A First-Time Visitor’s Guide to the Florida Keys: The Real Deal

by Bluescape

Okay so, you finally decided to head south. The Florida Keys. Nice. Just saying it makes you think of blue water and cold drinks. But honestly, if you’ve never been down here, looking at the map is kind of confusing. It’s just a long line of islands and everyone talks about Key West like it’s the only place that matters.

Here’s the thing though. The best parts of the Keys aren't on the busy streets. Its on the water. If you are looking for Florida Keys vacation rentals that get you away from the noise but still close to the fun, you got to check out the Lower Keys. Specifically Cudjoe Key.

Why stay here?

Most people book a hotel right in the middle of the chaos in Key West. Which is fun for like, one night. But if you want to actually relax, you need a home base.

The Lower Keys (around Mile Marker 20-30) are perfect cause you’re in the middle. You are maybe a 25 min drive from Key West if you want to party, but you are also right next to the best snorkeling at Looe Key. Plus, staying in Vacation-Rentals in Florida Keys usually gets you way more space than a tiny hotel room.

The "Venture Out" Spot

If you look at our site, you’ll see a bunch of listings for "Venture Out". This isn’t just some random neighborhood. It’s a gated community that feels like a little village.

People love it cause its built for boaters. Most of the houses have canal access, meaning if you rent a boat, you tie it up right at your back door. Pretty convenient.

  • The Pool: Its huge and right on the ocean. Views are crazy.
  • Courts: Tennis, pickleball.. all that stuff.
  • Easy access: There’s a marina and store inside the gates so you don’t have to leave for everything.

What to actually do?

Okay so you booked your spot. Now what.

  1. Get on the Water: Seriously. Rent a kayak. The mangroves around Cudjoe are full of life... you might see sharks (the nice kind), rays, maybe a manatee.
  2. Looe Key Reef: People say Key Largo is best for diving but honestly? Looe Key is better. Its super bright and full of fish.
  3. Key West Day Trip: Go down for the sunset at Mallory Square, get some Key Lime Pie (everyone fights about who has the best one, just try a few), then drive back to the quiet rental.
  4. Key Deer: Go to Big Pine Key nearby. The deer there are tiny. Like dog size. Just drive slowly because they stand in the road a lot.

Couple things to pack

  • Sunscreen: Get "Reef Safe" stuff. We try to protect the coral down here.
  • Shoes: Bring water shoes or Tevas. The ocean floor can be rocky.
  • Food: Stop at a grocery store in Marathon or Florida City before you get all the way down. Saves cash.

Ready to go? Whether you want a stilt house or a spot for the RV, we got plenty of Florida Keys vacation rentals ready. Check out the listings.

 

Categories: 
Real estate