South Florida/Florida Keys ideas (rental, hotels, vacation, flight)

[Moonlady]

Just booked a cheap flight to Fort Lauderdale. We've never been to Ft. Lauderdale but we have been to Miami (South Beach) and Key West. But we are looking for a different type of vacation - more like a journey rather than the destination kind of thing. We fly in on a Tuesday and out Saturday afternoon.

Right now I am contemplating taking a drive though the Keys but open to other ideas. We love nature, sightseeing, good fresh seafood, tiki bars and just plain relaxing on the water.

Trying to do this on a bit of a budget - $1000 for the 4 nights. Airfare and car rental is already covered, so that is for lodging, food and gas. I also have enough rewards points to stay at an IHG property for one night, so that will help my budget go a bit further.

Any suggestions on things to see, places to stay and good eats?

[botticelli]

It will still be the same sun & beach vacation for sure. The keys without the sun and beaches are just a few boring islands. So don't expect it to be different from Miami.

[Chava61]

In Fort Lauderdale, take the water taxi and explore the intercoastal waterway/s. (http://watertaxi.com/)

[Jkgourmet]

Originally Posted by Chava61

In Fort Lauderdale, take the water taxi and explore the intercoastal waterway/s. (Things to Do In Fort Lauderdale | Fort Lauderdale Water TaxiFt Lauderdale Water Taxi | Fort Lauderdale and Hollywood Water Taxi)

I'd agree and add the Everglades National Park.

[jambo101]

John Pennekamp State Park might be an interesting stop as you head out on the Keys =
John Pennenkamp Coral Reef State Park

[himain]

You might find it a little hard to find a budget for hotels in the keys in that pricing..You're in snowbird season

[Moonlady]

Originally Posted by himain

You might find it a little hard to find a budget for hotels in the keys in that pricing..You're in snowbird season

Yes, I knew that was a risk and I could spend more if I had to, but I wanted to try. So far, I have 3 nights booked for under $300! I used points to book the Holiday Inn in Key Largo for a night and I booked a cute little motel in Marathon for $150 a night with taxes and fees.

Thanks to the others who responded, some good suggestions. I'm especially excited about the Coral Reef State Park - that looks awesome!

[Ghengis]

a great waterside lounge and restaurant in Islamorada with unobstructed sunset views. believe you can also hire out fishing and sightseeing tours as well. it is about half-way to Key West. love their conch fritters

Lorelei Cabana Bar And Restaurant - Islamorada Florida Keys - Join us at the Lorelei Cabana Bar and Marina for Breathtaking views of our world famous Sunsets and Live Music 7 nights a Week

[bus man]

If you want to try something quiet and peaceful and really unexpected, visit the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens in Delray Beach.


Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens

[Moonlady]

Originally Posted by Ghengis

a great waterside lounge and restaurant in Islamorada with unobstructed sunset views. believe you can also hire out fishing and sightseeing tours as well. it is about half-way to Key West. love their conch fritters

Lorelei Cabana Bar And Restaurant - Islamorada Florida Keys - Join us at the Lorelei Cabana Bar and Marina for Breathtaking views of our world famous Sunsets and Live Music 7 nights a Week

Thanks Ghengis, this looks great and just the kind of vibe I was hoping for.

Originally Posted by bus man

If you want to try something quiet and peaceful and really unexpected, visit the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens in Delray Beach.


Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens

This too looks like something my husband and I would enjoy - thanks for the tip!