Florida Keys Newsroom

Women Turn Fishing Lessons Into Winning Catches at the Ladies, Let’s Go Fishing! Keys University

Wed, 28 Oct 2026 19:51:06 +0100

TAVERNIER, Florida Keys (Oct. 28, 2026) — Takoda Ott of Fort Myers, Fla., came to the Florida Keys to learn how to fish. Ott went home with a first sailfish release and a tournament award.

Ott was one of the women from Florida and beyond who hooked 85 fish aboard seven boats at the award-winning Ladies, Let's Go Fishing! Keys University and Fishing Fever Tournament, held Oct. 16-18 at the Elks Lodge in Tavernier, near Islamorada. The three-day event pairs a day of classroom instruction with guided trips inshore and offshore.

Ott's sailfish, released aboard Poppa Wahoo, earned Top Offshore Release. The same boat produced the offshore winner, a 10.4-pound kingfish caught by Mary Ann Dineen of Fort Myers, and the third-place fish, a 10.1-pound mutton snapper from Jane Koppenaal of Key West. Anna Tassia Butler of Islamorada took second with a 10.1-pound blackfin tuna aboard Sea Horse.

Inshore, Blackwater Charters took all three places. Zaida Diaz of Miami won with a 20-inch ladyfish and Ana Bardales of Miami took second with a 19.5-inch sea trout, both fishing with Capt. Eric Scoble. Pat Kucera of Clearwater, Fla., finished third with an 18-inch jack crevalle alongside Capt. Dylan Scoble.

"Almost every fish in the sea counts in the Fishing Fever competition," said Betty Bauman, founder of Ladies, Let's Go Fishing! "It's a fun way for beginners and casual anglers to learn, build confidence and have a chance to bring home a prize."

The weekend opened with a meet-and-greet. Saturday's class put rods in hands. Participants tied knots, rigged bait, threw cast nets and worked spinning and fly rods. They practiced releasing fish. They practiced gaffing on grapefruits. Capt. Lee Lavery taught fishing basics, Capt. Jeanne Towne covered offshore techniques and Capt. Rob Modys handled inshore fishing. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission led the conservation session. A second networking gathering followed at the Islamorada Shrimp Shack.

On the water Friday and Sunday, professional captains and guides put the lessons to the test. The fleet brought in sailfish, mahi-mahi, blackfin tuna, mutton snapper, kingfish, cero mackerel, amberjack, yellowtail snapper, seatrout, and mangrove snapper.

Fishing Fever Tournament winners:

First Place Offshore: Mary Ann Dineen, Fort Myers, Fla. - 10.4 lb. kingfish aboard Poppa Wahoo.
Second Place Offshore: Anna Tassia Butler, Islamorada, Fla. - 10.1 lb. blackfin tuna aboard Sea Horse.
Third Place Offshore: Jane Koppenaal, Key West, Fla. - 10.1 lb. mutton snapper aboard Poppa Wahoo.
Top Offshore Release: Takoda Ott, Fort Myers, Fla. - sailfish released aboard Poppa Wahoo.
First Place Inshore: Zaida Diaz, Miami - 20-inch ladyfish with Blackwater Charters, Capt. Eric Scoble.
Second Place Inshore: Ana Bardales, Miami - 19.5-inch sea trout with Blackwater Charters, Capt. Eric Scoble.
Third Place Inshore: Pat Kucera, Clearwater, Fla. - 18-inch jack crevalle with Blackwater Charters, Capt. Dylan Scoble.

Sponsors and supporters include Mercury, Magic Tilt Trailers, Power-Pole, Penn and Fish Florida. Largest annual sponsors are Lowrance, ICOM, Bob's Machine Shop, AFTCO, Smith Optics, Frogg Toggs, Hubbards Marina, Seaguar, Flying Fisherman, Pelagic Gear, Engel, Yeti, Vudu, CCA Florida STAR, Flamingo Lodge and Star Brite. Local sponsors are Sunset Inn and the Monroe County Tourist Development Council.

Ladies, Let's Go Fishing! returns to the Florida Keys for the Islamorada Women's Sailfish Tournament, Feb. 5-7, 2027, followed by the Screamin' Reels Fun Fishing Tournament, May 14-16, 2027, and the next Keys University and Fishing Fever Tournament, Oct. 1-3, 2027.

Find more information at ladiesletsgofishing.com.

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William Koppenaal of Key West, Fla., left, Donna Conner of Centreville, Md., Jane Koppenaal of Key West, Linda Rohde of Lighthouse Point, Fla., and Mary Ann Dineen and Takoda Ott, both of Fort Myers, Fla., hoist mahi-mahi, kingfish, tuna and snapper aboard Poppa Wahoo on Friday, Oct. 16, 2026, during the Ladies, Let's Go Fishing! Keys University and Fishing Fever Tournament off Islamorada, Florida Keys. Dineen's 10.4-pound kingfish, second from right, took First Place Offshore. (Ladies, Let's Go Fishing!)

Anna Tassia Butler of Islamorada, Florida Keys, left, Melody Tusche of Big Pine Key, Florida Keys, Lorraine Love and Johanna Plant, both of St. Augustine, Fla., and Ashley Trester of Sellersburg, Ind., show off Friday's catch aboard Sea Horse on Oct. 16, 2026, during the Ladies, Let's Go Fishing! Keys University and Fishing Fever Tournament off Islamorada. Butler's 10.1-pound blackfin tuna earned Second Place Offshore in the tournament. (Ladies, Let's Go Fishing!)

Sunday's Sea Horse anglers line up at the dock with kingfish and cero mackerel after the final day of fishing on Oct. 18, 2026, during the Ladies, Let's Go Fishing! Keys University and Fishing Fever Tournament in Islamorada, Florida Keys. Across the weekend, participants hooked 85 fish aboard seven boats. (Ladies, Let's Go Fishing!/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Anna Tassia Butler of Islamorada, Florida Keys, holds the 10.1-pound blackfin tuna that earned Second Place Offshore aboard Sea Horse during the Ladies, Let's Go Fishing! Keys University and Fishing Fever Tournament, Oct. 16-18, 2026, off Islamorada. Three tenths of a pound separated the tuna from the winning kingfish. (Ladies, Let's Go Fishing!)

Takoda Ott, left, and Mary Ann Dineen, both of Fort Myers, Fla., share the weight of an amberjack aboard Poppa Wahoo during the Ladies, Let's Go Fishing! Keys University and Fishing Fever Tournament, Oct. 16-18, 2026, off Islamorada, Florida Keys. Ott released a first sailfish during the weekend for Top Offshore Release, and Dineen's 10.4-pound kingfish won First Place Offshore. (Ladies, Let's Go Fishing!)

From Broadway to Rock 'n' Roll, Key West's Fantasy Fest Strikes a Chord

Sun, 25 Oct 2026 11:05:00 +0100

FLORIDA KEYS VIDEO ADVISORY October 25, 2026

Contacts: Chad Newman, News Director, Chad@fla-keys.com, (310) 283-8441 or Mary B. Haban, Vice President, Public Relations, Mary@fla-keys.com, (305) 394-3142

Story: From Broadway to Rock 'n' Roll, Key West's Fantasy Fest Strikes a Chord

Locator: Key West, Fla.

Usage: HANDOUT / RIGHTS CLEARED (Unlimited Broadcast & Digital)

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Video: B-roll of floats, costumed performers and crowds along Duval Street during the Deep Eddy Vodka Fantasy Fest Parade in Key West, Fla. Footage includes "The Greatest Showman" entry with an acrobat, giant puppets and an elephant ridden by its creators; "The King's Key West Residency" Elvis float; the "Les Mis-ter 305" barricade float; a smoking volcano float honoring Jimmy Buffett with revelers singing along; the Hemingway Home's "Running of the Cats"; Caribbean dancers in towering feathered costumes; plus Priscilla's giant silver stiletto, "Moulin Rouge!" angels, a Studio 54 bicycle procession and a rock legends float featuring Robert the Doll. Natural sound of music and cheers.

Technical Data:

TRT: 2:50

Filename: KeyWestFantasyParade.mp4

Audio: Nat. Sound - Stereo Mix

B-Roll: Nat. Sound

Credit: Florida Keys News Bureau (Screen credit appreciated, not mandatory)

From Broadway to Rock 'n' Roll, Key West's Fantasy Fest Strikes a Chord

KEY WEST, Fla. (October 25, 2026) — Rock legends. Disco divas. Broadway showstoppers. And a whole lotta Margaritaville.

Key West cranked up the volume Saturday night when its legendary Fantasy Fest Parade transformed Duval Street into a full-on spectacle of music, costumes and larger-than-life creativity.

Tens of thousands of spectators lined the streets and rooftops for the Deep Eddy Vodka Fantasy Fest Parade, the grand finale of the island’s 10-day costuming celebration.

This year’s theme? “Musical Icons and Iconic Musicals.” And the performances were every bit as spectacular as the costumes themselves.

“The Greatest Showman” brought the circus to town, with a giant elephant, towering 12-foot puppets and 125 performers.

“Les Misérables” met rapper Pitbull in an unlikely pairing of barricades, fireball cannons and Latin rhythms.

“Priscilla, Queen of the Desert” made a grand entrance atop an enormous silver stiletto. “Grease” got a tropical twist. “Moulin Rouge!” delivered feathers, corsets and cabaret glamour. And “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” added its own outrageous flair.

Then came the music legends.

A Village People tribute brought the disco swagger. Meanwhile, revelers dressed as Diana Ross, Cher, Donna Summer and the Bee Gees turned back the clock to Studio 54, pedaling through the streets in a rolling tribute to disco’s golden era. And 41 years after Jimmy Buffett served as the parade’s co-grand marshal, a smoking volcano rolled down Duval Street as revelers sang along to “Margaritaville.”

Rock royalty joined the parade, too. The crowd went wild for an Ozzy Osbourne tribute atop a smoke-blowing forklift, with a Dolly Parton double and Key West’s famously haunted Robert the Doll along for the ride.

Even Ernest Hemingway’s celebrated six-toed cats got their moment in the spotlight when the Hemingway Home traded the running of the bulls for a whimsical running of the cats.

Thirty parade entries competed for $21,000 in prize money across eight categories, including a $6,000 Grand Prize for Best Overall.

And beyond the glitter and glamour, the celebration gave back. Fantasy Fest’s royal court raised more than $200,000 for the Florida Keys SPCA.

The 10-day festival wraps up Sunday, October 25. But the next act is already on the calendar.

Fantasy Fest returns October 22–31, 2027, with the theme “Summer Camp Couture.”

To learn more, visit fantasyfest.com.

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To the barricade! Revolutionaries in gold-fringed coats and bicorne hats storm Duval Street aboard "Les Mis-ter 305," a mash-up of "Les Misérables" and Miami rapper Pitbull, complete with a barricade built from Key West treasures, during the Deep Eddy Vodka Fantasy Fest Parade in Key West, Fla., Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026. Thirty entries competed for $21,000 in prize money. (Mark Hedden/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Lions and tamers and showgirls, oh my! Lion-maned performers and whip-wielding ringmasters bring "The Greatest Showman" to Duval Street during the Deep Eddy Vodka Fantasy Fest Parade in Key West, Fla., Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026. The 125-performer tribute to P.T. Barnum's circus also features 12-foot puppets, a giant elephant and aerialists. (Mark Hedden/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Move over, Pamplona. Runners in white with red sashes guide a towering cat puppet down Duval Street in the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum's "Running of the Cats," a Key West twist on Spain's running of the bulls, during the Deep Eddy Vodka Fantasy Fest Parade in Key West, Fla., Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026. The entry salutes the famous six-toed cats that still roam Hemingway's island home. (Mark Hedden/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Elvis has left the sailboat. An Elvis in a white jumpsuit, red scarf and gold shades works the crowd from "The King's Key West Residency," a float imagining the King has been hiding out on a sailboat off Key West for nearly 50 years, during the Deep Eddy Vodka Fantasy Fest Parade in Key West, Fla., Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026. The parade capped Fantasy Fest's 47th year. (Mark Hedden/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Heaven can wait. A winged angel in a red corset and feathered halo fires off a bubble gun with The Saint Hotel's "Moulin Rouge!" entry, a nod to the famous Paris cabaret, during the Deep Eddy Vodka Fantasy Fest Parade in Key West, Fla., Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026. Tens of thousands of spectators pack the parade route along Duval Street. (Mark Hedden/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Pedal to the dance floor. A disco diva in an oversized afro wig rides a bike loaded with mirror balls and vinyl records in the "Saturday Night Fever at Studio 54" bicycle procession during the Deep Eddy Vodka Fantasy Fest Parade in Key West, Fla., Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026. Next year's festival returns Oct. 22-31, 2027, with the theme "Summer Camp Couture." (Mark Hedden/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Send in the clowns. Pierrot clowns in harlequin diamonds and ruffled collars close out "The Greatest Showman," the 125-performer tribute to P.T. Barnum's circus, during the Deep Eddy Vodka Fantasy Fest Parade in Key West, Fla., Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026. Fantasy Fest 2026 wraps up Sunday, Oct. 25. (Mark Hedden/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Fins up, Key West! Revelers in leis and Hawaiian shirts cheer aboard a towering tropical volcano float honoring Jimmy Buffett during the Deep Eddy Vodka Fantasy Fest Parade in Key West, Fla., Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026. Forty-one years after Buffett served as co-grand marshal of the 1985 Fantasy Fest Parade, his music rolls down Duval Street once again. (Mark Hedden/Florida Keys News Bureau)

A grand finale in full feather. Dancers with Team Kelz's "Icons of the Caribbean" show off soaring plumes and beaded costumes as the final entry during the Deep Eddy Vodka Fantasy Fest Parade in Key West, Fla., Saturday, Oct. 24, 2026. The parade capped Fantasy Fest 2026, the island's 10-day costuming celebration. (Mark Hedden/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Costumes, Characters and a Whole Lot of Conch Republic Swagger: Key West Lets Loose at Fantasy Fest Masquerade March

Sat, 24 Oct 2026 12:05:00 +0200

FLORIDA KEYS VIDEO ADVISORY October 24, 2026

Contacts: Chad Newman, News Director, Chad@fla-keys.com(310) 283-8441 or Mary B. Haban, Vice President, Public Relations, Mary@fla-keys.com (305) 394-3142

Story: Costumes, Characters and a Whole Lot of Conch Republic Swagger: Key West Lets Loose at Fantasy Fest Masquerade March

Locator: Key West, Fla.

Usage: HANDOUT / RIGHTS CLEARED (Unlimited Broadcast & Digital)

Video Link: Click Here

Photo Link: Click Here

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Photo Captions Below

Video: B-roll of thousands of costumed revelers marching through Old Town Key West, Fla., during Captain Morgan's Masquerade March, a highlight of Fantasy Fest 2026. Footage includes masks, body paint and costumes inspired by the "Musical Icons and Iconic Musicals" theme, KISS and Freddie Mercury look-alikes, a Devo-inspired DJ, dancers, marchers wearing giant cassette tapes on their heads and crowds along the route. Natural sound of music and cheers.

Technical Data:

TRT: 2:05

Filename: KeyWestMasquerade.mp4

Audio: Nat. Sound - Stereo Mix

B-Roll: Nat. Sound

Credit: Florida Keys News Bureau (Screen credit appreciated, not mandatory)

Costumes, Characters and a Whole Lot of Conch Republic Swagger: Key West Lets Loose at Fantasy Fest Masquerade March

KEY WEST, Fla. (October 24, 2026) — KISS took over the streets of Key West Friday night. So did Freddie Mercury. And a few thousand of their closest friends. It was all part of Captain Morgan's Masquerade March, where the costumes were outrageous, the music was loud and nobody missed a beat.

Known as the "locals' parade," this Fantasy Fest favorite turned the streets of Old Town Key West into one giant moving costume party. And this crowd came dressed to impress!

With this year's theme, "Musical Icons and Iconic Musicals," there was no shortage of star power. '80s girl band the Go-Go's brought a little flair. And a Devo-inspired DJ kept the new wave rolling along. Even the mixtape made a comeback, with one group sporting giant cassette tapes on their heads.

Along the parade route, local guest houses kept the island hospitality flowing with refreshments and plenty of encouragement. The spectators? They were practically part of the show.

The march eventually rolled into the Fantasy Fest Street Fair, where the party was far from over. And the grand finale? That's still to come.

Saturday night's Deep Eddy Vodka Fantasy Fest Parade is expected to draw tens of thousands of spectators to Duval Street. The 10-day Fantasy Fest celebration wraps up Sunday, October 25.

For more information, visit fantasyfest.com.

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NOTE TO EDITORS/PRODUCERS: Below is the lineup of Florida Keys News Bureau video coverage for the rest of this week, with corresponding feed dates and delivery times. Separate advisories will be distributed before each feed.

Sunday, Oct. 25, by 11 a.m.: Deep Eddy Vodka Fantasy Fest Parade from Saturday night, Oct. 24. The festival's grand finale features dazzling floats, marching groups and costumed participants bringing the "Musical Icons and Iconic Musicals" theme to life before tens of thousands of spectators along Duval Street.

Be kind, rewind. Marchers become a walking mixtape, each wearing a giant cassette labeled with a music icon, from Devo and David Bowie to Duran Duran and Spinal Tap, during Captain Morgan's Masquerade March in Key West, Fla., Friday, Oct. 23, 2026. Thousands of costumed revelers take over Old Town for the free-spirited procession known as "the locals' parade." (Larry Blackburn/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Big hair, don't care. An '80s hair-metal crew cranks up the attitude with teased wigs, spandex and guitars during Captain Morgan's Masquerade March in Key West, Fla., Friday, Oct. 23, 2026. The march is a prelude to Saturday night's Deep Eddy Vodka Fantasy Fest Parade, the festival's grand finale. (Larry Blackburn/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Sharp dressed and seriously bearded. Two marchers channel ZZ Top with flowing beards, black hats and the band's signature fuzzy guitars during Captain Morgan's Masquerade March in Key West, Fla., Friday, Oct. 23, 2026. Rock legends are everywhere as revelers embrace this year's Fantasy Fest theme, "Musical Icons and Iconic Musicals." (Larry Blackburn/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Tongues out, Key West. A KISS army strikes a pose in full face paint and platform boots, one of several KISS crews to rock Old Town during Captain Morgan's Masquerade March in Key West, Fla., Friday, Oct. 23, 2026. Fantasy Fest 2026 continues through Sunday, Oct. 25. (Larry Blackburn/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Still stayin' alive. A disco-ready pair puts an undead spin on the Bee Gees' "Stayin' Alive," complete with a tombstone sign, white sequins and a disco-ball purse, during Captain Morgan's Masquerade March in Key West, Fla., Friday, Oct. 23, 2026. Free to join and free to watch, the march welcomes anyone in costume. (Larry Blackburn/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Cat-titude to spare. Fans of the Broadway musical “Cats” prowl Old Town in leopard prints, wild manes and painted whiskers during Captain Morgan’s Masquerade March in Key West, Fla., Friday, Oct. 23, 2026. The procession winds through the island’s historic streets to the Fantasy Fest Street Fair. (Larry Blackburn/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Purple reign. A crew of Prince fans salutes "Purple Rain" with glowing cloud umbrellas, ruffled shirts and a guitar to match during Captain Morgan's Masquerade March in Key West, Fla., Friday, Oct. 23, 2026. The march is a highlight of Fantasy Fest, Key West's 10-day costuming and masking festival. (Larry Blackburn/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Rocket men and women. Members of the Key West Bike Club go full Elton John in star-shaped sunglasses, purple feathers and rainbow sequins during Captain Morgan's Masquerade March in Key West, Fla., Friday, Oct. 23, 2026. Next up: the Deep Eddy Vodka Fantasy Fest Parade, which takes over Duval Street Saturday night, Oct. 24. (Larry Blackburn/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Heads Will Turn! Key West Headdress Ball Takes Fantasy Fest to New Heights

Fri, 23 Oct 2026 20:55:01 +0200

FLORIDA KEYS VIDEO ADVISORY October 23, 2026

Contacts: Chad Newman, Chad@fla-keys.com (310) 283-8441 or Mary B. Haban, Mary@fla-keys.com (305) 394-3142

Story: Heads Will Turn! Key West Headdress Ball Takes Fantasy Fest to New Heights

Locator: Key West, Fla.

Usage: HANDOUT / RIGHTS CLEARED (Unlimited Broadcast & Digital)

Video Link: Click Here

Photo Link: Click Here

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Photo Captions Below

Video: B-roll of contestants unveiling towering headdress creations inspired by the "Musical Icons and Iconic Musicals" theme at the 43rd Annual Headdress Ball at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater in Key West, Fla. Footage includes close-ups of headdress details, on-stage performances and Head Above the Rest winner Virginia Wark in her "Saturday Night Fever at Studio 54" headdress. Natural sound of music and cheers.

Technical Data:

TRT: 1:45

Filename: KeyWestHeaddress.mp4

Audio: Nat. Sound - Stereo Mix

B-Roll: Nat. Sound

Credit: Florida Keys News Bureau (Screen credit appreciated, not mandatory)

Heads Will Turn! Key West Headdress Ball Takes Fantasy Fest to New Heights

KEY WEST, Fla. (October 23, 2026) — Some people let things go to their heads. In Key West, they make a competition out of it! Literally.

Towering headpieces. Over-the-top costumes. And enough glitz to make even a disco ball jealous.

Welcome to the 43rd annual Headdress Ball. Where the only thing crazier than the costumes is trying to figure out how to fit them through a doorway. At this party, it's not so much the outfit as it is the head game.And trust us, there's a LOT going on up there.

More than 500 people packed the sold-out show at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater in Key West, where contestants battled it out for a share of $6,000 in prizes.

This year's Fantasy Fest theme? "Musical Icons and Iconic Musicals." And these folks didn't miss a beat. One contestant showed up with Elton John's piano on their head. Another gave "Moulin Rouge!" a punk-rock makeover. Foam. Wire. And a little 3-D wizardry. And then there's "Music in Motion." It’s a top hat that its creator says you can actually wear on a bicycle. Because apparently, a regular bike helmet just won't cut it in Key West.

Longtime host Randy Roberts kept the show rolling as contestants strutted their stuff. Even the award categories like "Glow Getter," "Pretenders in Paradise," and "Size Doesn't Matter" had some serious attitude.

"Slash-Zilla," a tribute to Guns N' Roses guitarist Slash, won second place. And wait until you hear what went into this winning creation. Netting. Hot glue. A laundry basket. And what its creator calls "the entire dollar store." All thrown together in her Key West kitchen in less than a week.

