What Are The Names of the Florida Keys? Navigating the Crown Jewels of Florida
The Names of the Florida Keys
Last Updated May 4, 2026
Most Visited Islands by Region (as you go southwest from the Mainland to Key West)
Upper Keys
- Key Largo
- Tavernier
- Plantation Key
- Windley Key
- Upper Matecumbe Key (Islamorada)
- Lower Matecumbe Key
Middle Keys
- Long Key
- Duck Key
- Grassy Key
- Marathon (Vaca Key)
- Fat Deer Key
- Key Colony Beach
- Boot Key
Lower Keys
- Bahia Honda Key
- Big Pine Key
- No Name Key
- Ramrod Key
- Summerland Key
- Cudjoe Key
- Sugarloaf Key
- Saddlebunch Keys
- Big Coppitt Key
- Stock Island
Key West Area
- Key West
- Sunset Key
- Wisteria Island
- Dry Tortugas
Table of Contents
Welcome to the mesmerizing world of the Florida Keys – each a jewel in its own unique way.
From Key Largo to Key West and a few miles beyond, this enchanting chain of islands lures visitors with its tropical beauty, vibrant culture, and intriguing names that leave you curious for more.
In this article, we explore the crown jewels of Florida, uncovering the secrets and stories behind these famous keys.
If you want detailed trip planning information, try our Guide to Florida Keys.
Discover the captivating allure of Key Largo, known for its highly coveted coral reefs and world-class diving opportunities.
Delve into the rich history of Key West, where Hemingway penned his masterpieces and exuberant sunsets light up the night.
Explore the natural wonders of Big Pine Key and marvel at the unique wildlife found in the nearby national refuge.
Each key has its own distinct personality and attractions that beckon adventure seekers and relaxation enthusiasts alike.
Come along as we delve into the intriguing names of the Florida Keys. From Spanish influences to legendary pirates, the origins of Florida Keys names are just as fascinating as the destinations themselves.
Get ready to be enchanted by the captivating charm of the Florida Keys, where dreams become reality and memories are made.
Overview of the Main Keys in the Florida Keys Archipelago
The Florida Keys archipelago is comprised of several main keys, each with its own distinct character and attractions. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular and larger keys in this island chain.
Key Largo the Diving Capital of the World
Key Largo, the first and northernmost key, is renowned as the “Diving Capital of the World.” Its crystal-clear waters and abundant coral reefs make it a paradise for divers and snorkelers. The John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, located off the coast of Key Largo, is the first underwater park in the United States and offers a chance to explore the vibrant marine life that inhabits the area. Get Your Guide to Key Largo
Islamorada is The Sport Fishing Capital of the World
Islamorada, located between Key Largo and Marathon, has earned the title of “The Sport Fishing Capital of the World.” Anglers from around the globe flock to this key in pursuit of trophy fish such as marlin, sailfish, and tarpon. Islamorada also boasts beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, and excellent dining options, making it a favorite destination for relaxation and adventure. Guide to Islamorada
Marathon is the Haven for Boating and Nature Enthusiasts
Marathon, situated in the middle of the Florida Keys, is a haven for boating and nature enthusiasts. The city is home to the iconic Seven Mile Bridge, one of the longest bridges in the world, offering breathtaking views of the turquoise waters below. Visitors can explore the vast natural beauty of the area by kayaking through the mangrove forests or visiting the Dolphin Research Center, where they can interact with these intelligent creatures.
Big Pine Key and the Lower Keys – Key Deer and Other Natural Wonders
Big Pine Key and the Lower Keys offer a unique opportunity to explore the natural wonders of the Florida Keys. The National Key Deer Refuge on Big Pine Key is home to the endangered Key Deer, a species found only in this region. Nature lovers can also explore the pristine beaches of Bahia Honda State Park or venture further off the beaten path to discover secluded islands and hidden coves.
Key West Known as The Southernmost Point of the Continental United States
Key West, the southernmost key, exudes a vibrant and laid-back atmosphere. Known for its colorful architecture, lively nightlife, and artistic community, Key West has long been a haven for writers, artists, and dreamers. Visitors can explore the historic Old Town, visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, or simply relax on the stunning beaches and enjoy the breathtaking sunsets that have inspired generations.
Dry Tortugas National Park is a Remote Historic Island Paradise
Located about 68 miles west of Key West, Dry Tortugas National Park is a remote and pristine island paradise. Accessible only by boat or seaplane, the park is home to Fort Jefferson, a massive 19th-century fortress that stands as a testament to the region’s military history. Snorkeling enthusiasts will be delighted by the vibrant coral reefs and crystal-clear waters that surround the islands, offering an unparalleled underwater experience.
History and Significance of the Florida Keys
The Florida Keys hold a rich history and a significant place in the state’s cultural heritage.
The islands stretch for about 120 miles off the southern tip of Florida, forming a natural wonderland that has captivated explorers, artists, and travelers for centuries.
