KIDS CROWNS: FAMILY OUTINGS

SouthFlorida.com

Whether it's a day trip, weekend getaway, or a vacation, the judges have picked the best family destinations from South Florida. And the winners are....




BEST FAMILY DAY TRIP
MONKEY JUNGLE & KNAUSS BERRY FARMS
14805 SW 216th St.; 15980 SW 248th St, Homestead
305-235-1611; 305-247-0668
Visitors walk through a wire mesh-like tunnel with monkeys on the outside. This attraction puts humans in a "cage" while monkeys roam free. Fill food cups with dried fruit purchased on-site, which monkeys will take, eat and place back to be refilled. Educational shows and presentations take place daily, and don't miss King, the gorilla who loves to dance and was recently a guest on the Ellen DeGeneres Show. Adults, $25.95; ages 3-9, $19.95. Visit between Nov. 11 through April, and stop at Knauss Berry Farms for delicious and fresh treats, including milkshakes, fresh produce and baked goods. It's closed the rest of the year, though.


BEST PLACE TO REACH FOR THE STARS
BUEHLER PLANETARIUM
3501 SW Davie Road, Davie
Planetarium, 954-201-6681, Observatory, 954-201-6315
www.iloveplanets.com
Since the planetarium itself is currently closed for renovation, no theater shows will be shown until further notice. But don't let that stop you from visiting the observatory for a spectacular view of the South Florida night sky. Telescopes are available free of charge with staff on hand to set them up and answer questions. The observatory is open to the public on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 8 to 10 p.m.


BEST HANDS-ON HISTORY
SOUTH FLORIDA HISTORICAL MUSEUM
101 W. Flagler St., Miami
305-375-1492
www.hmsf.org
Here, kids get a real sense of the lifestyle of Florida's early settlers on the front porch of the Pioneer House, where they can simulate washing clothes, preparing food and playing the games of that time. Touching history means getting to actually sit in the trolley exhibit and work the bells and buzzers, too. The second Saturday of each month is free Family Fun Day, with interactive activities related to a South Florida history theme. Walking tours, historic site visits and affordable camp programs round out the buffet of community offerings. Adults, $8; ages 6-12, $5; 5 and younger, free.


BEST CHILDREN'S MUSEUM BARGAIN
FRIDAY NIGHT AT MIAMI CHILDREN'S MUSEUM
980 MacArthur Causeway, Miami
305-373-5437
www.miamichildrensmuseum.org
Target sponsors a nationwide initiative that admits guests to numerous children's museums throughout the country free of charge once a month. Take advantage of this opportunity to visit MiChiMu on the third Friday of each month from 3 to 9 p.m. Special programming revolving around a different theme each month includes activities, stories, music, crafts and performances. Visitors are welcome to explore the entire museum and its exhibits, as well. When it's not free, museum admission costs $12 per person -- still a bargain for all the fun at this community treasure.


BEST PLACE FOR TRAIN-LOVING KIDS
GOLD COAST RAILROAD MUSEUM
12450 SW 152nd St., Miami
305-253-0063
www.goldcoast-railroad.org
A must-stop for anyone interested in trains or the huge role they played in South Florida history. There's loads of fun, too, with Thomas the Tank play train tables, model-train exhibits from 0 to Z scale and weekend train rides on a 2-foot gauge track ($2.25). Junior trainman classes and many special events are also offered at Gold Coast. Special tours can be booked to view the only custom-built presidential train car in history, with extra thick metal, bulletproof glass and spruced up interior. Age 12 and older, $5; 3-12, $3; 2 and younger, free. Free train rides on Wednesdays with admission. The life-size Thomas the Tank has visited here every March for the past several years to take children and their families on a ride.


BEST PLACE TO VIEW WILDLIFE
BUSCH WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
2500 Jupiter Park Drive, Jupiter
561-575-3399
www.buschwildlife.com
There are hundreds of native South Florida animals here at this nonprofit wildlife hospital. While the main goal is rehabilitation, many are permanent residents because of injuries that prevent them from living in the wild. All ages will enjoy getting up close and personal with bald eagles, alligators, crocodiles, foxes, deer and more. Wildlife presentations, alligator/crocodile programs, birds of prey and snake programs are offered on scheduled days. Birthday parties are also popular. Walk-ins welcome Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. for free. Guided tours for groups can be arranged with the education department for a nominal fee.


