If you’re looking for a fun-filled getaway, look no further than the city of Key Colony Beach, known as “KCB” by frequent visitors and locals.
This vibrant city located in the Florida Keys has something for everyone, from exciting nightlife and delicious restaurants to beautiful beaches and intriguing history. It has a lower population density than Miami but still offers all the amenities and attractions of a big city.
From our Key Colony vacation rentals, you can enjoy various sightseeing and family-friendly fun by exploring nature trails, visiting other keys like Pigeon Key, or checking out nearby Marathon attractions.
There is far more to see than simply cruising the Overseas Highway or walking the Old Seven Mile Bridge. When it comes to Key Colony Beach, here are our favorite things to do.
1. Visit Islamorada
Photo Credit: Maridav
Islamorada is a village of islands located near the Key Colony Beach City region. You can enjoy the Theater of the Sea, a marine mammal park that offers ethical interaction and education about the native sea turtle. It also lets you swim with dolphins.
You can also visit the Florida Keys Discovery and History Center, which will teach you about the natural environment of the Keys. Check out the History of Diving Museum to learn about the history of underwater exploration in the area.
If you’re looking for a more active adventure, you can go kayaking or paddleboarding through the mangroves, go on a glass-bottom boat tour, or take a snorkeling trip to see the beautiful coral reefs. There is no shortage of undersea or overwater attractions in the Florida Keys.
There are many calm and tucked-away sandbars for those who want to lounge and sunbathe if you head out along the shore of Islamorada during the low tide.
2. Relax at the Cabana Club
If you’re looking for a place to relax and take in the incredible views, the Cabana Club is definitely worth checking out.
This exclusive Key Colony Beach club sits right on the oceanfront and offers many amenities, including a private sandy beach, a heated and cooled pool depending on the season, dining and cocktail options, as well as a bar and lounge.
Since 1979, the Tracy Family has owned and operated Cabana Club. The property was built in the mid-1950s and has undergone several renovations, but none as extensive as the one completed in the fall of 2014. With all the deck and lounge pavers resurfaced in sand color, it all looks contemporary and luxe.
The club now features a 65′ x 35′ “Zero Edge” pool, complete with large, rounded steps, benches, a waterfall, a spa, and massage jets for ultimate relaxation. Its temperature remains 86 degrees throughout the year by heating in the winter and cooling in the summer.
If you want to enjoy the water but aren’t keen on diving or snorkeling, this just might be the place for you.
3. Enjoy Sunset Park Beach
Sunset Beach Park is a beautiful public beach located in Key Colony Beach. This park offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, as well as picnic areas and restrooms. It’s perfect for a relaxing day by the water.
Sunset Park Beach is a scenic sandy stretch of beach with live music and a friendly vibe. At sunset, locals and visitors perform a song about the Florida Keys on the beach. This park is also a popular wedding venue.
As you stroll along the strand, take in the scenery of palm trees swaying in the breeze. The benches lining the beach, some of which sit beneath thatched tiki umbrellas, are perfect for taking a break.
Observe the varying shades of blue in the sea while strolling along the charming dock that stretches over the water. Dip your feet into the water and dangle your legs over the side. Because there are no lifeguards on this stretch of sand and crocodiles are known to show up here, swimming is not permitted.
You can also consider visiting Fat Deer Key and its beach, located a few miles north of Sunset Park and accessible via the Overseas Highway, U.S. 1.
Note: If you’re a nature lover in search of the iconic Key Deer, you’ll have much better luck at beaches on other islands, like Big Pine Key, for wildlife sightseeing.
4. Snorkel at Coffins Patch
Photo Credit: Inspired By Maps
Coffins Patch is an area near Key Colony Beach that is known for its excellent snorkeling. This spot is home to a diverse array of marine life. It consists of a collection of six areas of reef, and each different location has a different ecosystem for you to enjoy.
It’s definitely worth checking out if you’re looking for some underwater excitement along the city’s oceanside.
You’ll have the chance to see stingrays, tangs, jacks, lobster, butterflyfish, grouper, and nurse sharks in this vibrant ecosystem. There are also large coral formations, sea fans, and sea sponges.
This is an ideal spot for beginner snorkelers, as the water depth ranges from 3 to 10 feet.
The best time of year to visit Coffins Patch is during the winter, when the water temperature is slightly warmer. Many boat companies in town are willing to take you out to this location. It’s about 3.5 miles from the shore and takes about 20 minutes to get there.
5. Go Fishing
If you’re going on vacation to the Florida Keys, choosing the right fishing charter can make the difference between having a wonderful time on the water and wasting time and money. For the best fishing experience at Key Colony Beach, you need the best guide.
You can choose from offshore blue water fishing, reef trips, backcountry trips, nighttime trips, bayside trips, and spearfishing charters. Quarter, half, and full-day fishing charters are available depending on how much time you have to spare.
Charters usually include all of the licenses, ice, bait, and tackle items you will need. The cost of the trip should also include fish cleaning so that you can take your catch home to cook with ease.
