City Guide for: Summerland Key, Florida, United States

Summerland Key, Florida, United States Guide

Summerland Key, a tranquil island in the Florida Keys, offers a laid-back escape from the hustle and bustle of mainland life. Known for its stunning natural beauty, the island boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and lush tropical vegetation. It's a haven for those seeking relaxation, water sports adventures, and a close connection with nature. Summerland Key is a popular destination for snorkeling, diving, fishing, and boating. The island's calm waters and abundant marine life make it an ideal spot for exploring the underwater world. With its friendly atmosphere and breathtaking scenery, Summerland Key provides an unforgettable vacation experience for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.

Food & Cuisine

Summerland Key offers a delightful array of dining options, primarily focusing on fresh seafood and Caribbean-inspired flavors. Expect to find dishes featuring locally caught fish, lobster, conch, and shrimp prepared in various ways, from grilled and blackened to fried and stewed. Many restaurants boast waterfront views, enhancing the dining experience. While there isn't a specific 'famous' market on the island, several local seafood markets offer fresh catches daily. Popular restaurants include the Galley Waterfront Restaurant, known for its seafood and sunset views, and the Square Grouper Bar & Grill, offering a casual atmosphere and live music.

Nightlife

Summerland Key's nightlife is generally relaxed and low-key, reflecting the island's overall atmosphere. Entertainment options primarily revolve around waterfront bars and restaurants that offer live music, often featuring local musicians playing island-style tunes. The Square Grouper Bar & Grill is a popular spot for evening entertainment. For a wider variety of nightlife options, visitors can take a short drive to nearby Key West, which boasts a vibrant scene with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues concentrated along Duval Street.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Summerland Key is during the spring (March-May) or fall (September-November). These months offer pleasant temperatures, lower humidity, and fewer crowds compared to the peak summer season. The winter months (December-February) are also enjoyable, with mild temperatures, but can be slightly cooler and windier. Summer (June-August) is the hottest and most humid time of year, and it's also hurricane season.

Transportation

Public transportation on Summerland Key is limited. The primary mode of transportation is by car. Rental cars are readily available at the Key West International Airport. Bicycles and scooters are also popular options for exploring the island at a slower pace. Some resorts may offer shuttle services to nearby attractions.

Airport

The closest airport to Summerland Key is Key West International Airport (EYW), located approximately 30 miles (48 kilometers) away. Transportation from the airport to Summerland Key is primarily by rental car, taxi, or ride-sharing services. Rental cars are readily available at the airport. Some resorts may also offer shuttle services for their guests.

Attractions

Blue Hole

Blue Hole The Blue Hole is a unique freshwater pond in the Florida Keys, attracting birdwatchers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts. It is a serene spot for observing wildlife, including birds, turtles, and alligators in their natural habitat.

Day Trips

Islamorada

Islamorada, known as the "Sport Fishing Capital of the World," offers excellent opportunities for fishing, diving, and watersports. It also features art galleries, restaurants, and the Theater of the Sea, where you can swim with dolphins.

Travel Time

Approximately 1 hour 45 minutes by car

Activities
  • Fishing (deep sea or flats)
  • Diving or snorkeling at Alligator Reef
  • Visit the Theater of the Sea
  • Explore the art galleries
  • Enjoy waterfront dining

Marathon

Marathon is a family-friendly island community in the heart of the Florida Keys. It offers a mix of natural attractions, including Sombrero Beach and the Turtle Hospital, as well as opportunities for fishing, boating, and watersports.

Travel Time

Approximately 1 hour by car

Activities
  • Visit the Turtle Hospital
  • Relax on Sombrero Beach
  • Go fishing or boating
  • Explore the Dolphin Research Center
  • Visit the Seven Mile Bridge

Key West

Key West is the southernmost point in the continental United States, known for its laid-back atmosphere, historic architecture, vibrant nightlife, and stunning sunsets. Explore Duval Street, visit the Hemingway Home and Museum, enjoy watersports, or simply relax on the beach.

Travel Time

Approximately 1 hour by car

Activities
  • Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
  • Explore Duval Street
  • Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square
  • Snorkeling or diving at a coral reef
  • Tour the Key West Lighthouse

Big Pine Key

Big Pine Key is known for its natural beauty and is home to the National Key Deer Refuge. Visitors can observe the endangered Key deer in their natural habitat and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this less-developed island.

Travel Time

Approximately 20 minutes by car

Activities
  • Visit the National Key Deer Refuge
  • Explore the Blue Hole
  • Go fishing or boating
  • Visit the No Name Pub

Bahia Honda State Park

Bahia Honda State Park is renowned for its beautiful beaches, clear waters, and the iconic Old Bahia Honda Bridge. It's a great place for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, and camping.

Travel Time

Approximately 30 minutes by car

Activities
  • Swimming and sunbathing on the beach
  • Snorkeling or diving
  • Kayaking or paddleboarding
  • Hiking on nature trails
  • Fishing