Layton (Fiesta Key)
Campground
Fiesta Key Resort & Marina
Nice park with a small dog park, beach, and restaurant/bar. It was centrally located between Key Largo and Key West. Land is at a premium so all parks campgrounds pack you in tightly, this one was no exception. But the excellent weather and access to the ocean makes up for it. There was amazing kayaking right off our beach. We saw dolphins, stingrays, nurse sharks, hammerhead sharks, and manatees, to name a few. Mark performed several times at the beach restaurant.
Things to see
Bahia Honda State Park
Beautiful beach and great views from the old highway bridge. Dogs are allowed on the road and paths but not on the beach.
Coco Plum Beach
This was one of our favorite beaches. On windy days, there were always people surf sailing. It was a lot of fun to watch. It is also a great place to walk, relax, kayak, and hunt for shells. A word to the unwise, stake down your canopy. Just sayin'. Dogs allowed.
Curry Hammock State Park
Not our favorite park but worth taking a walk around. Dogs allowed on the paths but not on the beach.
Everglades National Park
Mark and Camille had some quality father/daughter time as they toured the park (Barb stayed home with Polly). They saw turtles, gators, and a variety of birds. No dogs allowed.
Key West
We highly recommend visiting Mallory Square when visiting Key West. It is a great place to find restaurants, bars and shopping. Just before sunset, several street performers entertain the crowd. The sunset was amazing too. Dog friendly.
Snorkeling with Captain Hooks
We highly recommend snorkeling with Captain Hooks Marine and Dive Center. The captains and guides were very helpful and knowledgeable. We went out several times when friends and family visited. We saw sharks, sea turtles, eels, jellyfish, and a variety of other fish. Barb still feels bad about clamoring over Duane and using him as a human shield when she saw the shark.
Sombrero Beach
Nice beach to swim or kayak. It was more crowded than the some of the other beaches. Dogs allowed.
Food and Drink
Florida Keys Brewing Co.
Great place for live music and beer in an outside atmosphere. They usually have a food truck available too. Dog friendly too!
Midway Cafe and Coffee Bar
Loved their breakfasts and coffee. This was a must stop on our way to pick up/bring back our guests to the airport. It has a dog friendly patio.