8 Family-Friendly Vacation Ideas for the Florida Keys

This stunning 24-acre waterfront property in Marathon, away from the mayhem of Duval Street in Key West, is situated in the sleepy mid-Keys. Still new after opening in 2019, Isla Bella features white sand beaches, a huge main zero-entry pool and three smaller pools (plus one for adults only when Mom or Dad need a break). Daily kids’ activities include scavenger hunts, crafts, a candy “happy hour” and family games. The family suites are the standard for what every hotel should do – parents get a king-sized bed and bath and kids get their own room with two double beds and a bath. The beach swimming is not great, but there are lots of watersports available if you’re itching for the ocean. 

One of the least-visited national parks outside of Alaska is this gorgeous 100 square mile chain of islands, 70 miles off the coast of Key West. It’s only accessible by ferry or seaplane, but totally worth it. The main island holds Fort Jefferson, which began construction in the mid 19th century and was later abandoned. You can explore the fort, swim on a quiet white sand beach or snorkel around the fort in shallow water for an incredible glimpse of the colorful sea creatures below. Key West Seaplane Adventures offers half or full-day excursions with a stocked cooler and snorkeling gear included with your ticket. You can also camp overnight on the beach if you’re feeling very adventurous. 

Engaging tour guides make the tour of President Harry Truman’s vacation spot feel like anything but homework. From the president’s poker table to his Hawaiian shirt collection, this museum gives an insight into the lighter side of the presidency as well as a peek at the infamous “Dewey Defeats Truman” headline framed on the wall. 

A museum dedicated to the history of diving gear may sound dry, but this hands-on museum is engaging for kids and educational, too. See ridiculous homemade diving contraptions, test how long you can hold your breath and sit in a replica of Hailey’s diving bell. There’s also a scavenger hunt for kids who want to seek hidden treasures. 

Get up close with a dolphin, at your own comfort level at this research and educational facility. If your kid isn’t ready to swim with a dolphin at the Dolphin Encounter, they can make waves on a submerged platform with the Family Dolphin Splash or give them a high-five from the dock with the Play With the Dolphin experience. Before or after, you can watch the dolphins play, watch a theater presentation, have a snack at the snack cart or romp around the spray ground.       

Feed yourself and then feed the tarpons at the dock at this bustling ocean-front oasis. A huge menu at The Hungry Tarpon offers lots of fresh seafood specialties and big cocktails for parents, enjoyed al fresco. After eating, buy a bucket of sardines to feed the actual hungry tarpons that gather and swirl at the dock. Just watch out for the greedy pelicans, who will snatch fish right out of your hand. You also may spot a shark mixed in with the tarpons. There is also souvenir shopping, watersport rentals and a shaved ice truck. 

Get the family together for your holiday card photo at the southernmost point in the continental United States. At this giant buoy, tourists line up for the obligatory shot, taking photos for the people in line in front of them.