Fun Things to Do During the Holidays in the Florida Keys
Imagine swapping out your thick winter coat for a swimsuit and trading snowy driveways for warm, sandy beaches this holiday season. If your dream winter break involves sunshine instead of shivering, the Florida Keys is basically paradise on earth.
While everyone else is stuck scraping ice off their windshields, you could be chilling in 70-degree weather where the ocean is warm enough to jump right in.
It’s totally different from the usual “silent night” vibe, but spending December in the tropics might just be the best gift you give yourself.
Even without snow, the Keys know how to throw a serious holiday party. The island chain transforms into a festive wonderland, but with a cool coastal twist that you won’t find anywhere else. Instead of sleighs, you get boat parades lit up with thousands of lights reflecting off the water.
From snorkeling at coral reefs to hanging out by the waves, this place proves that you don’t need a blizzard to feel the holiday spirit. Here are some of the coolest ways to celebrate the season island-style.
Harbor Walk of Lights in Key West
One of the coolest places to check out is the Harbor Walk of Lights at the Key West Historic Seaport. It takes the classic idea of driving around to see Christmas lights and gives it a totally tropical twist.
You won’t find snowy roofs here; instead, palm trees wrapped in bright colors and boats decked out with nautical decorations line the water. It’s perfect for snapping photos with your friends or just soaking in the festive mood while walking along the docks.
The best part is enjoying the fresh ocean breeze instead of freezing in the cold. Since it stays warm even in December, you can take your time exploring the boardwalk without needing a heavy jacket.
Whether you grab some food nearby or just watch the glowing lights reflect off the water, it’s a laid-back way to celebrate the season that feels completely different from a traditional winter holiday.
Diving at the Christmas Tree Cave in Key Largo
For a holiday experience you’ll never forget, try diving or snorkeling at the Christmas Tree Cave in Key Largo. This underwater site gets its festive name from the colorful worms that look just like tiny Christmas trees.
When you get close, they quickly disappear into their burrows in the coral, making it a fun and interactive swim. It’s a cool way to see marine life while getting into the holiday spirit, Florida-style.
The location is a well-known reef, famous for its awesome coral structures and clear water, so it’s great for both beginners and experienced divers. Exploring this underwater world adds a unique adventure to your winter break.
Instead of decorating a tree at home, you get to see them come to life beneath the waves. It’s an amazing story to tell your friends back home.
Annual Lighted Boat Parade in Key West
If you want to see how the locals celebrate, you have to check out the Annual Lighted Boat Parade. It’s exactly what it sounds like: a huge procession of boats cruising through the harbor, but totally decked out in bright, colorful lights.
You’ll see everything from kayaks to giant schooners competing for bragging rights with wild decorations. Some boats even blast holiday music or have costumed crews waving to the crowd, turning the water into a floating party.
Watching from the shore is fun, but you can also hop on a boat yourself to be part of the action. Many charters offer rides right alongside the parade, serving snacks and drinks while you watch the show.
It’s a super unique way to spend an evening, mixing the chill vibes of the ocean with the energy of a holiday festival. Whether you watch from land or sea, it’s a total highlight of the trip.
Islamorada Holiday Fest and Snow Mountain
If you’re missing the snow but love the beach, the Islamorada Holiday Fest has you covered with its giant, man-made Snow Mountain. You can actually go sledding and make snowmen in your shorts and t-shirt, which is a pretty wild experience.
The whole event happens at Founders Park, right under a huge holiday tree, giving you that winter feeling even when it’s warm outside. It’s a super fun way to mix classic winter activities with a sunny, tropical setting.
Besides the snow, the festival is packed with other cool things to do. There’s a holiday parade, live music, and plenty of good food to check out. It’s a community event that brings a ton of festive energy to Islamorada.
Playing in the snow one minute and then heading to the beach the next is a crazy cool combo you can only get in the Keys.