10 Local Spots in the Florida Keys

By: Bailey Vonnegut

Major Key Alert


I found the best way to travel is by asking locals for the best spots… so I know you might not have asked.. but here I am!

Many tourists come down to the Florida Keys & are shocked when they find limited beaches & expensive recommendations. Some post up on the side of the road with portable grills and floats for the day leaving trash behind. This is NOT cute & NOT the way to experience the Florida Keys. If you can’t afford to stay at a nice resort or have access to the beach no worries. Here’s a lists of the most insta worthy, affordable spots make sure you enjoy your trip down south.

The Mar Bar

Okay, I’m not just saying this because I’m a bartender here. This place is THE locals spot. I didn’t even know about this lil hidden gem until my girlfriends asked if I wanted a job. Mar Bar is located right on the canal. We’re connected to a fish market so we’re able to offer the freshest seafood at the lowest prices. Pair our stone crab claws with our local beer & your set. But wait, it gets better. Our location is surrounded by a paddle board shop, gift shop, dive shop & two restaurants. 

Playa Largo 

Okay so here’s the deal, you don’t have to be a millionaire to travel like one.  Playa Largo is a fairly new resort in Key Largo, that offers it all. Once at the gate explain you’re going to either the water-sports or restaurant for lunch/dinner. Drive around to the back and you’ll find the most luxurious restaurant with outdoor seating looking over the bay. Perfect for a sunset drink. Below the restaurant you’ll find a water-sports company that offers anything from parasailing to jet skis. 

Cheeca lodge 

Okay so this is probably the best resort we have access to in the Upper Keys. The Resort puts millions into vamping this place up after every hurricane. When I plan a day here, I’m picking out my most extra cover up, bikini & glasses I own. Why? because every step is a tropical oasis screaming photo shoot time!! Order lunch and relax by the beach or pool. Plan a spa day. Let the boys play golf. Jet ski around the islands. They offer it all!

 The Islander

YOGA heaven. This resort offers the most insane yoga location. Picture this, you lay your mat down on bright green grass. Looking to your left & right to tall flowers and plants adding privacy. Straight ahead you’ll find tall palm trees tangled together, peaking through to a sandy beach & ocean. Yoga’s not your thing? That’s fine, their endless seafood brunch buffet by the pool may be. Maybe their beach basketball court is more your style. Or one of their two pools which offer tons of outdoor seating. Just GO!

Alligator Lighthouse

So this is for all you fortunate enough to have a boat down here (which is the only way to really do the Keys). This is a must. Calling all you influencers, cancel the presets you don’t need them here! Located a couple miles from the Islamorada sandbar. You’ll know you’re getting close when the lighthouse gets bigger & the water gets crystal clear. Bring your snorkel gear too because the wild life under the lighthouse is unreal.

Ocean View Inn & Sports Bar 

Ocean View is the perfect place to spend the day. Drive & park or boat & dock, you’ve got options. You’ve got a pool to cool off and endless games to keep you occupied. Not to mention their menu has a variety of options for everyone. Looking for a night out? Well hump day just got more interesting, Wednesday’s are  ‘flip night’ at the O.V.. Flip a coin and if you call it you’ll get your drink for free!

Shrimp Shack 

You may be alarmed by the exterior but this place has all the seafood dishes you’ve been dying for. I know because I worked here & nothing compared to getting to eat this food daily.  The shack received it’s fame after getting aired on an episode with Guy Fieri.  (You have no clue how many family photos I had to take for customers in front of this guy). Not to mention they have a full bar & the staff is hilarious. 

Grati Cafe & Coco Plum Place

As relaxing as a trip to the Florida Keys can be,  sometimes it can be exhausting. Whether you’ve gotten out in the sun too much or your liver needs a break these two shops have got you covered. Both offer great acai bowls and juices with specific ingredients to help get you ready to take on another day. Grati Cafe is located in Islamorada and connected to an adorable boutique called Drift. You’ll find Coco Plum Place in Key Largo & they offer trendy island items within the store. 

The Grove

Okay so I’ve saved the best for last but can’t give away too much information on this one or i’ll get my local card taken from me. The grove was started by local high school kids years ago. Pogues (obx reference) created a little oasis to party within the mangroves. If you’re traveling on the bayside check within the mangroves, for a slight opening. If you find a tire swing you’re in the right spot. 

White Marlin 
This sandbar is a little hidden, located at mile marker 74.5 on the Bayside. We love this sandbar for it’s clear water and easy access since it’s located right onshore. This is the perfect place for doggies or kids because of it’s shallow waters and beach access!