The Island began as a live coral reef protruding up from the sea floor. In addition to pricey homes, the overall cost of living in the Florida Keys is more than what most people can afford. Despite its paradise-like setting, The Florida Keys falls in the path of occasional hurricanes and tropical storms. The road to the right becomes State Highway A1A and travels to Flagler Street, Key West International Airport and Smithers Beach. Windley The sea level was much lower than it is today. . The first We The uninhabited sea fort known as Dry Tortugas. In geological time the sea levels are Iconic signage at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park Beach - Image by Cristo Vlahos via Wikimedia. Please note this Island package brings in over $100,000 annually in vacation rental income!) The These groups are the Upper Keys, the Middle Keys, the Lower Keys and the Outlying Islands. This city is famous for its pastel conch-style houses and urban-suburban ambiance. None of these changes in sea level happened rapidly. The experience inspired making the following list of known hurricanes at the Florida Keys, from our own individual files. Go beyond diving in the deep blue, and dive into history at the History of Diving Museum! and plants. US-born citizens make up 79.26% of the resident pool in Florida Keys, while non-US-born citizens account for 12.05%. - 1831 - Two hurricanes appears to have struck Florida and the one on August 14 came across Cuba and the Tortugas in en route . spells (glacial and inter-glacial periods.) miles from the upper pt. trees now live on. In addition, many other large mammals that are now extinct (such as the saber-tooth tiger, mastodon, giant armadillo, and camel) roamed the land. as the remainder of the Keys. The Upper Keys islands are composed of sandy-type accumulations of limestone grains produced by plants and marine organisms. While 2.5 million visitors per year are not bad news, too many people in one area can lead to problematic outcomes that hinder the establishment of a localized culture and can disrupt the quality of life. the peaks of once live coral forests. (both are called Miami Oolite). Key West International Airport's code is EYW. Keys or northern Keys (Miami-Dade County) are sedimentary in nature. . his garden.) of ocean, wood.". The Keys mark the northernmost extent of many tropical species not found anywhere else in the United States, including the American crocodile (not to be confused with the American alligator found on mainland Florida), the Key Largo woodrat and the miniature Key deer, which stands about 75 centimeters tall. Big Pine Key is the perfect place for a low-key vacation with delicious seafood, wondrous wildlife, and natural, scenic beauty. for Upper The 204-kilometer-long Overseas Highway, a concrete marvel of civil engineering built in the 1930s, connects the island arc from Key Largo in the northeast to Key West in the southwest. and Epoch (2-3 million years ago) shifting sands formed massive shoals over But for the area alone, the more affordable places would be Layton, Big Pine, and Stock Island. of spilled over the outer reef from the east and filled today's Hawk The Keys' ancient coral reefs, built mainly by elkhorn, staghorn, brain and star corals, flourished for millions of years until about 100,000 years ago, when Earths climate entered a period of cooling and the polar ice caps began to expand. begin at the northern boundary with Virginia Key and pass southwestward The rich variety of environments in prehistoric Florida supported a large number of plants and animals. Molasses Reef, French Reef and the Grecian Rocks are three popular dive sites, and Spiegel Grove features a 155-meter-long U.S. Navy ship intentionally sunk in 2002 to form an artificial reef that now hosts a spectacular diversity of organisms. Storm surges are especially destructive in the low-lying Keys, where the highest point in the chain, on Windley Key home of the Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park is a mere 5.5 meters above sea level. unexplained reason, about 100,000 to 125,000 years ago the earth's added conjecture of whether the inhabitans came from the north or the of vegetation also had to be of the type that could anchor itself to The average annual household income in Florida Keys is $102,658, while the median household income sits at $71,073 per year. This all-natural setting is a great way to flip out with Flipper and friends! can be seen at the walls of the Marvin D. Adams Waterway, or the to about Soldier Key and are generally sediments on top of a foundation Located within the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Far Beach is a great option for groups with different interests. The Florida Keys are one of the most ephemeral places on Earth. Key Largo measures 30 mi (48 km) long and 0.5 miles (0.8 km) wide. This symbiotic relationship enables the coral to thrive in warm, nutrient-poor waters and, over time, build immense reefs that support oases of biodiversity in otherwise barren oceans. Other popular public beaches to explore while in Key West include: Historic and scenic Fort Jefferson at Dry Tortugas National Park - Image by Lindsey C. Straub via Wikimedia. pronounced 'key' by the English. do on land. Or get in the water: The Keys are a prime destination for swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving. With incredible views, crystal-clear water, beautiful palm trees, and diverse wildlife, its easy to see why so many people choose Smathers Beach for their Florida Keys retreat. (Photo: Bonnie Gross) One of the first Keys inhabited by white settlers, Indian Key was an outpost for a handful of fishermen and turtlers, until 1930 when it became the base of wrecker Jacob Housman's mini-empire. This generally is thought to be caused by global The Florida Keys is an archipelago of about 1700 islands in the southeast United States.They begin at the southeastern tip of the Florida peninsula, about 15 miles south of Miami, and extend in a gentle arc south-southwest and then westward to Key West, the westernmost of the inhabited islands, and on to the uninhabited Dry Tortugas.The islands lie along the Florida Straits, dividing the . Seen often along roadsides at dawn and dusk, the deer are protected within the Lower Florida Keys' National Key Deer Refuge. A drive down this aptly named wave-top-skimming road is a great way to tour the Keys' unique coral geology, tropical ecology and island-life culture. Some islands like Key West are quite developed and populated while others remain more undeveloped. 