Florida Keys Info

Jan 02 2025

The Hemingway Home and Museum & 6 Toed Cats in Key West

Updated: January 02, 2025

Looking for something unique to do during your Florida Keys vacation? Check out the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. It might seem strange, but you don’t need to be a fan of literature to appreciate the Hemingway House in Key West or, more to the point, the Hemingway House cats.

It’s one of several attractions within striking distance of our vacation rentals at Playa Largo Ocean Residences. Contact us to find out more or book one of our great rentals, which are ideal for larger families or groups.

What is the Hemingway House?

Ernest Hemingway wrote some of his most famous books while living in Key West, so if you feel inspired while here, you are in the best company. Hemingway built a house here, and legend has it he chose a plot near the lighthouse so it would guide him home at night…after, you know, spending time in one of the local bars. His favorite was Sloppy Joe’s Bar, which is still open today, and you can eat there…or copy Hemingway…if you want.

When he died in 1961, the house was transformed into a museum. You can explore the beautiful grounds and then tour the house, where you will see the space where Hemingway worked. The home had an in-ground pool, a remarkable luxury at the time….although, before that, that site was a boxing ring where he took on local amateurs.

What’s with the Hemingway House Cats?

Most people don’t come here to see the house or even that swimming pool. In the 1930s, a passing sea captain gave Hemingway a surplus kitten, a cat he named Snow White.

What is a Polydactyl Cat? Hemingways’ Famous 6 Toed Cats

Snow White wasn’t an ordinary cat, though. She had six toes! This is a genetic mutation known as polydactyly. (In fact, polydactyl cats have been known to have as many as nine digits on a paw, but six is more normal). The trait bred to some of her kittens, and the Ernest Hemingway House is now home to 60 cats, about half of whom have the extra toes. (The other half are just as cute, though).

All of these Hemingway Cats are named after famous people. Some of them look rather as if they’re wearing mittens. Some of the cats are known to be descendants of Snow White, and most are likely related…Key West is not a big island.

The anomaly doesn’t cause any issues for the Hemingway cats with six toes (if it does, the extra digits may be removed). They may have an advantage in balancing, climbing, and catching prey. (Maybe they had a particular advantage on the moving deck of a ship, hence Snow White’s ship-bound relatives).

The cats have the run of the museum…and it’s best to remember it’s their home. Visitors are asked not to pick up the Key West author’s cats (remember they have extra claws), but you can pet them if they let you.

Things to Know about the Hemingway Museum

The museum is open for walk-ins from 9 am to 5 pm, with tours every 15 minutes, starting at 9:30 am. The 20 to 30-minute tour is included in your admission. Please don’t use flash photography at any time (it annoys the cats).

The museum is located at 907 Whitehead Street on Key West and is about a 2-hour drive from our vacation rentals…an amazing drive through the Keys. There are also bus tours available.

You can book the Hemingway Home Evening Writing Experience Monday through Thursday for the aspiring writer with money to spare. You and one guest get the tour and then access to the house, gardens, and Hemingway’s studio. Maybe you’ll be inspired to create your next masterpiece…if the Hemingway House cats will let you!

If you are interested in a trip to the Florida Keys, contact us today to learn more!

Our vacation homes have 3 or 4 bedrooms, perfect for families or groups. You can access the Ocean’s Edge Clubhouse with its pool, sun deck, and lounge. We also offer great packages, including a seaplane tour to Key West or a chef experience. Contact us to find out more.

Book Today!

Image Credit: Mathew Risley / Shutterstock

Aug 09 2024

Top 8 Most Scenic Places to Visit in the Florida Keys

Unlike anything you’ll see on the mainland, the Florida Keys are peppered with state parks, museums, and wildlife. If you’re planning a visit, check out some of these spots. They’re the best places in the Keys and some of the most beautiful places in Florida. At Playa Largo Ocean Residences, we ensure your trip is relaxing, memorable, and fun. Here are some must-see spots in the Florida Keys.

The Best Places to Stop in the Florida Keys

When you live in a tropical paradise, it’s hard to pick the most scenic places in the Florida Keys, but here are a few that will take your breath away.

