There are many great snowbird destinations in the U.S. where RVers go to escape the freezing winter temperatures. The beautiful deserts of Arizona, the coast of Texas, or sunny California are all great options. However, the tropical paradise of the Florida Keys is the ultimate destination for snowbird life.
While it’s a bit of a drive to get down to Mile Marker 0, you won’t regret the extra effort. Here’s why.
1. Beachfront RV Spots
What could be better than your own personal beach? There are very few places in the U.S. where you can camp right on the beach, and in the Keys, you’ll have your own slice of paradise just steps from your RV door. Plus, many of the parks and campgrounds have resort style amenities. Here are some of the most popular places to camp in the Florida Keys:
Bahia Honda State Park
Bahia Honda State Park is famous for being one of the best beaches in Southern Florida. It’s a popular spot for nature lovers, and the perfect place to enjoy some of The Keys’ best activities, including snorkeling and kayaking. It’s also a prime location for enjoying spectacular sunsets.
Sunshine Key RV Resort and Marina
Located on the 75-acre island of Ohio Key, this is one of the area’s most popular RV resorts because of it’s beautiful property and luxury amenities. The resort has an adjoining marina, making it a great place for fishing and other water activities. Sunshine Key RV Resort is the perfect place to get away and relax.
Boyd’s Key West Campground
Located at Mile Marker 5, Boyd’s Key West Campground is one of the southernmost campgrounds you can stay at in the U.S. You’ll feel right at home there with its laid back atmosphere and daily activities, such as water aerobics, movie nights, yoga, and even line dancing. Plus, you’ll be within close proximity to all the great dining, shopping, and activities that Key West has to offer.
2. Perfect Weather
Being the southernmost region in the U.S., The Keys couldn’t be a more perfect spot to escape the cold winter temperatures. Temperatures from December through March are in the 70s, making it the best time to visit. The average sea temperature during winter months stays in the 70s as well. You won’t have to worry about rain either, as winter is their driest season.
3. Amazing Food
Not only do the Florida Keys have incredible seafood, but the proximity to Cuba also brings many great Cuban restaurants to the area as well. You can’t visit the islands without trying some conch fritters and their world famous key lime pie. You can dine with views of the ocean with sand between your toes or right along the sidewalks of Key West’s popular Duval Street.
4. World Class Activities
The clear, turquoise waters of the Florida Keys offer ideal conditions for experiencing life at and under the sea. If you’re a lover of water activities there are few better places to be.
Great Snorkeling and Diving
Snorkeling and Diving opportunities are plentiful along the entire stretch of islands, but many people choose John Pennenkamp Coral Reef State Park. Located on Key Largo, this state park was the first undersea park in the U.S. Popular activities include sunbathing on the beach, glass-bottom boat tours, and kayaking through the mangrove swamps.
Snorkeling and scuba diving are the best ways to experience the park’s beautiful coral reefs. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Christ of The Abyss as it is one of the most famous scuba diving sites and attracts visitors from all over the world.
Deep Sea Fishing
If the idea of hauling in a really big fish sounds fun to you, then you’ll love deep sea fishing in the Florida Keys. Take to the sea in search of tuna, mahi-mahi, sailfish, bonefish, grouper, and others.
In addition to great fishing, the sheer beauty of the area makes deep sea fishing in the Florida Keys an unforgettable experience. There are fishing charters available all over the keys, try a Google search or use TripAdvisor to find the right one in your area.
Explore History
From shipwrecks and pirates to the home of one of America’s most beloved and honored authors, history buffs can easily find something of interest in the Keys. Even the architecture in Key West exudes rich historical value.
Old Town Key West is spectacular and shouldn’t be missed. The 3,000 wooden structures in the district were constructed between 1886 to 1912. The area makes up the largest historical district on the US Department of the Interior’s National Register of Historic Places.
While downtown, take the short drive to Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park and walk the grounds of the 19th-century military fort. The fort played a key role in the American Civil war. Today it houses the largest collection of Civil War cannons, earning a spot on the National Register of Historic Places.
National Parks
Visitors to the Florida Keys can easily access three of America’s national parks, which considering there are only fifty-eight in total, is pretty impressive.
Everglades National Park, Biscayne National Park, and Dry Tortugas National Park are all within a three hours drive from anywhere in the Keys. Keep in mind that Dry Tortugas is only accessible via boat or seaplane and is a full-day commitment. Don’t let stop you. The American National Park system is wonderful and each park is unique, beautiful, and well worth a visit.
If you decide to head to the Florida Keys this winter, you certainly won’t be disappointed. Be sure to explore as many of the islands as you can. Each one of them has something different to offer. Most importantly, immerse yourself in the slow-paced island lifestyle and enjoy some sun and relaxation.
What do you think about visiting the Florida Keys? Is it on your list of places to visit? Leave a comment!
Love the outdoors!