Are the Florida Keys Natural or Manmade?

Now, I ain’t no geologist, but I was always curious about these bad boys.

Are they natural or manmade?

I mean, c’mon, they look like they could’ve been built by some skilled construction workers.

The first time I laid my eyes on the Keys, I was blown away.

They looked huge, not like some small, low-lying coral island as some folks describe them.

So, naturally, I was skeptical when I heard the answer that they were naturally created.

But here’s the deal, the

And get this, they’ve been around for thousands of years, way before we even had a chance to build anything on ’em.

Back in the day, when sea levels were high, sandbars and coral reefs covered the area where the Keys are now.

Imagine how stunning that must’ve been!

Then, when an ice age hit, the sea levels dropped and the reefs emerged.

Over time, these fossilized reefs turned into limestone rock that formed the Keys we see today.

Florida Keys vs Florida Islands

Many people tend to confuse the

.

Since, we have discussed that the keys come from coral activities, and islands from hydrological or geological activities, you can easily differentiate them.

However, many ask questions when they encounter either keys or islands.

  Aside from the keys and islands, many people want to know if other islands are misnomers.

In addition, people want to know if

should be called a Marco Key.

What you should know when it comes to Marco island is that it is close to the keys.

As a result, it is low-lying with sandy beaches.

We cannot say that Marco Island is a key because it is a barrier island.

As a result, it does not appear like a key.

I will spare you the complex details of the island and key again.

  However, Florida has unique geological features, and keys have become a prominent part of the city.

Where the Florida Keys Begin

So, traditionally, the Florida

.

That means if you’re cruising past Miami on Route 1, you’re officially entering the Keys.

But before you hit

, you’ll cross over Cross Key.

Now, I gotta be honest with y’all, Cross Key ain’t much to look at.

It’s uninhabited and kinda boring, so you might wanna skip it and head straight for the good stuff.

And what’s the good stuff, you ask?

Well,

, of course!

This is where the

really start to shine.

It’s the first major key you’ll hit with no humans around (except for the tourists, of course).

And let me tell you,

is a sight to behold.

Crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and some of the best seafood you’ll ever taste.

Now, if you’re driving down from Homestead, which is where the largest inhabitants on the

peninsula live, it’ll take you about 40 minutes to reach Key Largo.

And let me tell you, that drive is worth it.

You’ll cruise through the beautiful Everglades, past gators and swamps and all kinds of wild stuff.

It’s like a mini-adventure before you even get to your final destination.

Speaking of mini-adventures, I gotta tell you guys about the time I went down to the Keys with my buddies.

We hit up all the hot spots, drank some beers, caught some fish, and had an all-around amazing time.

But the highlight of the trip was definitely when we went snorkeling in

.

We saw all kinds of cool stuff down there, like colorful fish, sea turtles, and even a freaking SHARK!

Don’t worry, though, it was just a little nurse shark.

Still scared the crap outta me, though.

Anyway, the point is, if you’re heading down to the Florida Keys, make sure you start your journey off right in Key Largo.

Trust me, you won’t regret it.

Florida Fun Fact:

Key Largo is popular for Key Limes grown in the region.

The

.

Therefore, when you

, I will recommend you taste the delectable treat.

Is There Freshwater in the Florida Keys?

The first thing you should know is that the

.

  The Gulf of Mexico, the Atlantic, and the Straits of Florida are all saltwater.

However, the

freshwater lens is not saltwater, and the groundwater in the keys is not potable.

Additionally, the Key West freshwater lens is an aquifer beneath Key West.

What is an aquifer?

  The aquifer is filled by rainwater, but its volume can fluctuate between about 20 million gallons during the dry season and 30 million gallons during the wet season.

Meanwhile, the locals tap the aquifer with wells, while the main usage of the aquifer is not known.

However, the water does not sustain the people

.

Since the aquifer is heavily used,  the bottom contains a mix of saltwater, freshwater, minerals, and other elements.