Bahia Honda Key

Home to the Bahia Honda State Park, this island is remote and one of the most beautiful places in Florida. Here, you’ll find one of the deepest natural channels in the Keys, along with its prettiest beach. It’s a naturally beautiful island perfect for snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and camping.

Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum

Ernest Hemingway wrote over 70% of his well-known literature in the Keys. Visit his historic home, recognized by the Library of Congress for its importance in U.S. history. Explore the gardens, take an educational tour, and watch out for the world-famous polydactyls, the six-toed cats!

History of Diving Museum

This museum is home to one of the world’s largest collections of diving equipment from over 30 countries, illustrating the rich history of diving and how it has impacted our world. It’s a great place to visit to explore how diving helmets and armored suits have evolved and to view videos of diving excursions across the globe.

Islamorada

Translated as the “village of islands,” Islamorada is known as the sports-fishing capital of the world. Avid anglers, snorkelers, and people looking to view unique wildlife also frequent Lignumvitae Key Botanical State Park and Indian Key Historic State Park, which are just a stone’s throw away. It’s the best Key to visit in Florida if you’re looking for a place to drop a line.

Key Largo

This island is best known for the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, which boasts 70 square miles of Atlantic Ocean waters and is home to the only living reef in the continental United States. Snorkelers, scuba divers, campers, and anglers trek to this island to observe its magnificent wildlife and take in the breathtaking beauty. The reef is also famous for its underwater statue of Jesus Christ.

Key West

Key West is lively and fun, with excellent food and friendly locals. It’s the best spot in the Florida Keys for outdoor enthusiasts who want to find great boating opportunities, snorkeling spots, and other outdoor activities.

Marathon

The island of Marathon is home to a fishing village and The Turtle Hospital, a non-profit organization that cares for injured sea turtles. While visiting the island, you can also explore the Dolphin Research Center to learn about dolphins and swim alongside them. It’s also one of the most scenic places in the Florida Keys.

Seven Mile Bridge

Aptly named, the bridge measures seven miles and connects the mainland of Florida to Key West. Travelers love the spectacular ocean and wildlife views as they drive off into the sunset toward paradise. Portions of the original bridge are still standing, and locals use them for fishing, bird watching, and sightseeing.

Make a Trip to the Florida Keys Today

Are you planning a trip to the Florida Keys? At Playa Largo Ocean Residences, we know the most beautiful places to visit in Florida, and we can help you plan a vacation packed with breathtaking views, delicious food, and memories that will last a lifetime. Make a reservation today to have a luxurious place to stay while taking in the best parts of the Florida Keys.

Image Credit: M artin Valigursky / Shutterstock

Aug 09 2024

Florida Keys Wildlife Guide

The Florida Keys is a tropical paradise unlike anywhere else in the world. Here, you’ll find various fish, birds, and marine life that have made the Keys their home for centuries. At Playa Largo Ocean Residences, we’re happy to make your stay relaxing and memorable. Let’s look at a few Key West animals you can expect to spot on your next trip to the Keys.

The Types of Animals in the Florida Keys

Our unique ecosystems are home to many Florida Keys animals, including crabs, coral, and sea turtles. Here are some of the most common and popular animals on the islands.

Birds

Nearly 300 different species of birds call the Florida Keys home. Their diversity in color and size makes the Florida Keys a bird watcher’s dream. The Florida Keys National Wildlife Refuge has designated places for these birds to nest and forage that are protected from human disturbance.

Coral

Over 45 different species of stony coral and 35 soft coral are located in the waters around the Florida Keys. Restoration efforts have been underway since the 1970s when they began to decline in growth. Grab a snorkel and goggles and see these beautiful life forms for yourself.

Crocodiles

The American crocodile lives in the mangrove and estuarine areas of South Florida and the Florida Keys and is currently listed on the Federal endangered species list. These massive, toothy animals eat fish, crabs, snakes, turtles, birds, and small mammals but are not interested in humans. Keep an eye on the ground and still waters; you may see one when you visit.

Manatees

Manatees are aquatic mammals that are fondly referred to as “sea cows.” They’re slow-moving, massive animals that eat around 100 pounds of seagrass daily. Because seagrass supplies are low due to compromised water quality, many manatees are starving. Many organizations cooperate to protect these loveable creatures and secure their food source.

