Eating your way down the Florida Keys is half the appeal of the drive — fresh stone crab, conch, and the Keys' signature dessert are all part of the trip. Here's what to eat, and a couple of activities beyond diving and fishing.
Key Lime Pie and Stone Crab
Key lime pie, made with the small, tart limes that once grew throughout the islands, is practically mandatory at some point on a Keys trip, and stone crab claws — in season roughly October through May — are a Florida delicacy worth seeking out at any of the seafood shacks along the highway.
Conch Everywhere
Conch fritters and conch salad, a raw, ceviche-style preparation, show up on menus throughout the Keys and are as close to a regional specialty as the islands have — Marathon and Islamorada both have well-regarded spots worth a stop on the drive.
Beyond Diving: Kayaking and Wildlife
Backcountry kayaking through the Keys' mangrove channels offers a quieter side of the islands, and several state parks along the route protect the endangered Key deer and other wildlife found nowhere else in the country. Browse Florida Keys tours and experiences below to plan your trip.
Pack for Island-Hopping
A multi-day drive with beach and boat stops calls for something light. The VacationGrabs Leather Sling Bag is an easy companion for the whole route.
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