Keys vacation

Question

Hello,

Just starting to plan our Keys vacation. Here is some background information about us. We are a senior couple. We have visited many areas in Florida but not the Keys. We do love the Beaches of Anna Maria Island and Destin.

We are flying into Ft. Lauderdale. We have a week. We would like to stay at one destination in the upper keys and then Key West area.

We need mid range resorts or hotels. Are there any with beaches ?

Another consideration - How busy is traffic from Ft. Lauderdale down through the keys?

Any help in planning would be appreciated.

Answer

Planning a Keys vacation as a senior couple is a wonderful idea, especially if you enjoy relaxing on beaches and want a slower-paced trip with scenic drives and charming islands. Since you have a week, splitting your stay between the Upper Keys and Key West is a practical plan that balances exploration with relaxation.

Upper Keys Stay:

The Upper Keys (Key Largo to Islamorada) offer more laid-back accommodations with some beach access. While natural sandy beaches are limited, many resorts have private pools, docks, and water access perfect for sunbathing and swimming.

Amara Cay Resort (Islamorada): Mid-range resort with private waterfront access and pool, ideal for relaxing days.
Islander Resort (Islamorada): Waterfront property with pools and easy access to boating and snorkeling, though the “beach” is small.
Key Largo Bay Marriott Beach Resort: Offers a small private beach area plus pools and tropical landscaping.

Key West Stay:

Key West has a wider variety of resorts with more traditional beach areas, though many beaches are smaller than mainland Florida. Staying here lets you enjoy sunset views, historic streets, and watersports.

Southernmost Beach Resort: Offers a small beach, pools, and mid-range rooms. Excellent for walking around Key West.
Hyatt Centric Key West: Centrally located with pool, walking distance to Duval Street; beach is limited but excellent location for exploring.
Casa Marina Key West (higher-end option if budget allows): Private beach area and full-service resort, perfect for leisurely days by the water.

Traffic Considerations:

The drive from Ft. Lauderdale to the Upper Keys takes roughly 3–4 hours without stops. Traffic can be heavy on weekends, holiday periods, or during peak tourist season (December through April). Key West and the Lower Keys often see congestion, especially near Key Largo, Marathon, and the bridge to Key West. Planning early departures in the morning or traveling mid-week can help you avoid long delays.

Additional Tips:

Rent a car with GPS and plan for at least one scenic stop along the Overseas Highway, like John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park or Robbie’s Marina in Islamorada.
Book accommodations in advance, especially in Key West, as mid-range hotels fill quickly during high season.
Consider water activities like snorkeling or a short glass-bottom boat tour in the Upper Keys for a beach-like experience without relying on sandy shorelines.
If beaches are a priority, the small private beach at Southernmost Beach Resort or Casa Marina is likely your best option for sunbathing and swimming.

Overall, a week split between Islamorada/Key Largo and Key West allows you to enjoy both relaxation and sightseeing. Traffic is manageable if you plan your drives outside peak hours, and mid-range resorts in both areas provide comfortable stays with access to water and pools.