If you’re looking for romantic things to do in the Florida Keys while also staying within your budget, you’re in the right place! There are few places quite like the Florida Keys. Both my husband and I have lived in South Florida our entire lives and we still love coming down to enjoy the powder-soft sands and gentle sea breeze!
What couples don’t realize is there are many ways to experience the Florida Keys without spending a fortune or sacrificing romance. So, I’ve compiled a list of 10 romantic things to do in the Florida Keys on a budget. Your wallet should not hold you back from these Florida gems.
Get ready for a relaxing picnic on the beach or catch a romantic sunset. This guide will bring you the best ideas for a romantic trip to the Florida Keys while keeping the spark alive and your wallet full!
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1. Romantic Beach Picnic
Don’t underestimate the classic romantic beachside picnic. Not only is it cheap, but with the backdrop of the Florid Keys, it can make for a great date for couples. Grab a picnic basket with some sandwiches, fruits, and snacks, and head to one of the many beautiful beaches in the Florida Keys for a romantic picnic by the ocean.
- Bahia Honda State Park
- Cost: There is a cost depending on the type of vehicle or admission type. For vehicles with 2-8 people, the pricing starts at $5 per vehicle.
- Anne’s Beach, Islamorada
- Cost: Free, there may be a parking fee.
- Sombrero Beach, Marathon
- Cost: Free, there may be a parking fee.
- Harry Harris Park, Tavernier:
- Cost: Local Residents are free except on weekends and holidays. Non-residents may have to pay a small fee.
- Higgs Beach, Key West:
- Cost: Free, there may be a parking fee.
You can’t go wrong with any of these beaches. They will all make for the perfect setting for a romantic beachside picnic in the Florida Keys.
2. Catch the Sunset
There’s something undeniably magical about watching the sun dip below the horizon. In the Florida Keys, catching the sunset is the quintessential romantic activity that will cost you the very nice price of nothing!
- Mallory Square, Key West: Mallory Square in Key West hosts the legendary nightly Sunset Celebration. There are street performers, live music, local vendors, and more!
- Cost: Free
- Sunset Pier, Key West: Sunset Pier, located at the Ocean Key Resort & Spa is another iconic spot for locals and visitors. The pier hosts many events or you can grab some food and drinks while watching the sunset. There isn’t a bad seat in the place!
- Cost: Free (optional cost for drinks or food)
- Anne’s Beach, Islamorada: Anne’s Beach is the perfect setting for a romantic sunset picnic. Pack a blanket, some snacks, and a bottle of wine.
- Cost: Free
- Smathers Beach, Key West: Smathers Beach is perfect for a laid-back sunset experience. It’s another great place for couples looking to catch the sunset in a romantic setting.
- Cost: Free, there is a parking fee.
- Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, Key West: Before catching the sunset, take some time to explore the historic fort, stroll along the trails, and then make your way to the westernmost point of the park to catch the sunset. It’s the perfect date!
- Cost: $6.50 for 2 people in a vehicle and then $.50 per each additional person.
3. Visit the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory
The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is a romantic escape amidst lush tropical gardens and up-close butterflies. It’s not free, but it’s still an affordable romantic activity for couples on a budget. Take a stroll through this tranquil oasis with plenty of photo opportunities and learn about the fascinating world of butterflies.
- Location: 1316 Duval St, Key West, FL 33040
- Cost:
- Adults: starting around $16
- Children (ages 4-12): $12.50
- Children under 4: Free
- Military discounts are available.
4. Biking the Overseas Heritage Trail
Take a scenic stroll or bike ride along the Overseas Heritage Trail, a scenic pathway that stretches through the Florida Keys. The flat terrain and stunning ocean views make for a great opportunity to explore the beauty of the Keys as a couple while also staying within your budget.
You can rent bicycles or bring your own, just make sure you wear a helmet! Specific highlights include the iconic Seven Mile Bridge, Bahia Honda State Park’s beaches, and charming waterfront villages like Islamorada and Marathon. It’s also the perfect place for a romantic picnic.
Cost: FREE
5. Visit Key West Historic Seaport
Take advantage of free attractions like the Key West Historic Seaport, where you can walk along the harbor, watch the boats, and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere. Situated in the heart of Old Town Key West, the Key West Historic Seaport will have you step back in time and immerse in the rich maritime heritage of the Florida Keys.