The night's big winner? "Head Above the Rest." And this one brought some serious Saturday night fever.

Key West's Virginia Wark may have finished second last year. But this year, she went for gold, and it paid off with a $2,500 top prize. Her "Saturday Night Fever at Studio 54" headdress shimmered in liquid gold, topped with silver disco balls and tiny clubgoers dancing across her crown.

The annual Headdress Ball is produced by the Key West Business Guild, with proceeds supporting its year-round efforts to promote Key West as a welcoming destination.

And the party's not slowing down just yet. Friday night brings Captain Morgan's Masquerade March. On Saturday night, things really get going when the Deep Eddy Vodka Fantasy Fest Parade takes over Duval Street, with tens of thousands expected to pack the streets.

Fantasy Fest wraps up this Sunday, October 25. For a full schedule of events, visit fantasyfest.com.

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Saturday, Oct. 24, by 11 a.m.: Captain Morgan's Masquerade March from Friday evening, Oct. 23. This exuberant walking parade through Key West's historic Old Town draws several thousand merrymakers wearing glittering masks, body paint and costumes inspired by the "Musical Icons and Iconic Musicals" theme. Revelers stop along the route at guest houses for music, photos and refreshments.

And the orchid went to... Christine Chaloupka of Key West, Fla., threw her arms wide as her "Island Orchid" headdress won the "Pretenders in Paradise" award. The moment came Thursday night, Oct. 22, 2026, at the 43rd annual Headdress Ball at Key West's Coffee Butler Amphitheater. Fellow contestants cheered her on, including Jill Malcolm, far left, beneath her Elton John piano, and overall winner Virginia Wark, second from left. More than 500 spectators packed the sold-out show, a highlight of Fantasy Fest 2026. (Mark Hedden/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Welcome to the jungle. Bria Ansara of Key West, Fla., channels her inner rock star with "Slash-Zilla," her towering tribute to Guns N' Roses guitarist Slash, Thursday night, Oct. 22, 2026, at the 43rd annual Headdress Ball at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater in Key West. Built in less than a week in her kitchen from tulle, hot glue, a laundry basket and household odds and ends, the creation earned the Spirit of Fantasy Fest award. Fantasy Fest 2026 continues through Sunday, Oct. 25. (Mark Hedden/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Saturday night fever on a Thursday night? In Key West, it can happen. Virginia Wark of Key West, Fla., strutted across the stage in her "Saturday Night Fever at Studio 54" creation during the 43rd annual Headdress Ball on Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026. The liquid-gold tribute to 1970s nightlife, complete with disco balls and vinyl, won the night's top prize, Head Above the Rest, and $2,500. Wark placed second last year. The Key West Business Guild produces the event at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater to promote Key West as a welcoming destination. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Talk about a hat full of hits! Yvonne Lee shows off "Music in Motion," a top hat bursting with glittering music notes, Thursday night, Oct. 22, 2026, at the 43rd annual Headdress Ball at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater in Key West, Fla. Created in just over a week and a half, her headdress won the Size Doesn't Matter award. (Mark Hedden/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Pretty in pink. And blooming with attitude. Christine Chaloupka of Key West, Fla., dazzled in a glittering burst of pink orchids at the 43rd annual Headdress Ball Thursday, Oct. 22, 2026, at Key West's Coffee Butler Amphitheater. Her "Island Orchid" creation took three to four weeks to build and snagged the "Pretenders in Paradise" award. Fantasy Fest wraps up Saturday night, Oct. 24, with the Deep Eddy Vodka Fantasy Fest Parade down Duval Street. (Mark Hedden/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Furry Divas and Rock Star Pups Strike a Pose at Fantasy Fest Pet Contest

Thu, 22 Oct 2026 17:54:33 +0200

FLORIDA KEYS VIDEO ADVISORY October 22, 2026

Contacts: Chad Newman, Chad@fla-keys.com (310) 283-8441 or Mary B. Haban, Mary@fla-keys.com (305) 394-3142

Story: Furry Divas and Rock Star Pups Strike a Pose at Fantasy Fest Pet Contest

Locator: Key West, Fla.

Usage: HANDOUT / RIGHTS CLEARED (Unlimited Broadcast & Digital)

Video Link: Click Here

Photo Link: Click Here

Radio Link: Click Here

Photo Captions Below

Video: B-roll of costumed pets and their owners competing in the Fantasy Fest Pet Masquerade at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater in Key West, Fla. Footage includes close-ups of pet costumes inspired by the "Musical Icons and Iconic Musicals" theme, pet-and-owner teams on stage, and Best in Show winners Beth Moyes and her dog Franki performing to "All That Jazz." Natural sound of cheers and music.

Technical Data:

TRT: 2:11

Filename: KeyWestPets.mp4

Audio: Nat. Sound - Stereo Mix

B-Roll: Nat. Sound

Credit: Florida Keys News Bureau (Screen credit appreciated, not mandatory)

Furry Divas and Rock Star Pups Strike a Pose at Fantasy Fest Pet Contest

KEY WEST, Fla. (October 22, 2026). Show tunes and rock 'n' roll took over Key West Wednesday night. And the stars had paws.

Costumed canines strutted into the spotlight at the Fantasy Fest Pet Masquerade. A few other furry friends joined the act. Their human co-stars? Right there with them.

For more than 25 years, the Pet Masquerade has been one of Fantasy Fest's most beloved family-friendly events. This year, more than 30 entries filled the stage at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater.

The theme? "Musical Icons and Iconic Musicals." And these pets covered both.

Broadway got its due. A pack of pugs took on "Oklahoma." They called it "Puglahoma." Another team paid tribute to "Grease." And two entries made a splash, with tributes to "The Little Mermaid" and "Beauty and the Beast."

But rock 'n' roll came out swinging. Two teams went full Guns N' Roses. One pup channeled Elvis as a "Hound Dog." And another came out of its shell as a lobster, a nod to the B-52's classic "Rock Lobster." Very Key West.

On the dance floor, one team turned up the heat with a Cuban-inspired number.

Judges handed out prizes for junior entrants, pet-and-owner look-alikes, the most exotic pets and the best take on the theme.

But the showstopper? Beth Moyes and her dog, Franki. They performed a routine to "All That Jazz" and took top honors as Best in Show.

The real winners, though? The animals at the Monroe County Sheriff's Office Animal Farm on Stock Island. Proceeds from the Pet Masquerade help care for them.

Fantasy Fest keeps the show going through Sunday, October 25. Up next? Thursday night's 43rd Annual Headdress Ball. And on Friday, Captain Morgan's Masquerade March.

The grand finale? Saturday night's Deep Eddy Vodka Fantasy Fest Parade. Tens of thousands of spectators are expected to pack Duval Street.

Because in Key West, every pet deserves a curtain call.

For a full schedule of events, visit fantasyfest.com.

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NOTE TO EDITORS/PRODUCERS: Below is the lineup of Florida Keys News Bureau video coverage for upcoming events for the rest of this week, with corresponding feed dates and delivery times. Separate advisories will be distributed before each feed.

Friday, Oct. 23, by 11 a.m.: 43rd Annual Headdress Ball from Thursday night, Oct. 22. An iconic Fantasy Fest showcase at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater, the Headdress Ball features stunning, hand-crafted headdresses modeled by their creators and accompanied by high-energy performances from some of the island's top entertainers.

It's alive, and it's adorable. Denise Bohlig-Capone of Big Pine Key, Fla., and her French bulldog, Midge, go full "Bride of Frankenstein," towering beehive wigs and all, Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026, during the Fantasy Fest Pet Masquerade at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater in Key West. The pair competed in the Pet/Owner Lookalike category. Next up on the Fantasy Fest calendar: the 43rd Annual Headdress Ball on Thursday, Oct. 22. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Little shop, big dogs. Members of the Morgan family of Key West, Fla., and their Newfoundlands, Maui and Winnie, sprout into the man-eating plant from "Little Shop of Horrors" with their entry, "Little Shop of Morgans," Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026, during the Fantasy Fest Pet Masquerade at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater in Key West. The family took second place in the Junior Division, one of more than 30 entries to hit the stage. (Mark Hedden/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Oklahoma, meet Puglahoma. Michelle Adam of Key West, Fla., rolls out her pugs, Gulliver and Delilah, one riding in a covered wagon and the other dressed as a cowpoke, in a canine spin on the musical "Oklahoma" Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026, during the Fantasy Fest Pet Masquerade at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater in Key West. The Pet Masquerade has been a Fantasy Fest favorite for more than 25 years. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Elvis has entered the building. Alicia Bocian of Key West, Fla., cheers on her basset hound, Winslow, who channels Elvis Presley's "Hound Dog" in gold-rimmed shades Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026, during the Fantasy Fest Pet Masquerade at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater in Key West. Rock 'n' roll tributes shared the stage with Broadway favorites as entries took on this year's Fantasy Fest theme, "Musical Icons and Iconic Musicals." (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Something's cooking at the Pet Masquerade. Basset hound Molly and owner Maria Maxwell suit up as "rock lobsters" while George McClelland stirs things up as the Muppets' Swedish Chef Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026, during the Fantasy Fest Pet Masquerade at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater in Key West, Fla. The Long Branch, N.J., team saluted the B-52's classic "Rock Lobster." Proceeds from the contest benefit the Monroe County Sheriff's Office Animal Farm. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

The Phantom brought a plus-one. Kim and Mike Graves of Etna, Ohio, step out as Christine and the Phantom from "The Phantom of the Opera," while their dog, Bella, steals the scene as the show's cymbal-clapping music box monkey, Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026, during the Fantasy Fest Pet Masquerade at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater in Key West, Fla. Still to come: Captain Morgan's Masquerade March through Old Town on Friday, Oct. 23. (Mark Hedden/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Jazz hands, meet jazz paws. Franki weaves beneath Beth Moyes' leg as the pair, both decked out in red fringe, dance to "All That Jazz" Wednesday, Oct. 21, 2026, during the Fantasy Fest Pet Masquerade at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater in Key West, Fla. The routine won Best in Show, the top prize of the night. Fantasy Fest 2026 rolls on through Sunday, Oct. 25, with Saturday night's Deep Eddy Vodka Fantasy Fest Parade as the grand finale. (Mark Hedden/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Thousands of Zombies Roll Through Key West in Frightful Fashion

Mon, 19 Oct 2026 12:05:00 +0200

FLORIDA KEYS VIDEO ADVISORY October 19, 2026

Contacts: Chad Newman, Chad@fla-keys.com (310) 283-8441 or Mary B. Haban, Mary@fla-keys.com (305) 394-3142

Story: Thousands of Zombies Roll Through Key West in Frightful Fashion

Locator: Key West, Fla.

Usage: HANDOUT / RIGHTS CLEARED (Unlimited Broadcast & Digital)

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Photo Captions Below

Video: Aerials and B-roll footage of costumed "zombies" riding bikes, scooters and custom-built contraptions through Key West, Fla., during the annual Zombie Bike Ride. Close-ups of costumes inspired by this year's "Musical Icons and Iconic Musicals" theme, wide shots of the "bicycling dead" pedaling from the Atlantic Ocean into Old Town Key West. Natural sound of cheers and music.

Technical Data:

TRT: 2:20

Filename: KeyWestZombies.mp4

Audio: Nat. Sound - Stereo Mix

Credit: Florida Keys News Bureau (Screen credit appreciated, not mandatory)

Thursday, Oct. 22, by 11 a.m.: Fantasy Fest Pet Masquerade from Wednesday evening, Oct. 21. A fan-favorite event at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater, the Pet Masquerade features costumed dogs, cats and other domestic companions on stage with their owners. Entries include pet-and-person duos and themed group skits that highlight Key West's playful spirit. Proceeds benefit the Monroe County Sheriff's Office Animal Farm.

Thousands of Zombies Roll Through Key West in Frightful Fashion

KEY WEST, Fla. (October 19, 2026) — Traffic was a nightmare in Key West Sunday night.

But the drivers weren’t the problem.

Thousands of zombies took to the streets for the annual Zombie Bike Ride. A four-mile spectacle of creepy costumes, creative contraptions and characters straight out of the crypt.

The undead rolled down the streets of Key West on bicycles. Scooters. And just about anything else with wheels.

Their route? A leisurely ride by the Atlantic Ocean. Past Smathers Beach. Through Old Town. And straight into the heart of Key West.

And this year, the zombies brought a little music to the madness.

With Fantasy Fest celebrating “Musical Icons and Iconic Musicals,” the zombie invasion took on a whole new cast of characters.

From “Little Shop of Horrors” to “Grease” and a tribute to AC/DC, there was no shortage of creative costumes. Others kept it old-school. Tattered clothes. Ghastly makeup. Fake blood. And faces only a mother zombie could love.

And the spectacle wasn’t just for those on wheels. Throngs of spectators lined the route to cheer and celebrate with the riders.

The four-mile fright fest ended downtown. But nobody was ready to call it a night.

The zombies kept the party rolling at ZombieFest, taking over Duval Street for an after-party that was anything but dead.

What began more than 15 years ago as a homegrown collaboration between WeCycle Bike Shop and Wonderdog Studios has grown into a Fantasy Fest week tradition all its own. Recent rides have attracted more than 7,000 zombies.

And the festival is far from over.

Fantasy Fest keeps the party going through Sunday, October 25. Ten days of masquerade parties, outrageous costumes, street fairs and only-in-Key-West revelry.

Up next? Wednesday’s Pet Masquerade. Thursday’s 43rd Annual Headdress Ball. And on Friday, Captain Morgan’s Masquerade March.

The grand finale hits Saturday night with the Deep Eddy Vodka Fantasy Fest Parade. Elaborate floats. Eye-popping costumes. And tens of thousands of spectators expected to pack Duval Street.

Because in Key West, even the dead know how to live it up.

For a full schedule of events, visit fantasyfest.com.

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Zombies on two wheels roll past Sloppy Joe’s Bar as crowds pack Duval Street during Key West’s Zombie Bike Ride Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026. The four-mile procession wound along the Atlantic Ocean and through Old Town, ending with a ZombieFest after-party. The popular ride helped kick off Fantasy Fest’s 10 days of outrageous costumes, masquerade parties and offbeat island revelry. (Terry Martin/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Some romances never die. Amber McDonald, left, and John Good, dressed as a zombified Sandy and Danny from "Grease," pose before Key West's Zombie Bike Ride on Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026. The pair took their cue from this year's Fantasy Fest theme, "Musical Icons and Iconic Musicals," which inspires costumes across the island through Sunday, Oct. 25. (Mark Hedden/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Half dapper, half decayed. A bearded rider shows off a split-face, split-suit look before Key West's Zombie Bike Ride on Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026. The four-mile ride strolls down Key West's Atlantic shoreline before rolling into Old Town. Next on the Fantasy Fest calendar: the 43rd Annual Headdress Ball on Thursday, Oct. 22. (Mark Hedden/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Jolene, eat your heart out. A Dolly Parton-inspired zombie, complete with platinum wig, plaid shirt and pink cowboy-hat earrings, lines up with fellow riders for Key West's Zombie Bike Ride on Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026. Her look nails the "Musical Icons" half of the Fantasy Fest 2026 theme, "Musical Icons and Iconic Musicals." (Mark Hedden/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Riders channel "Little Shop of Horrors," complete with man-eating Audrey II plant puppets and leopard-print Audrey look-alikes, at the start of Key West's Zombie Bike Ride on Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026. WeCycleBike Shop and Wonderdog Studios launched the ride more than 15 years ago. Today it draws thousands of costumed riders during the opening weekend of Fantasy Fest. (Mark Hedden/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Fantasy Fest hits all the right notes. Maggie and Richard Whitcomb wear harlequin crowns crafted from sheet music at Key West's Zombie Bike Ride on Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026, a nod to the Fantasy Fest 2026 theme, "Musical Icons and Iconic Musicals." (Mark Hedden/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Step right up, if you dare. Key West photographer Virginia Wark lets out a scream from her balloon-covered bike, with a green ghoul along for the ride, during Key West's Zombie Bike Ride on Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026. (Mark Hedden/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Undead fun for all ages. A young zombie and a clown-faced nun share the road during Key West’s Zombie Bike Ride on Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026. Fantasy Fest 2026 continues through Sunday, Oct. 25. More info at fantasyfest.com. (Mark Hedden/Florida Keys News Bureau)

New Stays, Fresh Flavors and Island Firsts

Fri, 16 Oct 2026 14:50:00 +0200

FLORIDA KEYS (October 16, 2026) — From Key Largo to Key West, there’s a wave of energy sweeping through the Florida Keys this fall, with new places to stay, flavors to explore and experiences to discover along the iconic island chain.

Whether you're craving adventure, a culinary escape or a reason to linger a little longer, the Florida Keys have plenty of new ways to make it happen. Reimagined resorts, inventive food tours, enticing attractions and award-winning restaurants are giving visitors even more to explore. And in Key West, the culinary scene is heating up, with two local restaurants earning the destination’s first MICHELIN Guide recognition: Moondog Café & Bakery with a Bib Gourmand and Blue Heaven as MICHELIN Recommended — adding another delicious reason to head south.

Here’s what’s new this fall and beyond in the Florida Keys & Key West:

Airlift

Tropic Ocean Airways is launching new nonstop service between Fort Lauderdale and Key West on Nov. 27, giving South Florida travelers a new way to reach the island chain in about an hour. Operating from Thursday through Sunday, flights connect private terminals at both airports, with one-way fares starting at $199. For those looking to squeeze a little island time into a single day, the airline’s new “Keys in a Day” experience offers roundtrip flights for $500 per person, with eight hours to explore Key West’s historic streets, waterfront attractions, restaurants and shops before returning home that evening. Separate private seaplane charters will offer water landings near The Perry Marina on Stock Island, with boat transfers to the marina until a dedicated seaplane dock is completed. Visit FlyTropic.com to learn more.

The Florida Keys experience now begins the moment travelers arrive at Key West International Airport. Larger-than-life digital displays in the airport’s new Concourse A bring the islands alive with sweeping aerial views of the Seven Mile Bridge and Islamorada, colorful underwater scenes and the marine life that make the destination so extraordinary. Designed to welcome arriving passengers and give departing visitors another reason to return, the immersive displays can be updated with new imagery for special events and seasons. The latest addition comes as the airport celebrates record passenger traffic, surpassing 1 million passengers for the year in July 2026, the earliest it has ever reached that mark. July traffic increased 16.8% over July 2025, while passenger volume for the first seven months of 2026 rose 8.8% year over year. The airport’s ongoing improvements also include a modernized baggage claim area, an expanded four-lane TSA checkpoint and upgraded rental car facilities.

Breeze Airways continues its nonstop service from Key West (EYW) to Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina (RDU), Tampa (TPA), and Orlando (MCO) six times weekly. One-stop Breeze-thru (no plane change) service from Ohio’s Akron-Canton Airport (CAK) is four times weekly. Allegiant Air seasonal service returned to Ohio’s Rickenbacker International Airport (LCK) and Indianapolis International Airport (IND) on Thursday, Oct. 1 and Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) on Friday, Oct. 2. JetBlue Airways resumed nonstop daily service from Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) on Thursday, Oct. 8. American Airlines adds a second daily flight to Washington’s Reagan National Airport (DCA) on Saturday, Oct. 31. Service from New York’s LaGuardia Airport (LGA) resumes on Sunday, Nov. 1, while daily nonstop service from Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) resumes Saturday, Nov. 21. Avelo Airlines is to resume nonstop service from Connecticut’s Tweed-New Haven Airport (HVN) on Wednesday, Nov. 18, with twice-weekly service. United Airlines’ nonstop daily service to Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) returns on Thursday, Dec. 17. Delta Air Lines resumes nonstop service to New York’s LaGuardia (LGA) on Saturday, Dec. 19. Delta also provides daily nonstop service to Atlanta (ATL). Visit eyw.com or call 305-809-5200.

At Marathon International Airport, fixed base operator Million Air Florida Keys is targeting completion of its new $4 million 5,460-square-foot passenger facility expansion by late December. The new building is part of Million Air’s strategy to enhance services for private aviation clients and expand the company’s services in the Middle Keys. Million Air has operated in Marathon since 2022 with its acquisition of the former Marathon Jet Center. The Texas-based aviation company’s Keys operations include U.S. Customs services, catering, vehicle rentals, a pilot lounge, conference facilities and aircraft arrival hospitality offerings. Million Air also completed a $5 million fuel farm in Marathon earlier this year. Visit millionair.com or call 305-743-1995.

Accommodations

In Key Largo, the 15-acre, 200-room Baker’s Cay Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton on Florida Bay in the Upper Keys has unveiled 12 new luxury suites, hued in warm, calming colors of sand and blue, and each with private balconies. The roomy, new 700-square-foot suites focus on coastal living with Gulf views, airy designs and space allowing guests to unwind. The new suite collection includes water view and partial water view Palm Suites and Paradise Suites. Guests of Palm and Paradise suites have access to a dedicated curated stay concierge to secure dining reservations and personalize their onsite experiences. It’s at 97000 Overseas Highway. Visit bakerscay.com or call 305-852-5553.

In Islamorada, the 24-acre oceanfront Islander Resort is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year. Opened in 1951 by fisherman Leo Samuels, the resort now features 114 newly designed bungalows and suites and 25 fully renovated Bayside Villas for extended stays and group getaways. New additions include rotating artisan displays and an expanded two-acre Seaside Sports area with a professionally designed nine-hole PuttTek putting course and permanent pickleball, basketball, volleyball and bocce courts. Kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling and bicycles offer more ways to enjoy the outdoors. For meetings and celebrations, the resort offers more than 129,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor beachfront function space for up to 1,000 guests, with venues including the Islander House conference center, Hibiscus Hall Grand Ballroom, Palm Terrace, Islander Beach and Coral Point. Dining ranges from open-air, open-flame fare at oceanfront Drift on the Beach and all-day dining and cocktails at Tides Beachside Bar to casual, toes-in-the-sand bites at Coccoloba and poolside cocktails at Sandy’s Bar. The Islander Resort is at 82100 Overseas Highway; its nearby Bayside Villas are at 81450 Overseas Highway. Visit islanderfloridakeys.com or call 305-664-2031.

Two of Islamorada’s most beloved oceanfront resorts are coming together for a new chapter in Florida Keys hospitality. Bass Pro Shops, which acquired the historic Cheeca Lodge in June, has announced a partnership with Schulte Hospitality Group to unite Cheeca Lodge & Spa and Islander Resort with the landmark World Wide Sportsman Store & Marina. Together, the properties will offer nearly a mile of private beachfront, almost 400 accommodations, five swimming pools, six dining experiences and access to world-class fishing and outdoor adventures. Both resorts will remain open as plans take shape to enhance the properties while preserving their distinctive Keys character. The partnership also brings a $500,000 commitment from Bass Pro Shops founder Johnny Morris, Schulte Hospitality Group CEO Darryl Schulte and other donors to support the Florida Keys History & Discovery Center at Islander Resort.

