Your key to a perfect beach vacation
Almost at the end of scenic Highway 1 that meanders through the paradise that is the Florida Keys, you'll find tranquil Cudjoe Key. Less well known than neighboring Sugarloaf Key and Big Pine Key, the island is home to beautiful stretches of pristine sands along shallow blue waters. Just 19 miles from hopping Key West, you'll have the best of both worlds _ world-class nightlife when you venture out and perfect serenity when you come home. The warm sea air and soothing surf make a Cudjoe Key vacation rental the picture-perfect beach vacation you've been dreaming of.
Blimps, bands, and blue holes
There's no shortage of quirky sights near Cudjoe Key. Looe Key National Marine Preserve, popular for diving and snorkeling, hosts a one-of-a-kind underwater music festival each year. Cudjoe Key is also home to Fat Albert, the landmark grounded white blimp that patrols boat traffic and broadcasts U.S. TV to Cuba. The Blue Hole, the only freshwater lake in the Keys, lets you get up close and personal with turtles, alligators, and exotic birds. In half an hour you can be at the Southernmost Point in the U.S. and enjoying the sunset festival at Key West's Mallory Square.
Beach, beach, and more beach
The beach is the heart of Cudjoe Key life, and it's easy to see why. The sands are the perfect spot to work on your tan or catch the breathtaking sunset (the clothing-optional set should check out Geiger Key Abandoned Beach). The water is equally enticing, whether you're in it or on it. Rent a boat, kayak, or canoe and explore the wildlife of the surrounding channels. Charter fishing trips will help you catch your dinner, while snorkeling and diving trips are on hand if you just want to play. For an adrenaline rush and killer views, you can't top skydiving.
See you later, alligator
Palm trees and blue skies will greet you at every turn when you book a Cudjoe Key vacation rental. If you can tear yourself away from the perfect beaches, there's plenty of other nature to explore. You'll find exotic plant and animal species that you won't see anywhere else in the U.S., including the namesake deer at the Key Deer Refuge (also home to turtles, gators, and colorful birds). The Florida Keys are also the only place in the country you can find the American crocodile. Coconuts and key limes are everywhere, making for some killer pie options.
How to get to and around Cudjoe Key
The nearest airport is in Key West Intl. Airport (EYW), located 18.1 mi (29.1 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that's convenient for your trip, you can also fly into Marathon, FL (MTH-Florida Keys Marathon), which is 28.3 mi (45.5 km) away.