- Location: The Key West Historic Seaport is at 201 William St, Key West, FL 33040.
- Cost: FREE
However, there may be costs associated with some attractions, tours, or activities within the seaport area.
6. Snorkeling at a State Park
Snorkeling in the Florida Keys and Florida’s state parks is perfect for the active couple looking for a romantic activity on a budget. You’ll witness the vibrant marine life and colorful coral reefs. Here are some state parks to choose from!
- John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Key Largo: As the first undersea park in the United States, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park has breathtaking underwater vistas teeming with marine biodiversity.
- Cost: $8 per vehicle, plus .50 cents per person
- Bahia Honda State Park, Big Pine Key: Located in the Lower Florida Keys, you can snorkel among shallow reefs, seagrass beds, and various marine life such as colorful fish, graceful rays, and perhaps even a glimpse of a gentle manatee.
- Cost: There is a cost depending on the type of vehicle or admission type. For vehicles with 2-8 people, the pricing starts at $5 per vehicle.
- Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, Key West: The park’s scenic shoreline, where there is a submerged rock wall is perfect for exploring marine life. Snorkelers can swim among colorful coral formations and tropical fish, and perhaps even encounter a sea turtle or stingray.
- Cost: $6.50 for 2 people in a vehicle and then $.50 per each additional person.
7. Go Wildlife Spotting at the National Key Deer Refuge
Head to the National Key Deer Refuge on Big Pine Key and try your luck at spotting the adorable and endangered Key deer. Take a nice drive or hike along the refuge’s trails, keeping your eyes peeled for these tiny deer and other native wildlife. The Key deer is a subspecies of white-tailed deer found only in the Keys.
- Location: 30587 Overseas Hwy Big Pine Key, FL 33043
- Cost: FREE
8. Go Fishing off the Pier
Fishing off the pier is a beloved pastime and affordable activity in the Florida Keys for couples looking for a more relaxing activity.
- Islamorada Fishing Pier, Founders Park, Islamorada: Located at Founders Park in Islamorada, the Islamorada Fishing Pier is a popular spot for fishing of all skill levels.
- Cost: Non-resident park entry fees start at $5
- Bahia Honda State Park Fishing Jetty, Big Pine Key: Bahia Honda State Park also offers excellent fishing opportunities from its fishing jetty.
- Cost: There is a cost depending on the type of vehicle or admission type. For vehicles with 2-8 people, the pricing starts at $5 per vehicle.
9. Visit a Botanical Garden
What can be more romantic than immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the Florida Keys with a visit to a botanical garden.
- Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden, Key West: Located in the heart of Key West, the Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden spans 15 acres and showcases a diverse collection of native and exotic plants, including rare palms, flowering trees, and tropical fruits.
- Cost: Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for children ages 6-17, and free for children under 6. Discounts are available for seniors, military personnel, and locals.
- Key West Garden Club at West Martello Tower, Key West: Housed within the historic West Martello Tower, the Key West Garden Club is a tranquil oasis. You and your partner can meander through manicured gardens, admire blooming flowers, and enjoy panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
- Cost: Admission is free; donations are appreciated. Guided tours are available for $25 per person if a guide is available.
- Key Largo Hammock Botanical Gardens, Key Largo: Tucked away in the heart of Key Largo, the Key Largo Botanical Gardens is a hidden oasis with native plants, butterflies, and wildlife. Wander through shaded pathways, explore themed gardens, and discover a variety of tropical flora unique to the Florida Keys.
- Cost: $2.50 per person via an honor box.
10. Take a Scenic Drive
Get in the car and go on a sightseeing adventure through the Florida Keys with a self guided audio tour. Choose between northbound or southbound itineraries and listen to stories about local landmarks, history, and hidden gems along the way.
Take advantage of GPS for offline navigation so you don’t have to worry about cell service. You can opt for a half-day or full-day tour providing flexibility. My husband and I love to take scenic drives and the Florida Keys is one of the most captivating. It’s definitely worth it!
Ready for these Romantic Things to do in the Florida Keys?
Planning a romantic Florida getaway can be a lot of work, especially if you’re aiming to stay within a budget and seeking out affordable destinations. In this post, we’ve give you 10 romantic things to do in the Florida Keys on a budget. Whether you’re dreaming of picturesque beach picnics or mesmerizing sunset views you and your partner will be sure to find something amazing without sacrificing romance or costing you a fortune.
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