First Time Questions: Snorkeling, Coffee, Sandwiches...

Question

Hi all! My partner and I will be visiting the keys for the first time in March and I'm looking for some advice from you seasoned visitors!

1. We'd like to do a snorkeling specific trip-what's your favorite half day snorkeling spot? I'm considering John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Sundance Watersports near Robbie's, or Bahia Honda State Park. I'd love to hear your thoughts on these or other options.

2. What's your favorite spot for Coffee in Keys? This trip is going to be a whirlwind, so we'll need our caffeine fix.

3. We are both sandwich fanatics. Subs, breakfast sandwiches, panini-we love them all. What's your favorite sandwich in the Keys? So far, I'll definitely be sampling a sub from Publix and the lobster BLT from Key Largo Fisheries Backyard Cafe.

Here's our itinerary so far. It's too short but the wheels of capitalism can't keep turning without us, so it's what we have:

Day 1-Arrive Miami, pickup rental car, lunch at Key Largo Fisheries, stops at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Wind Key Fossil Reef, souvenir shopping, tropical drinks as time allows, stay at Big Pine Key RV park

Day 2- AM snorkel tour somewhere? Bahia Honda State Park, dinner in Marathon, stay at Big Pine Key RV Park

Day 3- Early morning, boat to Dry Tortugas National Park (booked), dinner in Key West, stay The Banyan Resort in Key West

Day 4-Walk around Key West, eat pie, drink cocktails, sunset

Day 5-Breakfast in Key West, spend the better part of the day driving back to Miami, short stops as time allows

Thanks so much!

Answer

Visiting the Florida Keys for the first time in March is a fantastic idea—weather is usually warm, water is clear, and crowds are moderate. Based on your itinerary and questions, here’s a detailed breakdown of recommendations for snorkeling, coffee, and sandwiches.

1. Snorkeling spots: For a half-day snorkeling trip, each location has its pros and cons:

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park: This is the most famous snorkeling destination in Key Largo. You can see colorful coral, tropical fish, and sometimes sea turtles. It’s well-organized, has easy access via boats or glass-bottom tours, and is great for beginners. A half-day trip is very doable here.
Sundance Watersports near Robbie's Marina: Sundance offers snorkeling trips as well as boat rentals. It’s convenient if you’re already near Robbie’s Marina, which also has feeding the tarpon and a casual Keys vibe. You may see a good variety of fish, but the reef areas are a bit smaller than Pennekamp.
Bahia Honda State Park: Famous for its stunning beaches and shallow waters. Snorkeling is good for seeing small reef areas and some tropical fish. It’s more relaxed and scenic, especially if you want to combine a beach day with snorkeling. Less crowded than Pennekamp, though the coral isn’t as extensive.

For a first-time visitor wanting iconic reef experience, I’d lean toward John Pennekamp for your main snorkeling day. Bahia Honda is better for a scenic, relaxed swim if you have some flexibility.

2. Coffee spots in the Keys: The Keys have some great local coffee shops, often quirky and small, perfect for a quick caffeine fix:

Key Largo: Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen or The Baker’s Coffee Shop: Both offer strong coffee and pastries. Great for a morning stop before snorkeling.
Islamorada: Coffee Plantation or Midway Café: Known for good espresso and island atmosphere.
Big Pine Key: No Name Pub (yes, they have coffee too!): Iconic spot for locals and travelers alike.
Key West: Cuban Coffee Queen: Strong, traditional Cuban-style coffee. Great for an afternoon or early morning pick-me-up before exploring.

3. Sandwich spots: Sandwiches are everywhere, but these are standout options:

Key Largo Fisheries Backyard Café: Your choice of lobster BLT is excellent, and they also have local seafood sandwiches.
Publix Subs: A classic choice if you’re grabbing a quick, affordable lunch. Look for the Key Largo location; it’s convenient along your route.
Islamorada Fish Company: Offers fresh fish sandwiches and casual dining with a waterside view.
Key West: Cuban Coffee Queen or Sandy’s Café: Paninis, breakfast sandwiches, and classic Cuban sandwiches are very good here.

Itinerary Tips:

Day 1: Key Largo Fisheries lunch is perfect. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park can be done in the afternoon. Windley Key Fossil Reef is a short visit and worth a quick stop for geology/history fans.
Day 2: Half-day snorkeling at John Pennekamp or Bahia Honda is doable. Bahia Honda works best for combining snorkeling and a beach afternoon. Dinner in Marathon is a good midpoint before returning to Big Pine Key.
Day 3: Dry Tortugas National Park is a full-day trip, so make sure you have an early start. Bring water, snacks, and sunscreen.
Day 4: Key West walking tour, cocktails, and sunset is ideal. Don’t miss Mallory Square for the sunset celebration.
Day 5: Early breakfast in Key West, and plan your drive back to Miami with maybe a stop at Islamorada or Key Largo for coffee/snacks.

Overall, your itinerary is ambitious but well-paced. Focus on a few quality experiences rather than trying to do everything. March is ideal for calm waters, comfortable weather, and fewer crowds compared to peak winter.