Key West, Florida, is a tropical paradise famous for its laid-back atmosphere, stunning sunsets, vibrant nightlife, and rich history. While this southernmost island in the Florida Keys is a top destination for travelers, the surrounding areas also offer a variety of exciting activities and unique experiences that should not be missed. Whether you’re looking for water-based adventures, cultural tours, or unforgettable wildlife encounters, Key West and its nearby attractions have something for everyone. One of the most remarkable experiences for visitors to the region is the opportunity to swim with dolphins near Key West at Theater of the Sea in Islamorada, just a couple of hours from Key West.
In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the top activities near Key West, including the unforgettable dolphin swim experience at Theater of the Sea.
Before heading out to explore the nearby attractions, take some time to enjoy everything Key West has to offer. Duval Street, the heart of downtown Key West, is one of the most famous streets in Florida. Stretching from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean, Duval Street is packed with restaurants, bars, boutiques, and galleries, making it the perfect spot to experience the local culture.
Mallory Square: End your day at Mallory Square for the famous Sunset Celebration, where locals and tourists gather to watch the sun dip below the horizon. Street performers, artists, and food vendors create a lively atmosphere every evening.
The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum: Just a short walk from Duval Street, this historic home was once the residence of the famous author Ernest Hemingway. Visitors can tour the property, learn about his life, and meet the descendants of his famous six-toed cats.
Southernmost Point: Don’t forget to take a photo at the Southernmost Point Buoy, marking the southernmost tip of the continental United States.
Duval Street is a vibrant destination for those who love shopping, dining, and people-watching. It’s a must-see while in Key West.
Key West is a fantastic destination for snorkeling and sailing, offering easy access to some of the clearest waters and most vibrant coral reefs in Florida. One of the best ways to experience the marine life of the Florida Keys is by taking a sailing and snorkeling tour.
Several local operators offer half-day or full-day sailing trips that combine snorkeling with a relaxing cruise through the turquoise waters of the Keys. Key West’s coral reefs are home to a variety of tropical fish, sea turtles, and vibrant corals, making it a paradise for snorkeling enthusiasts. Some tours also stop at nearby sandbars or remote islands for a more secluded experience.
Dry Tortugas National Park: For an even more spectacular snorkeling experience, consider taking a ferry or seaplane to Dry Tortugas National Park. Located about 70 miles west of Key West, this remote national park is home to pristine coral reefs, clear waters, and historic Fort Jefferson. Snorkeling at Dry Tortugas offers a unique opportunity to see sea turtles, rays, and tropical fish in an untouched natural environment.
For a peaceful and magical experience, visit the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory. Located near the southern end of Duval Street, this beautiful, glass-enclosed garden is home to hundreds of colorful butterflies from around the world. As you walk through the lush tropical setting, you’ll be surrounded by butterflies fluttering freely among the flowers, plants, and waterfalls.
In addition to the butterflies, the conservatory is home to several exotic birds, including flamingos and finches. It’s a wonderful stop for families, couples, or anyone looking to escape the heat and immerse themselves in nature.
While there are plenty of things to do in Key West itself, one of the most exciting day trips from the island is to Theater of the Sea in Islamorada, about a two-hour drive up the scenic Overseas Highway. Known for its interactive marine experiences, Theater of the Sea offers visitors the chance to swim with dolphins, sea lions, and even sharks in a stunning natural lagoon setting.
Swim with Dolphins at Theater of the Sea
Swimming with dolphins in the Florida Keys is an experience you’ll never forget. The Dolphin Swim program allows visitors to interact with these intelligent and playful creatures in both shallow and deep water. Participants are guided by experienced trainers who teach you about dolphin behavior and the important conservation efforts to protect marine life.
During the dolphin swim, you’ll have the chance to touch, feed, and even receive a kiss from the dolphins. One of the highlights of the experience is the opportunity to swim along side the dolphins as they pull you through the water with a dorsal fin ride. It’s a thrilling and heartwarming experience that is perfect for both children and adults.
For those who prefer not to swim, Theater of the Sea also offers a Dolphin Encounter, where guests can interact with dolphins in shallow water, making it an excellent option for younger children or non-swimmers.
Other Marine Experiences at Theater of the Sea
In addition to swimming with dolphins near Key West offers several other marine animal interactions:
Sea Lion Swim: Guests can swim with playful sea lions, interact with them in shallow water, and watch them perform tricks under the guidance of trainers.
Shark and Ray Encounters: For the more adventurous, Theater of the Sea offers the chance to interact with nurse sharks and stingrays in a safe and controlled environment.
Marine Animal Shows: Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy educational and entertaining shows featuring dolphins, sea lions, and parrots. These shows provide insights into the lives of marine animals and the efforts to protect them.
Theater of the Sea is more than just a marine park – it’s a conservation center that focuses on education and environmental preservation. After your marine encounters, you can explore the park’s tropical gardens, bird sanctuary, and private beach.
While driving to Theater of the Sea, take the opportunity to explore the other islands along the way. The drive along the Overseas Highway is one of the most scenic road trips in the U.S., offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico as you cross the many bridges connecting the Keys.
Big Pine Key and the National Key Deer Refuge: On your way north from Key West, stop at Big Pine Key, home to the endangered Key deer. These small deer are unique to the Florida Keys and can often be seen roaming freely in the National Key Deer Refuge. It’s a great spot for wildlife lovers and a peaceful break from the more bustling parts of the Keys.
Bahia Honda State Park: One of the best beach spots in the Lower Keys is Bahia Honda State Park, known for its clear waters and soft sand. The park offers excellent opportunities for snorkeling, kayaking, and hiking. It’s a great place to spend a few hours on your way to or from Islamorada.
For a truly personalized and unforgettable adventure on the water, consider booking a private boat charter with Safari Charters. Based in the Florida Keys, Stock Island, Safari Charters offers fully customizable boat trips that allow you to explore the waters around Key West, the Lower Keys, and beyond. Whether you’re interested in seeing Wild Dolphins in Key West, snorkeling at vibrant coral reefs, fishing in the clear waters, or taking a scenic boat ride to secluded islands, Safari Charters provides the perfect opportunity to experience the Keys in a unique and intimate way.
One of the highlights of booking with Safari Charters is their flexibility—you can create your own itinerary, whether that’s spending the day fishing for tarpon and snapper, enjoying a relaxing picnic on a deserted sandbar, or spotting wildlife like dolphins, turtles, and rays. Their experienced captains ensure a safe and enjoyable trip, with plenty of local insights about the area’s best spots. This is an ideal activity for families, couples, or groups of friends looking to explore the beauty of the Florida Keys at their own pace.
Key West and the surrounding Florida Keys are a treasure trove of exciting activities, natural beauty, and unique experiences. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant streets of Key West, snorkeling the coral reefs, or swimming with dolphins in the Florida Keys in Islamorada, this region offers endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation. From interacting with marine life to experiencing the stunning beauty of the Keys, a trip to this corner of Florida will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