The keys were formed by the remains of ancient coral reefs and have evolved into a unique ecosystem teeming with diverse marine life and lush vegetation.
The first inhabitants of the Florida Keys were the Calusa and Tequesta Native American tribes, who relied on the abundant resources of the surrounding waters for their sustenance.
European explorers, including Spanish conquistadors, arrived in the 16th century, leaving their mark on the islands. The Keys became a vital hub for maritime trade, and their strategic location made them susceptible to the exploits of pirates and privateers.
List of 125 Named Florida Keys
The list of Florida Keys below is organized in alphabetical order, making it easy to find them by name. For their exact location in the Keys, our Mile Markers of the Florida Keys can be referenced.
Here is a more exhaustive list of named keys and islands in the Florida Keys, including the Dry Tortugas. While the main islands above are connected by bridges (except for the Key West islands of Tortugas, Sunset and Wisteria) and
Bahia Honda Key – State Park and beaches here are superb.
Ballast Key – actually considered the southernmost point of the US, despite Key West claims.
Bamboo Key
Bay Key
Big Munson Island
Big Pine Key – is famous for the Key Deer species.
Big Torch Key
Bobalu Key
Boca Chica Channel Key
Boca Chica Key
Boca Grande Key – Not the Boca Grande near Charlotte Harbor.
Boot Key
Bow Channel Key
Christmas Tree Island – nickname for Wisteria Island for the trees there.
Clive Key
Conch Key
Cook Island
Cottrell Key
Cow Key
Craig Key – good seafood restaurant there by the same name.
Crane Key
Crawfish Key
Crawl Key
Cudjoe Key – Air Force station located on this Key.
Deer Key
Dredgers Key
Duck Key – Hawk’s Kay Resort here.
East Rockland Key
East Summerland Key
Fat Deer Key
Fiesta Key
Fleming Key
Geiger Key
Grassy Key – Dolphin research center here.
Halfmoon Island
Hogfish Key
Hospital Channel Key
Howard Key
Howe Key
Ibis Island
Indian Key
Inner Kemp Channel Key
Kemp Island
Key Largo – The largest of the Keys and considered the First Key.
Key West – 25% of the population in the Keys is on Key West.
Knights Key
Knockemdown Key
Layton
Lignumvitae Basin Keys
Lignumvitae Key
Little Crawl Key
Little Duck Key
Little Knockemdown Key
Little Money Key
Little Munson Island
Little Pine Key
Little Rabbit Key
Little Torch Key
Little Water Key
Long Island
Long Point Key
Lower Matecumbe Key
Lower Sugarloaf Key
Man Key
Man of War Key
Marathon – Marathon is generally considered to be halfway to Key West. It is also the home to some of the best resorts in the Keys.
Marlin Key
Middle Channel Key
Middle Nest Key
Middle Torch Key
Missouri Key
Money Key
No Name Key – made a name for the bar named No Name Pub!
North Nest Key
Ohio Key
Ohio Missouri Key
Old Dan Bank
Outer Kemp Channel Key
Park Island
Park Key
Peck Key
Pelican Key
Perky Island
Pigeon Key – Historic Pigeon Key housed the men working on Flagler’s East Coast Railway.
Plantation Key – Next to Key Largo.
Rabbit Key
Raccoon Key
Ramrod Key – MM 26-27.3
Rockland Key
Saddlebunch Keys – multiple smaller keys
Sawyer Key
Scout Key
Seven Mile Bridge (connects Marathon to Little Duck Key) MM 47 in Marathon.
Shark Key
Shrimp Key
Sigsbee Park
Snipe Keys
South Nest Key
Spanish Harbor
Spanish Harbor Key
Stock Island – next to Key West with our favorite Hogfish Grill.
Summerland Key
Sunset Key – One of the best restaurants in the Keys is here named Latitudes. Many sunsets watched over this island from Mallory Square in Key West.
Sunshine Key
Swordfish Key
Tank Island
Tea Table Key
Toms Harbor Keys
Torchwood Island
Trumbo Island
Upper Matecumbe Key
Upper Sugarloaf Key
Vaca Key
Water Key
West Rockland Key
West Summerland Key
Whipray Basin Keys
Windley Key
Wisteria Island
Woman Key
Woman Key Channel Key
Named Keys of The Dry Tortugas
Loggerhead Key – The largest of the seven islands forming the Tortugas. This is where Fort Jefferson is located.
Garden Key
Bush Key
Long Key
Hospital Key
Middle Key
East Key
Discovering the Magic of the Florida Keys
Florida Travel Blog spends at least 20 weeks a year traveling. Our favorite trek is the two or three times per year visit to the Florida Keys.
There is truly something magical about this tropical wonderland. It makes no difference of age, interests, gender, abilities or time of year, there is something unique about your first step onto one of the Florida Keys.