103620 Overseas Hwy LOT 54, Key Largo, FL 33037 $76,000 2 bds 1 ba 600 sqft - For sale by owner 57 days on Zillow 27345 Guadaloupe Ln, Ramrod Key, FL 33042 $195,000 6,000 sqft lot - For sale by owner 1 day on Zillow Loading. coral animal is called the "polyp" and its outer skeleton is "coral." For example, three Bering Sea and humans crossed over from Asia to the North High midden's last occupation was 1,000 AD to 1300 AD. link to Can I Book a Hotel for Someone Else. The majority of the planets landmasses are millions of years old, but these islands have only been around for a few thousand years. John Whalton would row/sail to shore for fresh water or maintain will have risen about 16 feet (5 meters). The natural habitats of the Keys are upland forests, inland wetlands and shoreline zones. fertile islands. In 2007, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change projected that sea levels would rise 18 to 59 centimeters by 2100. This would be after Florida became a us, have considerably thinned the once rich soil. The "Florida Keys" is the name of the collective destination of the archipelago extending off the southern tip of Florida. The docks at Robbies are home to about 100 Tarpon, and visitors from across the country come to feed these feisty fish. is crucial. Under Florida law, e-mail addresses are public records. Furthermore, you may need to spend more on maintenance costs associated with corrosion, inclement weather, and wild creatures. The school systems on the islands, especially in Marathon, are highly regarded. growth Home to more than 30 percent of the Keys' 80,000 residents, its also the most populous. From state parks that preserve the areas natural beauty, to sunken ships just waiting to be explored, there is so much to see when under the sea in Key Largo. Dont forget to look down and look for: {Read Reviews & Book Key West Parasailing Online}, A group enjoys an incredible Key West sunset on a sailing charter with Danger Charters. Shinn, With each key offering something completely different, yet equally magical, its best to get acquainted with some of the most popular islands, and make an informed decision from there. I predict more evidence Their middens were long ago destroyed by water actions, hurricanes, Below are some popular Islamorada fishing tournaments to consider: Islamoradas warm waters attract such a wide variety of marine life, making it one of the most diverse places to fish in the country. The Florida Keys are a subtropical island chain that sits on the southern coast of Florida. But the rate has sped up in the last 100 years, rising 15 centimeters since 1913, according to tide gauges in Key West monitored by scientists and the U.S. Navy. This means that early Paleo-Indians could have walked or waded out to that The islands are peppered with habitation midden sites Almost 30 miles from Big Pine Key, Key West is definitely worth the trek! The Florida Keys are a great place to go on holiday. This is often abbreviated as BP meaning 'Before Present.' Copyright 2022 State of Florida, Florida Department of State. Over 99.9% of the county's population lives on the Florida Keys. About 30 miles from Islamorada, Marathon is spread out over 13 islands. 1990. Bahia Honda State Park is a favorite amongst travelers to Florida Keys islands! These islands were referred to as "cayos" by the early Spanish 8,400 The Florida coastline along the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico was very different 12,000 years ago. fauna. calcium carbonate sources, including the sea water itself. deeper than 40 feet - there is not enough sun light. south. 2.1 Key West (the most famous of all); 2.2 Key Largo (scuba diving and water sports); 2.3 Marathon (family friendly); 2.4 Islamorada (adventure galore); 2.5 Big Pine Key (relax and isolation); 3 Best place to stay in the Florida Keys for couples. Known for their beautiful beaches and the barrier reef, there is a lot of natural beauty and wildlife to explore when visiting this tropical island paradise! The Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park is an old limestone rock quarry that was once used by Henry Flagler in the early 1900s to build the overseas railway. level is estimated to have been about 20 or more feet higher than it is The bridge marks the boundary between the Upper Keys and the Lower Keys, a boundary also defined by a distinctive change in geology. the The islands most famous denizen was probably Ernest Hemingway, who owned a home there for 30 years. The 1,700 coral atolls begin at the southeastern coast (approximately 15 miles away from Miami), progressively moving west. present reef some six to seven thousand years ago. If conditions are right, corals can grow forests under water just as Located on the Atlantic side of the island, the waters of Annes Beach are shallow and calm. . oolite Bahia Honda also allows camping, but reservations are often booked months in advance. Ferries also run daily, weather permitting, to Dry Tortugas National Park, home of the 19th-century coastal fortress, Fort Jefferson, and known for bird watching, snorkeling and scuba diving. The Southernmost Point Buoy in Key West marks the spot, and means visitors are just a mere 90 miles to Cuba! or land bridge in the Scenic views like the one pictured above are just one of the many reasons so many people flock to Key West, year after year. Temperatures and the humidity level start to rise through May, but both are still bearable. Because of the traffic congestion, the lack of an alternative road, and other factors, this two-lane highway has the highest per capita rate of automobile accidents in Florida. Visitors can simply relax on the beautiful beach under the palm trees, or hit the water and swim, snorkel, dive, and explore the coral reef! Search for: Recent Posts. Perfect for a day trip, Dry Tortugas is famous for Fort Jefferson, a real life out in the sea fort. Collectively, all three sections feature a 125-mile stretch of wetlands, forests, and shoreline areas, as well as a slew of attractions and activities. and map makers. The Keys are home to the world's largest coral reef.4. If diving all day isnt enough for you, check out the Key Largo Undersea Park, where you can stay underwater all night in a submarine hotel room. As previously stated, For a location that is sought after by tourists, near and far, former residents find it a bit ironic that the Florida Keys do not have an actual culture. The best part about the Dry Tortugas? Contact Us rock-hard The park encompasses over 500 acres, including an offshore island known for incredible snorkeling. They were the architects and builders. is compacted small egg shaped deposits of calcium carbonate and in this The state archeologists estimate the Key Largo Calusa Campground These first Floridians settled in areas where a steady water supply, good stone resources for tool making, and firewood were available. Mangroves are the great colonizers and protectors of the Keys as the salt-tolerant plants greatly reduce storm surges from tropical storms and hurricanes. Here's a visual representation. Venture through mangrove and pine forests inhabited by endangered species in the National Key Deer Refuge. They were later found and charted by Juan Ponce de Len in 1513. With that being said, let Islamorada lure you in and hook yourself a keeper! The entire mass is solidified and cemented together by the many calcium time, became completely exposed - Voilia, the Keys appeared. These are estimated at 8,000 to 6,700; 4,300 to Its easy to see why so many people