Spend Spring Break in the Florida Keys

If you are in dire need for someplace warm and sunny during Spring Break, you don’t need to go too far.  The Florida Keys is a major destination for millions of Americans who love the sun-kissed beaches on its islands.  If there's one place you can call the American version of the Caribbean, it's probably the Florida Keys.

Know the islands
The Florida Keys are found south west of Miami, spanning over 100 miles.  You can go island hopping from the main land because causeways and bridges link the major islands. 

The first one you'll set foot on is the famous Key Largo, the largest and longest island in the chain.  You're not old enough to remember Bogie and Bacall, but it pays to give this place a visit not just because of the eponymous movie but to take part in the snorkeling and diving activities.  Key Largo has guided diving facilities and diving shops so you can check out sunken wrecks just off the coast.  This is also where you'll find the John Pennekamp State Park, which often offers guided trips along with diving in its coral reef park.

The northernmost part of Key Largo is largely unsettled and most of the land here is protected.  This is where you'll find the Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge, home of the American crocodile, although it's not available to the public.   The beaches on Key Largo aren’t as soft as those found in mainland Florida because of the living reef that runs the length of the island.  If you get a chance you should check out the reefs, as this is the location of the only living reef found in the U.S.

Next stop is Islamorada, further south from Key Largo.  Islamorada is famous for its sport fishing and often hosts fishing and angling tournaments.  It also has the largest fishing fleet in Florida.  If you want to try your hand at bonefishing, Islamorada will give you that opportunity – the area is rich with marine life, some of which can weigh up to 10 lbs.  Islamorada, incidentally, is the Spanish name for 'purple isles' and all around the islands you'll find out why it is so.

If you like resort-style accommodations, the next island should be your destination.  Marathon Key is considered as the heart of this string of islands and many vacation resorts are available here.  Located right in the middle of the keys, Marathon is also the other end of the Seven Mile Bridge. 

Marathon is actually composed of many islands, including Long Key, Conch Keys, Duck Key and Grassy Key.  If you want to relax after some diving and fishing, simply pick from the many inns and hotels in this island.  Spend some time on Grassy Key, where you'll find the Dolphin Research Center.  You can even arrange for a swim with the dolphins if you like.  There are lots of great restaurants here, along with gift shops and craft stores.  If you prefer the beach, go to Sombrero and Key Colony Beaches.

You can continue to vacation in the laid back lifestyle on the next two islands, Big Pine and Lower Florida Keys, where you can go on a tour of Looe Key for more snorkeling and diving.  If you prefer to continue fishing, the backcountry offers some great opportunities, along with a chance to view the wildlife.  You can also charter an airplane and go skydiving from Sugarloaf Key.  You'll also find the Bat Tower here and even catch a glimpse of Fat Albert from Cudjoe Key.  The unhurriedness of the place is deliberate because the residents prefer it just the way it is.

When you're ready to party, then it's time to pack up and head for Key West.  Key West is often referred to as the Last Resort because it is found in the southern tip of the continent. 

As the last resort, Key West can be as laid back, as you like or as lively as you prefer.  Sun on the beach, go for a swim, shop at Duval Street or simply party all night.  You won't have any problems with accommodations because Key West has the most bed and breakfast inns and hotels of all of the keys.  Key West is also host to a variety of fishing tournaments, festivals and annual entertainments.  This is where Fantasy Fest unfolds and where Parrot heads congregate regularly.  There are many clubs and bars where you can relax and party while on your spring break.

If you are looking for a relaxing beach vacation, but don’t want to go too far, consider going to the Florida Keys.