BEST FREE OUTDOOR NATURE ENCOUNTER
THE WAKODAHATCHEE WETLANDS
13026 Jog Road, Delray Beach
561-493-6000
www.pbcgov.com/waterutilities/wakodahatchee
This little slice of the Everglades on the far west side of Delray Beach is owned, operated and created by the Palm Beach County Water Utilities Department. The three-quarter-mile boardwalk allows visitors to observe migratory birds, ducks, turtles and even gators in their natural environment. Although there are no amenities, restrooms or concessions, the boardwalk can get pretty crowded during "snowbird" season.


BEST ENVIRONMENTAL ENCOUNTER
THE EVERGLADES OUTPOST
35601 SW 192nd Ave., Homestead
305-562-8000
www.evergladesoutpost.org
The main objective here is to rescue injured or abandoned wildlife and rehabilitate them back into the wild. With some people's curious interest in exotic pets, many animals end up at the Everglades Outpost as a result of confiscation. Non-native species include pythons, monkeys, lemurs, tigers and even a grizzly bear. Every animal has a story behind it. The volunteer staff actually catch gators, snakes and other wild critters that have made their way into public places. The second objective is to educate the public through tours and programs where groups and individuals can learn the importance of preserving wildlife in a personal way.


BEST PLACE TO FEEL HOITY-TOI ON A BUDGET
ROYAL PALM POLO
18000 Jog Road, Boca Raton
561-734-7656
Kids love horses, and that alone makes this is a great place to spend an afternoon. Adding to the fun is that you get to learn a new sport -- one that's been associated with the rich and royal since its beginning. The grace and athleticism of both horse and rider are sure to enthrall spectators. Either sit in the stands or tailgate in the parking lot alongside the field and view the game. Some fancy up their tailgating with tables and director's chairs. During halftime, everyone except the horses can go out on the field for a trophy presentation. Matches last about 90 minutes. Don't forget sunscreen. Polo season is from January through mid-April. Adults, $10; 12 and younger, free.


BEST SINGING BOAT TOURS
DIVA DUCK TOURS
Departs from CityPlace, downtown West Palm Beach 561-844-4188
www.divaducks.com
Tours run 75 minutes and splash into the waters of the Intracoastal Waterway. Age 11 and older, $25; 4-10, $15; Age 3 and younger, $5.
MIAMI DUCK TOURS 1665 Washington Ave., Miami Beach 786-276-8300, www.ducktoursmiami.com Miami Duck Tours splash into Biscayne Bay and run 90 minutes; Adults, $32; 3-12, $18; 2 and younger, free.
Experience the sights of West Palm Beach or Miami in a different way. Duck tours are far from your average sightseeing tour, combining music, comedy, entertainment and history in hydra-terra vehicles (they're amphibious, going on land and water). Passengers view historic neighborhood and landmarks by land and by sea. Reservations are recommended.


BEST PLACE TO GO FOR FRIDAY-NIGHT FAMILY FUN
CAR SHOW AT TOWER SHOPS
1986 S. University Drive, Davie
954-473-9619
Whether you're a mom, dad, boy or girl, there's something for everyone to do at this outdoor plaza on a Friday night. The car show showcases classic and modern cars from every generation, which will keep Dad and the boys entertained, while moms and girls shop at stores, including Justice, PacSun, DSW and Marshall's. The whole family can meet up again for dinner or snacks at one of several restaurants, including the Davie Ale House, Lefty's Wing and Raw Bar or Roadhouse Grill. The car show takes place from 6 to 10 p.m. Fridays.


BEST RESTORED HISTORICAL BEACH
VIRGINIA KEY BEACH PARK
4020 Virginia Beach Drive, Miami, second light off Rickenbakcer Causeway
305-960-4600
www.virginiakeybeachpark.net
Closed since 1982 and once deemed the only public beach "for the exclusive use of negroes," 82.5 of the 1,000 acres of this park and beach on the National Register of Historic Places have been or are in the process of being renovated. Picnic areas, wetlands, swamps, flora and fauna that make the park experience are all in place. A boundless children's playground, mini-train rides and the acquisition of the original antique carousel are in the works. Replenishing shorelines and securing lifeguards for the virgin beaches that have not been walked on for 26 years are phase 2 of the renovation. Phase 3 involves the building of a museum and cultural center where visitors will learn about some of the lost history and heritage of the city. Situated directly across from Miami Seaquarium, this is the largest park and the only beach inside the city of Miami.


