Q3 in the Florida Keys: Sargassum Who?
Summer in the Florida Keys has been packed with awards, island events, community giving, sandbar days, trivia nights, and plenty to look forward to next season.
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Made by locals, for locals—and everyone who loves the Florida Keys.
Welcome to Local Keys Guide!
These days, there's no shortage of websites, blogs, and influencers sharing tips about the Keys. Local Keys Guide isn't trying to be anything flashy. It's just a simple, homegrown resource you can use (or not) if you want a little extra help navigating our slice of paradise.
We created this guide with one simple goal: to support the heart and soul of our island communities. From family-run shops and “mom and pops” to small nonprofits and independent tour guides, we're here to shine a light on the people and places that make the Keys so special.
Whether you're a lifelong local or visiting for the first time, you'll find trusted recommendations, hidden gems, and real insider tips from those who live and breathe the island life.
“Sombrero Reef snorkel trips and sunset eco history tours from Marathon.”
“Luxury private boat charters, sandbar days, snorkeling, island hopping, sunset cruises, and custom Key West water adventures.”
Do you know why Key Largo is known as the “Dive Capital of the World?” Key Largo didn't just earn its nickname, it dove right into it!
From colorful coral gardens to legendary shipwrecks, this slice of the Florida Keys is a diver's daydream. Whether you're snorkeling vibrant coral reefs, exploring sunken shipwrecks, or just floating over the only living coral barrier reef in North America— Key Largo offers underwater experiences that make scrolling on your phone seem, well… a little dry.
Fun fact: Many people think the Florida Keys are just Key West, but the Keys actually stretch over 120 miles with more than 30 islands connected by 42 bridges!
Island treasures, everyday essentials, and everything in between!
Shopping in the Florida Keys is part of the adventure! From local boutiques and gift shops to grocery stores and beachwear spots, there's no shortage of places to find what you need—or something you didn't know you wanted.
You'll find beachwear shops and stylish island boutiques in Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, and Key West.
Stock up at Publix and Winn-Dixie, or try local markets like Payfair in Islamorada or Fausto's in Key West.
The Keys are full of fun and funky gift shops offering handmade art, conch shell décor, sea glass jewelry, and much more.
Looking for pet-friendly places in the Florida Keys? You're in the right spot. From dog-friendly beaches and outdoor patios to parks, shops, and hotels that welcome furry friends, we've rounded up the best spots where you and your four-legged travel buddy can explore together.
Just a friendly reminder—well-behaved owners are a must, too. Please keep your pets on a leash, clean up after them, and be mindful of local wildlife and sensitive areas.
🐾 Pet Friendly PlacesFishing charters, watersports, and unique experiences
Fresh seafood, Cuban cuisine, and island flavors
State parks, beaches, and natural wonders
Salons, fuel, chambers of commerce, and local services
Local boutiques, tackle shops, and island essentials
The Diving Capital of the World
A quiet Upper Keys community with local charm
The Sport Fishing Capital of the World
The Heart of the Florida Keys
Home of the Key Deer and natural beauty
A hidden gem in the Lower Keys
The Southernmost Point of the Continental US
Summer in the Florida Keys has been packed with awards, island events, community giving, sandbar days, trivia nights, and plenty to look forward to next season.
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If you own a locally-based business in the Florida Keys, you're welcome to submit your listing—we'd love to hear your story. We want to focus on highlighting the ones that reflect how we live, where we eat, and how we enjoy our islands.
Submit Your Listing🐚
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No spam, no forced schedule—just the good Keys stuff when there's something worth sharing.