by: Michiel Van Kets
Imagine a group of delightful islands in the warm sun. Glorious stretches of beach invite you for a relaxed and sunny encounter while hibiscus and frangipani blossom full of color. Delightful
historical towns offer alfresco dining on freshly caught lobster and crab.
For a moment, you think you're in some tropical paradise in the Caribbean. But then you remember you're in the United States, in Florida. In fact, you’re in the Florida Keys, a chain of islands unfurling off the southeastern tip of Florida. It's one of the state's most seductive tourist destination and with Florida Keys vacation rentals, a very affordable one.
Despite their sequestered feel, the Florida Keys are easy to reach as many of the islands are linked by bridges. And the first island in the chain is located just 15 miles south of Miami.
The other 1700 or so islands in the archipelago extend for 106 miles south-southwest in an arc to the uninhabited Dry Tortugas. The archipelago is divided into three areas - Upper Keys, Middle Keys and Lower Keys. Here’s a look at some of the major attractions in the Keys.
The major island in whole chain is Key West, home to over 30% of the entire population of the Keys. Other than offering some of the finest fishing and diving in the world, the Keys also offer parks and wildlife reserves, shopping and just plain old relaxation.
It's a great spot to organise fishing and diving trips and also features an atmospheric old town. Its main thoroughfare of Duval Street is steeped in history and is home to taverns once frequented by Ernest Hemingway who had a home on the island and loved fishing in the Gulf. Families can enjoy the island, too. There's the celebrated Conch Train and a branch of Ripley's Believe it or Not. Each day at sunset, a variety of entertainers arrive to perform for locals and visitors. Take advantage of Key West vacation rentals for some great accommodation deals.
Delightful as the place is, it would be foolish to spend all of your Keys vacation there. Each area of the Keys has its own unique charms and a few days in each would pay rich rewards. The lovely islands of Islamorada, Long Key, Marathon, Big Pine Key are just a few of the other treasures waiting in store.
Tavernier is a quiet island to the immediate south of Key Largo. It's a great base to set off on boating expeditions in Florida Bay or out to the Atlantic. It's also a major attraction for ornithologists being the home of the Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center. Tavernier vacation rentals include a fine range of accommodation units for every need and budget.
Islamorada, meaning purple isle, is a lively island with everything from sports bars to comedy clubs. It's also known as the sport fishing capital of the world. It's the place to go if you want to head out on the Gulf in search of tuna or other fish. It also offers wonderful reef and wreck diving with a host of dive shops offering lessons and equipment rental.
Long Key is home to Long Key State Park and is perfect for those who want to get away from it all. It's a popular sport for campers and nature lovers.
In the heart of the Keys lies Marathon, another island famed for sport fishing, diving and swimming with dolphins. There's also a museum and a beach. Marathon is one of two Florida Keys with an airport.
Big Pine Key in the Lower Florida Keys is a relaxed, unspoilt island famous for its tiny Key Deer. These are very rare white tail deer which number around 300. It’s the perfect spot for nature lovers.
Finding the right accommodation will go a long way towards enhancing the pleasure of your trip to this enchanting region of the United States. Fortunately, wherever you are in the area you can take advantage of Florida Keys vacation rentals for your accommodation needs. This way you'll be able to select the perfect residence for your needs at the keenest prices. Staying in a villa on the beach is far more pleasant than choosing a plain old hotel room which could be anywhere.
About The Author
Michiel Van Kets writes articles for Florida Beach Club, a leading online portal for those looking for Florida Keys vacation rentals in all areas on this holiday destination. Find Key West vacation rentals; apartments or villas, http://floridabeachclub.com/vacation-rentals/florida/everglades-keys/Key%20West/ or get a good deal on Tavernier vacation rentals today.