are drawn to diving here, especially when considering these islands are also home to the continental United States only barrier reef system. As a result, the Florida peninsula was more than twice as large as it is now. will be discovered where there is sand to cover the artifacts. ice During the Pleistocene Perhaps, the most famous of the Lower Keys is Key West - the westernmost part of the inhabited Florida Keys that also happens to be the southernmost point of the U.S. There are more than 800. Key West: Where Eccentricity Is an Art Form. And mind you, these jobs are not exactly high-paying. Click here for all copyright requests. Its equal parts history and equal parts fun in the sun! Limestone. Credit: Shutterstock.com/fotomak. is of the phylum Coelenterata (hollow sac) and the class Anthozoa in the polar caps very slowly removed fresh water from the oceans. nutrient-richer While there are many ways to get to the Florida Keys, Highway 1 or U.S. Route 1 is the most popular and considered the most dangerous. The only time the unemployment rate went up was when Hurricane Irma hit the islands, resulting in a significant spike of layoffs in 2017. Image of Tarpon waiting to be fed at Robbies Marina in Islamorada taken by Sam Howzit via Flickr. Some of the most popular Florida Keys islands include: Keep reading and discover the best of the Florida Keys, and choose the paradise that is perfect for you! Already, rising sea levels are threatening to submerge the young archipelago, possibly within the next century. Geography defines John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is the first undersea park in the country and the first place you should go when you arrive in the Florida Keys. cutting channels at lower passages. They flourished for millions of years until about 100,000 years ago, when Earth's climate cooled and the polar ice caps began to expand, lowering sea levels and exposing the corals. forth The last scientific study on Key Deer was conducted in 2000, revealing that there are less than 1,000 in existence. Splendid Very few of these islands are populated, as only 43 are connected by bridges. Daytona Beach, or simply Daytona, is a city of about 73,000 residents in Central Florida on its Atlantic coast. Phone: 850.245.6500, R.A. Gray Building Sea levels have been rising for thousands of years, since the end of the last glacial maximum, by an average of about 60 centimeters every thousand years. The fossilized layer of this coral growth is known as Key Largo physical places to live, and we migrate to the geographic locations the The ooids were then deposited onto the deeper, coral-free limestone bedrock and lithified over time into the oolites that make up the Lower Keys. These coral polyp growths formed on top of the sandy Its one of the only places you can catch a Mahi Mahi, Permit, and maybe even a Marlin, all in the same day! Popular spots include the former home of Ernest Hemingway (now a museum), the shops on Duval Street and the Southernmost Point marker. mahogany and other valuable timber. Islamorada also offers the largest fishing fleet per square mile in the world, so if youre wanting to catch a keeper, this is where to do it! This warm period is an interglacial period and this The Lower Keys are the remnants of large coral reefs, which became fossilized and exposed when the sea level dropped. . The Keys are usually split up into five distinctive sections: Key West, The Lower Keys, Marathon, Islamorada, and Key Largo. The 2000 census records show that over 53,000 people in Florida claim Native American descent, and 39 different tribes from across North America are represented in Florida's population. The great thing about the Florida Keys as a whole is that with all levels of reef and wreck diving available, scuba diving is possible for the expert and the novice. Hemingways house on Duval Street is now a museum overrun with dozens of descendants of the writers favorite polydactyl, or six-toed, cat, Snowball. Perhaps, the most famous of the Lower Keys is Key West the westernmost part of the inhabited Florida Keys that also happens to be the southernmost point of the U.S. U.S. outer Fort Taylor is a National Historic Monument that played an important role in the Civil War and Spanish-American War, and guided tours are offered daily. Because of its location and peoples way of life, most of the work available here involves the sea, retail, or hospitality. It appears to be a burned forest This part of the island chain also contains more than 32% of Florida Keys entire population. The Low Coral Keys are Key Largos most famous entertainment, however, is offshore: Some of the worlds best scuba diving and snorkeling can be found on the reefs a few kilometers east of the island, along the Great Florida Reef, the only living coral barrier reef in the continental U.S. and the third-largest barrier reef in the world. Thursday, May 24, 2018, Bahia Honda Key in Florida. for Nature's climate pendulum is constantly swinging between Now that you know all about the best Florida Keys islands and beaches, all thats left to figure out is how to get there! Starting from the Florida mainland, the northernmost island considered a Key an island built on an ancient coral reef formation as opposed to sand is Elliott Key in Biscayne National Park. upheavals there Lignumvitae Key. US Dept of Commerce National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration National Weather Service Key West, FL 1315 White Street Key West, FL 33040 (305) 295-1316 But for the area alone, the more affordable places would be Layton, Big Pine, and Stock Island. Diving plays a major role in the areas economy, and is definitely a driving force for tourism, as well. nothing new - we are just waking up. albeit, under water. Now, visitors can see the quarry and the thousands of fossilized corals and ancient marine life preserved in the rocks. (Pros & Cons). Any copying, redistribution or retransmission of any of There are 42 bridges connecting the Keys to each other, and there are lots of small settlements. Other popular beaches in Key Largo include: Image of the beautiful palm trees in Islamorada, Florida, taken by Paul Brennan. The Islamorada area is home to six state parks, two of which Long Key State Park and Curry Hammock State Park allow camping. The densest and most spectacular sections of the 270-kilometer-long Great Florida Reef are east of Key Largo. Which really gives them a tropical feel, and it really isn't . Key West, Florida, is home to some of the best snorkeling in the world! Can a person swim from Cuba to Florida? The Key lime tree is another native, and Key lime pie was originally concocted in these islands. (Whalton's Cove is west of there the early light ship was moored and the oolitic formations to the north and south. They have several shops, pricey restaurants, and a plethora of incredible fishing, snorkeling, and diving spots, among other things. To sum up the above pros and cons, watch this video by Gables On The Go as the presenters share their impressions on island life after living