Spring Break Part 1-Florida Keys - Ridgefield Moms

 

Taking the family to Florida for Spring Break? Then you won’t want to miss our three-part series on trips to the Sunshine State, including our Local Moms’ recs for the Florida Keys, Palm Beach and Naples. First, read on for where to stay, what to do, where to eat and more in Key West. Known for its literary history and vibrant party scene, it’s actually one of our favorite family-friendly destinations.

Know Before You Go

This 112-mile long chain of islands below mainland Florida is a bit of a drive (you can also take a ferry from Ft. Myers) but it’s definitely worth it for its laid-back feel, world-class fishing, and amazing snorkeling and kayaking. Got kids who would go stir-crazy at a formal resort with few activities? The Keys are a no-brainer for an active family!

 

Stay

In Islamorada, check out The Moorings and Cheeca Lodge, two very popular resorts located in a choice part of the Keys.

For a super family-friendly hotel, filled with activities (think: swimming with dolphins and paddle boarding in a lagoon), Hawks Cay continues to appeal to those looking for a resort with lots for the kids do.

Do

Book a charter for deep sea fishing, visit the Turtle Hospital or Dolphin Research Center, snorkel on Sombrero Reef, feed the enormous tarpon at Robbie’s in Islamorada, drive to Key West and visit Hemingway’s Home and The Key West Shipwreck Museum, take a kayak tour with Marathon Kayak and drive across the 7-mile beach for a visit to Bahia Honda state park (kayaks are available to rent and they also offer snorkel trips)

 

Eat

There’s nothing formal in the Keys—enjoy Tiki Hut style dining and tons of al fresco options.  We love Morada Bay for the perfect sunset, great vibe and rum punches (a great spot for the kids to run around on the beach as well).  And, on either side, you have two other great options with Pierre’s if you are looking for gourmet cuisine and Islamorada Fish Company for you guessed it, an amazing selection of seafood! In Marathon, lunch at either Burdine’s, Sparky’s Landing or Keys Fisheries Market for an authentic Keys experience and for dinner Lazy Days or The Lighthouse Grill are both great choices for nice water views.

After being devasted by Hurricane Irma, it is amazing to see #keysstrong in action with the efforts to rebuild! Visiting the Florida Keys is a great way to support such a strong and vibrant community.

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