If you’re fishing on your own, the City Hall, Town Hall, or police department in Monroe County can help you obtain a permit. You can also stop by the Chamber of Commerce or any bait and tackle shop in town.
The best months to fish are April, May, and June. Fishing fanatics who are also keen divers should not miss the annual mini lobster season. This 2-day window in July gives recreational divers the chance to catch spiny lobsters in the waters surrounding the Florida Keys.
6. Rent Water Sports Gear at Key Colony Beach Marina
For adventure seekers and nature lovers alike, renting water sports gear at the Key Colony Beach Marina is a must-do activity when visiting Key Colony Beach. The marina offers a variety of rental options, including kayaks, paddleboards, and boats, perfect for exploring the calm, crystal-clear waters of the Florida Keys.
You can rent a paddleboat or a kayak and explore the waterways on your own, or book a snorkeling trip and have a knowledgeable guide show you the best spots.
Whether you want to paddle through serene mangrove channels, cast a line for some fishing, or cruise around the Gulf Side soaking in the stunning coastal views, the marina makes it easy with convenient rentals and helpful staff.
Plus, the marina’s prime location means you can launch your adventure just steps from your vacation rental, making your day on the water seamless and stress-free.
7. Boat Around at Keys Kayak
Located in Marathon, Keys Kayak is the perfect place to explore the area’s mangrove tunnels and see the Keys from a whole new perspective. You can arrange a tour with them or rent a kayak for the day.
These trips are family-friendly and can accommodate children as young as 5 years old.
Single-, double-, and triple-capacity kayaks are available. Discounts are available for rentals of three days or longer. There is also a deal where you get a third week with your kayak free if you rent two.
8. Key Colony Beach Golf Course
Photo Credit: PeopleImages
If you’re a keen golfer, try your hand at the public Key Colony Beach Golf Course. This 9-hole course measures 962 yards from the longest tees for a par of 27. Opened in 1973, Key Colony Beach’s golf course was designed by Wayne Spano.
It’s a great practice course and you only need three clubs, making it perfect for a new golfer or someone looking to practice non-competitively. This is a public municipality golf course, so it’s affordable and open to everyone.
9. Get Up Close with Florida Keys Marine Life
If you’re eager to connect with the incredible marine life of the Florida Keys, these must-visit spots offer unforgettable, hands-on experiences.
Dolphin Research Center
At the Dolphin Research Center in Grassy Key, you can get face-to-face with playful dolphins through educational programs that deepen your understanding of these intelligent creatures and the importance of marine conservation. Watch a captivating training session or participate in a dolphin encounter for a truly magical experience.
Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters
Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters in Marathon invites you to explore a vibrant underwater world filled with colorful tropical fish, sharks, rays, and more. This interactive aquarium features touch tanks and behind-the-scenes tours, allowing visitors to learn about the diverse ecosystems of the Keys firsthand.
Crane Point Museum and Nature Center
Crane Point Museum and Nature Center is a 63-acre tropical hardwood hammock that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural history. Explore nature trails beyond the nature center, visit the historic Adderley House, engage with marine life exhibits, and enjoy activities like kayaking and birdwatching.
Sombrero Beach
Sombrero Beach is a beautiful park and sandy beach that is a loggerhead turtle nesting area from April through October. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and watching for turtle activity during nesting season. With restrooms, picnic facilities, and courts for playing volleyball, Sombrero Beach is a great time even outside of turtle season.
Turtle Hospital
The Turtle Hospital is a renowned sea turtle rescue and rehabilitation center. Established in 1986, it’s dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of injured sea turtles. The facility houses a fully functioning veterinary hospital and provides public guided educational experiences seven days a week.
Where to Stay in Key Colony Beach
If you’re looking for a place to stay in Key Colony Beach, look no further than Coco Plum vacation rentals. We have a range of fantastic properties available in Key Colony Beach, Sombrero Beach, Marathon, and beyond.
Experience the ultimate vacation with Coco Plum vacation rentals in Key Colony Beach, where easy access to everything you love about the Florida Keys makes your stay effortless and unforgettable. The Vaca Cut Bridge provides quick access to both the Gulf side and Atlantic side of Key Colony Beach, and to many other Marathon attractions.
Our rentals offer the perfect home base with convenient parking, a refreshing pool, and ample space to unwind after a day of adventure.
Each house offers a seamless blend of comfort and convenience, featuring easy-open layouts designed for relaxation and enjoyment. Spend your mornings with a picnic at nearby Coco Plum Beach, or simply soak up the sun on your private deck.
Enjoy the Open Ocean at Key Colony Beach
There’s truly no better place to unwind, explore, and make lasting memories than Key Colony Beach. From the sparkling waters and endless outdoor adventures to the laid-back island vibe and stunning sunsets, this little slice of paradise has something for everyone.
Now that you know about some of the fun things to do in Key Colony Beach, it’s time to plan your trip. Book your stay at our beautiful vacation rentals today and start planning the getaway you deserve.