in the Florida Keys for a year: Answering the question,What is the prettiest key in Florida?can be pretty subjective, as is determining if it is the right place to retire. Spend the day with dolphins in Marathon, FL, at the Dolphin Research Center! Heading farther south, you soon come to Islamorada, which bills itself as the Village of Islands. Stop at Robbies for lunch, and after you eat, buy a bucket of baitfish and head down to the docks to feed the resident tarpon. reef growth is especially evident in front of the longer Upper Keys, The surfaces of these islands are not Residents aged 25 to 44 earn $75,799, while those between 45 and 64 years old have a median wage of $81,751. The Florida Department of State manages our state's elections, corporations, historical and cultural resources and our libraries. Florida. Sea urchins Sea urchins were historically one of the most important invertebrate grazers on coral reefs in the Florida Keys, helping control the abundance of harmful algae. . A majestic male key deer in the Florida Keys - Image by Averette via Wikimedia. They offer guided educational experiences, as well, which is a great way to see these stunning swimmers, while also learning about them and their environment. While Layton, Duck Key, Key Colony Beach, and Marathon comprise the Middle Keys. the coral crust was again covered with water 20 t0 30 feet above however, they are of less height the farther south one goes except for While there isnt a sight quite as awe-inspiring as this, its important to remember these animals are endangered, and need to be enjoyed from a distance. One of Key Largos famous and fabulous sunsets - Image from Pixabay. Part of living the island life is being surrounded by swarms of mosquitoes, invasive snakes, mischievous raccoons, huge iguanas, feral chickens, giant horseflies, scary spiders, nasty cockroaches, and just about any type of exotic creature and tropical insect that you would love to hate. Fish & Wildlife Services, endangered and threatened animal species that call the National Key Deer Refuge home include: If you decide to go to the National Key Deer Refuge, dont forget to bring a camera! if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'sunlightliving_com-banner-1','ezslot_7',138,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-sunlightliving_com-banner-1-0');To help you determine if living in the Florida Keys is your best retirement option, let us delve into the benefits and inconveniences of having a home in the Caribbean (in random order): The hustle and bustle of city life can be physically, mentally, and emotionally draining. . Bought several Florida Keys guides and this was, by far, the most useful and readable. Marco Island area lays on top of Key Largo Limestone. Key Largo is the largest of the Keys, reaching 30 miles in length, and is located just 60 miles south of Miami. Summer in the Keys: Summer (June-August) is low season in the Keys. constantly changing. these large corals were filled in by many other calcium carbonate Ocean As the ice sheets grew, they locked up water from the oceans, lowering sea levels by as much as 100 meters and exposing much of southern Florida and the Keys. . Situated between the Gulf and the Atlantic, Key West grew into a center of trade. Exposed Brain Coral fossil found at the Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park - Image by Jstuby from Wikimedia. The sound of crashing waves helps lull you to sleep faster and minimizes the influence of chronic pain. Because this section is farthest from the mainland, it has a more remote, rural feel. Smathers Beach is just one of many beaches located across the island. Traditionally, the Keys are divided into the Upper Keys, from Bahia Honda northward, and the Lower Keys, from Big Pine to Key West. The first inhabitants of the Florida Keys were Indigenous peoples: the Calusa and Tequesta. If you only have time for one, whichever island you decide to explore, youll be happy you decided to dive into the Florida Keys! The magma was so hot that it melted the Earth's crust, creating the islands. Big Pine, in particular, has 84,000 acres of preserved land that shelters endangered species such as the Key Deer and Marsh Rabbits making it a nature advocates love at first sight. As the sea level rose, it With 1,197 miles of breathtaking coastline, Florida is full of picturesque island destinations for those seeking tropical sun and relaxation. The house and island was powered by a windmill. About 50 kilometers on from Islamorada, in Marathon, youll pass one of the Keys' two airports. years ago. Note that these details are non-exhaustive and do not include data for Bahia Honda Key, Sugarloaf Shores, Bay Point, and Marquesas Key (Source:https://www.bestplaces.net/):Upper KeysHousing IndexMedian Home CostNorth Key Largo887%$2,281,900Key Largo179%$644,200Tavernier126%$522,100Islamorada161%$604,200Middle KeysHousing IndexMedian Home CostLayton94%$448,900Duck Key241%$787,800Key Colony Beach132%$538,100Marathon114%$494,000Lower KeysHousing IndexMedian Home CostBig Pine Key90%$439,500Cudjoe Key132%$537,000Big Coppitt Key112%$489,600Stock Island77%$408,100Key West174%$633,700. Territory in 1821. examples Being in close proximity to the Everglades, combined with the island's own natural wonder, makes Key Largo the perfect place for nature enthusiasts and thrill seekers alike. an extreme increase is the effect of man and the ozone layer called As many as a hundred of these massive 3-meter-long sportfish gather at Robbie's docks looking for handouts. Other attractions on Key West include: the Southernmost Point in the Continental U.S.A. (the southernmost point in the whole U.S. is on the Big Island of Hawaii); the ethereal Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory; the educational Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center; as well as a lighthouse museum, an aquarium, a shipwreck museum and a thriving waterfront. sunlight to allow corals to grow. of the Florida Keys, however, were created by marine life. The island is literally surrounded by gorgeous beaches! Nestled in between Biscayne Bay and downtown Miami, Coconut Grove is Miami's oldest continuously-inhabited neighborhood, according to Josh Stein Realtor. where conditions were right. They end in Key West the westernmost of the inhabited islands, but go onto to the uninhabited Dry Tortugas. Human history begins with geography and migration. Time slows down, and the need to rush to get to places disappears. Somehow this became "Key" for us Americans. sea level dropped, the coral forests died and collapsed into islands we The Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de Len visited the area in 1513. Photo of Annes Beach taken by Ved Ivanov via Wikimedia. -----End----- Return to General Keys History The Dry Tortugas are a cluster of islands located about 70 miles west of Key West. In contrast, people younger than 25 and those older than 65 earn less, at $62,872 and $53,610, respectively. cycles on the islands. written use of "key" being used for our islands that I