Things to see and do in lower Keys?

My first trip to the Keys was in 1955 and went fishing off the bridges and caught a red snapper. I would try that if you like to fish. If you like to snorkel or scuba dive I would try Loo key marine sanctuary off of Big Pine key which is fairly pristine. It is a small area but lots of fish and coral to see. At least it was about 15 years ago. They used to run a live-aboard to the Dry Tortugas if you are more adventurous.

By far the best part of the Keys is underwater. The reef is the place to be in the Keys.

Marianne

We have never been to Fort Jefferson, mainly because we were usually only in KW for 2-3 days on a motorcycle road trip and didn't want to "waste" a precious day on FJ! I wish we had, because now even though we'll have a month, we have two dogs that can't be left alone that long.

Go snorkeling - If the water's a little cool, just rent a shortie wetsuit and you'll be fine. Or you can buy them for about $50.

My favorite 'restaurant' is Keys Fisheries. Sit at picnic tables on the dock next to where the boats come in and unload. Can't beat it. Absolutely terrific.

Keysfisheries.com

The accompanying elevated tiki bar was named 'Keys Drinkeries' the last time I was there. I understand they change the name every year.

Everything faces west so you can watch for the green flash.

Even though you've done Key West, have you taken the boat ride out to Fort Jefferson in the dry Tortugas? Really a unique experience.

Hi,

I'd go see the Wright Museum on my way to the Keys. Technology can be so fascinating.

a few more:
-Bahia Honda state park which is just North over the bridge from you has the best beaches on the Keys
- check out Sombrero Beach in Marathon it is a nice one and free - head North from big Pine Key and after you get in Marathon go right at the traffic light at the Publix on Sombrero Beach BLVd. It is at the end of the road.
-take a sight seeing flight over the Keys from the Marathon airport
-Rent some jet skis and try them out. Several placee take jet ski tours
-Check out the Turtle hospital in Marathon
-Take an Eco tour to an off shore key with Capt Bill Keough. He is at the bridge that goes from Big Pine Key to No name Key
-You can rent kayaks all over the place and some places will drop them off where you are staying and then pick them up.
-If you are an RV'r, make sure to check out the RV tent at the Big Pine Key Flea market (every Sat and Sunday). I load up on parts and pieces for my TT there. They have every thing you would ever need and at prices that are much lower then a dealers.


Jack L

Square Grouper for lunch or dinner (get there early or late for dinner)...it is south of big pine but not in key west....forget name of the key.

Bike the bike paths.

Keys Fisheries for lunch or dinner...get there early or late.

big pine restaurant has some really good ribs and I am mostly a vegetarian!

This page seems to have good links. 163 things to do in the keys.

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g34340-Activities-Florida_Keys_Florida.html

Thanks for all of the suggestions. We don't kayak, but if rentals are available, we may give it a try. We're planning on fishing, biking, and anything else that seems like fun.