Also, the surrounding saltwater and porous limestone affect the aquifer’s visibility as a viable freshwater source.

You can find a freshwater lake that was formerly used as a limestone quarry by the locals.

The Blue Hole has become a rain-fed lake where you can find a freshwater lens atop a lower layer of saltwater.

The freshwater lens has become an important source of fresh water for wildlife like snakes, alligators, iguanas, turtles, Key Deer, and other critters.

You can find unique aquaculture at the Blue hole.

The saltwater fish stay in the lower, saltier part of the lake, while the freshwater fish stay in the higher and fresh layer of the lake.

The Florida Keys Source of Water

Since the aquifer in Key West is not a viable source of fresh water, and there is no fresh water in the keys, I wondered where the keys receive their freshwater.

The answer is simple.

The key receives freshwater from wells near Miami.

The pumped water is transferred to the Keys’ water infrastructure through an aqueduct that runs along Route 1.

However, some homes have wells, while the keys receive pumped water from the aqueduct.

My question is where did the locals get their water before the aqueduct?

Humans need fresh water to survive and couldn’t have lived without freshwater.

Before this part of Florida was developed, the people have a different type of environment that ensures that water comes to the area.

The locals dug basic artesian wells to provide fresh water, which was abundantly available in the Everglades before the development and canalization of

.

The developments caused significant changes to the local ecosystem.

Exploring the Florida Keys: Must-Visit Islands

Each of these captivating destinations within the Florida Keys offers its own unique charm, adventure, and opportunity for unforgettable experiences.

From serene nature preserves and historic landmarks to luxurious resorts and secluded islands, the Florida Keys is a treasure trove waiting to be explored.

Get ready to embark on a remarkable journey filled with breathtaking beauty:

Discover Key West: The Eclectic Wonderland

You step foot onto the vibrant streets of Key West, where the lively atmosphere embraces your senses.

Duval Street beckons with its eclectic mix of bars, restaurants, and quirky shops.

Dive into the world of Ernest Hemingway at his former residence, now the Hemingway House, where six-toed cats roam freely.

And don’t miss the nightly Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square, where street performers, local artists, and breathtaking sunsets create an unforgettable spectacle.

Unwind in Key Largo: The Underwater Paradise

Plunge into the mesmerizing world beneath the surface as you explore John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, a snorkeler’s paradise.

Witness vibrant coral formations and swim alongside a kaleidoscope of tropical fish.

For the adventurous souls, strap on some scuba gear and embark on a thrilling diving expedition to encounter shipwrecks and mysterious marine creatures lurking in the depths.

Marathon: Nature’s Playground

Head over to Marathon, a haven for nature enthusiasts.

Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Crane Point Hammock, a nature preserve boasting stunning trails, an intriguing museum, and an observation tower offering panoramic views.

Get up close and personal with sea turtles at the Turtle Hospital, where you can learn about their rehabilitation efforts and even assist in their release back into the wild.

Indulge in Islamorada: The Sportfishing Capital

Reel in the excitement in Islamorada, renowned as the Sportfishing Capital of the World.

Charter a fishing boat and set sail into the bountiful waters of the Florida Keys.

Feel the adrenaline rush as you battle mighty tarpons, speedy sailfish, and feisty bonefish.

After a successful day on the water, savor the freshest seafood at local waterfront restaurants, where your taste buds will be dancing with delight.

Tranquility at Big Pine Key: The Sanctuary of Nature

Escape the bustling crowds and find serenity at Big Pine Key.

Explore the Great White Heron National Wildlife Refuge, a sanctuary teeming with diverse wildlife.

Keep an eye out for the adorable and endangered Key deer, as they graze peacefully in their natural habitat.

Embark on a kayaking adventure through the mangrove forests of the Key Deer National Wildlife Refuge, immersing yourself in the untouched beauty of this hidden gem.

Charm and History in Pigeon Key

Step back in time as you set foot on the tiny island of Pigeon Key, accessible

.