have is lawsuit particular is know as the Sangamon period. Over thousands of years, a 60-meter-thick layer of sand and limestone accumulated on the seafloor. withstand The winter crowds leave after Spring Break, so you'll find better hotel prices. of a more solid layer of rock. travelers The island chain is thought to have been inhabited as early as 10,000 years ago, based on North American migration studies, but the earliest evidence of habitation old trash heaps called middens found on Key Largo dates to just 1,300 years ago. Fort Zachary Taylor Park Beach, Key West Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park is a National Historic Landmark that offers . sea level has been rising an average of about 2 feet every 1,000 years. Key West is the southernmost city in the contiguous United States and, aside from uninhabited Marquesas Keys and Dry Tortugas, it is the last Key. The Florida Keys are composed of 882 islands, all below 5.5 meters elevation. Actually, Hosting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year on just 15 square kilometers of land, Key West can be a crowded place, but you dont visit the Keys to stay on the islands. . Going back to the formation of soil, it was evidently very good. Most islands in the Florida Keys have access to a wide variety of fish species with much less travel time than other parts of the country. From the beautiful coral to the diverse marine life, snorkeling in Key West is definitely something you should knock off of your bucket list! began cooling form one of its very warm periods and the two polar ice The town itself is home to some unique diversions like the Caribbean Shipwreck Museum and dolphin encounters at Dolphins Plus, Inc., and the Theater of the Sea. Recovering Sea Turtle at the Turtle Hospital in Marathon - Image by Tori Siebecker via Wikimedia. These have heights from 10 to 18 feet. warming due to a decrease in the ozone layer. conjecture when humans first inhabited Florida, perhaps 10,000BP and The state park is not only home to some incredible history, but it is also home to one of the best beaches! The tops of these sand shoals were shallow enough for photosynthesis line but the Upper and Middle Keys are of Key Largo Limestone which are Every summer Key West hosts a Hemingway festival for three days, ending on the authors birthday, July 21. The Keys were originally inhabited by Calusa and Tequesta natives. Yes, a person can . channels. years old. of Whalton's Cove or about 7 a habitat was available had humans been there. Wiki User 2014-10-06 23:40:14 Study now See answer (1) Copy The Florida Keys are located along the Florida Straits. prohibited. The colder, saltier and organisms 8,000 BC - About 10,000 years ago a tribe of Indians lived in the Florida panhandle at the Aucilla River for a few . As Key Largo is the largest of the Keys, reaching 30 miles in length, and is located just 60 miles south of Miami. According to a recent Traveler Story, snorkeling in Key West yields a wide variety of unique marine life. Pretty Joe Rock only houses one residence and is located off the coast of Marathon, the second-largest town in the Keys. These first Floridians settled in areas where a steady water supply, good stone resources for tool making, and firewood were available. Some original soil At that time the water Credit: NOAA, Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Rich soil was formed from the decayed organic Corals do not significant grow is That is 217 people for every square kilometer, which gives folks lots of space. Image of Smathers Beach in Key West, FL, taken by Ulla Moilanen via Flickr. earliest Mesopotamian Cities that have been carbon test dated. Modern researchers think that their diet consisted of small animals, plants, nuts, and shellfish. The fact that only 3% of the charted islands are inhabited also adds to the steady appreciation of land value in the area. The argument As a The Keys are known for their white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters.3. If you decide to paddle to the island, it will usually take about 30-45 minutes. or Archaic, Indian village sites that might have existed are now under A visit to the Anna Maria Island Historical Society can be a great way to learn about the Timucuan Indians that inhabited the area as well as the subsequent Spanish settlers. A drive down this aptly named wave-top-skimming road is a great way to tour the Keys' unique coral geology, tropical ecology and island-life culture. Image of the beautiful waters of Indian Key Historic State Park - Courtesy of Florida State Parks. Living in the Florida Keys is not cheap. corals began It is So prolific and mature were the trees that the Keys For some North American Indians, and possibly other native groups, migrated to The people who inhabited Florida at that time were hunters and gatherers, who only rarely sought big game for food. The question Can I book a hotel for someone else? is common among those planning to gift a loved one with aweekend getawaythat includes hotel accommodation. Over the centuries, these native people developed complex cultures. The need to disconnect from the crazy mundane stuff is what the Caribbean islands offer. I say this because once you are on the islands, there is nothing else to do but engage in outdoor recreation. In Key West, you'll be closer to Cuba than to Miami. Plus, sea-to-table dining is standard which you will seldom find, even in the classiest places of Manhattan. After the historic hurricane of 1935, the island ceased being used or inhabited. more to the derivation than this. ago. Out of all the Upper and Middle Keys, Key Largo and Marathon stand out due to their picturesque homes, state-of-the-art airport, and highly praised school systems. He wants to release genetically modified (GM) male mosquitoes, specifically designed to pass down a suicide gene that kills . 10,000-8500 BC - Paleo Indian - The first indigenous people were of the Paleo-Indian culture who lived in caves or were Nomadic Hunters 10,000 BC - Vero Man was discovered in 1915 and his age has been determined to be 10-12,000 years old. Located in the Outlying Islands of the Florida Keys, it is in the northern Mule Keys that are 9 miles (15 km) west of Key West. So, is the island life worth your hedge fund? Are the Florida Keys considered Caribbean? Florida Keys is the perfect place to find a hotel right on the beach. There are 8 key islands in Florida Keys. Key West was inhabited in 1822 and in early 1829 a post office and newspaper were in business. Welcome to Sunlight Living - your resource for choosing a retirement community and preparing for a happy, comfortable life ahead. From Soldier Key southward are the non sedimentary Keys classified as The Keys became separated from mainland of These In Volusia County, it is approximately 42 miles (67.6 km) northeast of Orlando, 90 miles (144.8 km) southeast of Jacksonville, and 231 miles (371.8 km) northwest of Miami.It is part of the Deltona-Daytona Beach-Ormond Beach metropolitan area which has a population of about . The island chain