Help with itinerary please!

Question

Hi There from England,

My 13 year old grandson is obsessed and extremely knowledgeable about fish! Spends hours watching YouTube videos of what you can find in freshwater ponds and canals in Florida. He would love to snorkel and maybe try a dive to see all the tropical fish too. We also want to fish and then put them back as he would be horrified to kill one!

We would like to spend around two weeks on our trip.

Was thinking of flying into Miami, going from there to the Everglades ( how many days would you recommend there and where to stay?) Then on to Key Largo for the longer stay ( are there any freshwater fishing trips from here?) and then on to Key West to fly home from there. Is Key west really busy in October? My grandson can get overwhelmed with to much activity and noise. Are there quieter areas?

Sorry for the long post! This is a once in a lifetime trip for us as I so want to get it right for him, just don’t quite know where to start!

We would be very grateful for any recommendations and suggestions. Thank you 😁🎣

Answer

Florida offers a perfect combination of snorkeling, fishing, and nature experiences, making it ideal for a young fish enthusiast. Planning a two-week trip with a mix of Everglades exploration, Key Largo water activities, and Key West relaxation can give you a balanced itinerary without overwhelming your grandson.

Miami & Everglades:

After arriving in Miami, spending 2–3 days exploring the Everglades is ideal. This allows time for airboat tours, wildlife spotting, and freshwater pond/river experiences that will fascinate a young angler. For accommodations, staying in Homestead or Everglades City provides convenient access to both the National Park and private guided tours.

Everglades National Park Visitor Center – a good starting point with educational displays.
Airboat tours – many companies offer eco-friendly tours where catch-and-release fishing can sometimes be arranged.
Guided freshwater fishing trips – Everglades City and Homestead have operators who specialize in non-lethal fishing for educational purposes.

Key Largo:

Plan for 5–6 days here. Key Largo is ideal for snorkeling and beginner diving to see tropical reef fish. There are several calm spots for catch-and-release fishing in both freshwater canals and mangroves.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park – snorkeling trips for colorful tropical fish.
Guided snorkeling and diving tours – choose operators who focus on family-friendly experiences.
Freshwater fishing trips – some local guides offer trips in the backcountry canals or nearby freshwater ponds where catch-and-release is emphasized.
Accommodation – family-friendly resorts or small condos near the water for easy access to activities.

Key West:

Plan for 3–4 days to enjoy the relaxed island vibe. October is generally less crowded than peak winter months, but Key West can still be lively. For a quieter stay, consider accommodations a bit away from Duval Street, such as near Higgs Beach or Old Town residential areas. These locations offer walking access to the beach and local cafes without overwhelming noise.

Snorkeling trips – smaller charters for a more private experience.
Fishing excursions – half-day catch-and-release trips focused on local species.
Relaxing activities – quiet beaches, nature trails at the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory, or simply strolling in less touristy neighborhoods.

Travel Tips:

Consider renting a car for flexibility, as public transport is limited outside Miami.
Plan some downtime between activities to avoid sensory overload for your grandson.
Book guided tours in advance, especially snorkeling and fishing trips, as these can fill up in October.
Bring appropriate snorkeling gear for a better hands-on experience.

With this plan, you can balance immersive nature and water experiences with restful moments, creating a memorable and enjoyable trip for your grandson and family.

Help with itinerary please!

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