Mar-Key Islamorada offers a secluded oceanfront escape reserved for just one group at a time. Set amid lush subtropical grounds, the gated luxury estate accommodates up to 20 guests and is available exclusively for weeklong stays. Originally established in 1937 as the LaBranche Fishing Camp, the historic property, also known as Bunny Key, has evolved into a private retreat with 240 feet of Atlantic Ocean frontage. Its three separate residences feature nine bedrooms, eight bathrooms, a walk-in pool, and a hot tub, making it an intimate setting for gatherings and getaways. The estate is located at 200 Atlantic St., Mile Marker 81. Visit Mar-Key-Islamorada.com or call 305-394-5350.

On Duck Key, Hawks Cay Resort is making a splash with the Dec. 1 opening of Coral Cay Adventure Park, a new 2.5-acre aquatic and recreation park reserved for resort guests and featuring the largest waterslides in the Florida Keys. Anchored by a 32-foot launch tower, the park features three high-speed waterslides — including one stretching 330 feet — along with mini-slides and an ocean-inspired splash zone for younger guests. Beyond the water, a Sports Lawn offers basketball, volleyball and lawn games, while a climate-controlled arcade features retro games and racing simulators. Coral Cove provides space for crafts, seasonal workshops and birthday parties, and Coral Grill serves casual fare, with walk-up service and delivery to private poolside cabanas. The park marks the final piece of a broader reinvention at Hawks Cay that has included an expanded marina, upgrades to Calm Waters Spa and the debut of Salt + Ash from Top Chef winner Jeremy Ford, the chef behind Miami Beach’s MICHELIN-starred Stubborn Seed. Visit hawkscay.com to learn more.

Hilton Hotels & Resorts has expanded its Florida Keys portfolio with the debut of Hilton Key West Resort & Marina, formerly Oceans Edge Resort & Marina, on Stock Island. The 20-acre waterfront resort features 175 guest rooms, including 86 suites, each with a private, furnished balcony. Enhancements include refreshed guest rooms with new flooring, furnishings and décor. Amenities include direct marina access, six saltwater pools, complimentary paddleboarding, kayaking, bicycling, yoga, lawn games, poolside movie nights, a fitness center and complimentary shuttle service to Key West’s Old Town and Historic Seaport. Event spaces include the 1,500-square-foot Pavilion, 1,200-square-foot Atlantic Patio and 570-square-foot Mariner’s Boardroom for meetings and celebrations. Dining venues include Yellowfin Bar & Kitchen and Oceans Edge Café, serving Cuban coffee, smoothies and grab-and-go fare. The resort is owned by Aliso Viejo, California-based Sunstone Hotel Investors and is located at 5950 Peninsular Ave. Visit Hilton.com or call 1-800-HILTONS.

In Key West, Compass by Margaritaville Key West is slated to open in early 2027. The 106-room hotel, including 26 suites, will pair nautical-inspired design with the brand’s signature bedding and island-style touches, including rainfall showers and smart TVs. A refreshed pool and cabanas invite guests to settle into vacation mode, while 5 o’Clock Somewhere Bar & Grill and The Backyard, an outdoor gathering spot with lawn games, add to the laid-back atmosphere. Guests will have access to a complimentary shuttle to Duval Street and Smathers Beach, while Old Town Trolley will stop directly at the property for hop-on, hop-off sightseeing throughout Key West. Formerly the Fairfield Inn by Marriott, the hotel is located at 2400 N. Roosevelt Blvd. To learn more, visit compasshotel.com/compass-hotel-key-west or call 305-296-5700.

Casa Marina Key West, Curio Collection by Hilton features colorful new “Stay Like Lilly” suites in collaboration with designer Lilly Pulitzer. The partnership marks a full-circle homecoming for Lilly Pulitzer’s fashion house, honoring the designer’s deep ties to Key West, the Keys island that inspired the first prints and color-soaked lifestyle. Coinciding with the debut of Lilly Pulitzer’s Vintage Vault, which reintroduces archival prints from 1962 to 1985, Casa Marina is the first Hilton property to showcase these revived designs in hand-painted walls, fabrics adorning the suites, and original artwork framed as fine art in each suite. “At Casa Marina, our priority is creating meaningful, memorable stays for every guest who walks through our doors,” said Evelyn Summer, hotel manager, Casa Marina Key West. “Partnering with a beloved brand like Lilly Pulitzer allows us to offer an experience that feels both iconic and uniquely tied to the spirit of Key West.” The suites are available for stays through Nov. 2027. For details and pricing visit Hilton.com or call 1-844-HI-CURIO.

Attractions

In Key Largo, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park has a newly rebuilt Mangrove Boardwalk winding through a mangrove forest. New plans for the park include a state-of-the-art Discovery Center & Aquarium featuring interactive experiences, exhibits and seven saltwater tanks totaling approximately 43,000 gallons, including a 23,000-gallon centerpiece devoted to Florida’s Coral Reef. It’s funded with a $50 million state investment and $2 million from the Monroe County Tourist Development Council and is targeted for completion by late 2028. World-renowned for being America’s “first undersea park,” the park, connecting to the continental U.S.’s only living coral barrier reef, was founded in 1960. The 70-square-nautical-mile park is known worldwide for its famed offshore underwater Christ of the Deep, an 8.5-foot, 4,000-pound bronze sculpture of Jesus that’s a copy of a similar sculpture off northern Italy’s Portofino Peninsula. Pennekamp is at 102601 Overseas Highway. Visit floridastateparks.org/parks-and-trails/john-pennekamp-coral-reef-state-park or call 305-676-3777.

In Marathon, the world-acclaimed Turtle Hospital, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, is planning a state-of-the-art research and medical facility for the treatment of injured and ill sea turtles, with a targeted opening date of late 2027. The new facility will be located just west of the existing hospital at 2396 Overseas Highway. Its 1,800-square-foot stand-alone gift shop, located at 2040 Overseas Highway, sells collectible turtle-themed home décor, books, toys, clothing, gifts and souvenirs. The Turtle Hospital, dedicated since 1986 to the rehabilitation of endangered sea turtles, is the world’s first state-certified veterinary hospital to rescue, rehabilitate and release, whenever possible, injured and sick sea turtles. The nonprofit Turtle Hospital, open daily for tours and educational programs, has successfully returned more than 3,000 turtles to their ocean home. Visit turtlehospital.org or call 305-743-2552.

In Marathon, Crane Point Museum and Nature Center is introducing “Mote’s Mangrove to Reef,” a new exhibit exploring the connections among the Florida Keys’ coral reefs, mangroves and seagrass ecosystems through interpretive displays and kiosks. Developed in partnership with Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium, which operates land-based coral nurseries in Key Largo, Islamorada and Summerland Key, the exhibit adds another dimension to Crane Point’s nature-focused experiences. Visitors can also enjoy nature walks, guided tours, kayaking, fish pedicures and the wild bird center, along with two historic homes: the early-1900s Bahamian-style Adderley House, billed as the oldest Keys home outside Key West, and the restored mid-century Crane Home, available for weddings, celebrations and business events. A distinctive red railroad car marks the entrance at 5550 Overseas Highway. Visit cranepoint.net or call 305-743-9100.

The FOOD: Celebrating Conch Cuisine exhibit at The Key West Museum of Art & History, located at the historic downtown Custom House, runs through Sunday, Jan. 3, 2027. Building on original Smithsonian Food History exhibitions that celebrate the role of food in shaping human culture, identity and society, this exhibit delves into culinary traditions, including Key lime pie and Cuban coffee, of the Florida Keys. The exhibit offers visitors an immersive look into how food has defined Keys life and highlights origins, evolution and ongoing influence of Conch cuisine. It also explores dynamics behind the Keys’ fishing economy, food-related labor and exports. Visit kwahs.org/exhibit/food or call 305-295-6616.

In Key West, the Tennessee Williams Museum, operated by the Key West Art & Historical Society, is to unveil its new permanent location at 604 Whitehead St. by late fall 2026. The museum, previously operated in a yellow building at 513 Truman Ave., is to feature expanded galleries, additional artifacts, and photographs showcasing the works and life of the famous playwright and artist when he lived in Key West. “This new location gives us the opportunity to tell that story in exciting new ways while creating an even more engaging experience for visitors,” said Dennis Beaver, founder and curator. The museum first opened in 2011 as a temporary exhibit honoring the playwright on his 100th birthday. Williams lived in Key West periodically for more than 40 years, from his first visit in 1941 until his death in 1983, and owned a home at 1431 Duncan St. To learn more, visit kwahs.org or call 305-295-6616.

Sustainability

The Islamorada Environmental Resource Center, located in the historic Russell Cottage at Green Turtle Hammock Nature Preserve, showcases local nonprofits dedicated to preserving the unique environment of the Keys. Islamorada established the Center as a shared community space for local environmental nonprofits and kids’ activities. Partnerships include Florida Bay Forever, I.CARE (Islamorada Conservation & Restoration Education), Florida Keys Wild Bird Center, Coral Restoration Foundation, Dolphin Life Hospital, Mote Marine Lab, Audubon Everglades Research Center, Surfrider Foundation Florida Keys Chapter, UF-IFAS Extension Services of Monroe County and Islamorada Area State Parks. It’s open Wednesdays through Sundays from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., with rotating partner participation. The cottage also houses the office and gift shop of nonprofit Florida Bay Forever, which hosts guided walks through hardwood hammocks and environmental talks and events. The preserve, open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., offers nature trails, a kayak launch and a new two-story outdoor event pavilion. The Russell Cottage and Green Turtle Hammock are located at 81224 Overseas Highway, or Mile Marker 81. Visit islamorada.fl.us or call 305-664-6400.

As part of its $15 million, five-year artificial reef expansion program, Monroe County is continuing development of new artificial reef sites led by program director Hanna Koch. Plans include placing 156 concrete modules across three Gulfside sites to form a network of 12 patch reefs. The structures, featuring varied designs and embedded limestone, are intended to increase habitat complexity, create new recreational opportunities, provide migration pathways for marine species and help disperse fishing pressure on natural reefs. The Gulfside Network is targeted for completion in summer 2027, when the last two network sites are to be developed. In a separate project within Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary boundaries, deployments of low-relief complex concrete structures are planned for nearshore bayside waters off Marathon and Layton, areas that are essential nursery grounds for fish and invertebrate species, to mitigate habitat loss. To learn more, visit monroecounty-fl.gov or call 305-289-2562.

The Conch Republic Marine Army (CRMA) is giving visitors a hands-on way to help protect the fragile mangrove habitats and waterways that make the Florida Keys so special. Born in the aftermath of Hurricane Irma in 2017, the grassroots nonprofit has grown into a force of more than 7,500 volunteers who have removed more than 650,000 pounds of marine debris from Keys waters and shorelines. Its free “trips with a purpose” invite volunteers to work alongside CRMA crews removing debris from mangroves before enjoying some time on the water. In the Lower Keys, Saturday trips depart The Perry Marina on Stock Island for cleanup missions in the Key West backcountry and nearshore mangroves. In the Middle Keys, CRMA partners with Isla Bella Beach Resort & Spa in Marathon for complimentary cleanup excursions on Wednesdays and Saturdays, with departures at 9:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Whether lending a hand for a few hours or simply learning more about the work, volunteers become part of an ongoing effort to restore vital habitat and leave the Florida Keys a little better than they found them. Visit ConchRepublicMarineArmy.org or call 786-314-6547.

Music

The iconic 1,450-square-foot Shrimp Boat Sound Studio in Key West will evolve into a working recording studio, museum, event space and outdoor bar paying tribute to legendary singer Jimmy Buffett. The sticker-covered studio, where Buffett recorded for nearly four decades in Key West, is to be given a new life as OK’d by the city’s Key West Bight Board, approving a 10-year lease. The windowless building is located at Lazy Way Lane at Elizabeth Street, between Schooner Wharf Bar and Conch Republic Seafood restaurant in the Historic Seaport District. Buffett first leased the building, a former shrimp-packing cooler and an ice house from the 1940s, in 1986. Much of Buffett’s last album, “Equal Strain on All Parts,” released posthumously in November 2023, was recorded here. Buffett died Sept. 1, 2023. The studio is slated to open by summer 2027.

Books

Acclaimed Florida Keys-based fine art photographer Alan S. Maltz turns his lens toward the state’s past in a new coffee-table book, “Old Florida — An Artistic Interpretation,” an evocative visual journey celebrating the state’s enduring landscapes, character and sense of place. Drawing inspiration from vintage Florida postcards and the artistic legacy of Florida’s famed Highwaymen painters, Maltz uses softened color, sepia tones and his distinctive photographic style to evoke an earlier era. The result is a collection of images that feel at once nostalgic and timeless, revealing a Florida of quiet shorelines, weathered boats, palms, historic architecture and scenes of everyday life that seem suspended between past and present.

The 132-page, large-format book is Maltz’s sixth devoted to Florida and reflects decades spent photographing the state, including his longtime home in the Florida Keys. Rather than simply documenting what Florida once looked like, “Old Florida” offers Maltz’s artistic interpretation of the places, moods and moments that continue to shape the state’s identity. To learn more, visit www.alanmaltz.com/old-florida-an-artistic-interpretation

Tours

Historian-author Brad Bertelli’s new food tour, Tasting Florida Keys History, explores Keys history and food, featuring a rum runner, bowl of conch chowder, two conch fritters and a slice of Key lime pie. The 75-minute program, priced from $60 per person, is designed for six participants. Bertelli shares stories at Robbie’s of Islamorada about the history behind the rum runner, the cultural significance of conch as a food source and a tool for Indigenous people who once called these islands home, how Key lime pie evolved as a signature dessert, Robbie’s famous tarpon feeding, and why the Florida Keys are known as the “Conch Republic.” Larger groups and private parties can also be accommodated. Visit bradbertelli.com or call 305-395-9889.

After a day on the water or exploring the Upper Keys, Florida Keys Food Tours is serving up a delicious new way to taste your way through Islamorada. Its new Luxury Golf Cart Food Tour, priced from $179 per person, lets guests sit back and savor the ride aboard a luxury golf cart while a local guide and driver lead the way to some of the Upper Keys’ tastiest stops. Along the route are Food Network favorites, locations featured in Netflix’s “Bloodline,” historic landmarks and tucked-away culinary gems, with plenty of local flavor and Keys stories served up along the way. Other offerings include the Original Islamorada Food Tour, Local’s Happy Hour, Sunset Food Tours and a Sunset Food Tour by Boat. Guests can also roll up their sleeves for the Florida Keys Fish Preparation Experience, a cooking class exploring local catch, preparation techniques and the stories and flavors behind the Keys’ seafood culture. Private tours and customized experiences are also available. Visit flkeysfoodtour.com or call 305-394-1028 to learn more.

Dining

Craving a taste of Cuban cuisine on your way into or out of the Upper Keys? Bar Victor is shaking up Key Largo’s food scene with more than a dozen signature cocktails paired with Cuban-inspired bites including crispy croquetas, savory chicharrones and bite-sized empanaditas. Opened in April alongside Vicky Bakery at 97630 Overseas Highway, Bar Victor serves up cocktails and small plates from 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. Wednesdays through Sundays. Its family-owned Miami counterpart, Vicky Bakery, has been tempting South Florida with its famous pastelitos and other Cuban favorites since 1972 and expanded to Key Largo in 2025. Together, the two bring a taste of Miami’s Cuban food culture to the Overseas Highway near Shell World. Visit barvictor.com, vickybakery.com or call 305-735-4052.

Key West’s legendary Smokin’ Tuna Saloon has relocated to downtown Duval Street after a 26-month hiatus. Known as the headquarters of the Key West Songwriters Fest and previously located on Charles Street, Smokin’ Tuna is popular for its tasty, affordable dining and its music scene showcasing local musicians including Cliff Cody, C.W. Colt, Aaron Hudgins and Elle Haley. Smokin’ Tuna has partnered with Mile Zero Key West for event planning. Popular dishes include its signature wings, tuna nachos and tuna dip. It’s located at 313 Duval St., site of the historic Robert Curry Mansion and former Hard Rock Café. Visit smokintunasaloon.com or call 786-422-9978.

In Key West, a new multi-concept or “culinary collective” dining venue, The Reserve Key West, is slated to open soon with four independent chef-driven kitchens and three bars: The Exchange (reminiscent of the Monteleone Hotel’s Carousel Bar & Lounge in New Orleans); The Ledger, a main-floor bar; and The Vault, a speakeasy. The Reserve, at 510 Fleming St., features a colorful mural by artist Fran Williams Wagner, whose commissioned works are also at Miami International Airport; the Bacardi Pavilion in San Juan, Puerto Rico; and the National Airlines ticket office at New York City’s Rockefeller Center. The Reserve, a 5,000-square-foot building that was once a Key West airline office and a family general store, also housed former bank locations. Visit thereservekeywest.com.

In Marathon, the newly unveiled Seashell Coffee Marathon, located at 11399 Overseas Highway, Unit 6, serves up coffee, lattes, matcha, boba, pastries, empanadas, muffins, yuca bites and sweet treats such as Key lime cake. Call 305-294-2917 or visit www.instagram.com/seashellcoffeemarathon.

Baby’s Coffee, a popular institution known for its hearty fresh roasts for more than 30 years, has opened its second location in Key West at 518 Fleming Street. Known as the “Southernmost Coffee Roasters in America,” Baby’s Coffee sells freshly roasted brews, espresso drinks, baked goods and colorful T-shirts and apparel with a signature giant, eyelash-fringed eye. The original Baby’s Coffee is located at Mile Marker 15 in the Lower Keys at 3180 U.S. Highway 1. Visit babyscoffee.com or call 786-937-2229.

Events

Taste the Keys is a signature culinary event presented by the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce that runs throughout October in the Upper Keys. This food lovers’ smorgasbord features prix-fixe menus for both lunch and dinner at participating Upper Keys restaurants. Taste the Keys will also feature a Trolley Food Tour on Thursday, Oct. 29, allowing ticketed participants to enjoy a progressive dining experience with sampling stops at four to five restaurants. Tickets are $125 per person for Key Largo Chamber of Commerce members and $150 for non-chamber members. The event includes the Signature Dish Showdown, a community-driven culinary competition where each participating restaurant will nominate a signature dish from its prix-fixe menu as its entry. Visit TastetheKeys.com or call 305-451-1414.

In Key West, Fantasy Fest 2026 turns up the volume Oct. 16–25 with 10 days of outrageous costumes, wild parties and plenty of Key West-style revelry. This year’s theme, “Musical Icons and Iconic Musicals,” promises a colorful mix of music, costumes and over-the-top creativity. The celebration kicks off Friday, Oct. 16, with the lively Goombay Festival in Bahama Village and runs through Sunday, Oct. 25, with children’s activities at Bayview Park and a tea dance. In between, revelers can expect the crowning of the Fantasy Fest King, Queen and Royal Court, along with cabarets, burlesque, pool parties, live entertainment and DJ-led celebrations. Highlights include a Dolly Parton Tribute Party on Tuesday, Oct. 20; the crowd-favorite Pet Masquerade on Wednesday, Oct. 21; the 43rd Headdress Ball on Thursday, Oct. 22; and the Fantasy Fest Street Fair and Costume Promenade on Friday, Oct. 23. The biggest spectacle comes Saturday, Oct. 24, when the Deep Eddy Vodka Fantasy Fest Parade rolls through Key West at 7 p.m. Led by singer-entertainer Grand Marshal Mike Stack, the parade draws an estimated 70,000 spectators for an evening of elaborate floats, outrageous costumes and the kind of celebration only Key West can pull off. Visit fantasyfest.com.

In Big Pine Key, Grimal Grove is bringing a little tropical flair to fall with its Tropi-Fall Festival on Saturday, Nov. 14, from 1 to 5 p.m. The family-friendly celebration offers a taste of farm life in the Lower Keys, with live music by Jerico, line dancing, tractor rides, family farm photos, a bounce house for kids and free ice cream. Guests can also enjoy a seasonal menu from Boardwalk and explore the historic tropical fruit grove on a guided tour. Admission is $20 at the door and includes a tour and festival T-shirt, while children 12 and younger get in free. To learn more, visit grimalgrove.com/events.

Productions

The Florida Keys & Key West take center stage in two new episodes of WUCF’s Florida Road Trip on PBS stations across Florida. Hosted by Emmy Award-winning journalist Scott Fais, the series takes viewers along the Overseas Highway, exploring the colorful history, fascinating characters and natural wonders that make the island chain unlike anywhere else. The Florida Keys episode, which premiered Oct. 8, traces the legacy of Henry Flagler’s Overseas Railroad, visits historic Pigeon Key and John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, and introduces viewers to the endangered Key deer and rescued sea turtles at The Turtle Hospital in Marathon. The journey continues Thursday, Oct. 15, with Florida Road Trip: Key West, diving into the island’s Conch culture, maritime heritage and the evolution of diving from a working trade to a popular pastime. Viewers also get a glimpse inside the Truman Little White House before venturing 70 miles west to Dry Tortugas National Park, where ongoing archaeological discoveries are shedding new light on the history of Fort Jefferson. The Key West episode airs at 8 p.m. on WUCF and 5 p.m. on WLRN, with episodes available to stream for free following broadcast. Visit FloridaRoadTrip.org.

The Florida Keys & Key West provide the ultimate backdrop for two productions filmed across the island chain. “Bad Monkey,” the Apple TV+ series starring Vince Vaughn, has wrapped production on Season 2, with filming taking place in Key West, Big Pine Key and Marathon. The 10-episode second season, featuring an all-new original story, is slated to premiere Wednesday, Dec. 2, with episodes running through Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2027. Local venues featured include Half Shell Raw Bar at the Key West Historic Seaport and Don’s Place, a neighborhood bar on Truman Avenue. The series debuted in 2024 with the first season based on the novel by Florida journalist and author Carl Hiaasen, with Vaughn starring as Andrew Yancy, a former detective turned restaurant inspector.

Also filmed in the Florida Keys, “Key of Bones: Curse of the Ghost Pirate” is a 90-minute independent film by director Tony Armer. The supernatural horror-comedy follows a local waitress, ghost-tour guide and unlucky tourist who accidentally awaken a centuries-old curse connected to legendary pirate Anne Bonny. “Key of Bones” premiered in Key West Oct. 2–3 to a packed house at the Tennessee Williams Theatre. Additional viewing information is available through the film’s official website. See the movie trailer at keyofbonesmovie.com or visit filmfloridakeys.com to learn more.