BEST PLACE TO BRING KIDS SNORKELING
RED REEF PARK
1400 N. State Road A1A, Boca Raton
562-393-7974
www.ci.boca-raton.fl.us/rec/parks/redreef
A great trip for beginners. The main reef is within 30 feet of shore and under lifeguard supervision. Snorkelers may see schools of small resident reef fish, larger migratory fish, reef squid and even the occasional ray or sea turtle. No dive flag required because the reef is within a zone designated by regulatory buoys (that means no boats allowed). However, fins are a must, and floatation devices are a good idea for novice swimmers. Remember to do the stingray shuffle while entering or exiting the water, and avoid touching the reef, as fire coral grows here. Parking is steep at $16 per car for weekdays, $18 weekends. But the offshore, shallow snorkeling cannot be beat.


BEST PLACE TO FLY A KITE
HAULOVER BEACH PARK
10800 Collins Ave., Bal Harbour
305-893-0906
skyward@bellsouth.net
The specialty kite trailer inside Haulover Park will take you from buying to flying your kite in minutes. Skyward Kites will give you tips on the type of kite to buy and even help you assemble and fly it. The fully stocked assortment ranges from beginner (a 2-year-old can fly one) to more advanced stunt kites. Prices start at $5. Open year-round, but the ideal season is October to May because it's not as humid. Bring a picnic lunch and then head across to Haulover Beach to cool off on warmer days. Free kite festivals in October and February.


BEST BIKE OUTING
JOHN PRINCE PARK
2700 Sixth Ave. S., Lake Worth; entrances also off Lake Worth Road and Congress Avenue
561-966-6600
The five miles of paved bike trails go around the entire perimeter of this regional park, as well as within some of the park areas. Much of the lake has bike trails on either side, and plenty of shady trees keep bikers comfortable. This park is often compared to New York's Central Park because it is a vast, beautiful park in the midst of residential area. Bring your own wheels, as there are no bike rentals here. The park also offers a 20-station exercise course, nature trails, boundless playground, golf, campground, picnic areas, bocci, tennis, volleyball, fishing piers and boat ramps.


BEST PLACE FOR AN ACTIVE FAMILY DAY
OLETA RIVER STATE PARK
3400 NE 163rd St., off Interstate 95 in Miami
305-919-1844
www.floridastateparks.org/oletariver
Fifteen miles of mountain-bike trails from novice to advanced, swimming in Biscayne Bay, kayak, canoe and bike rentals, a three-mile paved path for walking, in-line skating and biking, a butterfly garden, fishing pier and a playground. If that's not enough to keep your family busy, the park offers a campfire with marshmallow roast and an activity on the first Saturday of each month ($3), a monthly night hike, a new walking club to promote health and fitness, orienteering courses with maps, compasses and checkpoints for participants and year-round log cabin rentals for camping ($50.85 per evening, sleeps 4). Park admission applies.


BEST FALL OUTING
HAYRIDES AND CAMPFIRES AT BROWARD COUNTY PARKS
Quiet Waters Park, 401 S. Powerline Road, Deerfield Beach, 954-360-1315; Tradewinds Park, 3600 W. Sample Rd., Coconut Creek, 954-968-3880; T-Y (Topeekeegee-Yugnee) Park, 3300 N. Park Road, Hollywood
954-985-1980
www.broward.org
The leaves may not turn vibrant colors and the temperatures don't exactly "fall" here in South Florida, but there are few better ways to pretend the season has changed than a hayride and campfire at these Broward County parks. Hay rides generally take place monthly beginning in October and have become popular with families. Components vary at each park and may include a campfire, marshmallow roast, s'mores, hot chocolate, music and games. Other snacks and beverages are also available at added cost. Times vary at each park $3 per person.


BEST FREE OUTING FOR KIDS WHO LIKE BIG THINGS
VISIT THE GOODYEAR BLIMP
1500 NE Fifth Ave., Pompano Beach
954-946-8300
www.goodyearblimp.com
Rides on the blimp are by invitation only, generally extended to customers of Goodyear or as donations to local charities. Just because you can't go up, doesn't mean you can't view the blimp while it's down. Tours take place about one hour before a flight and will take you inside the hangar for an up-close view of the outside of the blimp, the traveling vehicles and the shops where the crew members work. Visitors are welcome to watch takeoffs and landings, but the blimp travels often, so call before you go to make sure it's in town.


