Understanding the list of keys in Florida requires looking beyond the literal metal objects that open doors. In the context of real estate and maritime law, the term "keys" refers to a specific chain of islands extending from the southern coast of the mainland into the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. This archipelago forms the primary geographic feature separating the Atlantic Ocean from the Gulf of Mexico and constitutes a significant portion of Monroe County.
The Geography of the Keys
The keys are a collection of islands, islets, and coral reefs that run parallel to the Florida Straits. They are composed of oolitic limestone and coral, creating a unique and fragile ecosystem. The archipelago is generally divided into three main sections: the Upper Keys, the Middle Keys, and the Lower Keys. Each section offers distinct landscapes, from the relatively high and forested islands of the Upper Keys to the low-lying, mangrove-dominated lands of the Lower Keys.
Upper Keys
The Upper Keys, beginning just off the coast of Miami, include some of the most recognizable names in the chain. Key Largo, despite being the first island north of the mainland, is often considered part of the Middle Keys geographically but is commercially grouped with the Upper Keys. Further south, one encounters Key Biscayne, a lush island state park located just east of Miami. The journey continues through the Elliott Key, the northernmost of the true Florida Keys, and the Sands Key, a small island situated just north of Key Biscayne.
Middle Keys
The Middle Keys are characterized by their proximity to the Overseas Highway, the iconic route that connects the islands. Key Vaca, a long island separating the Atlantic from the Gulf of Mexico, is a major stop along this route. The city of Marathon, located on Key Vaca, serves as a central hub for travelers and is home to the famous Seven Mile Bridge. This section also includes the Grassy Key, known for its historical significance and dolphin research facilities.
Lower Keys
The Lower Keys represent the final stretch of land before reaching the Dry Tortugas. These islands are generally narrower and less developed than their northern counterparts. Key West, the southernmost point in the continental United States, is the most famous and populous island in this group. Other notable keys in this section include the Spanish Harbor Keys, the Waddle Keys, and the Mule Keys, a cluster of islands just west of Key West that marks the edge of the continental shelf.
The Dry Tortugas
Located roughly 70 miles west of Key West, the Dry Tortugas represent the final and most remote part of the list of keys in Florida. This cluster of seven small islands is dominated by Fort Jefferson, a massive but unfinished coastal fortress. The Tortugas are isolated, accessible only by boat or seaplane, and form a vital ecological reserve known for its diverse birdlife and coral reefs. Garden Key, the site of the fort, is the only one of these islands that holds any significant human infrastructure.
Considerations and Context
When referencing the list of keys in Florida, it is important to note that not every small island or cay is included in the common geographical definition. Some keys are little more than exposed rocks at high tide, while others are small private holdings. The term typically applies to the significant landmasses that form the Florida Reef Tract and are accessible by the Overseas Highway or via established maritime routes. This distinction helps clarify the scope of the archipelago for both travelers and legal purposes.