On the Water

There’s nothing quite like getting out on the water in the Florida Keys, and knowing a few local boating basics can make the experience even better. Visit Florida Keys & Key West’s “Boat Like You Belong” campaign helps visitors navigate the island chain’s waters safely while looking out for the marine environment that makes the Keys so special. From free boating safety courses and interactive marine sanctuary maps to a public boat ramp finder and the Marine Sanctuary Explorer app, the campaign puts helpful resources right at boaters’ fingertips. There are also practical tips on everything from reading dive flags and using free mooring buoys to avoiding shallow seagrass beds, understanding boating regulations and preparing for a day on the water. Whether you’re a first-time boater or have spent years cruising the Keys, the message is simple: have fun, stay safe and help take care of the waters we all love. Before you cast off, get the local know-how to boat safely and responsibly. Dive into the resources at visitfloridakeys.com/experiences/more-outdoor-fun/boating-on-the-water/boating-information.

Businesses

In Key West, Bella Laine blends shopping, art and a little hands-on creativity in a new boutique, working candle studio and gallery on Fleming Street. Founded by artist and candle maker Emily Shipman, the thoughtfully curated space features hand-poured soy wax candles alongside jewelry, artwork, home goods, handbags, sustainable clothing and gift boxes. At its “vessel bar,” visitors can tap into their own creativity by designing a custom candle, with no reservations required. Bella Laine also hosts occasional gatherings, from tea tastings to art and figure drawing classes. It’s located at 601 Fleming St. Visit bellalaineart.com or call 305-780-7225.

Marketing Initiatives

Visit Florida Keys & Key West recently relaunched the Key Lime Academy, a self-paced certification program for travel advisors, with new destination information, itinerary planning tools and sales resources. To date, more than 1,000 travel professionals have earned a “Conch-Star Specialist” designation, recognizing their expertise in trip planning for specific niche interests, including that of families, couples, honeymooners, adventure seekers, solo travelers and active adults. Ready to earn your conch credential? Visit KeyLimeAcademy.

Visit Florida Keys & Key West is also rolling out “Play in Your Own Key,” its new flagship destination brand campaign celebrating the many ways travelers can experience the island chain in their own way. The campaign will continue to roll out with new creative and activations, including a 2027 partnership with YETI, the outdoor cooler, drinkware and gear company.

Accolades

Dry Tortugas National Park, located 70 miles west of Key West, was named the country’s top spot for birdwatching, ranking 12th among 20 of the world’s best birdwatching destinations, according to a survey by AllClear Travel Insurance. California’s Moss Landing on Monterey Bay, ranking 15th, was the only other birdwatching location cited in the U.S. The survey ranked 115 wildlife hotspots around the globe to discover “ultimate birdwatching” destinations.

Two Key West restaurants, Blue Heaven, at 729 Thomas St. in Bahama Village, and Moondog Café & Bakery, at 823 Whitehead St. near the Hemingway Home & Museum, have landed in the prestigious MICHELIN Guide’s 2026 Florida restaurant selection for culinary excellence. The guide cites Blue Heaven’s “signature Key lime pie, topped with a towering baked meringue,” and the “exceptional food at great value” at Moondog Café & Bakery, named a MICHELIN Bib Gourmand for quality and pricing.

Key Largo’s original Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen, today owned by Stephanie Figueroa, celebrates its 50th anniversary this year. Known for casual Keys fare and its quaint, kitschy and rustic setting, it was established in 1976 by Jeff MacFarland, who named it after his mother. In 1987, MacFarland hired cook Angie Wittke, who later became its second owner with her sister Paula. It’s located at 99336 Overseas Highway and is open daily from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Its larger sister restaurant, Mrs. Mac’s II, is located down the road at 99020 Overseas Highway.

Key West's Elizabeth Bishop House & Garden, where celebrated poet Elizabeth Bishop lived and wrote from 1938 to 1946, earned a Restoration, Rehabilitation or Adaptive Use Award from the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation. Restoration highlights include original 19th-century windows, wood louvered shutters and a cistern returned to the historic use of gathering rainwater to irrigate a garden of native plants and fruit trees. The home’s original built-in bookshelves, bathtubs, sinks, faucets, light fixtures and doorknobs were all restored. The home, built in 1889 and located at 624 White St., is one of a few surviving Key West Historic District eyebrow houses.

Key West International Airport earned the Florida Airports Council’s Benjamin J. Siwinski Sustainability Award for its use of bird-friendly glass throughout the airport facility. Specialized ceramic patterns were embedded into the glass surfaces, creating visual markers that help birds avoid collisions. Glazing systems with low exterior reflectance also were utilized to further reduce the likelihood of bird strikes. The award, one of the council’s highest environmental honors, was announced at the 2026 Florida Airports Council Annual Conference.

The Florida Keys & Key West is a finalist for “Most Desirable Region Worldwide” in the 2026 Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards, with more than 200,000 travelers expected to vote. Wanderlust, billed as the oldest travel magazine still in circulation in the United Kingdom and Europe, will announce the winners Wednesday, Nov. 4.

Four awards. Two top honors. One big night for the Florida Keys. Visit Florida Keys & Key West recently made a strong showing at the 2026 Flagler Awards, bringing home two coveted Henry Awards and two Silver Awards for its work in sustainable tourism, social media, mobile marketing and digital innovation. Presented during the Florida Governor’s Conference on Tourism in West Palm Beach, the honors included Henry Awards for the destination’s Integrated Ecotourism Program in Sustainable Tourism Marketing and “Destination Instant Experiences” in Social Media Marketing. Silver Awards recognized the organization’s next-generation website, VisitFloridaKeys.com, and its “Key West Duo Scroller” in Mobile Marketing. With nearly 300 entries competing statewide, the recognition celebrates the creativity and collaboration behind the destination’s marketing efforts, from finding fresh ways to connect with travelers to keeping conservation and stewardship at the heart of the Florida Keys story. Read more at media.visitfloridakeys.com.

Visit Florida Keys & Key West is making waves across the Atlantic for its commitment to conservation. The tourism agency took top honors at the 2026 JRNY America Awards in the United Kingdom, winning Best Conservation Initiative for its “Connect & Protect” program. Selected by a panel of leading travel writers, the initiative was recognized for encouraging visitors to explore the island chain responsibly while helping protect its fragile ecosystems. From diving with Blue Star eco-certified operators and exploring the backcountry with local guides to visiting The Turtle Hospital and Coral Restoration Foundation, “Connect & Protect” highlights experiences that bring travelers closer to nature while promoting responsible tourism. The program also encourages simple conservation practices, from protecting coral reefs and respecting wildlife to reducing plastic waste and participating in volunteer cleanups. The recognition comes amid strong competition, with Greater Palm Springs and Yosemite conservation initiatives earning silver and bronze honors, respectively. The Florida Keys will also be featured in the January 2027 winners’ issue of JRNY America, one of the United Kingdom’s prominent travel publications. Discover the award-winning initiative at www.visitfloridakeys.com/plan-your-trip/find-your-vibe/connect-protect.

High-resolution images, photo credits, and captions are available at this link.

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Hollywood has found its way back to the Florida Keys! Big Pine Key returns to the spotlight in Season 2 of “Bad Monkey,” with Vince Vaughn reprising his role as Andrew Yancy. The island’s offbeat charm and laid-back character provide a fitting backdrop for the hit Apple TV+ series, filmed on location in the Keys and premiering Wednesday, Dec. 2. (Courtesy of Apple TV+)

The Florida Keys have a knack for attracting colorful characters — and “Bad Monkey” has plenty of them! Season 2 of the Apple TV+ series brings Vince Vaughn back as Andrew Yancy, with the show’s signature mix of mystery, mischief and offbeat humor unfolding across Key West, Big Pine Key and Marathon. Familiar local hangouts featured in the filming include Half Shell Raw Bar at the Key West Historic Seaport and Don’s Place on Truman Avenue. (Courtesy of Apple TV+)

Key West International Airport is busier than ever. A Breeze Airways jet waits at the gate in Key West, Fla., where passenger traffic topped 1 million in July, reaching that year-to-date milestone earlier than ever before. Breeze flies nonstop from Key West to Raleigh-Durham, Tampa and Orlando six times weekly, with one-stop “Breeze-thru” service from Ohio’s Akron-Canton Airport. (Landon Jones/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Even the roosters know a good dining spot. A free-roaming Key West rooster struts beneath Blue Heaven’s vintage neon sign on Thomas Street in Bahama Village. The local favorite earned a MICHELIN Recommended distinction in the guide’s 2026 Florida selection, part of Key West’s first MICHELIN Guide recognition. (Nick Doll/Florida Keys News Bureau)

A whimsical, hand-painted sign welcomes diners to Blue Heaven, the beloved Bahama Village restaurant in Key West, Fla. Now included in the MICHELIN Guide’s 2026 Florida selection as MICHELIN Recommended, the longtime favorite also earns a special mention for its mile-high Key lime pie. (Nick Doll/Florida Keys News Bureau)

At Blue Heaven in Key West, the roosters rule the roost — and even have the artwork to prove it! Known for its colorful character, laid-back atmosphere and tree-shaded courtyard, this longtime Bahama Village favorite has another reason to crow: It earned MICHELIN Recommended recognition in the guide’s 2026 Florida restaurant selection. (Nick Doll/Florida Keys News Bureau)

A little Lilly goes a long way in Key West. Hand-painted tropical leaves climb the walls of a “Stay Like Lilly” suite at Casa Marina Key West, Curio Collection by Hilton, where revived Lilly Pulitzer archival prints from 1962 to 1985 bring the designer’s Vintage Vault to life. The suites are available through November 2027. (Courtesy of Casa Marina Key West)

Color comes home to Key West in a “Stay Like Lilly” suite at Casa Marina Key West, Curio Collection by Hilton. Swirling hand-painted designs and green accents brighten the living area at the first Hilton property to feature revived Lilly Pulitzer archival prints, reconnecting the fashion house with the island that inspired its earliest designs. (Courtesy of Casa Marina Key West)

Make a splash on Duck Key. A rendering shows Coral Cay Adventure Park, a new 2.5-acre aquatic and recreation park opening Dec. 1 at Hawks Cay Resort on Duck Key, Florida Keys. Reserved for resort guests, the park boasts the largest waterslides in the Florida Keys, with three high-speed slides launching from a 32-foot tower, including one that stretches 330 feet, plus mini-slides and an ocean-inspired splash zone for younger guests. (Rendering courtesy of Hawks Cay Resort)

For the birds, in the best possible way. Historic six-sided Fort Jefferson rises from the turquoise waters of Dry Tortugas National Park, 70 miles west of Key West, Fla. An AllClear Travel Insurance survey named the park the top U.S. birdwatching destination and ranked it 12th among the world’s 20 best. (Andy Newman/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Far from the crowds, Dry Tortugas National Park spreads across turquoise shallows around historic Fort Jefferson, 70 miles west of Key West, Fla. In a survey of 115 wildlife hotspots worldwide, AllClear Travel Insurance ranked the park the nation’s top birdwatching destination; Moss Landing, California, was the only other U.S. location on the top-20 list. (Laurence Norah/Florida Keys News Bureau)

A piece of Key West literary history has been given new life. Wood louvered shutters and a shaded porch frame the Elizabeth Bishop House & Garden on White Street, where the celebrated poet lived and wrote from 1938 to 1946. The restoration earned a Restoration, Rehabilitation or Adaptive Use Award from the Florida Trust for Historic Preservation. (Mark Hedden/Florida Keys News Bureau)

History is flourishing again at the Elizabeth Bishop House & Garden in Key West, Fla. Tropical greenery surrounds the 1889 home, one of the Historic District’s few surviving eyebrow houses, while its restored cistern once again collects rainwater to nourish native plants and fruit trees. The project received a Florida Trust for Historic Preservation award. (Mark Hedden/Florida Keys News Bureau)

In Key West, dessert comes with a story. A slice of Key lime pie crowned with toasted meringue represents one of the island chain’s signature flavors, explored alongside Cuban coffee in “FOOD: Celebrating Conch Cuisine.” Building on original Smithsonian Food History exhibitions, the show runs through Sunday, Jan. 3, 2027, at The Key West Museum of Art & History in the historic Custom House. (Mike Marrero/Florida Keys News Bureau)

There's even more to savor in Key West these days! Moondog Café & Bakery, a popular neighborhood favorite near the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum, has earned a coveted Bib Gourmand in the MICHELIN Guide’s 2026 Florida selection, recognized for serving “exceptional food at great value.” (Mike Marrero/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Key West’s culinary scene has another reason to celebrate! Moondog Café & Bakery, a local favorite on Whitehead Street near the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum, earned a coveted Bib Gourmand in the 2026 MICHELIN Guide’s Florida selection. Along with Blue Heaven, which received MICHELIN Recommended recognition, the two restaurants made culinary history by bringing Key West its first-ever MICHELIN Guide distinctions. (Mike Marrero/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Acclaimed Florida Keys fine art photographer Alan S. Maltz has a gift for capturing Florida’s beauty through a different lens. His striking image of a double rainbow over Key West’s Southernmost Point is featured in his new 132-page coffee-table book, “Old Florida — An Artistic Interpretation.” His sixth Florida-focused volume draws inspiration from vintage postcards and the legendary Florida Highwaymen painters. (Courtesy of Alan S. Maltz)

A new chapter for Florida’s Coral Reef is taking shape in Key Largo. This architectural rendering shows the planned Discovery Center & Aquarium at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, supported by $50 million in state funding and $2 million from the Monroe County Tourist Development Council. Targeted completion is late 2028. (Rendering courtesy of Florida State Parks)

The wonders of Florida’s Coral Reef are coming closer to shore! John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo is creating a new Discovery Center & Aquarium that will bring the fascinating world beneath the waves to life. At its heart will be a spectacular 23,000-gallon aquarium, one of seven saltwater tanks totaling approximately 43,000 gallons, complemented by interactive exhibits that invite visitors to discover the marine life and ecosystems that make the Florida Keys so extraordinary. (Rendering courtesy of Florida State Parks)

A new welcome awaits at America’s first undersea park. This rendering depicts the east approach to the planned Discovery Center & Aquarium at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo, Fla. Established in 1960 and known for its offshore Christ of the Deep statue, the park anticipates completing the center by late 2028. (Rendering courtesy of Florida State Parks)

There’s something special about slipping into the peaceful mangrove waterways of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo, where the Florida Keys reveal their wilder, quieter side. Visitors can also explore the park’s newly rebuilt Mangrove Boardwalk, with even more to discover when its new Discovery Center & Aquarium opens in late 2028. (Visit Florida Keys & Key West)

Jimmy Buffett’s Key West recording hideaway is preparing for an encore. Afternoon light filters through palms beside the sticker-covered Shrimp Boat Sound Studio in the Historic Seaport District, where Buffett recorded for nearly four decades. Following approval of a 10-year lease by the Key West Bight Board, the site is slated to reopen by summer 2027 as a working studio, museum, event space and outdoor bar honoring the singer. (Mike Marrero/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Every sticker has a story at Shrimp Boat Sound Studio on the waterfront boardwalk in Key West’s Historic Seaport District. Jimmy Buffett first leased the former 1940s shrimp-packing cooler and ice house in 1986; much of his final album, “Equal Strain on All Parts,” released posthumously in November 2023, was recorded there. (Mike Marrero/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Getting to Key West is about to become part of the adventure! Beginning Nov. 27, Tropic Ocean Airways will launch nonstop seaplane service from Fort Lauderdale to Key West, giving travelers a bird’s-eye view of the Florida Keys along the way. Flights will operate Thursday through Sunday between private airport terminals, with one-way fares starting at $199. (Courtesy of Tropic Ocean Airways)

Who says you need an overnight bag to escape to Key West? Tropic Ocean Airways is making island-hopping a breeze with its new “Keys in a Day” seaplane experience. For $500 per person roundtrip from Fort Lauderdale, travelers can spend eight hours soaking up Key West’s colorful character, historic streets, waterfront charm and local flavors before heading home the same day. (Courtesy of Tropic Ocean Airways)

Visitor-Paid Tourism Dollars Help Protect Florida Keys Reefs with 18 New Mooring Anchors

Mon, 28 Sep 2026 21:05:30 +0200

FLORIDA KEYS, Fla. (Sept. 28, 2026) — Visitor-paid tourism tax dollars are helping protect some of the Florida Keys’ most valuable natural resources with the installation of 18 new mooring buoy anchors at three popular reef sites within Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.

The Monroe County Tourist Development Council awarded a $90,000 grant to the Marine Preservation Society of the Florida Keys for the project, which added eight new buoy anchors in Marathon at Sombrero Key Reef and six at Coffins Patch near Marathon along with four at Looe Key Reef in the Lower Keys. The project was completed for $70,000 following a competitive bidding process, with Pearl Beach Construction Company performing the work.

The anchors provide the underwater foundation for mooring buoys that allow boaters to secure their vessels without dropping anchors directly onto sensitive coral reef habitat. The system helps reduce damage to corals, seagrass and other marine resources while providing reef-friendly access for residents and visitors.

“This project is a great example of what can be accomplished when local partners invest in protecting the natural resources that make the Florida Keys such a special destination,” said Sara Rankin, Volunteer Director of the Marine Preservation Society. “The Tourist Development Council’s support helps ensure that visitors and residents can continue to enjoy these reefs while reducing the risk of damage from vessel anchoring.”

The highly visible mooring buoys also serve as an on-the-water reminder of the role boaters can play in protecting Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.

“Tourism dollars paid by our visitors come back into the Florida Keys in many ways, and this is one both residents and visitors can see and experience firsthand,” said Visit Florida Keys & Key West President and CEO Kara Franker. “These mooring anchors help protect the reefs that are so important to our environment, our economy and our way of life, while giving boaters a responsible way to enjoy them. This is exactly the kind of investment that benefits the Florida Keys for the long term.”

The project is just one example of many where visitor-generated tourism development tax revenue is being reinvested in resources and infrastructure that benefit Florida Keys communities. In Fiscal Year 2026, over $9.5 million visitor-paid dollars was awarded for tourism-related infrastructure projects.

Over the most recent five-year period, visitor-generated tax revenue has supported $5.2 million for coral restoration and the marine sanctuary, in addition to additional investments in beaches, tourism-related attractions, cultural programs, community events and other projects throughout Monroe County.

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A boater ties off to a mooring buoy in Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. Mooring buoys allow boaters to secure their vessels without dropping anchors on sensitive coral reef habitat. A Monroe County Tourist Development Council grant funded 18 new mooring buoy anchors at Sombrero Reef, Coffins Patch and Looe Key Reef. Photo courtesy of FKNMS.

Visit Florida Keys & Key West Takes Top Honors at 2026 Flagler Awards

Tue, 15 Sep 2026 17:17:09 +0200

FLORIDA KEYS, Fla. (September 15, 2026) — Four awards. Two top honors. And one unforgettable night for Visit Florida Keys & Key West, which emerged as a standout at the 2026 Flagler Awards for work spanning sustainable tourism, social media, mobile marketing and the destination’s next-generation website.

Presented during the 2026 Florida Governor’s Conference on Tourism in West Palm Beach, Visit Florida Keys & Key West received two coveted Henry Awards, the highest award in their respective categories, and two Silver Awards.

The recognition comes as Visit Florida Keys & Key West continues to evolve its approach to destination marketing, finding creative new ways to tell the Florida Keys story and connect with travelers while keeping conservation and stewardship at the heart of its work.

“I’m incredibly proud of our team and what these awards represent,” said Kara Franker, president and CEO of Visit Florida Keys & Key West. “We’ve been very intentional about how we tell the Florida Keys story, and I love that these honors reflect so many different sides of that work. It’s incredibly rewarding to be recognized among the best in Florida while staying true to what makes the Florida Keys so special.”

Now in its 26th year, the Flagler Awards are presented by VISIT FLORIDA to recognize outstanding tourism marketing throughout the state. Nearly 300 entries from large and small organizations competed in the 2026 awards program.

An independent panel of 14 judges evaluated entries for creativity, innovation, production quality and effectiveness. Named in honor of Henry Flagler, the Henry Award goes to the highest-scoring entry in each category, with Silver and Bronze Awards presented to the next highest-scoring entries.

Visit Florida Keys & Key West earned its two highest honors for work that reflects two important sides of destination marketing: stewardship and storytelling. The Integrated Ecotourism Program received the Henry Award for Sustainable Tourism Marketing, while “Destination Instant Experiences” took top honors in Social Media Marketing.

The organization also earned a Silver Award for its next-generation destination website, recognizing the ongoing transformation of VisitFloridaKeys.com as a more dynamic and engaging resource for travelers, and a Silver Award for the “Key West Duo Scroller” in Mobile Marketing.

For Franker, the four awards reflect the collaboration and ingenuity behind the team’s work spanning distinctly different areas of destination marketing.

“What stands out to me is that these awards recognize four very different pieces of our work,” Franker said. “We’re being recognized for how we care for the destination, how we tell its story and how we connect with travelers. That takes a lot of creativity and collaboration, and it speaks to the talent of our team and agency partners and the care they bring to showcasing the Florida Keys.”

Visit Florida Keys & Key West earned:

Henry Award — Sustainable Tourism Marketing: Integrated Ecotourism Program
Henry Award — Social Media Marketing: “Destination Instant Experiences”
Silver Award — Websites: “Next-Generation Website for the Future of Destination Marketing”
Silver Award — Mobile Marketing: “Key West Duo Scroller”

For more information about the Florida Keys & Key West, visit www.visitfloridakeys.com.

Supporting high-res images and associated credit information is available HERE.

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From left, Chip Wile, chair of the VISIT FLORIDA Board of Directors; Mary B. Haban, senior director of public relations for Visit Florida Keys & Key West; Kara Franker, president and CEO of Visit Florida Keys & Key West; Crystal Blaskis, vice president of marketing and communications for Visit Florida Keys & Key West; and Bryan Griffin, CEO of VISIT FLORIDA, celebrate four honors presented to the Florida Keys destination marketing organization at the 2026 Flagler Awards in West Palm Beach. Visit Florida Keys & Key West received two Henry Awards and two Silver Awards for work spanning sustainable tourism, social media, website development and mobile marketing. (Visit Florida)

A Message of Hope

Fri, 11 Sep 2026 23:08:52 +0200

FLORIDA KEYS VIDEO ADVISORY September 11, 2026

Contacts: Chad Newman, Chad@fla-keys.com (310) 283-8441 or Mary B. Haban, Mary@fla-keys.com (305) 394-3142

Story: A Message of Hope: 150-Pound Sea Turtle Overcomes the Odds and Returns to the Wild on September 11

Locator: Marathon, Florida Keys

Usage: HANDOUT / RIGHTS CLEARED (Unlimited Broadcast & Digital)

Video Link: Click Here

Photo Link: Click Here

Radio Link: Click Here

Photo Captions Below

Video: B-roll of Turtle Hospital staff and local first responders carrying Hope, a 150-pound female loggerhead sea turtle, to the shoreline at Sombrero Beach in Marathon, Florida Keys; community members watching the public release; and Hope entering the Atlantic Ocean and swimming away. SOTs with The Turtle Hospital general manager Bette Zirkelbach (pronounced Betty ZIR-KULL-BACK).