This quaint island is a living museum, preserving the history of the Florida Keys Over-Sea Railroad.

Take a guided tour of the historic buildings, including the restored Flagler’s Railroad Museum, and learn about the arduous construction of the railway that connected the Keys to the mainland.

Serenade Your Senses in Duck Key

Nestled between

, Duck Key offers a slice of paradise for those seeking a luxurious and peaceful escape.

Indulge in world-class resorts, pristine beaches, and pamper yourself with spa treatments that will leave you rejuvenated.

Take a leisurely stroll along the sandy shores, savor a romantic sunset dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants, and let the gentle ocean breeze serenade your senses.

Adventure Awaits at Dry Tortugas National Park

Embark on an unforgettable journey to the remote and enchanting Dry Tortugas National Park, accessible only by seaplane or boat.

Discover the historic Fort Jefferson, an imposing coastal fortress surrounded by turquoise waters.

Snorkel in the vibrant coral gardens and swim alongside majestic sea turtles.

Marvel at the diverse birdlife, including magnificent frigatebirds and playful terns.

This pristine paradise is a true hidden gem for the intrepid explorers.

Culture and Art in Key Colony Beach

Embrace the laid-back ambiance of Key Colony Beach, a charming island with a strong sense of community.

Explore the local art scene at the Key Colony Beach Art Show, where talented artists showcase their masterpieces.

Tee off at the scenic golf course overlooking the sparkling ocean.

Relax on the picturesque sandy beaches, or paddleboard through the calm waters, immersing yourself in the tranquil island lifestyle.

FAQs

Are Florida Keys man made?

No.

The Florida Keys happened because of the activities of the coral reefs, making them a natural creation.

Are the beaches in the Keys man made?

While you can find some natural beaches, those in Key West are man-made with imported sand.

Also, the natural beaches are protected by an offshore reefs and grassy areas.

The seagrass is frequently found washed up on the shoreline.

How many islands are in the Florida Keys?

There are over 1700 islands in the Florida Keys, but only around 30 of them are connected by bridges and causeways, making them accessible by car.

What is the distance between Miami and Key West?

The distance between Miami and Key West is approximately 160 miles, and it takes around 3.

5 to 4 hours to drive there.

However, it’s a scenic drive with plenty of stunning views along the way.

Do you need a passport to visit Key West?

No, you don’t

if you’re a US citizen.

However, if you’re traveling from outside the US, you’ll need a valid passport and may require a visa or other travel documents.

What is the weather like in Key West?

The weather in Key West is warm and tropical year-round, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit.

It’s also known for its sunny skies, occasional showers, and high humidity.

Can you see the sunset in Key West?

Yes, Key West is famous for its breathtaking sunsets, and it’s a must-see attraction for many visitors.

You can catch the sunset from various spots, such as Mallory Square, Sunset Pier, or on a sunset sailboat cruise.

Is Key West man made?

Most of the

are actually man-made!

Crazy right?

!

I mean, who would’ve thought that the gorgeous white sands and crystal clear waters were not created by Mother Nature, but by us humans instead?

Can you swim in the waters around Key West?

Absolutely!

The waters around Key West are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities.

They are crystal clear, warm, and shallow in many areas.

What is the best time to visit Key West?

The best time to

, from December to April.

The weather is mild and comfortable, with low humidity and plenty of sunshine.

It’s also the peak season, so expect crowds and higher prices.

What are some popular activities to do in Key West?

There are plenty of

, such as exploring the historic sites, visiting museums, shopping, dining at local restaurants, and enjoying the vibrant nightlife.

Water sports like kayaking, parasailing, and fishing are also popular.

Is it expensive to visit Key West?

Key West can be an expensive destination, especially during the peak season.

However, there are plenty of budget-friendly options for accommodations, dining, and activities.

It’s all about planning ahead and doing your research.

What is the famous drink in Key West?

The famous drink in

Martini, made with vanilla vodka, lime juice, and cream.

It’s a delicious and refreshing drink that captures the essence of Key West.