Five Fun Things To Do (On Land) On Stock Island & Key West

Explore on Two Wheels 

A close second in coolness to traveling on the water. Stock Island and Key West are ideal for cycling. We’ve got 365 days of great cycling weather, tropical breezes, stunning coastal views at every turn, and countless places to shop, eat, drink, or relax before rolling along to your next stop.

Exploring by bike fits with the relaxed, Key West pace, and the streets are made for it. You’ll see cyclists everywhere because it’s a great way to get around easily, actively, and affordably. Plus, you can take advantage of the large network of bike routes, lanes, and trails across both islands. We Cycle has a Stock Island location close to the Perry Hotel Key West, and another in Old Town, which makes it easy to embark on a two-wheeled adventure.

Stroll Through The Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden 

Where nature and biodiversity take center stage. This tropical home to endangered flora and fauna native to the Keys, Cuba, and the Caribbean is the only “frost-free” botanical garden in the continental United States. It’s filled with dozens of bird species, beautiful plants and flowers, a serene lake, shady palms, and peaceful ponds (including two of the last remaining freshwater ponds in the Keys). Due to ample rainfall in the local environment, most plants and trees retain their leaves year-round.

The forest and garden are a major migratory stopover for tropical birds, and you can discover more than 23 (!) different species of butterflies in the one-acre butterfly habitat. Be sure to bring lunch, enjoy a picnic in the courtyard filled with lush tropical foliage and a tranquil waterfall (plus there’s free Wi-Fi). Take one of the garden’s eight different educational self-guided tours, or join for a Hatha yoga class on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday mornings at 10 AM.

Play 19 at The Key West Golf Course 

Florida might have more than 1,250 golf courses, but only one is technically in the Caribbean. Key West Golf Course is a challenging but inviting public course on Stock Island, with warm, welcoming breezes year-round that make it a perfect golf environment.

At more than 200 acres, it takes up a sizeable portion of the island and is home to lots of diverse wildlife (you’ll be cheered on—or heckled—by iguanas, egrets, ducks, and roosters). A mention of the course wouldn’t be complete without the legendary Mangrove Hole—a par three played completely over a field of thick, unforgiving tropical mangroves obstructing your view of the green. They’re known to consume a few shots and challenge even the most experienced players. If you’re preparing to play, check out this hole-by-hole cheat sheet.

Heat Up Your Taste Buds at Yahman’s Authentic Jamaican Jerk Shack

If Key West is the gateway to the Caribbean, Yahman’s is Key West’s gateway to incredible Caribbean cuisine. It’s a hidden gem in a sea of amazing takeout restaurants across Stock Island and Key West.

Truly authentic, and an ode to the Keys’ proud Caribbean roots, Yahman’s Authentic Jamaican Jerk Shack is home to everything from spicy “I need a drink, now!” jerk chicken, to savory curry, seafood, soups, desserts, and refreshing homemade ginger beer. There’s something for everyone in a casual, take-out atmosphere on Front Street. Be sure to time your visit for Thursday–Sunday, as they’re closed for the first few days of the week.

Visit The Monroe County Sheriff’s Animal Farm

A uniquely entertaining and educational destination, especially for the kids! The farm features over 250 animals, including traditional farm animals like miniature horses, steer, chickens, pigs, goats and rabbits, and even exotic animals like Kelsey the Lemur, Kramer the Emu, alpacas (Snowflake and Arabella), kinkajous, an albino python, peacocks, tropical birds, and local celebrity, Mo the Sloth.

What started out as a haven for ducks and chickens injured crossing the road grew into a sanctuary for all sorts of animals after the Miami SPCA sought space for a blind horse. Built on the grounds below a detention center (which is elevated on stilts 11 feet above ground to withstand a category five hurricane), this haven is home to creatures from neglectful homes or those donated by people who couldn’t care for them. It’s open on the second and fourth Sunday of each month from 1–3 PM. For more information or to book a tour, visit the park’s website.

With an overview of some awesome land-based activities, have a look at some of the most fun things to do on the water.