Technical Data:

TRT: 2:21

Filename: KeysHopeTurtleRelease.mp4

Audio: Stereo Mix

SOTs: Clean / Isolated

B-Roll: Nat. Sound

Credit: Florida Keys News Bureau (Screen credit appreciated, not mandatory)

A Message of Hope: 150-Pound Sea Turtle Overcomes the Odds and Returns to the Wild on September 11

MARATHON, Florida Keys (September 11, 2026). Today, the community celebrated a powerful moment of survival and unity as Hope, a 150-pound adult female loggerhead sea turtle, swam back into her ocean home from Sombrero Beach. Local first responders joined the public release to honor a journey defined by grit, healing and second chances.

Returning Hope to the wild on September 11 carries profound meaning. Her return serves as a reminder that healing is possible after devastating loss and that strength can emerge from deep trials.

The Turtle Hospital general manager Bette Zirkelbach described Hope as “a story of resilience, second chances, and the unbreakable spirit of survival.”

Hope was rescued in early June after being found entangled in an anchor line. The line had wrapped tightly around her front flipper, causing critical trauma that required emergency veterinary surgery and amputation to save her life.

Following the procedure, Hope faced a difficult road to recovery. She initially refused to eat as she adjusted to her injury. Through specialized care, fluid treatments and dedicated rehabilitation at The Turtle Hospital, she fought her way back to health, showing an unyielding spirit of survival.

“Hope lost her front flipper to the anchor line entanglement. But we have seen successful rehabilitations with turtles. They go out and live their life with three flippers. She's swimming strong. She's able to chase her prey and eat lobster,” Zirkelbach said.

Surrounded by cheering community members and local first responders, Hope returned to the Atlantic Ocean at Sombrero Beach. The release was dedicated to first responders in gratitude for their daily bravery and for helping the community through its darkest hours and hardest times. “Today on 9/11, we want to honor all those lost on 9/11, but also our first responders,” Zirkelbach said. “We had some local first responders here today, but we are eternally grateful. We will never forget.”

Hope's return to the ocean stands as a living testament to resilience, the power of second chances and the spirit of survival.

Located in Marathon, The Turtle Hospital is the world's first veterinary hospital dedicated solely to the rehabilitation of sea turtles. For more information, visit turtlehospital.org.

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The journey home. The Turtle Hospital general manager Bette Zirkelbach, left, and a Turtle Hospital staff member guide Hope, a 150-pound adult female loggerhead sea turtle, into the Atlantic Ocean Friday, Sept. 11, 2026, at Sombrero Beach in Marathon, Florida Keys. Local first responders and community members gathered for Hope's return to the wild after months of rehabilitation from an anchor-line entanglement that required the amputation of her front flipper. (Mariela Care/Florida Keys News Bureau)

The Turtle Hospital general manager Bette Zirkelbach, center, shares a final moment with Hope as children and other community members gather around to say goodbye Friday, Sept. 11, 2026, at Sombrero Beach in Marathon, Florida Keys. The 150-pound adult female loggerhead sea turtle was returned to the Atlantic Ocean after months of rehabilitation from an anchor-line entanglement that required the amputation of her front flipper.(Mariela Care/Florida Keys News Bureau)

A moment of remembrance. Turtle Hospital staff members, local first responders and community members bow their heads during a moment of silence honoring those lost on Sept. 11 before Hope's release Friday, Sept. 11, 2026, at Sombrero Beach in Marathon, Florida Keys. The 150-pound adult female loggerhead sea turtle's return to the wild was dedicated to first responders and celebrated her recovery from a severe anchor-line entanglement. (Mariela Care/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Ready to go home. Hope appears to smile from her transport tub before returning to the Atlantic Ocean Friday, Sept. 11, 2026, at Sombrero Beach in Marathon, Florida Keys. The 150-pound adult female loggerhead sea turtle recovered at The Turtle Hospital after an anchor line became wrapped around her front flipper, causing injuries that required the flipper's amputation. (Mariela Care/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Florida Keys Pack the Fall Calendar with Festivals, Flavors and Fun

Tue, 08 Sep 2026 20:02:26 +0200

FLORIDA KEYS & KEY WEST, Fla. (September 8, 2026) - Ditch your sweater and break out the flip-flops. Fall in the Florida Keys & Key West means warm days, island vibes and a calendar packed with events you just won’t find anywhere else. Swim eight miles through open water. Play a round of golf by boat. Savor the flavors of the Upper Keys. Or head to Key West for the roar of powerboats and the colorful, anything-goes spirit of Fantasy Fest. From September through November, fall in the Florida Keys is less about changing leaves and more about changing your latitude.

And this fall comes with a little extra value. A new initiative from Visit Florida Keys & Key West offers deals and savings across the island chain. Through Oct. 31^st, Keys Season spotlights a variety of lodging partners, restaurants, watersports operators and attractions with value offerings. Learn more at VisitFloridaKeys.com/KeysSeason.

Why visit The Florida Keys & Key West this fall?

Great Weather – Warm days, balmy breezes and comfortable temperatures set the stage for effortless exploring.
Award-Winning Dining – MICHELIN recognition of two Key West restaurants adds a new distinction to the culinary scene, earning praise for its fresh seafood, inventive chefs and mouthwatering local flavors.
Stone Crab Season – Stone crab season kicks off Oct. 15, bringing sweet, locally harvested claws to plates and palates from Key Largo to Key West.
Outdoor Adventures – Milder temperatures make fall ideal for snorkeling, boating and biking.
World-Class Fishing – Fall brings excellent opportunities for anglers to catch a variety of prized game fish in the waters surrounding the Florida Keys. From sailfish to bonefish, permit, tarpon, snook and redfish, the opportunities are endless.
Added Value – Keys Season brings extra perks to maximize your stay through Oct. 31.

Fall also brings an array of events and experiences to the Florida Keys & Key West, including:

Swim for Alligator Lighthouse

Sept. 12 | Islamorada, Fla. Adventure seekers take on one of the Florida Keys' most iconic athletic challenges during the eight-mile Swim for Alligator Lighthouse. This is tropical open-water swimming at its purest, drawing participants from around the world for the challenging journey to the historic offshore lighthouse and back. Swimmers compete individually or as part of two-, three- or four-person teams, with kayakers providing support along the course. Learn more.

Conch Scramble Charity Golf Tournament

Sept. 25 - 26 | Islamorada, Fla. Only in the Florida Keys can a golf tournament swap out golf carts for boats. The unique, island-style experience brings the bravado with floating greens, foursomes traveling by boat and biodegradable golf balls. Creative costumes, decorated boats, along with food, festivities and awards add to a day where watching the fun unfold is even better than being in the tournament. Learn more.

Lower Keys Fall Migration Mania Birding & Nature Adventure

Sept. 27 | Lower Keys, Fla. At the Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden, birders, butterfly enthusiasts, and nature lovers can explore one of the Lower Keys' premier wildlife habitats during the peak of fall migration. The day includes early access to the Garden, self-guided exploration, and optional guided birding and butterfly tours led by local experts. Learn more.

Taste the Keys

Oct.1 - 31 | Upper Keys / Key Largo, Fla. Savor the flavors of paradise during Taste the Keys, a month-long culinary celebration showcasing the restaurants, chefs and culinary creativity of Key Largo and the Upper Keys. Throughout October, participating restaurants offer specially pricedprix-fixed menus inspired by local ingredients and island culture. Visitors will also enjoy signature dining experiences, chef-led events, trolley tours featuring tastings and cocktails, and the Signature Dish Showdown, where diners vote for their favorite culinary creation. The celebration is timed perfectly with Keys Season savings across the Upper Keys. Learn more.

Key West oktoBREWfest

Oct. 3 | Key West, Fla.
Crack open a cold one and raise a glass to island-style fun during Key West oktoBREWfest. The annual celebration brings more than 50 breweries to the Southernmost Beach Resort for an afternoon of craft brews, local flavors, and live entertainment. Beer lovers can sample their way through an impressive lineup while soaking up the laid-back spirit of Key West with proceeds benefiting the Key West Sunrise Rotary scholarship fund. Looking to make the experience extra special? VIP admission includes early entry, a Bavarian-style buffet, a commemorative poster and a stainless steel tasting mug. Learn more.

Celebrate Sunset on the Old Seven Mile Bridge

Oct. 10 | Marathon, Fla. Celebrate America’s 250^th birthday with a spectacular sunset gathering at the historic Seven Mile Bridge. This uniquely Florida Keys event will bring residents and visitors together for an evening of local food, live music, history, culture, and community spirit, featuring culinary creations from the Marathon High School Culinary Program alongside fresh offerings from Grimal Grove. Learn more.

SOMO Half Marathon & 10K

Oct. 11 | Key West, Fla. Runners and walkers are invited to experience the Conch Republic with a scenic race route along the waterfront. Whether chasing a personal best or a slice of Key lime pie after crossing the finish line, this tropical race offers breathtaking island views and a festive atmosphere that make it a bucket-list event for athletes and vacationers alike. Learn more.

REEF Fest

Oct. 15 - 18 | Key Largo, Fla. REEF Fest is a must-attend gathering for anyone who loves the ocean and all its creatures. The eco-conscious festival combines educational marine conservation programming with immersive outdoor adventures, social events and opportunities to connect with the underwater world that makes the Florida Keys a globally renowned destination for reef exploration. Learn more.

Fantasy Fest

Oct. 16 - 25 | Key West, Fla. For more than four decades, Fantasy Fest has transformed Key West into a colorful hub of self-expression and island spirit. The world-famous, 10-day extravaganza features more than 60 events, including themed parties, masquerade balls, art walks, street fairs and the spectacular Fantasy Fest Parade along Duval Street. From the Zombie Bike Ride and Pet Masquerade to the Royal Coronation Ball and Goombay Festival, Fantasy Fest offers a one-of-a-kind cultural experience where imagination takes center stage. Learn more.

Trop Rock'N Duval

Oct. 28 - Nov. 1 | Key West, Fla. Island music fans can experience five unforgettable days of live performances during Trop Rock'N Duval. More than 60 artists perform across 23Key West venues, creating a walkable, island-wide celebration of the sounds inspired by life on the water. With intimate bar performances, sunset sessions, sold-out theater shows and sing-along favorites, this annual event captures the welcoming spirit that defines Key West. Learn more.

Race World Offshore Key West World Championship

Nov. 1 - 8 | Key West, Fla. The waters surrounding Key West become a high-speed playground during the Race World Offshore Key West World Championship. As the season finale of offshore powerboat racing, the event attracts elite teams from around the world for a thrilling showcase of innovation, teamwork and raw horsepower. Learn more.

9/11 Exhibit, Army Knights and Drone Shows

November 18 & 20| Islamorada & Big Pine Key, Fla. America’s 250th celebration continues across the Florida Keys this November with a powerful mix of remembrance, patriotism and only-in-the-Keys moments. Experience the Tunnel to Towers “Never Forget” traveling 9/11 exhibit, look to the skies for a U.S. Army Knights paratrooper drop-in and catch a spectacular drone show Nov. 18 at Founders Park in Islamorada. The celebration continues Nov. 20 at Big Pine Key Community Park with an evening of patriotic programming, followed by a 5K run the next day. Learn more.

Key West Film Festival

Nov. 18 - 22 | Key West, Fla. Named one of MovieMaker Magazine's “25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World,” the Key West Film Festival brings cinematic excellence to paradise. The five-day event features premieres, filmmaker discussions, documentaries, feature films, student shorts, critics panels and awards presentations, all set against Key West's historic architecture, tropical beauty and vibrant arts scene. Learn more.

Tour de Keys

Nov. 21 | Key Largo/Islamorada/Marathon/Lower Keys/Key West, Fla. Join riders from across the country for a stunning charity ride from either Key Largo (100 miles) or Marathon (50 miles) to Key West. Tour de Keys is a journey through paradise with purpose, benefitting MARC House, a Monroe County organization that supports adults with developmental disabilities. Learn more.

FISHING EVENTS

Anglers of all skill levels can join in at these fall tournaments.

Herman Lucerne Memorial Backcountry Fishing Championship

Sept. 18 - 20 | Islamorada, Fla. Honoring “Mr. Everglades” himself, this tournament challenges anglers to catch seven specific species within Everglades National Park waters. Learn more.

Take Stock in Children Backcountry Challenge

Sept. 25 - 27 | Key Largo, Fla. This catch-and-release tournament in Key Largo focuses on trout, snook, and redfish, all to support local vocational programs and scholarships for Upper Keys youth. Learn more.

IGFA Permit Invitational

Sept. 29 - Oct. 2 | Lower Keys, Fla. This premier tournament celebrates world-class inshore game fish, the sport of fly fishing, the ethics and the programs of the International Game Fish Association. Learn more.

Backcountry Fly Championship Series

Oct. 2 - 3 | Islamorada, Fla. Compete to catch the most inches of snook and redfish in a challenge where one-inch equals one point. Learn more.

Casting for Cats Backcountry Tournament

Oct. 16 - 17 | Islamorada, Fla. This formerly all-female tournament is now open to everyone, with a co-ed division and a new junior division. The event is a major fundraiser to help control the feral cat population in the Upper Keys. Learn more.

“Ladies, Let’s Go Fishing!” Florida Keys Saltwater Seminar and Fishing Tournament

Oct. 16 - 18 | Islamorada, Fla. Female fishing fans can learn or polish angling skills during the award-winning weekend seminar with two days of optional charter fishing and the Fishing Fever Fun Tournament. Learn more.

Cheeca Lodge & Spa All American Backcountry Tournament

Nov. 12 - 14 | Islamorada, Fla. Honor war heroes during Veterans Day weekend with this all-release tournament targeting snook, redfish, bonefish, tarpon, and permit. The event benefits the Bonefish & Tarpon Trust. Learn more.

Sugarloaf Showdown

Nov. 12 - 14 | Lower Keys, Fla. Fish for bonefish, permit, and barracuda in this catch-and-release challenge hosted by the Lower Keys Guides Association. Proceeds support the Florida Keys Guides Trust Foundation. Learn more.

Ready to plan your next trip? Get inspired at visitfloridakeys.com. Supporting high-resolution images and associated credit information are available HERE.

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Golf gets an island-style twist as a costumed participant takes aim at a floating green during the Conch Scramble Charity Golf Tournament in Islamorada in the Florida Keys. Foursomes trade golf carts for boats and traditional fairways for the water, teeing up biodegradable golf balls during the one-of-a-kind tournament, returning Sept. 25-26, 2026. (Courtesy of Conch Scramble)

Fantasy takes flight as Daniel Bitnar, center, leads a blue-winged group depicting the U.S. Navy's Blue Angels Flight Demonstration Squadron during a Fantasy Fest Masquerade March in Key West, Fla. The island city's anything-goes celebration of costuming, creativity and self-expression returns Oct. 16-25, 2026. (Andy Newman/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Things get wonderfully weird as colorful extraterrestrials and other out-of-this-world characters parade through Key West, Fla., during a Fantasy Fest Masquerade March. The island city's 10-day celebration of costuming, creativity and self-expression returns Oct. 16-25, 2026. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Only in Key West could the Kentucky Derby inspire a unicorn race. A group depicting an offbeat “Conch-tucky Derby” for unicorns performs on Duval Street during the Fantasy Fest Parade in Key West, Fla. The elaborate procession of fantastical floats and costumed marchers highlights the 10-day Fantasy Fest celebration, set for Oct. 16-25, 2026. (Andy Newman/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Duval Street gets a glow up after dark as participants in elaborate neon-accented costumes light up the Fantasy Fest Parade in Key West, Fla. Fantastical floats, marching groups and over-the-top characters fill the street during the signature procession of the 10-day celebration, set for Oct. 16-25, 2026. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Talk about a powerhouse pair. A costumed duo channels celebrity pals Martha Stewart and Snoop Dogg during the Fantasy Fest Pet Masquerade in Key West, Fla. Pets and their people share the spotlight in coordinated and themed costumes during the 10-day Fantasy Fest celebration, set for Oct. 16-25, 2026. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

The undead hit the road as thousands of costumed cyclists take over the streets of Key West, Fla., for the annual Fantasy Fest Zombie Bike Ride. The wildly imaginative, family-friendly ride is among more than 60 events planned during the island city's 10-day Fantasy Fest celebration, set for Oct. 16-25, 2026. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

The Tour de France meets the afterlife as Ryan Stachurski, left, and Tony Lopez pedal their Tour de France-inspired “Tour de Mort” creation during the Fantasy Fest Zombie Bike Ride in Key West, Fla. The quirky ride is among more than 60 events planned during the island city's 10-day Fantasy Fest celebration, set for Oct. 16-25, 2026. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Setting their sights on one of the Florida Keys' most recognizable landmarks, swimmers round the historic Alligator Reef Lighthouse during the 2025 Swim for Alligator Lighthouse off Islamorada. The eight-mile open-water challenge, which raises funds to help preserve the landmark, returns Sept. 12, 2026. (Christjen Johnson/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Kayak support teams are in it to win it as they guide swimmers past the historic Alligator Reef Lighthouse during the 2025 Swim for Alligator Lighthouse off Islamorada in the Florida Keys. The eight-mile open-water challenge combines endurance with a mission to celebrate and preserve the beloved offshore landmark and returns Sept. 12, 2026. (Steve Panariello/Florida Keys News Bureau)

A sure sign that fall has arrived in the Florida Keys: fresh Florida stone crab claws hit the table at Key Largo Fisheries. Stone crab season begins Oct. 15, bringing the sweet, locally harvested delicacy back to menus throughout the island chain. (Mary B. Haban/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Hollywood meets the subtropics as leading film critics gather to dish about movies and industry trends during the 2024 Key West Film Festival Critics Panel at Hank's Hair of the Dog Saloon in Key West, Fla. From left are moderator Shirrel Rhoades of The Key West Citizen, David Rooney of The Hollywood Reporter, David Fear of Rolling Stone, Stephanie Zacharek of Time and Lovia Gyarkye of The Hollywood Reporter. The five-day festival returns Nov. 18-22, 2026. (Larry Blackburn/Key West Film Festival)

Speed, spray and serious horsepower take over Key West Harbor as Stock 450-class raceboats make the turn during the 2023 Key West Offshore World Championship. The high-speed season finale, produced by Race World Offshore and featuring elite teams from around the world, roars back into Key West Nov. 1-8, 2026. (Andy Newman/Florida Keys News Bureau)

A prized permit provides a picture-perfect moment for an angler competing in the Sugarloaf Showdown in the Lower Keys. The catch-and-release challenge targeting bonefish, permit and barracuda returns Nov. 12-14, 2026, with proceeds supporting the Florida Keys Guides Trust Foundation. (Courtesy of Lower Keys Guides Association)

Hot from the oven, a wood-fired Neapolitan pizza draws smiles at Italian Food Company during a Taste the Keys trolley tour in Key Largo in the Florida Keys. The month-long culinary celebration is proudly presented by the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce and offers a variety of special menus and dining experiences throughout Key Largo and the Upper Keys Oct. 1-31, 2026. (Doug Finger/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Entrees like this herb-crusted shrimp at Sundowners restaurant are just some of the mouthwatering meals that have been offered during a Taste the Keys Foodie Trolley Tour in Key Largo. The month-long culinary celebration, presented by the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce, serves up a variety of special menus and dining experiences throughout Key Largo and the Upper Keys Oct. 1-31, 2026. (Doug Finger/Florida Keys News Bureau)

A 35.5-pound cobia earned Donna Jocelyn of Miami, Fla., left, Top Offshore honors during a previous Ladies, Let’s Go Fishing! event aboard Sea Horse with Capt. Rick Rodriguez. The Florida Keys Saltwater Seminar and Fishing Fever Inshore/Offshore Tournament returns Oct. 16-18, 2026, in Islamorada. (Photo courtesy of Ladies, Let’s Go Fishing)

Janet Steiner of St. Augustine, Fla., celebrates her first inshore fishing experience with a 33.5-inch snook release during a previous Ladies, Let’s Go Fishing! event. The catch earned her Top Inshore honors with Capt. Chris Hanson of Scales2Tales. The Florida Keys Saltwater Seminar and Fishing Fever Inshore/Offshore Tournament returns Oct. 16-18, 2026, in Islamorada. (Photo courtesy of Ladies, Let’s Go Fishing)

Key West Raises a Glass to Jimmy Buffett and the Music He Left Behind

Mon, 07 Sep 2026 04:37:18 +0200

FLORIDA KEYS VIDEO ADVISORY September 6, 2026

Contacts: Chad Newman, Chad@fla-keys.com (310) 283-8441 or Mary B. Haban, Mary@fla-keys.com (305) 394-3142

Story: Key West Raises a Glass to Jimmy Buffett and the Music He Left Behind

Locator: Key West, Fla.

Usage: HANDOUT / RIGHTS CLEARED (Unlimited Broadcast & Digital)

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Photo Captions Below

Video: B-roll and drone aerials of thousands of Jimmy Buffett fans in tropical clothing and parrot hats marching on Duval Street in Key West, Fla., tossing beach balls, raising a toast outside Sloppy Joe's Bar and singing "Margaritaville" outside Margaritaville; SOTs with festival co-organizer Paul Menta and singer-songwriter and longtime Buffett collaborator Will Kimbrough.

Technical Data:

TRT: 2:56

Filename: KeyWestBuffettParade.mp4

Audio: Stereo Mix

SOTs: Clean / Isolated

B-Roll: Nat. Sound

Credit: Florida Keys News Bureau (Screen credit appreciated, not mandatory)

Key West Raises a Glass to Jimmy Buffett and the Music He Left Behind

KEY WEST, Fla. (September 6, 2026) — Thousands of Jimmy Buffett fans turned one of Key West’s most famous streets into a moving memorial Sunday. Marching. Singing. And raising a glass to the late singer-songwriter whose music continues to bring them together.

