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.
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Oceanfront Park
Oceanfront Park in Marathon offers ocean views, picnic spots, kayak launches, fitness stations, and a dog-friendly field for outdoor fun.
JD Butterfly Garden and Nursery
JD Butterfly Garden & Nursery — butterfly garden, plant nursery & bistro in Key Largo, where you’ll stroll tropical gardens, shop native plants and relax at a charming café.
Harry S. Truman Little White House
Presidential museum in Key West.
Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
Key West’s historic fort meets beach paradise — snorkeling, history, sunsets.
Sunset Bay Park on Grassy Key
Sunset Bay Park (Grassy Key) — serene waterfront park on Grassy Key ideal for sunset viewing and island relaxation.
REEF Ocean Exploration Center for Marine Conservation
Explore the REEF Ocean Exploration Center: inspiring ocean discovery and conservation!
Edward B. Knight Pier
Popular with residents and tourists alike, the Edward B. Knight Pier is dog-friendly!
The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory
Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory — a tropical glass-domed haven where hundreds of free-flying butterflies, exotic birds, and flamingos enchant visitors in the heart of Key West.
Peace Park At Nelson Government Center
Bayfront park with pavilions & scenic picnic views in Key Largo
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.
Marathon Wild Bird Center
Rescue, rehab, and release wild birds in the Florida Keys—join the mission!
Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park
Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park — a unique blend of geology, history and nature trails in Islamorada.
Bayview Park
Bayview Park in the center of Key West and has the following amenities: Basketball courts Five public tennis courts and a Pro Shop Open area for picnics and family gatherings Pavilion Pepe Hernandez softball field Playground equipment area Six restrooms
Coupon Bight Aquatic Preserve
Coupon Bight Aquatic Preserve is a 5,400-acre protected area south of Big Pine Key, where vibrant seagrass beds, coral patch reefs, mangroves, and hard-bottom habitats support rich marine biodiversity.
Founders Park
45-acre recreation park in Islamorada with beach, pool, sports & playgrounds.