BEST PLACE TO ENJOY LOCAL CULTURE FOR FREE
ARTS PARK AT YOUNG CIRCLE
One Young Circle, Hollywood Boulevard and U.S. Highway 1, Hollywood
954-921-3500
www.artsparkatyoungcircle.org
Enjoy glass-blowing, jewelry-making and sculpting demonstrations from resident artists in the Visual Arts Pavilion, free family concerts the third Thursday of each month, plaza performances by local talent Thursday through Sunday and supervised children's crafts and games on Saturdays. Family festivals, juried art festivals and other performance events take place periodically. Starting soon, musicians, magicians, dancers, puppeteers, jugglers, storytellers, comics, clowns, balloon sculptors and more will be given permits to perform in the Center Plaza. Don't miss the fountain that rises and falls in concert to an audio recording or the interactive splash fountain and European-designed playground.


BEST PLACE TO HANG OUT ON A SUNDAY MORNING
SUNTRUST SUNDAY JAZZ BRUNCH ON THE RIVERWALK
Downtown Fort Lauderdale. Stage locations: Broward Center for the Performing Arts; outside the Riverhouse Restaurant; Las Olas Riverfront; main stage at Esplanade Park.
954-828-5363
www.fortlauderdale.gov/events
Sunday brunch is nice, but why not jazz up the first Sunday of each month with a visit to Fort Lauderdale and the Riverwalk for Sunday Jazz Brunch, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.? Four stages of jazz music performed by local bands have parents, kids and the family dog (yes, leashed, well-behaved dogs are welcome) singing, swaying and dancing in the streets. Arrive by car or boat, and bring along a picnic basket, blanket and chairs to make yourself comfortable. Vendors selling crepes, kabobs, arepas, lemon ices, and arts and crafts make this a day to repeat.


BEST PLACE FOR ART AND MUSIC OUTDOORS
SUNDAYS AT THE MEYER
West Palm Beach on Flagler Drive between Datura and Evernia streets
561-822-1515
www.wpb.org
The fourth Sunday of each month from May and October is all about fun and relaxation on the waterfront where you just can't beat the view. Concerts include the '50s and '60s, a Bee Gees tribute band, beach band fun, Latin, southern rock and local favorites. Activities for kids include hula hoops, sidewalk chalk, limbo contests, coloring books, bubbles and free cookies handed out by the mayor. Bring a picnic, blankets, chairs and sunscreen. Free. This year, a $250 gift certificate to City Place will be raffled at each concert, as well as a grand prize New York City getaway.


BEST PLACE FOR FREE SUMMER CONCERTS
MIZNER PARK'S SUMMER CONCERT SERIES
Mizner Park Amphitheater, Federal Highway just south of Glades Road, Boca Raton
561-393-7827
www.ci.boca-raton.fl.us
Bring the kids, a chair or blanket, and enjoy a wide variety of performers and musical genres under the stars. Need we say more? OK, then. On, July 11, there will be a Neil Diamond tribute band; July 25 features a tribute to the music of Jimmy Buffet; and the final concert features the U.S. Navy Band, "Country Current," a premier country music ensemble. Rental chairs, $2.


BEST FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT
OLD SCHOOL SQUARE
51 N. Swinton Ave., Delray Beach
561-243-7922
www.oldschool.org/movies
Enjoy an outdoor, family movie under the stars at the Entertainment Pavilion. The free Friday Night Flicks program runs from October through May and will resume on Halloween night, which happens to be on a Friday this year. A costume party is planned at 6:30 followed by a Halloween-themed movie. Bring your own lawn chairs, blankets and snacks, or rent chair for $2. Concessions also available. Check the Web site for movie schedule.


BEST PARK FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY
EVELYN GREER PARK
8200 SW 124th St., Pinecrest
305-234-2110
www.pinecrest-fl.gov/villageparks
This 10-acre park features a covered playground with two areas: one for toddlers and another for school-age kids. Playground equipment includes a climbing wall, firefighter pole, slides, swings and other play areas. The park also has a half-mile concrete track for running or in-line skating, batting cages, two baseball diamonds that can be rented, open pavilions available on first-come, first-served basis and an Internet Wi-Fi spot if you really must connect to the rest of the world.