Wearing tropical shirts and parrot hats, Buffett’s devoted fan base, known as ‘Parrotheads’, carried posters, tossed beach balls and celebrated down Duval Street in the Second Line Memorial Walking Parade. The procession paused outside Sloppy Joe's Bar to give Buffett another well-deserved toast. Then it was on to Margaritaville, where the crowd belted out Buffett’s signature hit by the same name as they searched for that proverbial lost shaker of salt.

The Second Line is the signature gathering of Just a Few Friends Key West, a five-day festival over Labor Day weekend that honors Buffett’s life and legacy. Now in its third year, the celebration brings fans, locals and musicians together in the city where Buffett found his voice and island-inspired sound.

"It's really just a cultural way to get together, feel some good energy and express maybe some of that sadness that we have and group-hug it together and say, 'Hey, man, thank you, Jimmy Buffett. You did a lot for us, and we're going to keep the party going,'" said Menta.

Buffett arrived in Key West in the early 1970s. The island, its characters and its free-spirited way of life became part of his music and shaped his laid-back blend of country, folk, rockand Caribbean influences that became his signature sound known as Trop Rock.

For Key West, Buffett's connection to the island went far beyond the music. He became part of its story and, through his songs, shared a little of its spirit with generations of fans around the world.

Buffett died Sept. 1, 2023. Within hours, Key West residents organized an impromptu Second Line in his honor. That spontaneous community tribute grew into Just a Few Friends Key West — five days of music, storytelling and gatherings at some of the places that shaped Buffett's life and work.

"So, he is our heart, just like Key West is our soul. There are different things that work out, and it just all comes together. And when you say Jimmy Buffett, I haven't met a person that doesn't just get a big grin. So, I mean, that's why we're Key West. I think that's why Jimmy Buffett was part of Key West," said Menta.

Will Kimbrough, a longtime Buffett collaborator and co-writer of one of last songs Buffett recorded called "Bubbles Up," shares Buffett's Mobile, Alabama, roots. He said Key West felt like a homecoming for Buffett and recalled how the singer kept his humor through his final days.

"He had joy at the end, you know, and, and he was entertaining his friends at the end of his life instead of, you know, 'Oh, poor me.' He was making them laugh, and that's what he did. So, yeah, he was the real deal," said Kimbrough.

The procession ended at Truman Waterfront Park, with a free ‘Party in the Park’ Sunday evening featuring Kimbrough and longtime Coral Reefer Band member Mac McAnally.

The five-day celebration continues through Labor Day with a sold-out concert featuring Kimbrough inside the famed Chart Room, the tiny Key West bar is where Buffett first played after arriving on the island in 1971. The audience is limited to 40 people, including the bartender.

The festival's final day also includes the last Tales from the Chartroom storytelling session. At 6 p.m., the Cayman & the Mango Men are scheduled to close the celebration with a free sunset concert at Sunset Pier.

For the full schedule, visit JustAFewFriendsKeyWest.com.

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Cheers to Jimmy. Just a Few Friends Key West co-organizer Paul Menta, right, leads thousands of Jimmy Buffett fans in a toast outside Sloppy Joe's Bar on Duval Street in Key West, Fla., Sunday, Sept. 6, 2026. The gathering was part of the Second Line Memorial Walking Parade honoring the late singer-songwriter. (Terry Martin/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Parrotheads on parade. Jimmy Buffett fans in tropical shirts, flower leis and parrot-themed hats carry Buffett memorabilia and wave decorated umbrellas as they march along Duval Street in Key West, Fla., Sunday, Sept. 6, 2026. The Second Line Memorial Walking Parade was part of the five-day Just a Few Friends Key West celebration honoring the late singer-songwriter. (Larry Blackburn/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Thousands turn out. Jimmy Buffett fans fill Duval Street in Key West, Fla., Sunday afternoon, Sept. 6, 2026, for the Second Line Memorial Walking Parade. Dressed in tropical shirts, flower leis and parrot-themed attire, the crowd celebrated the late singer-songwriter during the five-day Just a Few Friends Key West festival. (Larry Blackburn/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Key West's 'Just a Few Friends' Festival Celebrates Jimmy Buffett This Labor Day Weekend

Tue, 01 Sep 2026 15:17:00 +0200

FLORIDA KEYS VIDEO ADVISORY September 1, 2026

Contacts: Chad Newman, Chad@fla-keys.com (310) 283-8441 or Mary B. Haban, Mary@fla-keys.com (305) 394-3142

Story: Key West's 'Just a Few Friends' Festival Celebrates Jimmy Buffett This Labor Day Weekend

Locator: Key West, Fla.

Usage: HANDOUT / RIGHTS CLEARED (Unlimited Broadcast & Digital)

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Video: Sound bites with Paul Menta, Just a Few Friends Festival co-organizer, previewing the upcoming celebration in Key West, Fla.

Technical Data:

TRT: 7:10

Filename: JustaFewFreindsPreEvent.mp4

Audio: Stereo

SOTs: Clean / Isolated

Credit: Florida Keys News Bureau (Screen credit appreciated, not mandatory)

Key West's 'Just a Few Friends' Festival Celebrates Jimmy Buffett This Labor Day Weekend

KEY WEST, Fla. (September 1, 2026) — Jimmy Buffett's music is bringing friends back to Key West this Labor Day weekend, with a street party, waterfront concerts and a parade everyone can join.

The third annual Just a Few Friends festival runs Thursday, Sept. 3, through Monday, Sept. 7. The five-day celebration honors Buffett's life and his connection to the island through music, storytelling, food and time on the water.

“Jimmy Buffett passed and we decided to do something, but we didn’t want to mourn it. We wanted to celebrate it,” said festival co-organizer Paul Menta.

Friday night, Gary and the Landsharks will play a free Duval Street party recalling Buffett's 1998 street concert. Sunday's free Party in the Park at Truman Waterfront will feature Mac McAnally, Will Kimbrough and Howard Livingston and the Mile Marker 24 Band.

Between concerts, visitors can follow Buffett's island footsteps on walking tours, take sunset sails and hear firsthand stories during Tales from the Chart Room. The small bar at the Pier House, where Buffett once played for drinks and tips, is a gathering place throughout the weekend.

“We now call this an experience because it’s not just an event and it’s not just music. There’s art, culture, talks and tours,” said Menta.

Sunday's Second Line Memorial Walking Parade will step off at 5 p.m. from the lower 100 block of Duval Street. Participants will walk down Duval and along Southard Street to Truman Waterfront Park, where the evening's concerts begin at 6 p.m.

“The parade is everybody getting together. Nobody is on the sidewalk. Every single person is involved,” said Menta.

Monday's schedule includes Kimbrough performing inside the Chart Room and a Pencil Thin Mustache Contest. Free and ticketed activities are offered throughout the festival.

Souvenir charity badges support Reef Relief, the Bahama Village Music Program and scholarships for local high school students. The badges are separate from tickets to individual events.

For the schedule and event details, visit JustAFewFriendsKeyWest.com.

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Fans of Jimmy Buffett parade through Key West, Fla., during the 2025 Just a Few Friends festival. The celebration returns Sept. 3–7, 2026, with concerts, storytelling and island activities honoring Buffett’s life and legacy. A second-line memorial parade is scheduled Sunday, Sept. 6. (Mark Hedden/Florida Keys News Bureau)

America 250 Florida Keys Pennekamp Paddle Day Set for Sept. 12 in Key Largo

Mon, 31 Aug 2026 21:01:44 +0200

KEY LARGO, FL (AUGUST 31, 2026) — Monroe County and Friends of John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park invite residents and visitors to celebrate America’s 250th birthday in true Florida Keys style at the America 250 Florida Keys Pennekamp Paddle Day on Saturday, Sept. 12, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo.

Thanks to Florida State Parks, park admission will be free, giving the community an opportunity to enjoy one of the Florida Keys’ most treasured natural resources as part of the yearlong America 250 Florida Keys celebration. The park is open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset.

From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., the event will feature:

A Progressive Red, White, & Blue Paddleboard and Kayak Parade through the mangrove trail – kayaks and paddleboards provided
Glass-bottom boat experiences at 12:15 p.m. and 3:15 p.m. (first come, first served)
Snorkeling Experiences (fins and mask included; must buy or bring your own snorkel) at noon and 1: 30 p.m. (first come, first served)
Hot dogs, chips, and a soda plus chocolate-dipped Key Lime Pie
Live entertainment from local musicians
Interactive activities from community partners

“America’s 250th birthday gives us a unique opportunity to celebrate our nation and our state's history throughout 2026, including the places, people, and experiences that make the Florida Keys so special,” said Monroe County Mayor Michelle Lincoln. “This event brings our celebration to an incredible park and gives our community members a chance to see our natural history up close and personal.”

Pennekamp is known as the nation’s first undersea park and is home to mangrove forests, tropical hammocks, seagrass beds, and coral reefs.

“We are proud to welcome the community to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park for this special celebration,” said Ann Helmers, president of the Friends group. “Pennekamp is an important part of our local history and identity, and there is no better place to celebrate than Pennekamp, a world-renowned destination and one of the Florida Keys’ most cherished treasures.”

The event is part of America 250 Florida Keys, which is Monroe County and the Tourist Development Council’s celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States of America. Several free events are being planned to highlight the islands’ history, culture, natural resources, and community spirit. On Oct. 10, a sunset celebration will be held at the Old 7-Mile Bridge in Marathon, and events in Big Pine Key and Islamorada are being planned for November.

More information and event updates will be available at www.monroecounty-fl.gov/250.

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An aerial view shows kayakers winding through the mangrove forests at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo. The nation’s first undersea park will host America 250 Florida Keys Pennekamp Paddle Day from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12, 2026. (Visit Florida Keys)

Two paddlers travel through the mangroves at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo. Kayaks and paddleboards will be provided for the progressive red, white and blue paddle parade during America 250 Florida Keys Pennekamp Paddle Day Saturday, Sept. 12, 2026. (Stephen Flint/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Katherine Wieland, left, and Cody Wagner snorkel above the Christ of the Abyss statue, an underwater landmark at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park off Key Largo. Pennekamp Paddle Day will offer first-come, first-served snorkeling experiences at noon and 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12, 2026. (Stephen Frink/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Visitors relax on Cannon Beach at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo. Florida State Parks will waive park admission for America 250 Florida Keys Pennekamp Paddle Day Saturday, Sept. 12, 2026, with activities scheduled from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Bob Care/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Visitors aboard the Spirit of Pennekamp peer through glass-bottom viewing ports at the coral reef off Key Largo. First-come, first-served glass-bottom boat experiences are scheduled for 12:15 and 3:15 p.m. during Pennekamp Paddle Day Saturday, Sept. 12, 2026. (Bob Care/Florida Keys News Bureau)

The Spirit of Pennekamp carries visitors toward the coral reef off Key Largo. Glass-bottom boat experiences are among the activities planned for America 250 Florida Keys Pennekamp Paddle Day from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12, 2026. (Bob Care/Florida Keys News Bureau)

America 250 Florida Keys Pennekamp Paddle Day is set for 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12, 2026, at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo. The free-admission event will include paddling, glass-bottom boat and snorkeling experiences, food, live music and activities from community partners.

After Winning Hearts, Timmy the Larger-than-Life Loggerhead Returns to Sea in Key West

Fri, 14 Aug 2026 22:57:49 +0200

FLORIDA KEYS VIDEO ADVISORY August 14, 2026

Contacts: Chad Newman, Chad@fla-keys.com (310) 283-8441 or Mary B. Haban, Mary@fla-keys.com (305) 394-3142

Story: After Winning Hearts, Timmy the Larger-than-Life Loggerhead Returns to Sea in Key West

Locator: Key West, Fla.

Usage: HANDOUT / RIGHTS CLEARED (Unlimited Broadcast & Digital)

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Photo Captions Below

Video:

B-roll of Timmy, a 270-pound female loggerhead sea turtle estimated to be between 70 and 80 years old, being released into the Atlantic Ocean at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park in Key West. Additional footage includes the distressed turtle before being rescued, struggling to stay afloat. Turtle Hospital staff preparing Timmy for release, spectators lining the beach, Timmy crawling across the sand and entering the surf. SOTs with The Turtle Hospital general manager Bette Zirkelbach (pronounced Betty ZIR-KULL-BACK) and Florida RepresentativeJim Mooney.

Technical Data:

TRT: 3:17

Filename: TimmyTurtleRelease.mp4

Audio: Stereo Mix

SOTs: Clean / Isolated

B-Roll: Nat. Sound

Credit: Florida Keys News Bureau (Screen credit appreciated, not mandatory)

After Winning Hearts, Timmy the Larger-than-Life Loggerhead Returns to Sea in Key West

KEY WEST, Fla. (August 14, 2026) — It was the goodbye everyone had hoped for. Timmy, the larger-than-life loggerhead sea turtle...who won the hearts of her caregivers during weeks of rehabilitation, returned to her ocean home Friday in Key West. Hundreds gathered at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park to see Turtle Hospital staff carry the massive 270-pound turtle to the edge of the water and watch her make her way across the sand and back into the Atlantic.

Timmy was rescued on July 19 after struggling to stay afloat and flailing in the ocean. Boaters found her about seven miles south of Sugarloaf Key and called for help. They stayed with the distressed turtle until a crew from the U.S. Coast Guard arrived. Timmy was then taken to the Turtle Hospital in Marathon for treatment.

When she arrived, she made quite the impression. During the hour-long ride to Marathon, Timmy climbed out of her rescue container and sent equipment flying around the back of the turtle ambulance. That feisty streak continued during her rehabilitation and quickly endeared her to the staff caring for her.

Timmy was treated with fluids and antibiotics and underwent a series of tests. As her health improved, so did her appetite. Squid, mackerel, shrimp and lobster tail were all on the menu. Staff even celebrated when Timmy finally went number two; an important indication that her digestive system was working normally.

When Timmy was strong enough, she was moved into a 160,000-gallon tidal pool, where staff could watch how she swam and navigated deeper water. She passed the test.

Timmy’s rescue wasn’t just memorable. It was important. The giant loggerhead is estimated to be between 70 and 80 years old and still actively nesting. In fact, she had already laid eggs three times this season, including 10 days before she was rescued,

“Seeing a turtle like Timmy that has survived our oceans for so many decades, getting a reproductive female like her returned to her ocean home is most important for the survival of their species,” said Bette Zirkelbach (pronounced Betty ZIR-KULL-BACK), general manager of the Turtle Hospital.

During her hospital stay, staff shared Timmy's progress with the public. And people from across the globe tuned in to see her every move, including watching her eat, swim and regain her strength. They got to know the old turtle with a big appetite and even bigger personality. They saw her enjoying back scratches and spa days. And by the time she was cleared for release, plenty of people were rooting for her.

Florida Representative Jim Mooney, whose House District 120 includes the Florida Keys, was one of them. And said Timmy's release carried a deeper message for the next generation.

“We have to maintain, through education, how important our environment is, not just for us, but for the future. The little kids that are walking around today, that's what this is about,” said Mooney.

Friday morning, some of that community descended on Key West to see how Timmy's story played out. Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park waived admission fees for the special release, and spectators lined the beach as Turtle Hospital staff carried her toward the water.

For Zirkelbach, the turnout showed how deeply Timmy's story connected with the public.

“Seeing the hundreds of people coming out for Timmy's release today, it warms my heart. And I know that that compassion is contagious. The most important thing we can do to help save sea turtles is to fall in love with them,” said Zirkelbach.

For the team that rescued and rehabilitated her, it was the kind of goodbye they worked so hard for.

Mooney said today’s release confirmed that the place he grew up in still stands to protect our most precious resource. “Having been a ‘Keys kid’ my entire life, and still a ’Key’s kid,’ is to protect the environment. Because I know what the environment means to our tourism, to our tax dollars.”

When Timmy finally reached the surf and swam away from Key West, she went back to doing what she'd been doing for most of the past eight decades…living wild in the sea.

To learn more about the Turtle Hospital, visit TurtleHospital.org.

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Timmy, a 270-pound female loggerhead sea turtle estimated to be 70 to 80 years old, touches her nose in the Atlantic Ocean Friday, Aug. 14, 2026, at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park in Key West, Fla. Recreational boaters found Timmy swimming abnormally July 19 about seven miles south of Sugarloaf Key. After weeks of treatment and rehabilitation at the Turtle Hospital, the actively nesting turtle was cleared to return to the wild. (Larry Blackburn/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Hundreds of spectators gather around Timmy as Turtle Hospital staff prepare the 270-pound female loggerhead sea turtle for release Friday, Aug. 14, 2026, at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park in Key West, Fla. The public followed Timmy's progress during weeks of rehabilitation after recreational boaters found her swimming abnormally July 19. The actively nesting turtle, estimated to be 70 to 80 years old, was cleared to return to the Atlantic Ocean. (Larry Blackburn/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Timmy crawls from her transport container onto the sand Friday, Aug. 14, 2026, as Bette Zirkelbach helps guide her release at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park in Key West, Fla. The Coast Guard assisted with Timmy's July 19 rescue after recreational boaters found the 270-pound female loggerhead swimming abnormally south of Sugarloaf Key. She returned to the Atlantic following weeks of rehabilitation. (Larry Blackburn/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Turtle Hospital staff and U.S. Coast Guard personnel carry Timmy through spectators toward the Atlantic Friday, Aug. 14, 2026, at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park in Key West, Fla. The Coast Guard helped rescue the 270-pound female loggerhead July 19 after boaters found her struggling south of Sugarloaf Key. Estimated to be 70 to 80 years old, Timmy returned to the wild after weeks of rehabilitation. (Larry Blackburn/Florida Keys News Bureau)

The Reef’s Night to Shine: Corals Spawn in the Florida Keys

Sat, 01 Aug 2026 16:57:00 +0200

FLORIDA KEYS VIDEO ADVISORY August 1, 2026

Contacts: Chad Newman, Chad@fla-keys.com (310) 283-8441 or Mary B. Haban, Mary@fla-keys.com (305) 394-3142

Story: The Reef’s Night to Shine: Corals Spawn in the Florida Keys

Locator: Key Largo, Florida Keys

Usage: HANDOUT / RIGHTS CLEARED (Unlimited Broadcast & Digital)

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Photo Captions Below

Video: B-roll of coral spawning and divers collecting gametes at Reef Renewal USA’s offshore nursery near Key Largo, Florida Keys. SOT with Reef Renewal USA technical director Ken Nedimyer.

Technical Data:

TRT: 1:00

Filename: KeysCoralSpawn.mp4

Audio: Stereo Mix

SOTs: Clean / Isolated

B-Roll: Nat. Sound

Credit: Florida Keys News Bureau (Screen credit appreciated, not mandatory)

NOTE TO EDITORS/PRODUCERS: Gametes is pronounced GAM-eets.

The Reef’s Night to Shine: Corals Spawn in the Florida Keys

KEY LARGO, Florida Keys (August 1, 2026) — Millions of tiny eggs and sperm rose through the water off Key Largo as staghorn and elkhorn corals spawned. Divers gathered the reproductive cells to help grow the next generation of Florida Keys corals.

The annual reproductive event unfolded at Reef Renewal USA’s offshore nursery, where teams spent 10 nights diving to watch for spawning and collect the released material.

These corals reproduce through broadcast spawning, releasing eggs and sperm, known as gametes, into the water in a closely synchronized exchange. The event typically follows a summer full moon, with lunar cycles and water temperature helping cue the release.

“We don’t know how these corals communicate with each other to all spawn within ten minutes of each other,” said Ken Nedimyer, Reef Renewal USA’s technical director, “but their timing is impeccable.”

Divers used collection tents and test tubes to gather the gametes before rushing them ashore. At a temporary laboratory at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, scientists from Mote Marine Laboratory and The Florida Aquarium paired eggs and sperm from different parent colonies.

The effort produced more than 1.5 million coral embryos, according to the project team.

Fertilized eggs develop into free-swimming larvae called planulae. After drifting for days or weeks in the ocean, larvae can settle onto suitable surfaces and become polyps, the tiny animals that build coral colonies. In restoration facilities, scientists provide prepared surfaces for the young corals to settle and grow.

The nursery’s parent corals survived the 2023 marine heat wave that devastated coral populations throughout the Florida Keys. Researchers are breeding these survivors to increase genetic diversity and work toward corals better able to withstand future heat stress.

The young corals will grow at land-based facilities across Florida. Researchers expect many to be ready for transplanting onto Florida Keys reefs within about two years.

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A Reef Renewal USA diver collects coral gametes, or eggs and sperm, beside a collection net at the nonprofit’s offshore nursery near Key Largo, Florida Keys. During the annual spawning event, corals release reproductive cells in a closely synchronized exchange. Divers gather the material and bring it ashore, where scientists pair eggs and sperm from different parent colonies to grow genetically diverse corals for reef restoration. (Frazier Nivens/Florida Keys News Bureau)

A Reef Renewal USA diver handles a collection tube during coral spawning at the nonprofit’s offshore nursery near Key Largo, Florida Keys. Scientists use the collected eggs and sperm to breed the next generation of corals. This year’s effort produced more than 1.5 million embryos, according to the project team. The young corals will grow at land-based facilities before eventual transplanting onto Florida Keys reefs. (Frazier Nivens/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Registration Opens for the 13th Annual Sugarloaf Showdown Fishing Tournament

Fri, 31 Jul 2026 00:00:57 +0200

SUGARLOAF KEY, Fla. (July 30, 2026) — One of the Florida Keys' favorite fall fishing traditions is back. Registration for the 13th Annual Sugarloaf Showdown opens Saturday, August 1, and if last year is any indication, anglers won't want to wait. In 2025, the tournament reached capacity in less than 48 hours, with a healthy waitlist quickly forming for teams hoping to get on the water.

Hosted by the Lower Keys Guides Association (LKGA), the Sugarloaf Showdown has grown from a small, homegrown tournament designed to bring anglers to the Lower Keys during the quieter fall season into one of the region's most anticipated fishing events. Known for combining friendly competition with community and a shared love for the Florida Keys flats fishery.

Registration will open exclusively to current LKGA members from August 1 through August 14. If space remains available, registration will open to the general public beginning August 15.

The Sugarloaf Showdown is a catch-and-release tournament featuring bonefish, permit, and barracuda, with both fly and spin anglers competing for top honors. A dedicated youth division also recognizes the next generation of anglers, making the tournament a favorite for fishing families and helping inspire future stewards of the Florida Keys fishery.

"The Sugarloaf Showdown has always been about more than the fishing," said Jessyca LaBadie, Tournament Director and Operations Manager of the Lower Keys Guides Association. "It's a chance for our community to come together, spend time on the water with family and friends, and celebrate the incredible fishery that makes the Lower Keys so special. Every year we're humbled by the enthusiasm surrounding this tournament, and we can't wait to welcome everyone back this November."

