People hiking through lush greenery under a partly cloudy sky.

Beaches, Parks & Gardens

Think “beach day,” Keys-style. Here, sandy stretches pop up in a few special spots, but most water access comes with a twist—limestone rocks, shady mangroves, and clear shallows that feel like your own natural swimming pool. Add in tropical gardens, local parks and playgrounds, and trails perfect for wandering, and you’ve got plenty of ways to play outside. From state parks to secret picnic spots, these listings prove you don’t need miles of sand to enjoy paradise—you just need a sunblock and a little curiosity.

Filters
Destination
Category
Key West

Fort Zachary Taylor Beach

History and beach at Key West’s iconic Fort Zachary Taylor — snorkel, stroll, sunset.

Key Largo

Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park

The park is home to 84 protected species, including wild cotton, mahogany mistletoe, and the American crocodile, with accessible trails perfect for exploring nature and wildlife.

Key West

Rosalynn Carter Butterfly Garden

Discover the Little White House’s butterfly garden, dedicated to First Lady Rosalynn Carter.

Key West

Truman Waterfront Park

Truman Waterfront Park — scenic public waterfront park in Key West offering picnic spots, a playground and stunning harbor views.

Key West

Oldest House Museum & Gardens Key West

Old Island Restoration Foundation — preserving historic buildings & culture in Key West since 1960.

Key West

Fort East Martello Museum

Explore Civil War history, unique art, and the eerie legend of Robert the Doll at Fort East Martello Museum.

Key West

Smathers Beach

Smathers Beach — Key West’s scenic oceanfront escape for sun, swim, and seaside strolls.

Key Largo

MOTE Key Largo Coral Nursery

Mote Marine Laboratory’s Florida Keys Research Campuses are dedicated to coral reef science and restoration.

Key West

Indigenous Park

Quiet native-tree and bird sanctuary in Key West.

Islamorada

Rain Barrel Village

Explore Rain Barrel Village: Florida Keys' vibrant artisan shops, tropical gardens, and iconic Betsy the Lobster!

The Lower Keys

Blue Hole Observation Platform

Visit the trail and observation deck at Blue Hole, a cenote-like pond that is the largest body of fresh water in the Florida Keys.

Key West

The Key West Nature Preserve

The Key West Nature Preserve – a hidden coastal oasis of mangroves, native wildlife, and quiet beachfront tucked behind bustling Key West.

Key West

Edward B. Knight Pier

Popular with residents and tourists alike, the Edward B. Knight Pier is dog-friendly!

Key West

Nelson English Park

Nelson English Park is a neighborhood green space in Key West with fields, shaded areas, and walking paths for casual outdoor fun.

Key West

Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center

Marine sanctuary protecting reefs, seagrass, mangroves & heritage in the Florida Keys.