Shrimp

If you like shrimp, you’re visiting the right place. The Florida Keys is home to an enormous commercial shrimp fishery that catches various shrimp, including brown, white, royal red, pink, and rock shrimp. Visit a local restaurant to taste the rainbow of these fresh crustaceans right from the waters surrounding the Keys.

Stone Crab

Stone crab is a modern delicacy best known for being harvested off the South Florida coast. Strict regulations surround the harvesting of stone crab claws, but the good news is that it’s a 100% sustainable food. One claw is harvested while the other remains so the crab can defend itself until a new one regenerates.

Turtles

Marine turtles are protected by the Endangered Species Act, and it’s an honor to see these animals in Key West. You can find loggerhead, green, and hawksbill sea turtle nests in the seagrass beds on each island.

Fish

Fish are in abundance throughout the waters surrounding the Florida Keys. These sea animals in Florida offer the perfect opportunity for snorkeling and fishing enthusiasts. See if you can spot the following fish.

Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphin

Perhaps the most popular animal around the Keys, the Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphin, is as intelligent as it is adorable. They travel in pods; if you listen closely, you can hear them communicating through high-pitched squeaks and squeals.

Nurse Shark

Most often spotted by snorkelers, nurse sharks spend most of their time hanging out on the seafloor. They feed on fish and small crustaceans; if you don’t bother them, they will let you observe them in their natural habitats.

Queen Conch

“Conch” is a common name that many Key-dwellers call themselves. The queen conch is a soft-bodied sea snail with a distinguished-looking shell. It’s royalty around the islands and a protected species that many organizations work to repopulate.

Best Spots to See the Wildlife

You don’t have to look far if you visit the Florida Keys to see some of its most touted fish and animals. Here are some of the best ways to see your favorite Key West animals:

Visit one of the many State Parks located throughout the Keys.
Take a snorkel boat tour to see the coral reefs.
Kayak or paddleboard through the extensive mangrove paths.
Order a cocktail and watch the birds fly across the sunset from one of our many oceanside restaurants.

Visit the Florida Keys Today!

Are you ready to plan your trip to the Florida Keys? Check out our website today and see the Key West animals for yourself!

Image Credit: lunamarina / Shutterstock

May 10 2024

Planning a Trip to the Florida Keys

Known for its pristine beaches and balmy weather, Key Largo, Florida, is a hotspot for beach lovers of all ages and interests. Playa Largo Ocean Residences is one of Florida’s top vacation destinations and a hub of top Key Largo activities. Whether your ideal day includes time at the day spa or exciting watersports, we have something to suit. Check out our top things to do in Key Largo and discover how to build your perfect day at Playa Largo Resort & Spa.

Introduction to Key Largo

Located in the upper Florida Keys, Key Largo is known as the “Diving Capital of the World.” An ideal spot for snorkeling, fishing, and scuba diving, Key Largo is a top pick for families, couples, and anyone looking to enjoy warm, sunny weather and beautiful beaches. Playa Largo Ocean Residences is an all-in-one resort just minutes from downtown Key Largo that offers guests endless opportunities to stay, play, and relax on 14 stunning acres of beachfront property.

Ocean Spa

The Ocean Spa at Playa Largo offers indulgent skincare and body services for resort guests. Whether you’ve spent the day on the water or are enjoying a full day of indoor relaxation, our spa has something to satisfy.

Services

The Ocean Spa offers a menu of services designed to provide ultimate pampering and relaxation. Some of our top services include massages, facials, detoxifying body wraps, and scrubs. We also offer specialized treatments to satisfy sensitive skin or specific needs.

Club Playa

If you’re searching for what to do in Key Largo, look no further than Club Playa. An exclusive club for guests of our resort, Club Playa provides the perfect spot to relax by the beach and catch some rays.

Amenities

Club Playa features a chic island feel, with inviting decor and cozy chairs designed for guests to unwind and unplug. Discover amenities like fresh towels, delicious snacks, and refreshing beverages that will keep you cool. We also regularly host special activities for our guests to enjoy.