Proceeds from the tournament’s online auction will once again benefit the Guides Trust Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting Florida Keys fishing guides and their families during times of crisis. Last year, the Foundation provided financial assistance to multiple Lower Keys guides who were sidelined for months by serious medical issues, helping ease the burden while they focused on recovery.

The 13th Annual Sugarloaf Showdown will take place November 12–14, 2026, beginning with check-in and a rules meeting on Thursday evening, followed by two days of fishing and an awards celebration on Saturday.

The tournament entry fee is $350 per boat. With last year's tournament reaching capacity in less than 48 hours, anglers are encouraged to register early. Complete registration details, tournament rules, eligibility requirements, and the online registration form are available at SugarloafShowdown.com.

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The 13th Annual Sugarloaf Showdown is scheduled Nov. 12-14, 2026, in Sugarloaf Key in the Florida Keys. The catch-and-release tournament features bonefish, permit and barracuda, with fly, spin and youth divisions. Registration opens Aug. 1 for current Lower Keys Guides Association members and Aug. 15 for the general public if space remains. Tournament details and registration are available at SugarloafShowdown.com.

Guide Chad Huff, left, and his son, angler Zach Huff, celebrate their 2025 Sugarloaf Showdown spin division grand championship in Sugarloaf Key in the Florida Keys. Zach Huff caught and released all three targeted species, bonefish, permit and barracuda, to score 850 points. Last year's 30-boat field filled in less than 48 hours, underscoring the event's popularity with anglers and guides. (Photo courtesy Lower Keys Guides Association)

Fly division grand champion angler Stone Sacco, left, and guide Cameron Sharp celebrate after scoring 1,200 points with catches across two species during the 2025 Sugarloaf Showdown in Sugarloaf Key in the Florida Keys. The catch-and-release tournament targets bonefish, permit and barracuda. Proceeds from its online auction benefit the Guides Trust Foundation, which supports Florida Keys fishing guides and their families during times of crisis. (Photo courtesy Lower Keys Guides Association)

Spin division first runner-up angler Pat Bennet and guide Tim Carlile display their awards Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025, after scoring 1,100 points with catches across two species during the 12th Annual Sugarloaf Showdown in Sugarloaf Key in the Florida Keys. Registration for the 13th annual tournament, scheduled Nov. 12-14, 2026, opens Aug. 1 for current Lower Keys Guides Association members and Aug. 15 for the general public if space remains. (Photo courtesy Lower Keys Guides Association)

Youth grand champion guide Luke Benson, left, and angler David Ragsdale, both age 11, display their awards after teaming to catch and release a barracuda for 100 points during the 2025 Sugarloaf Showdown in Sugarloaf Key in the Florida Keys. The dedicated youth division returns in November, giving fishing families a way to introduce a new generation to the Florida Keys flats fishery. (Photo courtesy Lower Keys Guides Association)

Ready, Set, Dive: Mini Lobster Season Opens in the Florida Keys with a Safety-First Message

Mon, 27 Jul 2026 23:54:25 +0200

FLORIDA KEYS VIDEO ADVISORY July 27, 2026

Contacts: Chad Newman, Chad@fla-keys.com (310) 283-8441 or Mary B. Haban, Mary@fla-keys.com

Story: Ready, Set, Dive: Mini Lobster Season Opens in the Florida Keys with a Safety-First Message

Locator: Key Largo, Florida Keys

Usage: HANDOUT / RIGHTS CLEARED (Unlimited Broadcast & Digital)

Video Link (English SOTs): Click Here

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Photo Captions Below

Video: B-roll of Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Officer Liam Rodriguez, the agency’s public information officer for Monroe County, demonstrating how to measure a spiny lobster and discussing harvest regulations and boating safety; Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary representatives participating in an annual preseason outreach event; and shoppers making last-minute lobster-season preparations at Divers Direct in Key Largo, Florida Keys. File footage of divers harvesting and measuring lobster underwater, with SOTs from Rodriguez.

Technical Data:

TRT: 2:44

Filename: KeysLobsterMiniSeason.mp4

Audio: Stereo Mix

SOTs: Clean / Isolated

B-Roll: Nat. Sound

Credit: Florida Keys News Bureau (Screen credit appreciated, not mandatory)

Ready, Set, Dive: Mini Lobster Season Opens in the Florida Keys with a Safety-First Message

KEY LARGO, Florida Keys (July 27, 2026) — The countdown is over. And the hunt is on! Florida's annual mini lobster season opens this Wednesday, July 29 at one minute after midnight and ends just 24-hours later, at midnight July 30. That means thousands of divers and boaters are headed to the Florida Keys for one of the state's most anticipated recreational harvests. But before the first lobster is ever measured, officials are urging everyone to know the rules...and put safety first.

During an annual preseason outreach event at Divers Direct in Key Largo, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) was on hand to encourage everyone on and under the water to familiarize themselves with Florida Keys regulations and check the boundaries of closed areas before leaving the dock.

“At the end of the day, we want you to come down to the Florida Keys. We want you to have fun, but most importantly, we want you to be safe,” said FWC Officer Liam Rodriguez, the agency’s public information officer for Monroe County.

FWC Officer Liam Rodriguez demonstrated how to properly measure spiny lobster while reminding harvesters about boating safety, licensing requirements and protected areas. Representatives from the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary also shared information with participants.

With hundreds of boats and divers expected on the water, officials say visibility is key. Divers and snorkelers must display a diver-down warning device and remain as close to it...and their vessel...as practical. That means within 300 feet in open water and 100 feet in rivers, inlets and navigational channels. Boaters approaching those areas must also slow to idle speed.

“We’re going to have heavy traffic, heavy boat traffic on the waters during mini season,” said Rodriguez. “So, it is recommended that you stay as close as you can to the boat.”

Unless exempt, each person taking or attempting to take lobster needs a recreational saltwater fishing license and a spiny lobster permit.

During the sport season, Monroe County regulations differ from those in most of Florida, including a lower daily bag limit, while the statewide minimum-size rule also applies.

“So, we have bag limits, we have size limits. Only six per person per day per licensed harvester. And the carapace must be longer than three inches long,” said Rodriguez.

On or after Thursday, a harvester may transport the two-day limit of 12 by car. Lobsters must be measured in the water; undersized or egg-bearing animals must be released unharmed, and recreational catch must remain whole at sea.

Night diving is strictly prohibited in Monroe County during mini lobster season. Lobster harvesting is also prohibited in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park during the two-day season, as well as year-round in Everglades and Dry Tortugas national parks, Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary no-take areas, and other protected waters. Since local shoreline, canal and marina rules vary, harvesters should check regulations before heading out.

If you’re not able to make it to mini-lobster season, the regular Florida spiny lobster season begins in about a week on Aug. 6, 2026, and continues through March 31, 2027.

For more information on current rules, closed-area guidance, boating and diving safety videos, measuring instructions, and the 2026 English and Spanish regulation brochures visit KeysLobsterSeason.com.

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Scott Sexton of Fort Myers, Fla., holds several lobster lassos while browsing a display of lobster harvesting gear at Divers Direct in Key Largo, Florida Keys, on Monday, July 27, 2026. Sexton is among shoppers making final preparations for Florida's two-day recreational spiny lobster mini-season, which opens at 12:01 a.m. Wednesday, July 29, and runs through Thursday, July 30. The regular spiny lobster season begins Aug. 6. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Julia Shinkle and Levi Lien, 11, of Jacksonville, Fla., examine lobstering nets at Divers Direct in Key Largo, Florida Keys, Monday, July 27, 2026. Their shopping comes two days before Florida’s recreational spiny lobster mini-season opens, when Monroe County’s six-lobster daily limit applies to each active harvester. The regular spiny lobster season begins Aug. 6. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Divers Direct sales associate Dave Madison, left, discusses specialized lobstering equipment with Wesley and Michelle Shaw of Tampa Bay, Fla., at the Key Largo, Florida Keys, store Monday, July 27, 2026. Madison holds a lobster hotel, while Shaw holds a lobster lasso. The Shaw’s are among shoppers making final preparations for Florida’s two-day spiny lobster sport season, which opens at 12:01 a.m. Wednesday, July 29, and continues through Thursday, July 30. The regular season begins Aug. 6. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Officer Liam Rodriguez uses a lobster gauge to demonstrate how to measure the carapace of a spiny lobster Monday, July 27, 2026, during an annual preseason outreach event at Divers Direct in Key Largo, Florida Keys. Regulations require the carapace to be longer than three inches from the area between the horns to the rear edge, and measured while the lobster is in the water. The two-day sport season begins at 12:01 a.m. Wednesday, July 29, and continues through Thursday, July 30. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Officer Liam Rodriguez discusses correct lobster harvesting techniques with Missy DuBois of Stuart, Fla., Monday, July 27, 2026, during an annual preseason outreach event at Divers Direct in Key Largo, Florida Keys. The outreach helps residents and visitors review bag and size limits, protected areas, and boating and diving safety before the two-day lobster mini-seasonbegins Wednesday, July 29. (Mary B. Haban/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Officer Liam Rodriguez, left, demonstrates proper lobster measurement for Kimn Chartier, center, of Palm City, Fla., and Missy DuBois, right, of Stuart, Fla., Monday, July 27, 2026, during an annual preseason outreach event at Divers Direct in Key Largo, Florida Keys. The outreach focused on correct harvesting techniques, Florida Keys regulations, and boating and diving safety before the two-day mini-season begins Wednesday, July 29. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

History made at Hemingway Look-Alike Contest

Sun, 26 Jul 2026 11:00:00 +0200

KEY WEST, Fla. (July 26, 2026) — Seven tries. One lucky sweater. And proof that sometimes, the best stories belong to those who refuse to quit.

Perseverance paid off Saturday night in Key West, as Chris Dutton made history becoming the first "Young Hemingway" ever to win Sloppy Joe's 45th Annual Hemingway Look-Alike Contest. The 39-year-old lawyer from Tampa captured the title, joining a brotherhood dedicated to preserving Ernest Hemingway's legacy through friendship, tradition and service.

Dutton’s road victory was far from easy. He emerged from a field of 134 registered contestants, in two preliminary rounds before defeating 23 other finalists to claim the title on his seventh attempt.

And while most contestants portray the older, white-bearded version of Hemingway, Dutton embodies the younger writer who lived and worked in Key West during the 1930s. Other "Young Hemingway’s" had reached the finals over the years, but none had ever won...until now.

The judges, each a former Look Alike winner known affectionally as a "Papa", look for more than a familiar face. They evaluate resemblance to Hemingway, stage presence, character and the ability to represent a society devoted to preserving the celebrated author's legacy. Twenty-four finalists each had one minute to make their case before the top five earned two additional minutes on stage. In the end, the Papas chose Dutton.

Dutton credited seven years of unwavering family support, a keepsake from a past winner, and one well-kept secret for helping him capture the prestigious title.

"Papa David Douglas gave me this sweater,” said Dutton. “I've had it for a few years and I never told anybody.”

Douglas, the contest's 2009 winner, passed down his trusted sweater to Dutton, who wore it with pride as he took the title Saturday night. But winning, he says, wasn’t the best part of the experience.

After his first appearance at the look-alike contest, he discovered what keeps generations of contestants coming back: the friendships. In 2019, a past Papa invited him on a trip to Cuba, where Hemingway also briefly lived. Experiences like that, he said, revealed the true spirit behind the competition.

"It's about the brotherhood, the friendship, and that's why we all keep returning," Dutton fondly recalled.

Dutton's new role is only beginning.

He now moves from contestant to judge, helping select future winners while supporting the Hemingway Look-Alike Society's scholarship program, which has awarded more than $350,000 to Florida Keys students. He also becomes one of the tradition's ambassadors, helping ensure Hemingway's enduring influence continues for future generations. Dutton said he would do everything in his power to keep the tradition going.

Hemingway lived and wrote some of his most famous works in Key West through much of the 1930s and was a regular at Sloppy Joe's Bar, where the contest was held. Today, the annual contest remains the signature event of the six-day Hemingway Days celebration honoring the 127th anniversary of his July 21 birth.

The new Papa admitted the victory still hadn't fully sunk in.

"I haven't completely digested it yet. But I'm ready. Ready to get to work."

To learn more about Hemingway Days and the Look-alike Contest, visit KeyWestLookAlikes.com.

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Chris Dutton of Tampa, Fla., raises his arms in victory after being announced winner of the 2026 Hemingway Look-Alike Contest at Sloppy Joe’s Bar on Saturday, July 25, 2026, in Key West, Fla. At 39, Dutton is the youngest winner in the contest’s 45-year history. The contest, a signature event of the six-day Hemingway Days festival, has drawn contestants and fans from around the world since 1981 to celebrate the author’s enduring legacy. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau).

A kiss for the new Papa. Former Hemingway Look-Alike Contest winners welcome Chris Dutton, 39, of Tampa, Fla., into their ranks at Sloppy Joe’s Bar in Key West, Fla., Saturday, July 25, 2026, after he became the youngest winner in the contest’s 45-year history and the first “Young Hemingway” to claim the coveted title. Organizers registered 134 contestants across two preliminary rounds before Dutton defeated 23 other finalists to claim the title. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau).

Surrounded by previous winners of the Hemingway Look-Alike Contest, 2026 champion Chris Dutton, a Tampa, Fla., attorney, hoists his trophy, a bronze bust of Nobel Prize-winning author Ernest Hemingway, outside Sloppy Joe’s Bar on Saturday, July 25, 2026, in Key West, Fla., where the annual contest was held. At 39, Dutton is the youngest winner in the contest's 45-year history and roughly the age Hemingway was during his final years in Key West. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau).

Left to right, Skylar Massella of Delray Beach, Fla., Mari Portal of Miami, and Allison Plumadore of Key West, Fla., raise a glass during the final round of the 2026 Hemingway Look-Alike Contest held at Sloppy Joe’s Bar on Saturday, July 25, 2026, in Key West, Fla. The three friends said they dressed up because they thought it “would be fun to be silly and match all the ‘Papas’ we knew would be in town!” The contest, a signature event of the six-day Hemingway Days festival, has drawn contestants and fans from around the world since 1981 to celebrate the author’s enduring legacy. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau).

As one of five finalists, Chris Morris of Sugarloaf Key, Fla., center, presents his case before the judges as fellow finalists Jay Fleece of St. Petersburg, Fla., left, and Ray Faubion of Bonita Springs, Fla., look on during the final round of the 2026 Hemingway Look-Alike Contest at Sloppy Joe's Bar on Saturday, July 25, 2026, in Key West, Fla. Contestants vie for the title each year during the six-day Hemingway Days festival, which celebrates Nobel Prize-winning author Ernest Hemingway and his enduring connection to Key West. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau).

The Bulls Are Back in Town: Hemingway Look-Alikes Take Key West

Sat, 25 Jul 2026 23:36:35 +0200

FLORIDA KEYS VIDEO ADVISORY July 25, 2026

Contacts: Chad Newman, Chad@fla-keys.com (310) 283-8441 or Mary B. Haban, Mary@fla-keys.com (305) 394-3142

Story: The Bulls Are Back in Town: Hemingway Look-Alikes Take Key West

Locator: Key West, Fla.

Usage: HANDOUT / RIGHTS CLEARED (Unlimited Broadcast & Digital)

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Photo Captions Below

Video: B-roll of past Hemingway Look-Alike Contest winners and contestants taking part in the 45th Annual 'Running' of the Bulls outside Sloppy Joe's Bar and through Old Town in Key West, Fla., Saturday, July 25, 2026. Visuals include participants in traditional white clothing and red berets or bandanas, wooden sawhorse bulls on wheels, the procession through the streets and crowd reaction.

Technical Data:

TRT: 1:47

Filename: KeyWestBulls.mp4

Audio: Nat. Sound - Stereo Mix

Credit: Florida Keys News Bureau (Screen credit appreciated, not mandatory)

NOTE TO EDITORS/PRODUCERS: The final round of Sloppy Joe's 45th Annual Hemingway Look-Alike Contest begins at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, July 25. Twenty-four finalists selected during two preliminary rounds are competing for the title of "Papa 2026." Separate Florida Keys News Bureau coverage of the winner is planned for distribution Sunday morning.

The Bulls Are Back in Town: Hemingway Look-Alikes Take Key West

KEY WEST, Fla. (July 25, 2026) — Beards, berets and wooden bulls rolled through Old Town Key West Saturday afternoon during the 45th Annual 'Running' of the Bulls event...one of Hemingway Days' most recognizable traditions.

Calling it a “run” may be a bit of a stretch. While the ‘Papas’, as Hemingway was often called, sauntered down the one block route, the crowd erupted in cheers just like it was the real deal in Pamplona, Spain.

Dressed in crisp, white clothing with bright, red berets and bandanas, past winners of the Hemingway Look Alike Contest joined hundreds of "Papas," for the signature stroll down some of Key West’s most famous streets. They set out from Greene Street, just outside Sloppy Joe's Bar, crossed Duval Street, looped through Old Town and returned to the bar where Hemingway often hung out.

Five bulls joined in on the makeshift run adding a bit of levity to the day. Wooden sawhorse replicas mounted on wheels and built for considerably less danger than their Spanish counterparts.

The procession spoofs the famed “running of the bulls” in Pamplona, Spain, and is a notable nod to Hemingway's fascination with Spain and its bullfighting traditions. The Key West version borrows the white clothes and red accents but leaves the live animals back in Spain.

While the afternoon belonged to the bulls, Saturday night belonged to the beards.

Twenty-four finalists selected during preliminary rounds Thursday and Friday are competing at 6:30 p.m. in the final round of Sloppy Joe's 45th Annual Hemingway Look-Alike Contest. Past winners will narrow the field to five before one contestant is crowned "Papa 2026."

The six-day Hemingway Days, which marks the 127th anniversary of Hemingway’s July 21^st birthday, continues through Sunday with several signature events. Highlights include the Papa Birthday Bash at Sloppy Joe's, Museum Day featuring the Hemingway Collection at the Custom House, and the "Papa's Tales" Storytelling Competition at the Hemingway Social Club.

To learn more, visit KeyWestLookAlikes.com.

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Scores of Ernest Hemingway look-alikes sporting red berets and neckerchiefs “stampede” past Sloppy Joe's Bar with a contingent of faux bulls the 45th annual Running of the Bulls on Saturday, July 25, 2026, in Key West, Fla. The playful homage to Pamplona's famed bull run is a signature event of Hemingway Days, celebrating the Nobel Prize-winning author whose frequent Key West watering hole attracted generations of admirers after he made the island his home through much of the 1930s. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Calling it a run may be a stretch. A crowd of Hemingway look-alikes and scores of fans fill Duval Street just outside Sloppy Joe’s Bar on Saturday, July 25, 2026, during the 45th Annual ‘Running’ of the Bulls in Key West, Fla. Dressed in white with red berets and bandanas, the would-be “Papas” joined the lighthearted procession as spectators lined the route and cheered them on. (Terry Martin/Florida Keys News Bureau)

A Honk to Hemingway! David “Bat” Masterson of Daytona Beach, Fla., the 2024 winner of the annual Hemingway Look-Alike Contest, blows a conch shell while riding a faux bull just outside of Sloppy Joe’s Bar on Duval Street during the 45th annual Running of the Bulls on Saturday, July 25, 2026, in Key West, Fla. Inspired by Hemingway’s own experiences with the famed bull run in Pamplona, Spain, and the scenes he brought to life in famous novels like “The Sun Also Rises,” the island’s signature send-up is a popular part of the annual Hemingway Days festival honoring the Nobel Prize-winning author, whose Key West years remain central to his literary legacy. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Sporting red berets and neckerchiefs James “Iceman” Teele, of Melbourne, Fla., leads a sea of Ernest Hemingway look-alikes from atop a faux bull through downtown Key West during the 45th Running of the Bulls on Saturday, July 25, 2026, in Key West, Fla. Inspired by Hemingway’s own experiences with the famed bull run in Pamplona, Spain, and the scenes he brought to life in novels like “The Sun Also Rises,” the island’s riotous send-up is a signature event of the annual Hemingway Days festival honoring the Nobel Prize-winning author, whose Key West years remain central to his literary legacy. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Hemingway Look Alike finalists carry more than banners and flags during the 45th annual Running of the Bulls on Saturday, July 25, 2026, in Key West, Fla. They carry on a tradition inspired by Hemingway’s own experiences with the famed bull run in Pamplona, Spain, and the scenes he brought to life in his novel “The Sun Also Rises.” The island’s signature event is part of the annual Hemingway Days festival honoring the Nobel Prize-winning author, whose Key West years remain central to his literary legacy. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Lyra Bolling, 5, and her real life ‘papa’, Michael Bolling, of Weston, Fla., strike a pose with faux bulls and a pack of “Papa’s” during the 45th annual Running of the Bulls event on Saturday, July 25, 2026, in Key West, Fla. The playful homage to Pamplona's famed bull run is a signature event of the six-day Hemingway Days festival, which celebrates Ernest Hemingway, the Nobel Prize-winning author who made the island of Key West his home through much of the 1930s. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

The Papas Are Back: Hemingway Hopefuls Return to Key West

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 17:08:09 +0200

FLORIDA KEYS VIDEO ADVISORY July 24, 2026

Contacts: Chad Newman, Chad@fla-keys.com (310) 283-8441 or Mary B. Haban, Mary@fla-keys.com (305) 394-3142

Story: The Papas Are Back: Hemingway Hopefuls Return to Key West

Locator: Key West, Fla.

Usage: HANDOUT / RIGHTS CLEARED (Unlimited Broadcast & Digital)

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Photo Captions Below

Video: B-roll from the opening preliminary round of Sloppy Joe's 45th Annual Hemingway Look-Alike Contest at Sloppy Joe's Bar in Key West, Fla., on July 23, 2026. Visuals include contestants crossing the stage, longtime competitors greeting one another, audience reaction, judging by past winners and crowd support for would-be "Papas."

Technical Data:

TRT: 1:53

Filename: HemingwayLookAlikeRoundOne.mp4

Audio: Nat. Sound - Stereo Mix

Credit: Florida Keys News Bureau (Screen credit appreciated, not mandatory)

NOTE TO EDITORS/PRODUCERS: The Florida Keys News Bureau plans additional Hemingway Days video coverage:

Saturday, July 25: Coverage of Key West's 1 p.m. "Running" of the Bulls outside Sloppy Joe's Bar. Inspired by the renowned run in Pamplona, Spain, the Key West version features costumed Hemingway look-alikes parading with manmade bulls on wheels.