BEST PARK FOR TODDLER
CORAL REEF PARK
7895 SW 152nd St., Palmetto Bay
305-235-1593
www.palmettobay-fl.gov/parks
This 54-acre park was renovated in the summer of 2005 and has become a popular outing for parents with younger kids. The majority of the play area is covered, offering sun protection for precious young skin, and the sand has been replaced with an ADA-approved rubberized surfacing. The diverse play equipment includes climbing, swinging, sliding and spinning apparatus that appeal to even the youngest of tots who may have just begun to take their first steps. The recreation room and oak hammock area, which offers a natural shade canopy, also can be rented.


BEST PARK FOR TODDLERS WHEN IT'S HOT OUTSIDE
QUIET WATERS PARK
401 S. Powerline Road, Deerfield Beach
954-360-1315
Splash Adventure is the perfect water playground for ages 2 to 6, with a pool that ranges from zero to 18 inches, tunnels, small slides, water-spray guns, and wheels and levers. Open daily from May 5 to Sept. 5; weekends only from Sept. 6 to Oct. 26. $4.50 per person per one hour and 50-minute session. During the summer, Friday-night Splash Luaus include splash time, games, prizes, a movie and pizza or hot dog meal. Event dates: June 13 and 27; July 11 and 25; and Aug. 8 and 22, 6 to 10 p.m. $6 per person.


BEST OUTDOOR PLAYGROUND
PATCH REEF PARK
2000 Yamato Road, just west of Military Trail, Boca Raton
561-367-7035
www.ci.boca-raton.fl.us/rec/parks
The variety of play equipment for all different ages is what makes this playground special, with different swings, climbing apparatus and a variety of play equipment for older and younger kids. Bathroom breaks aren't a problem, as there is a restroom facility right in the playground area. The playground itself is on playground-certified mulch, and the sidewalks around equipment are all padded. The waterplay area is currently under renovation. Concession stands are open on weekends. Park admission is free.


BEST OUTING FOR FAMILIES WHO LIKE TO FISH
INTERNATIONAL FISHING HALL OF FAME
300 Gulf Stream Way
Dania Beach
954- 922-4212, www.igfa.org
ISLAMORADA FISH COMPANY
220 Gulf Stream Way, 954-927-7737
www.fishcompany.com BASS PRO SHOPS
200 Gulf Stream Way, 954-929-7710
www.basspro.com
Walk through the main entrance of IGFA and you are immersed in an underwater world filled with sport-fishing and educational information, exhibits and interactive displays. Look up to see 180 life-size mounts of world-record catches suspended overhead. Fishing simulators give you the experience of catching a marlin or tarpon without ever getting wet. Take a walk on the wild side through four acres of natural swamp, marshland and mangroves teeming with life. Next, explore the 163,000 square feet of Bass Pro Shops, with a 30,000-gallon aquarium, shopping for your every fishing or outdoor need, workshops in fishing, outdoor skills and more. Surely the family will be famished by now, and fortunately the Islamorada Fish Company is literally steps away, with a menu of seafood prepared just about any way you can imagine, chicken, beef and sushi selections, as well as a kids' menu for any taste.


BEST OVER-THE-TOP PRETEND PLAY
WANNADO CITY
12801 W. Sunrise Blvd., Sunrise,BR> 954-838-7100; 888-926-6236
www.wannadocity.com
This theme park allows kids to explore all kinds of professions and fantasies, including doctors, firefighters, scientists, fashion designers and so much more. Recent attractions include more than 20 animated dinosaurs all around the park. Find fossils and join the caveman show at the theater. Food is available throughout park. Plan on spending at least four hours here. There's a lounge just for adults. Ages 3-13, $29.95; adults are usually $7, but currently they are free.


BEST PLACE TO CLIMB THE WALLS
X-TREME ROCK CLIMBING
3972 SW 139th Court, Miami
305-233-6623
www.x-tremerock.com
With more than 39 different ropes and numerous different routes, there are more than 120 paths that can be taken in this 14,000-square-foot, indoor climbing facility. This is a great way for families to bond, as it requires a certain amount of cooperation between members. While one person puts on a harness and climbs, the other is the belayer. In climbing, belaying is the technique of controlling the rope. Introductory classes are generally required for beginners, and reservations are usually required. Private lessons and private belaying are also offered. No open-toe shoes or bare feet allowed.