Within a few days of our very first trip to the Florida Keys some 40 years ago, we started planning when we could go again. There is nothing like the atmosphere, beauty, simplicity and historic culture of the Florida Keys as islands and the way Florida Keys names were originated.
While the names of the Florida Keys are diverse and generally have a meaning, they are reflective of the cultures who also loved the Keys.
FAQs About Florida Keys & The Names
How many Florida Keys are there, really?
Depending on how you count, the Florida Keys region includes more than 1,700 islands, of which roughly 800 are named keys. Only about 30 of those islands are inhabited, and an even smaller number are places most visitors stay or spend time.
What are the names of the main Florida Keys most visitors know?
Most travelers are talking about the larger, road-connected keys when they say “the Florida Keys.” The best-known names are Key Largo, Islamorada (a group of keys), Marathon (on Vaca Key and nearby keys), Big Pine Key and the Lower Keys, and Key West. These five “headline” areas show up again and again in guides, maps, and official tourism info.
What are the Florida Keys in order from the mainland to Key West?
Driving U.S. 1 from Florida City toward Key West, you cross a chain of named keys in roughly this order: Key Largo, Plantation Key, Windley Key, Upper Matecumbe Key, Lower Matecumbe Key, Long Key, Conch Key, Duck Key, Grassy Key, Marathon/Vaca Key, Big Pine Key, Bahia Honda Key, Sugarloaf Key, Cudjoe Key, Summerland Key, Ramrod Key, Torch Keys, Big Coppitt Key, Stock Island, and finally Key West. Mile markers along the Overseas Highway are the easiest way to find each one.
How are the Florida Keys divided into regions, and which keys are in each?
Tourism and local sources usually divide the chain into five main regions:
Key Largo (Upper Keys): Key Largo and nearby small keys
Islamorada (Upper Keys): Plantation, Windley, Upper Matecumbe, Lower Matecumbe, plus offshore keys
Marathon (Middle Keys): Long Key through Grassy Key, Vaca Key, Boot Key, Fat Deer Key, and nearby islands
Big Pine & the Lower Keys: Bahia Honda, Big Pine, No Name, Sugarloaf, Cudjoe, Summerland, Ramrod, Torch Keys, Saddlebunch Keys, Big Coppitt, Stock Island
Key West: Key West itself plus close neighbors like Sunset Key and Wisteria Island
Which Florida Keys are connected by bridges and drivable by car?
U.S. 1 (the Overseas Highway) links about 44 islands with 42 bridges, including all the major tourist keys: Key Largo, Islamorada keys, Long Key, Marathon area keys, Bahia Honda Key, Big Pine Key and surrounding Lower Keys, Stock Island, and Key West. Many smaller keys off either side of the highway are only reachable by boat.
How many of the Florida Keys are actually inhabited?
Out of the 800 or so named islands in the Florida Keys, only about 30 are inhabited with permanent or semi-permanent communities. Population is heavily concentrated in places like Key West, Marathon, Key Largo, Islamorada, and Big Pine Key, while many other keys remain wild, protected, or only home to a few off-grid residents.
What are the names of the Florida Keys that most people stay on?
First-time visitors usually stay on the larger, developed keys with the most lodging and services: Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon (Vaca Key and nearby keys), Big Pine & the Lower Keys, and Key West. Within those areas you’ll also see popular specific names like Duck Key, Grassy Key, Bahia Honda Key, Sugarloaf Key, and Stock Island.
What is the difference between a “key” and an island in Florida?
All keys are islands, but not all islands are keys. A key is a small, low-lying coral or limestone island, usually formed on top of an ancient reef and often lacking fresh water. The Florida Keys are classic examples—coral cays and oolitic limestone knobs that sit just above sea level. Other “islands” in Florida can be barrier islands or larger land masses not built primarily from coral.
How did the Florida Keys get their names?
Many key names come from Spanish explorers, who used descriptive words like largo (long), marquesas, or Cayo Hueso (“Bone Island,” now Key West). Others honor people, ships, or natural features—for example, Bahia Honda (“deep bay”) or Long Key. Over time, English speakers anglicized or reinterpreted those names, so cayo became “key” and Cayo Hueso gradually turned into Key West.
What are the names of the Florida Keys at the far western end of the island chain?
At the far western end of the Keys you’ll find Key West, then offshore island groups like the Marquesas Keys and the Dry Tortugas, including Loggerhead Key. These remote islands are mostly uninhabited and are reached by boat or seaplane, with Dry Tortugas protected inside Dry Tortugas National Park.
Which Florida Key is best to stay on for a first visit?
It depends on what you want. Key Largo is best if you’re focused on diving and snorkeling and want to stay closest to the mainland. Islamorada is famous for sportfishing. Marathon is a central base for exploring up and down the Keys. Big Pine & the Lower Keys feel quieter and more natural. Key West is the most lively, with historic sites, nightlife, and year-round festivals. Most first-timers pick Key Largo, Marathon, or Key West as their home base.
Major Florida Keys Names and Mile Marker Locations
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