The Real Florida Keys

Florida Keys Vacation - Where the locals go

Florida Keys Beaches

The Beaches of the Florida Keys

Don’t let the brochures fool you.. You may have seen pictures of white sugar sand beaches, that run for miles but the truth is while we do have some beautiful beaches they are different than what you would expect.

While there are some beautiful beaches few are “natural”. In other words many are man made.

The natural beaches of the Keys tend to be rocky and the “sand” is mostly composed of flakes of the coral reef that protects most of the Florida Keys. I prefer the natural beaches untouched and pristine.

When you think of a beach you often think of crashing waves and deep water.. that too is how the Florida Keys beaches are different. Because of the coral reef that lays offshore which protects the Keys from the Atlantic waves and storms, lapping gentle waves and shallow clear waters that allow you to walk hundreds of yards into the ocean in many area’s is the rule. Often the bottom is somewhat rocky so bring your “boat shoes” so you are prepared.

The water temperature reaches 80 degrees or higher in the summer months, more like taking a bath, and seldom goes below 70 degrees in the heart of winter. Snorkelers and divers alike love to be able to come here to pursue their loves without a heavy wetsuit any time of the year.

Many of the “beaches” are no more than little way sides as you drive the length of the Florida Keys. These are the gems of the islands. Where you can stop to cool yourself, enjoy the view and perhaps throw a line in the water or relax in the sun for a few moments.

I hope you take the opportunity when you visit to get a bit off the beaten path and find some of these hidden gems. They are usually just a stones throw from the “main” road wherever you are and you will find solitude like nowhere else.

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