to the Lower Keys is roughly 150 miles and takes approximately 3-4 hours.

The Lower Keys Weather
You’ll enjoy warm temperatures throughout the year in this tropical favorite. The average temperature in the Lower Keys ranges from the mid-70s in the winter months to the mid-80s in the summer months. The water temperature in the Lower Keys is also warm, ranging from the mid-70s in the winter to the mid-80s in the summer, meaning that you can swim, snorkel, boat, and fish year-round.

What is the best month to travel to The Lower Keys?
Late December, right after the holidays, through May marks peak tourist season in The Lower Keys. Travelers who don’t mind a bit of humidity may consider a visit during the summer months in order to avoid crowds and take advantage of better hotel deals.

How long should a honeymoon in The Lower Keys be?
A few days is the ideal amount of time for romantic rest and relaxation in The Lower Keys. The variety of attractions and density of restaurants throughout The Lower Keys easily allow for a week of romantic adventuring if you have the time.