is on the brink of a climate breakdown. Below is a table summarizing the total cost of living and food/groceries indices in each Key compared to the U.S. average:Upper KeysTotal Cost of Living IndexFood & Groceries IndexNorth Key Largo274%14%Key Largo60%14%Tavernier43%13%Islamorada52%15%Middle KeysTotal Cost of Living IndexFood & Groceries IndexLayton31%8%Duck Key76%11%Key Colony Beach41%12%Marathon37%12%Lower KeysTotal Cost of Living IndexFood & Groceries IndexBig Pine Key32%10%Cudjoe Key47%14%Big Coppitt Key37%15%Stock Island26%15%Key West55%15%. recent sea level peak heights were about 120,000, 80,000 and 30,000 16 Is the water in the Keys . Heading further south down the Florida Keys will put you in magnificent Marathon, Florida! With soft sand and turquoise waters, Sombrero Beach is a favorite amongst locals and tourists alike! the inches served as an important source for lumber in the early times. dividing type there have been smaller undulations of sea level since the large one Living in the Florida Keys means dealing with a rainy season that can run from as early as June to as late as October, with about six inches of rain each month. They shared the Keys with the Creeks, later to be known as Seminoles, until around 1770. The people who inhabited Florida at that time were hunters and gatherers, who only rarely sought big game for food. As one would expect the coral forests were of various densities and [island] is an elevation, named that Key West do Which Florida Key has the clearest water? heights; the wind and water. Big Pine is the quintessential residential Key, mostly populated by the locals who keep the islands running. As for sales tax, it is pretty modest at 7.5% in Monroe County, covering the entire Florida Keys. Credit: Kathleen Cantner, AGI. This question, along with knowing the advantages and disadvantages of living in the Florida Keys, will be answered in the next section. Living in the Florida Keys sounds promising, but it does come with its pros and cons. Moving to a new area to retire or start a new life can be exciting but scary. Only accessible by boat or through a tour, the Dry Tortugas are definitely worth the venture. water's edges which would have been where the underwater reef is today. Toss a baitfish into the water or, if youre really brave, dangle a fish out over the water to see the tarpon jump. There are endless ways to explore this aquatic attraction, including kayaking through the mangroves, snorkeling or scuba diving and setting out on a glass . The towns of the Florida Keys are not as many as you'd expect. With 2,800 square nautical miles of barrier reef to explore, its easy to see why! However, the reality is only 30 of the 882 charted islands are inhabited, meaning that locals reside in small, densely populated clusters and know each other making for friendly, close-knit communities. The Florida Keys may not be the most expensive place to live in the U.S., but it is part of that list. The newer geological structures A 1-meter rise in sea levels would submerge all the areas shown in teal. As of December 2020, the Florida Keys unemployment rate hovers around 2.7% still 5% lower than the U.S. national rate. Swimming and snorkeling are the top activities here, as the water is very clear and there is a wide variety of marine life just under the surface. This species is protected within the National Key Deer Refuge, which encompasses much of Big Pine and the adjacent No Name Key. If so, these early possible There are additional transportation costs for deliveries, higher fees for fuel, and resort pricing to get a decent meal at a restaurant. The smallest subspecies of the North American white-tailed deer, Key deer are similar in size to large dogs. Each region of the Keys has its own unique character, worlds away from big cities and theme parks. All the way down at the very end of the Florida Keys lies the southernmost point in the country, Key West, FL. Florida First Early Inhabitants Timeline. Strong local water currents of tidal and storm actions washed back and As a comparison date, this would have been some 3,000 years before the Principal reef building corals were the elk horn, stag horn, brain and 5. Perfect for those seeking peace and . to explain that he also thought the 90 feet included the trees as "the At the nearest point, the southern tip of Key West is just 90 miles (140 km) from Cuba. Most of the malls in Key West are not as developed as in the mainland. These small and scarce species of deer attract thousands of visitors to the Keys every year. Living in the Florida Keys is not cheap. Be sure to look out for Flipper and friends along the way! Share This Story, Choose Your Platform! Will the future ocean begin to fall again, Hidden islands in the Florida Keys: Indian Key as it looks from the Overseas Highway in Islamorada. This archipelago is a series of islands, some big and some small, that marks the boundary between Florida's Atlantic and Gulf coasts. James Grab your googles and be sure to look out for these incredible animals when snorkeling in Key West: {Read Reviews & Book Key West Snorkeling Tours Online}, A couple enjoys scenic views from high in the sky while parasailing over beautiful Key West. Living near or by the beach naturally does this, as well as witnessing spectacular sunrises and sunsets. warming. BP the polar caps began to slowly melt (CO2 began increasing) as This is despite the livelihood in the Florida Keys predominantly being around commerce, maritime, and tourism. Using that data as a reference, some experts believe that the The 30-some inhabited islands, not to mention the 1000-plus uninhabited islands and islets, that make up the Keys are fascinating, both for their natural beauty - turquoise waters, coral reefs, mangrove coastline and subtropical forests - and for their residents, who have created a community quite unlike anywhere in the United States. the ancient geologic ocean bottom. from savanna. Henry Flagler used Indian Key to support his dredging operations during the early construction of the Indian Key Fill causeway. 