BEST RAINY DAY ACTIVITY FOR YOUNGER KIDS
PLAYMOBIL
8031 N. Military Trail, Palm Beach Gardens,BR> 561-691-9880
www.playmobil.com
Kids and parents won't be complaining about the weather once they walk inside the 2,000 square feet of creative and imaginary play here. Areas are divided according to theme and offer toys for everyone. New theme areas and displays keep the experience exciting. This year includes a water zoo, pony ranch and dinosaurs, and, coming later in the year, circus and pirate ship themes. In the middle of the fun park is a picnic-like area, where families are welcome to bring lunch and relax together. The store carries a lot of exclusive merchandise that can't be purchase elsewhere.


BEST RAINY DAY ACTIVITY FOR OLDER KIDS
DAVE & BUSTER'S
3000 Oakwood Blvd., Hollywood, 954-923-5505
11481 NW 12th St., Suite E622, Miami, 305-468-1555
www.daveandbusters.com
With food and fun under one roof, there's something here for everyone. Older kids will really enjoy the latest in cutting-edge game entertainment, while much older kids, as in moms and dads, will enjoy playing tried-and-true favorites. The Million Dollar Midway and Viewpoint area feature more than 200 games of skill, from shuffleboard and billiards to high-energy, state-of-the-art games and simulators. Ticket redemption games are offered, as well. The Eat and Play Combo offers a $10 Game Card and a choice from 11 entrees for $15.99. Valid all day Sunday through Thursday and until 5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.


BEST PLACE TO CHASE FAIRIES
SOUTH FLORIDA RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL
Quiet Waters Park, 401 S. Powerline Road, Deerfield Beach
954-776-1642
www.ren-fest.com
Festival dates: weekends from Feb 7 to March 8, 2009, plus President's Day, Feb. 16, 2009 If your kids don't believe in fairies anymore, bring them here for a dose of fantasy and fun. The hundreds of costumed performers include kings, queens, knights, jesters, minstrels, magicians, pirates and, of course, fairies. The costumes are exquisite, and the portrayals lend a truly authentic atmosphere to the event. Plenty of visitors dress the part, too, so come in costume and you'll fit right in. Enjoy games, archery, crafts, sideshows, jousts and more. Adults, $20; 6-12, $7; 5 and younger, free. Check Web site for advanced and discounted tickets.


BEST FESTIVAL FOR FAMILY FUN
DELRAY BEACH GARLIC FEST
Old School Square, Swinton & Atlantic Ave., Delray Beach
561-279-0907 www.dbgarlicfest.com
Feb. 13-15, 2009
Good food, good music, good times. The Garlic Fest is celebrating its 10th year and promises to reek of fun, food and festivities, with Iron Chef-style competitions, a gourmet galley with mouth-watering, garlic-inspired creations of seafood, chicken, beef, pasta, pizza and, believe it or not, garlic ice cream. Kids will enjoy Garlic University, where, while learning about the uses of this incredibly popular food, they'll make crafts, get their faces painted, try some rides and check out the performers. Local and national musical acts entertain on the main stage. Last year, Blues Traveler played here.


BEST QUICKIE FAMILY VACATION
ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISE LINES
866-562-7625, www.royalcaribbean.com
Sail out of Fort Lauderdale or Miami for three, four or five days on the high seas. Ports of call include the Bahamas, Mexico and Key West. Depending on the length and location of your cruise, you can leave on a Thursday, be back Monday morning and feel like you've had the vacation of a lifetime without missing much work or school. Cabins on lower decks are less expensive, and most say you don't get as seasick. Ship amenities vary, including rock walls, miniature golf, ice skating rinks, water parks, scheduled kids' programming, open dining and more.


BEST LAID-BACK FAMILY VACATION
ISLAMORADA
800-322-5397, www.fla-keys.com/islamorada
Life doesn't get much better than at this 18-mile long, half-mile-wide island with glorious morning sunrises and spectacular sunsets. A variety of accommodations, from economy to luxury, will suit everyone's taste and budget. Founders Park offers small boat and water toy rentals, or wade right out to the channel at Anne's Beach. Holiday Isle, where "you don't have to stay here to play here," also has a wonderful tiki bar. Daytime fun in the sun with beaches, fishing, diving, snorkeling, jet skiing, kayaking and kite-boarding will leave you ready for total R&R in the evenings. Almost any restaurant here will cook your catch for dinner.

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