Sunday, July 26: Coverage of Saturday night's final round of the Hemingway Look-Alike Contest and the crowning of "Papa 2026." B-roll and a SOT with the winner are planned.

The Papas Are Back: Hemingway Hopefuls Return to Key West

KEY WEST, Fla. (July 24, 2026) — In most places, wearing a thick wool sweater in the dead of summer may raise a few eyebrows. In Key West, it's all part of the “uniform.”

White beards, broad smiles and a carefully crafted swagger. That’s what rolled into one of Key West’s most legendary bars Thursday night, as the opening round of the 45th Annual Hemingway Look-Alike Contest got underway at Sloppy Joe’s.

Contestants took the stage at the Duval Street saloon, the very place Ernest Hemingway used to hang out during the 1930s while living in Key West.

Some rocked safari attire. Others...his iconic fisherman sweaters. But nearly all brought those signature beards, bravado and the brave face needed to convince a panel of past winners that they were worthy of advancing to the final round.

The “hopefuls” were judged on more than their physical resemblance to Hemingway. They also considered how well they captured the “Papa” persona (as Hemingway was affectionately called), their stage presence and ability to win over the room.

When the night was over, twelve contestants advanced to Saturday night's final round. A second preliminary round is scheduled for tonight, with the 2026 winner crowned Saturday evening at Sloppy Joe's.

For many competitors, the annual contest is as much a reunion as it is a competition. It's an annual pilgrimage to Key West, where they can reconnect with friends who understand the walk, the crowd and the dedication required to dress like Ernest Hemingway in July.

The contest is the highlight of Hemingway Days, an annual Key West celebration of the author's literary legacy, sporting pursuits and island years. The 2026 festival continues through Sunday with events including the lighthearted "Running" of the Bulls outside Sloppy Joe's, a dockside fish-off, a street fair and a belated birthday bash marking the 127th anniversary of Hemingway's July 21 birth.

Beyond the fun, the look-alikes also carry a cause beyond the stage. The Hemingway Look-Alike Society, formed by past winners and contestants, raises money for scholarships for College of the Florida Keys students and has awarded more than $350,000 since its inception.

To learn more, visit KeyWestLookAlikes.com.

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Photo Captions:

HemingwayRoundOne_01.jpg

Chris Dutton of Tampa, Fla., strikes a pose on stage at Sloppy Joe’s Bar in Key West, Fla., after announcing to the judges and audience of the 45^th annual Hemingway Look-Alike Contest his goal of becoming the youngest winning “Papa” in the competition’s history. The first round of this contest took place on Thursday, July 23, 2026, with contestants vying for the title as part of the six-day Hemingway Days festival celebrating Nobel Prize-winning author Ernest Hemingway and his enduring connection to the island. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

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Peter McHugh of Tucson, Arizona, makes his case to the judges during the opening round of the 45^th annual “Papa” Hemingway Look-Alike Contest, Thursday, July 23, 2026, at Sloppy Joe’s Bar in Key West, Fla. The contest is a signature event of the six-day Hemingway Days festival that has attracted contestants and fans from around the world since 1981 to celebrate Nobel Prize-winning author Ernest Hemingway’s legacy. Events continue through Sunday, July 26, 2026. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

HemingwayRoundOne_03.jpg

Don Weinstein of Ocoee, Florida, channels Nobel Prize-winning author Ernest Hemingway’s safari persona during the opening round of the 45^th annual “Papa” Hemingway Look-Alike Contest, Thursday, July 23, 2026, at Sloppy Joe’s Bar in Key West, Fla. The contest is a signature event of the six-day Hemingway Days festival that has attracted contestants and fans from around the world since 1981 to celebrate Hemingway, whose Key West home remains one of the island's best-known historic landmarks. The festival continues through Sunday, July 26, 2026. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

HemingwayRoundOne_04.jpg

Twelve finalists from a field of more than sixty competitors, enjoy a moment of triumph at the conclusion of the opening round of the 45^th annual “Papa” Hemingway Look-Alike Contest, Thursday, July 23, 2026, at Sloppy Joe’s Bar in Key West, Fla. The competition, a signature event of a six-day Hemingway Days festival, continues with a second round on Friday, July 24, and with the final round on July 25. Events continue through Sunday, July 26, 2026. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

The Keys to Selling the Florida Keys

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 15:05:00 +0200

FLORIDA KEYS (July 21, 2026) – Every traveler is different. Every Florida Keys vacation should be too. That's the idea behind the reimagined Key Lime Academy from Visit Florida Keys & Key West. The enhanced training program equips travel professionals with the destination knowledge they need to confidently match clients with the right island and turn inquiries into even more bookings.

From destination insights and itinerary inspiration to insider tips and practical sales tools, the recently relaunched Key Lime Academy helps travel advisors not only sell with confidence but deliver vacations their clients will remember for a lifetime.

The self-paced, online certification program is organized by region…giving advisors a deeper understanding of what makes each district unique. From Key Largo, to Islamorada, Marathon, to the Lower Keys and Key West, advisors get an in-depth look into the islands’accommodations, transportation options, accessibility offerings, signature experiences, seasonal travel opportunities and hidden gems.

Upon completing the program, advisors earn the designation of Conch-Star Specialist, recognizing their expertise in planning and promoting travel throughout the Florida Keys & Key West. Graduates also receive access to curated itineraries tailored to a variety of traveler interests, including families, couples, honeymooners, adventure seekers, solo travelers and active adults. The designation signals an advisor's ability to recommend the right island, experiences and pace of travel while showcasing a deeper understanding of one of Florida's most diverse destinations.

"As travelers continue seeking authentic, personalized vacations, travel advisors remain one of our most valuable partners in helping them discover everything the Florida Keys & Key West have to offer," said Ed Simon, Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President of Visit Florida Keys & Key West. "The reimagined Key Lime Academy gives advisors destination expertise can immediately put into play to create unforgettable client experiences that grow their business."

Travel advisors interested in earning the Conch-Star Specialist Designation can enroll at www.KeyLimeAcademy.com.

High-resolution images, photo credits, and captions are available at this link.

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The relaunched Key Lime Academy from Visit Florida Keys & Key West is a self-paced online certification program designed to help travel advisors learn more about the island chain and match clients with the right Florida Keys vacation experience. Advisors who complete the program earn the Conch-Star Specialist designation. (Graphic courtesy of Visit Florida Keys & Key West)

The Key Lime Academy website gives travel advisors access to destination training, itinerary ideas, insider tips, promotional materials and sales resources for the Florida Keys & Key West. The relaunched program is organized by region, with information about Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, the Lower Keys and Key West.(Screenshot courtesy of Visit Florida Keys & Key West)

Duty Above All: Key West TSA Officers Honored as Travel Heroes

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 14:48:40 +0200

KEY WEST, Fla. (July 17, 2026) — Even as missed paychecks created uncertainty at home, Transportation Security Administration officers at Key West International Airport never stopped showing up. Day after day, they reported for duty with the same professionalism, vigilance and commitment to public service that travelers depend on.

Those officers were recently recognized for that extraordinary dedication when Monroe County Mayor Michelle Lincoln presented them with a replica of the U.S. Travel Association's Travel Hero Award. The honor recognizes frontline aviation professionals who continued reporting for duty during the federal government shutdowns of 2025 and 2026, ensuring millions of Americans could travel safely despite the personal financial hardship they faced.

While the nation debated budgets and funding in Washington, TSA officers across the country remained focused on the people standing in front of them at airport security checkpoints. They continued screening passengers, protecting the traveling public and keeping the nation's aviation system operating...not because they were being paid, but because they believed in the responsibility entrusted to them.

"It is my privilege to present the U.S. Travel Association's Travel Hero Award to the TSA officers of Key West International Airport," Mayor Lincoln said during the presentation. "These men and women demonstrated remarkable dedication to public service by continuing to protect travelers and keep our airport operating during an incredibly challenging time. Their professionalism, resilience and selflessness deserve our gratitude and recognition."

The impact of that commitment was especially evident at Key West International Airport, where TSA officers continued protecting travelers and keeping flights moving throughout the 76-day shutdown. Airport leaders say their efforts were critical to maintaining the safe, reliable operation visitors and residents depend on.

"Over the course of the 76-day shutdown, our TSA officers were responsible for the screening and safety of more than 200,000 outgoing passengers and an untold number of commercial airline personnel," said Richard Strickland, Executive Director of Airports. "Their dedication is a major part of Key West International Airport's continued success, and this award is a token of our appreciation for all that they do."

For every visitor arriving in the Florida Keys, TSA officers are among the first faces they encounter. Their dedication not only keeps travelers safe, it helps create a welcoming first impression and supports the tourism industry that powers the Keys' economy.

"Tourism is the lifeblood of the Florida Keys, and TSA officers play an essential role in every visitor's journey," said Kara Franker, President & CEO of Visit Florida Keys & Key West. "During the federal government shutdowns, they continued showing up every day despite the personal sacrifices they faced, ensuring travelers could safely reach our destination. Their professionalism, resilience and commitment to serving others helped keep the Keys connected, and we're proud to recognize them as true travel heroes."

Their dedication was especially meaningful in the Florida Keys, where tourism generates approximately $3.6 billion in annual visitor spending and supports more than 19,700 local jobs. At Key West International Airport, TSA officers helped keep one of the region's most important gateways operating during a period of record travel demand. From January through May 2026, EYW welcomed 777,943 passengers, a 6.9 percent increase over the same period the previous year. In March alone, the airport recorded its busiest month in history, serving 175,779 passengers.

The U.S. Travel Association first presented the national Travel Hero Award during Destination Capitol Hill, its annual legislative event in Washington, D.C., in April. The award honored TSA officers and air traffic controllers whose commitment ensured the nation's aviation system continued operating throughout the federal funding lapses.

The national TSA award was accepted by Ha Nguyen McNeill, Senior Official Performing the Duties of TSA Administrator. U.S. Travel subsequently invited destinations across the country to recognize their local TSA officers with replica awards as part of a nationwide tribute to these frontline public servants.

The July 8 ceremony marked Monroe County's participation in that nationwide recognition effort, honoring the local officers whose quiet acts of service kept the Florida Keys connected to the rest of the country during an extraordinarily challenging time. While travelers may never have known the personal sacrifices taking place behind the checkpoint, the dedication of these officers ensured that vacations could begin, loved ones could reunite and the traveling public could continue to move safely through Key West International Airport.

High-resolution images, photo credits, and captions are available at this link.

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Even as federal paychecks stopped, TSA officers at Key West International Airport kept reporting for duty, screening passengers and helping keep the Florida Keys connected. Pictured during recognition of local TSA officers with a U.S. Travel Association Travel Hero Award are, from left, Richard Strickland, Monroe County Executive Director of Airports; Monroe County Mayor Michelle Lincoln; and Kara Franker, president and CEO of Visit Florida Keys & Key West. (Mark Funkhouser/Florida Keys News Bureau)

From left are Kara Franker, president and CEO of Visit Florida Keys & Key West, and Richard Strickland, Monroe County Executive Director of Airports, presenting TSA representatives Joshua Pedowitz, Daniel Shook and Leo Green with a U.S. Travel Association Travel Hero Award. The award recognizes officers who continued showing up for passengers during federal funding stoppages, helping keep travelers moving safely to and from the Florida Keys. (Mark Funkhouser/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Introducing Keys Season: One Road. Miles of Savings.

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 15:58:00 +0200

FLORIDA KEYS (July 16, 2026) — What if the best time to experience the Florida Keys & Key West wasn’t during peak season?

Late summer and early fall offer travelers a more relaxed side of the island chain. When life slows down. The sunsets linger. And there's more time to discover the local restaurants, waterfront hideaways and unforgettable experiences that give each island its own personality.

That's the inspiration behind Keys Season, a new promotion from Visit Florida Keys & Key West featuring exclusive offers from Key Largo to Key West. From Aug. 1 through Oct. 31, travelers can enjoy special values on a variety of accommodations, attractions, fishing charters, diving adventures, eco-tours, restaurants and cultural experiences throughout the island chain.

"Our first Keys Season celebrates one of the most rewarding times to visit the Florida Keys," said Kara Franker, President and CEO of Visit Florida Keys & Key West. "This is when visitors can truly settle into the island lifestyle; whether that's watching the sunset from a waterfront tiki bar, diving North America's only living coral barrier reef, casting a line offshore or discovering the personality of each island community.”

From Key Largo to Key West, every stop along the iconic Overseas Highway offers something different to discover…and during Keys Season, something special to save on.

Many participating lodging partners are also offering a Flexibility Promise, providing free cancellation and rebooking options should travel plans change. And some offers extend beyond the Keys Season timeframe, giving visitors even more flexibility when planning their escape.

Across the island chain, local businesses, chambers of commerce and tourism partners have come together to create exclusive offers that encourage visitors to explore beyond a single stop. Whether discovering Key Largo's underwater wonders, Marathon's family-friendly adventures or Key West's legendary sunsets, Keys Season celebrates the unique personality of each island community.

"We’re proud to support the Keys Season campaign and the opportunity it creates for both visitors and our local business community,” said Suzi Youngberg, President & CEO of the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce. ‘One Road...Miles of Savings' showcases the incredible value available throughout the Florida Keys, encouraging travelers to experience more while supporting locally owned businesses. It's another great reason to visit and discover why the Florida Keys remain one of the world's most treasured destinations."

The beauty of Keys Season is that travelers can shape the experience however they choose. Spend a morning on the water. Wander through an art district in the afternoon. Settle in for fresh local seafood as the sun slips below the horizon. Every island offers something different, making it easy to build an itinerary that's uniquely your own.

"Keys Season is one of those rare opportunities where visitors truly get the best of everything," said Daniel Samess, CEO of the Greater Marathon Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center. "The waters are just as beautiful, the fishing is world-class, the restaurants serve incredible fresh seafood, and our island communities are as welcoming as ever. Add in exclusive savings, fewer crowds and a relaxed pace, and it's easy to see why this is one of my favorite times of year to experience Marathon and the entire Florida Keys."

As summer transitions into fall, the Florida Keys' event calendar shifts into high gear, giving visitors even more reasons to plan an escape. Celebrate the life and music of Jimmy Buffett during Just a Few Friends, then return a few weeks later for the legendary Fantasy Fest, where dazzling costumes, colorful parades and boundless creativity transform Key West into one of the country's most unforgettable celebrations.

"The best way to experience Key West is to slow down and live like a local," said Paul Menta, owner of Key West First Legal Rum Distillery. "Keys Season makes it easier to experience more of what makes this island special, and it comes at the perfect time with signature events like Just a Few Friends and Fantasy Fest bringing incredible energy to Key West. It's one of the most fun times of the year to be here."

Whether you’re dreaming of a spontaneous weekend getaway, an unforgettable fishing trip, a culinary adventure or a front-row seat to one of the Florida Keys' signature festivals, Keys Season proves that ‘One Road. Miles of Savings.’ can lead to countless adventures like these:

Wake Up to Island Mornings. Start each day with ocean views, gentle sea breezes and special lodging offers at waterfront resorts, boutique hotels and charming island inns, including discounted stays, midweek rates and complimentary nights. Explore lodging offers.
Spend Your Days on the Water. Snorkel or dive North America's only living coral barrier reef. Paddle through winding mangrove trails. Reel in mahi-mahi, tarpon or snapper with experienced local guides. Or simply climb aboard a sunset cruise and let the islands do the rest. Explore outdoor adventures. Explore fishing offers.

Savor the Flavors of the Keys. From fresh-off-the-boat seafood and dockside fish shacks to craft cocktails, tiki bars and rooftop happy hours, Keys Season serves up exclusive dining offers that celebrate the island chain's vibrant culinary scene. Explore dining offers.
Discover the Culture That Makes Each Island Unique. Browse colorful galleries, tour museums and historic landmarks, visit local distilleries, meet artists and makers, and experience the creative spirit that flows throughout the Keys. Explore arts & culture offers.

Ready to discover exclusive Florida Keys offers and start planning your island-inspired getaway? Learn more at VisitFloridaKeys.com.

Supporting high-resolution images and captions are available HERE.

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Keys Season gives travelers more ways to experience the Florida Keys & Key West from the water, including kayaking, eco-tours and other outdoor adventures featured among exclusive late-summer and early-fall offers throughout the island chain. Credit: Visit Florida Keys

Keys Season invites travelers to explore the Florida Keys & Key West at a more relaxed time of year, with exclusive offers that make it easier to plan days on the water, island-to-island discoveries and scenic stops along the Overseas Highway. Credit: Visit Florida Keys

Diving North America's only living coral barrier reef is among the signature Florida Keys experiences featured during Keys Season, with late-summer and early-fall offers designed to help travelers discover more of the island chain. Credit: Visit Florida Keys

Mangrove eco-tours and quiet paddling trails are part of the relaxed island experiences travelers can enjoy during Keys Season, when Visit Florida Keys & Key West highlights exclusive offers throughout the destination from Aug. 1 through Oct. 31. Credit: Visit Florida Keys

Keys Season gives visitors more ways to spend time on the water, from paddling and family-friendly adventures to attractions, dining, lodging and cultural experiences across the Florida Keys & Key West. Credit: Visit Florida Keys

Guided fishing trips are among the outdoor adventures included in Keys Season, a new Visit Florida Keys & Key West promotion encouraging travelers to experience the island chain's waters, local businesses and relaxed late-summer pace. Credit: Visit Florida Keys

From offshore fishing charters to waterfront dining and island events, Keys Season highlights the variety of experiences travelers can build into a Florida Keys getaway while taking advantage of exclusive late-summer and early-fall offers. Credit: Visit Florida Keys

Keys Season celebrates one of the most rewarding times to experience the Florida Keys & Key West, with special offers that invite visitors to slow down, get on the water and discover the distinct personality of each island community. Credit: Visit Florida Keys

A Milestone Worth Savoring: Key West Restaurants Receive MICHELIN Plaques

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 02:41:05 +0200

KEY WEST, Fla. (July 13, 2026) - One of the world's most prestigious culinary honors now has a permanent home in the Florida Keys. Blue Heaven and Moondog Café & Bakery received their official MICHELIN plaques Monday in Key West, marking the destination's first recognition by the internationally acclaimed guide.

The recognitions were first announced May 28, when MICHELIN released its inaugural statewide Florida Guide. They placed Key West among the Florida destinations recognized by the international restaurant guide and bring new attention to the Florida Keys' 125-mile island chain, connected by 42 bridges.

Blue Heaven, the landmark Bahama Village restaurant, earned a place on the MICHELIN Recommended list. Moondog Café & Bakery, near the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum, received a Bib Gourmand, a distinction for restaurants that serve high-quality food at a good value.

At Blue Heaven Monday afternoon, partner Ricky Hatch proudly accepted then hoisted the restaurant's plaque at the open-air restaurant his family opened in 1992.

"For my parents, I think it's a massive recognition of the hundreds of thousands of hours of hard work. Breakfast, lunch and dinner, 7 days a week, for over 30 years," said Hatch.

He said the recognition also carries meaning for the next generation of the family business.

"For me, it's legacy. It's an honor. It's a challenge. I don't want to mess it up, in the best way," said Hatch.

Blue Heaven has long been known for its shaded courtyard, Caribbean-inspired dishes, fresh seafood and Key lime pie. The historic property has operated over the years as a dance hall, billiard hall, playhouse and ice cream parlor.

At Moondog Café & Bakery, the kitchen staff gathered on the outside patio as the restaurant received its official Bib Gourmand plaque. For General Manager Eric Koch, the recognition began with a call that did not immediately reveal where it was headed.

"When MICHELIN reached out to us, I thought it was just another one of those media videos that somebody wanted to shoot. I didn't really put together what they were trying to do," said Koch. "We didn't learn about the award until everybody else did. That was exciting, and now we keep getting other opportunities to talk about it."

Visit Florida Keys & Key West President & CEO Kara Franker, who personally delivered the plaques, said these recognitions show a side of the destination that visitors have long experienced.

"The restaurant scene in Key West has been incredible for a long time," said Franker. "It's a culinary culture that people don't know exists here in the Florida Keys, and now they know."

Moondog Café & Bakery has built a following for its bakery case, comfort food and cafe setting just steps from the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum.

Monroe County Commissioner Jim Scholl, who lives just blocks from the restaurant, said the awards reflect a broader dining culture in Key West.

"Key West is a culinary experience from one end to the other," said Scholl. "These are worldwide destinations. It's not just Florida...it's not just the U.S.; it's from all over the world."

The MICHELIN Guide's restaurant selections are based on five criteria: quality products, harmony of flavors, mastery of cooking techniques, the voice and personality of the chef as reflected in the cuisine, and consistency between visits and throughout the menu. Restaurants are inspected several times a year, according to MICHELIN.

Hatch said he hopes the recognition helps bring more attention to restaurants throughout the island chain.

"We're honored to be part of this inaugural class, but let's get more of our friends on this list," said Hatch. "We have great food in the Florida Keys."

Visit Florida, the statewide tourism agency, established the program with MICHELIN to review the entire state.

For more information on the Florida Keys & Key West, go to VisitFloridaKeys.com

High-resolution images, photo credits and captions are available at this link.

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From left, Visit Florida Keys & Key West President & CEO Kara Franker, Blue Heaven partner Ricky Hatch, Monroe County Commissioner Jim Scholl, District 3, and Rachel Oropeza, a Monroe County Tourist Development Council board member, share a special moment with Blue Heaven’s official MICHELIN plaque Monday, July 13, 2026, at Blue Heaven in Key West, Fla. The restaurant earned a place on the MICHELIN Recommended list in Florida’s first statewide MICHELIN Guide, released May 28, 2026. (Natalie Danko/Florida Keys News Bureau)

From left, Visit Florida Keys & Key West President & CEO Kara Franker, Blue Heaven Chef David Dorsty, Blue Heaven partner Ricky Hatch, Monroe County Tourist Development Council board member Rachel Oropeza and Monroe County Commissioner Jim Scholl, District 3, celebrate with Blue Heaven's official MICHELIN plaque Monday, July 13, 2026, at Blue Heaven in Key West, Fla. Blue Heaven earned a place on the MICHELIN Recommended list in Florida's first statewide MICHELIN Guide, released May 28, 2026. (NATALIE DANKO/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Visit Florida Keys & Key West President & CEO Kara Franker presents Moondog Cafe & Bakery's official MICHELIN Bib Gourmand plaque to prep leader, Adelina Perez, as General Manager, Eric Koch looks on. The honors took place Monday, July 13, 2026, at the Key West restaurant near the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum in Key West, Fla. Moondog Café & Bakery received a Bib Gourmand in Florida's first statewide MICHELIN Guide, released May 28, 2026. (NATALIE DANKO/Florida Keys News Bureau)