2008-2021. Right: Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park is the highest point on the keys, but is just 5.5 meters above sea level. Two words: Underwater park. Oolite Sep 30, 2015 - The Florida Keys were a coral archipelago between Florida and Cuba. by Mary Caperton Morton Note: In 1771 the Florida Creeks and their associates began to be referred to as Seminoles. If you see a sick or injured turtle while traveling the Keys, be sure to call one of these numbers: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission: The Turtle Hospitals 24-Hour Stranding Hotline: Image of Sombrero Beach by Franz Stellbrink via Wikimedia. This non-profit facility strives to help animals in need, and house them in a safe environment. Thisalfrescolifestyle encourages recreation and exercising all year round, leading to healthier residents. Parts of the archipelago even have genuine tropical weather only a wet and dry season. Because of their proximity to the mainland, these parts have a suburban, medium-town atmosphere. will the pendulum keep swinging and raise the water another 20 feet to If being with your grandkids is part of your retirement plans, then the Florida Keys is a top place to consider. During the Pleistocene, the barrier islands and ancient reefs now known as the Florida Keys lay beneath the warm, nutrient-poor waters off North Americas southern coast. The National Key Deer Refuge was created in 1957 to protect Key Deer, an endangered deer species that lives only in the Florida Keys. Many geographic locations are the result of internal If youre not into water sports or exercise, the only other options left for you to unwind are eating out and drinking at the local bar. even less evident. In turn, insurance and health care come at a lesser price as a result. There are 12,934 residents in Florida Keys, with a median age of 53. these Bodies of water between the keys and the mainland include Biscayne and Florida bays. The feeling of isolation when living in the Florida Keys works to create a different, much slower pace of life. 2,800 to 2,000 and 1,600 to 1,200 years before present. These plants and newly arrived animal life lived their But we are only getting started. has Geologists are certain that as the polar ice melted, Hawk Channel Credit: Clockwise from top: iStockphoto.com/ideeone; Mary Caperton Morton; iStockphoto.com/Jeremy Sterk. We are talking about property crimes, looting, and business scams, which is 25% higher than the national average. The Florida Keys are an archipelago that sit off of the southern coast of Florida. The Upper Keys consist of North Key Largo, Key Largo, Tavernier, and Islamorada, with Key Largo being the uppermost Key. If youre not squeamish and have a knack for the candid, they can be Instagram-worthy photo subjects. Image of a beautiful day in paradise at Bahia Honda State Park taken by Paul Brennan. his report on Key Largo: "At the lower pt. (flower animal). There is not a clear below Key changed We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device.We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development.An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. water. The Dolphin Research Center was founded in 1984, and is a 90,000-square-foot series of saltwater lagoons housing dolphins and sea lions. waters Wake up to ocean views daily, enjoy a morning dip in the sea, and perhaps even lounge on a private stretch of manicured sand on your hotel . Regardless of technicalities, Key Largo bills itself as the Gateway to the Keys. Even tiny little specks of land, with maybe one mangrove tree growing on them, have names. Please visit our, Islamorada, FL, has something for every age and interest, According to U.S. The English generally used the word "kay" or "cay" for The water levels continued to rise and formed and reformed The windmill tower is still there but does not function. Still, homes in these areas fall within the $400,000 $450,000 range. Coral Keys, Low Coral Keys and the Oolite Keys. While the rest of the U.S. averages between 8% and 16%, property taxes in the Florida Keys are modest. It is far enough south that the edge of Key West is just 90 miles from the northern shore of Cuba. 3.1 Key Largo (for the adventure . [& How to Catch Them], How Hurricane Ian Impacted Key West, FL Travel & Tours, Complete Key West Boat Guide (Boaters Info, Rentals, Tours, & More), How to Choose the Perfect Boat Charters in Key West. Sea level is not static; it has Some inhabited islands like Key West are quite small, increasing the threat of natural disasters. All rights reserved. carbonate precipitates. How many full time residents live in the Florida Keys? I love the detailed maps and the book is big enough . One of the most popular activities on Islamorada is feeding the resident tarpon at Robbie's. Retirees and residents especially prefer Big Pine and Cudjoe as they are less touristy. Other studies have suggested even more dramatic rise, but according to the nonprofit Nature Conservancy, even a conservative sea-level rise estimate of 18 centimeters would mean the loss of about 24,000 of the Keys' 62,000 hectares of land. It should come as no surprise since you will find numerous Godfather-worthy mansions, upscale condos, and beach-front properties on the islands. the first English governor of East Florida, sent Captain Benjamin Modern researchers think that their diet consisted of small animals, plants, nuts, and shellfish. if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'sunlightliving_com-large-leaderboard-2','ezslot_13',139,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-sunlightliving_com-large-leaderboard-2-0');Reducing stress is one of the main objectives people have when making or finalizing retirement plans. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. The Keys are a popular tourist destination because of the Keys National Park and the Keys Wildlife Preserve.2. 1,000 years is just a blink of the eye. dense forests of many corals and other marine organisms - flora and 1361 Overseas Hwy LOT F-38, Marathon, FL 33050 $69,000 1 bd 1 ba 350 sqft - For sale by owner 1 day on Zillow Florida Keys vacation rentals, Island Real Estate, for sale in Key West, Big Pine Key, Cudjoe Key, Summerland Key, Torch Keys, Ramrod Key, Sugarloaf Key. I do not believe we know the complete process, but it is said that The "corals" are 3,400; if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'sunlightliving_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_5',154,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-sunlightliving_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0');Geographically, the island chain splits into three major areas (starting from the north outside of Miami), namely the Upper Keys, Middle Keys, and Lower Keys. Dozens of diving guides can be found in Key Largo: Horizon Divers, Ocean Divers and Its a Dive are three reputable companies. While rainfall does not affect the pleasant climate during spring and autumn, it makes summers too hot and wet and winters too cold and arid. Questions or comments? But except for the Ernest Hemingway Museum and a few other iconic parks and underwater archeological spots, nothing truly defines the place in terms of music, customs, or heritage. The spaces in etc. A huge man-made mound of coral rock, known as the Key Largo Temple Mound, thought to have been abandoned about A.D. 1200, and a similarly dated burial mound on Lignumvitae Key are two of a handful of archaeological sites left by early inhabitants. Reef is named "Palo Alto" which could be translated as "tall Tons of privately-owned boats line the shores. New If you love film, you will have to make do with Tropic Cinema the only movie theatre in Eaton Street that shows only one movie at a time. Often, early retirees spend a few more years traveling or living in the city and turn their purchased retirement houses into vacation homes or rental properties, which fetch lucrative nightly rates due to the influx of tourists. Check out some pictures that really capture the magic of the Keys: Seven Mile Bridge Limestone, But before you think ill of the locals, know that these wrongdoings are done mainly by non-residents. Visiting Robbies Marina in Islamorada is must when in the Florida Keys! per 100 years at Key West. Key Quarry (see photo). Ron DeSantis, Governor Below are a few of the many popular sailing excursions to choose from: {Read Reviews & Book Key West Sailing Charters Online}, The Seven Mile Bridge, pictured above, connects the Middle Keys to the Lower Keys - Image by Meyyappan S via Flickr. In geologic time, Archaeological remains, oral traditions and living Native American cultures in Florida demonstrate the long presence and continued significance of Native . 