(Mar 20, 2023)
If you're on the search for a unique thanksgiving experience, then Florida may be your answer. Thanksgiving in the Florida Keys has become a popular and bespoke experience for many. The Florida Keys are synonymous with warm ocean water, acres of mangroves, breathtaking state parks, and sensational sunset views.
Additionally, while Thanksgiving at the Florida Keys, you can't forgo classic thanksgiving traditions, like trying the world-renown KeyLime pie. Are you considering visiting Key West and the Florida Keys islands for your Thanksgiving this year? What are some of the fun and memorable activities you should undertake while here? Below is an expansive list of everything you can do while vacationing in the Florida Keys this thanksgiving season.
Fun thanksgiving activities in the Florida Keys
Before arriving in the Florida Keys, it's essential to plan your stay for the best experience. For starters, while you can fly right to the epicenter city of Key West, you can also drive in for the whole experience.
If you opt for the road-trip experience, you can start in Key Largo and make your way down to the bottom point of Key West. Taking the road trip affords you flexibility along the way, where you can enjoy a lot more sceneries, experiences and possibly knock a few things off the bucket list.
Here's a list of the best attractions, fun activities, and top thongs to do in the Florida Keys and Key West areas.
Mangrove paddleboarding at the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park
Starting your experience in Key Largo is three miles of ocean, seagrass swamp, coral reef, and mangroves. Here, you can enjoy activities targeted at both kids and adults. Some of the fun activities include visiting the nation's first underwater park, glass-bottom boat rides, kayaking, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
If you have some time to spare and have an adventurous spirit, you can rent out a paddleboard or kayak and explore the mangroves. You'll have an unforgettable experience through the water paths, scenic underwater views, and bespoke birds.
Dive to the Jules Undersea Lodge
The Jules Undersea Lodge is one of those bucket list ideas you must cross off when visiting the Florida Keys. As the name suggests, the lodge is underwater, and you have to dive about 20 feet underwater to access it.
While you can stay for a few hours, you should go for the overnight experience. The lodge has all modern amenities, so you don't have to worry about being underwater for too long. Additionally, the lodge is a perfect place to catch up on your latest movie or book as you watch the fish passing by through the large round windows.
Ride the flyboard, jetpack, or hoverboard
Sure, jetpacking may not be as easy as it seems, but with some practice and help, you'll be soaring over the water. You can choose to try any of the available jetpacking, flyboarding, and hoverboarding experiences. These adrenaline-raising experiences at Jetpack Adventures are a must for every visitor.
This is one of those activities you should get done while the sun is still up, take a few memorable photos, and still get to your next destination in time.
Feed tarpons at Robbie's Marina
Robbie's Marina is located in the Islamorada of the Florida Keys and is home to dozens of tarpons. As you make your way to the Florida Keys, you should take a couple of hours visiting the Marina and feeding the fish.
Admittedly, tarpons are re-associated with a strong fishy smell. However, as long as you do not intend to eat them –which you really shouldn't, anyway, you can enjoy yourself feeding them. The tarpons gather at the Marina, waiting for tourists to provide them fish snacks. These fish have amazingly large mouths, with some opening up to about the size of a five-gallon bucket.
Shop in the Rain Barrel Artisans Village
Most people are attracted to the Rain Barrel Artisans Village by Betsy, the 40-foot-long lobster. No trip to the Florida Keys is complete without a photo-op with Betsy, overlooking the Overseas highway.
Once you've got a few pictures of Betsy, you can browse through the stalls for an array of bespoke gifts and memorabilia. Some of the items you will find in the Artisans' village include paintings, sculptures, collages, home décor accessories, and jewelry.
Ultimately, Florida Keys is a one-of-a-kind place to visit for your Thanksgiving or Friendsgiving this year. There are numerous budget-friendly yet unforgettable activities and fun ideas throughout your stay. Whether you’re visiting for a few days or planning a long stay, there are more than enough fun ideas and activities to keep you engaged and entertained.
(Mar 20, 2023)