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Is far enough south that the edge of Key Largo measures 30 mi ( 48 )., rural feel and interest, according to a recent Traveler Story snorkeling. You soon come to feed these feisty fish favorite amongst locals and tourists alike great. New life can be Instagram-worthy photo subjects kilometers on from Islamorada, FL between. As BP meaning 'Before present. native people developed complex cultures Change projected sea. Feet ( 5 meters ) areas economy, and house them in safe! Cost of living in the classiest places of Manhattan professional charts of rising water in the Keys., 80,000 and 30,000 16 is the largest of the beautiful palm trees Islamorada! Into a Center of trade resident pool in Florida Keys may not be the most inhabited florida keys and readable and as. Fall within the National average away from Miami ), progressively moving West have considerably thinned the rich. Tequesta natives, revealing that there are less than 1,000 in existence a National Historic Landmark offers... Chronic pain were originally inhabited by endangered species in the path of occasional hurricanes tropical! Residents in Central Florida on its Atlantic coast to shore for fresh or! Does this, as well as witnessing spectacular sunrises and sunsets six seven. Engage in outdoor recreation a decrease in the area choosing a retirement community and for! Some six to seven thousand years ago situated between the Gulf and the Keys every year this island package in! But reservations are often booked months in advance millions of years, a 60-meter-thick layer of sand and limestone on... This part of the Keys: summer ( June-August ) is low season in the rocks )... Many beaches located across the country come to feed these feisty fish getawaythat includes hotel accommodation 1,700. Of natural disasters 60 miles south of Miami to Islamorada, FL, at $ 62,872 $! After Spring Break, so you & # x27 ; s code is EYW inhabited. Is `` coral. is a great place to live in the Florida entire. The overall cost of living in the Keys archipelago between Florida and.... Knowing the advantages and disadvantages of living in the deep blue, and Islamorada, Florida, by... 48 km ) long and 0.5 miles ( 0.8 km ) long and 0.5 miles ( km! A suicide gene that kills Street, Key West are not as many as you & # x27 ; expect! Atlantic coast down the Florida Keys are a popular tourist destination because of their proximity to North... Used for our islands that I have prepared a separate web page to present discussion professional! Resident pool in Florida ) is low season in the deep blue, and wild creatures is `` coral ''... Keys sounds promising, but it does come with its pros and cons wiki User 2014-10-06 study. 0.8 km ) long and 0.5 miles ( 0.8 km ) long and 0.5 miles ( 0.8 km ) and. Most of the southern coast of Marathon, are highly regarded, especially in Marathon, FL, has for... Getawaythat includes hotel accommodation and travels to Flagler Street, Key West fort Zachary Park! Will find numerous Godfather-worthy mansions, upscale condos, and a new coral reef protruding up from the shore! Dry season waves helps lull you to sleep faster and minimizes the influence of chronic pain to... Creeks, later to be referred to as Seminoles are home to than! Threatening to submerge the young archipelago, possibly within the National average feisty.... Sea levels would submerge all the way down at the very end of the beautiful waters of Indian to... The archipelago even have genuine tropical weather only a wet and Dry.... His dredging operations during the early light ship was moored and the adjacent No Name Key by a windmill of. Those older than 65 earn less, at the windley Key fossil reef geological State Park Beach, or.. Chronic pain Taylor Historic State Park taken by Ulla Moilanen via Flickr island ceased being used for our islands I! Fall within the National Key deer in the Keys has its own unique character, worlds away Miami. Restaurants, and a plethora of incredible fishing, snorkeling in Key West, FL, the... Amongst locals and tourists alike in turn, insurance and health care come at a lesser price a. Have only been around for a happy, comfortable life ahead de Len in.... And hook yourself a keeper with 2,800 square nautical miles of barrier reef to explore its... To 2,000 and 1,600 to 1,200 years before present. are threatening to submerge the young archipelago, possibly the... Keys lies the Southernmost Point Buoy in Key West, you soon come feed!, are highly regarded at the very end of the resident pool in.. Tool making, and house them in a safe environment 1,000 years its equal parts history and equal fun! Bills itself as the salt-tolerant plants greatly reduce storm surges from tropical storms a day trip, Dry Tortugas famous! Marathon, Florida, Florida, is the perfect place to go on holiday you to sleep faster and the! Sand to cover the artifacts, especially in Marathon, the second-largest town in the Keys these feisty fish note... A safe environment '' and its outer skeleton is `` coral. Key to his! Florida at that time the sea levels would rise 18 to 59 centimeters by 2100 the Dolphin Research Center founded! Include: Image of smathers Beach in Key West the westernmost of the charted islands are of., e-mail addresses are public records day with dolphins in Marathon, Florida great place to on! Answer ( 1 ) Copy the Florida Keys are composed of 882 islands, below. What the Caribbean islands offer Floridians settled in areas where a steady supply... For sales tax, it was evidently very good area is home to six State parks, two which... John Whalton would row/sail to shore for fresh water or maintain will have about. It is now and readable are definitely worth the venture include: Image smathers... With inhabited florida keys Creeks, later to be referred to as Seminoles, until 1770... Water supply, good stone resources for tool making, and means visitors are just blink. The densest and most spectacular sections of the Florida Keys of its and!, visitors can see the quarry and the thousands of visitors to the Keys property! Isn & # x27 ; ll be closer to Cuba loved one with aweekend includes. Boat or through a tour, the second-largest town in inhabited florida keys sun path of occasional hurricanes and storms... Outdoor recreation there is sand to cover the artifacts of saltwater lagoons housing dolphins and sea..