Resort Dining

No Florida vacation is complete without delicious food. At Playa Largo Ocean Residences, we have four on-site restaurants to fulfill your every craving. From fresh seafood to succulent meat entrees, we’ve got it all.

Four on-site restaurants

Sol by the Sea offers beachfront dining, including the best seafood in Key Largo, as well as steak and chicken dishes, while Stop by Sand Bar has light bites and delicious cocktails. La Marea is our on-site Mediterranean restaurant, with the chefs taking inspiration from Florida flavors and adding a dash of European sophistication. Looking to explore a wide variety of flavors? Check out Las Olas Ceviche Bar for tapas, ceviche, and sushi.

White Sand Beach

Staying at Playa Largo Ocean Residences grants you easy access to Key Largo’s white, sandy beach. Powdery, soft, and peaceful, the beaches are among the most beautiful in the world. You’ll want to stroll them day in and day out!

Bayfront Resort Pool

Discover endless opportunities for fun at the Bayfront Resort pool. Not only does the pool feature a tranquil, inviting design and crystal-clear water, but from almost anywhere in the pool you’ll enjoy direct views of the ocean.

For a unique vacation, unlike any other, consider the Florida Keys. From Key Largo down the 125 miles of 800 keys to its lower tip, Key West, there is so much to see and do. Let us share some of our Florida Keys vacation ideas for you from your home base in one of our Playa Largo Ocean Residences.

Florida Keys Vacation Itinerary Ideas

Depending upon what you want to see and do, here are just a few itinerary ideas for a week-long sightseeing tour, although you will likely want to stay longer to relax and unwind in one of our comfortable vacation rental homes.

Day 1-3: Key Largo & Islamorada

You will find the Upper Florida Keys, including Key Largo and Islamorada, some of the busiest areas in the Keys. With Key Largo known as the diving capital and Islamorada known for its sport and saltwater fly fishing, the snorkeling, scuba diving, and fishing opportunities in the Upper Keys are incomparable.

Day 4-5: Marathon

Known for its location in the Middle Keys, Marathon is home to the Seven Mile Bridge. One other Marathon highlight attraction is the Turtle Hospital, with its veterinary practice devoted solely to the treatment of endangered sea turtles from around the world. Reservations are highly recommended for a 90-minute educational tour of the hospital area and the sea turtle rehabilitation area.

Day 6-7: Key West

At the bottom of the Keys, Key West is known for its vast sandy beaches and is the former home to some of America’s best-known writers, including Ernest Hemingway and Tennessee Williams.

Activities and Attractions in the Florida Keys

The variety of water sports for all ages in the Florida Keys is incredible, but beyond that, there is such a variety of nature and wildlife to explore, historical sites, museums, and galleries to see, and cafes, restaurants, and nightlife activities to explore.

Water Sports

Key Largo is considered one of Florida’s top watersport destinations with diving, snorkeling, fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, boating, and more. The Upper Keys is also home to the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, well-known for excellent scuba diving, snorkeling, and boating activities.

Nature & Wildlife

State parks and wildlife refuges abound, including the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, known as the first undersea park in the U.S. But you don’t have to swim to see everything; canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards are available for rent, and glass-bottom boat tours are offered.

The National Key Deer Refuge, located on Big Pine Key in the Lower Keys, is home to a nature center dedicated to the tiny, unique Key deer native to the area and other threatened or endangered local species of animals and plants. There is much to explore in the forest, hardwood hammocks, marsh wetlands, and mangrove forests.

Cultural Attractions

Cultural attractions are in abundance, from the vibrant historic district in the Lower Keys to the Middle Keys’ Crane Point Museum and Nature Center, and more.

The Crane Point Museum and Nature Center features 63 acres of trails through its hardwood hammock, along with a museum of natural history and a nature reserve revealing evidence of a local pre-Columbian civilization.

A draw to avid readers, history buffs, and cat lovers, the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum is in Key West. Recognized by the Library of Congress, it is here in the grandiose architecture and lush gardens that Hemingway lived with his beloved cats for 10 years while writing 70 percent of his life’s works. The museum is open daily with tours offered between 9 am and 5 pm.

Dining & Nightlife

There is no shortage of places to eat, with four on-site restaurants amongst our Ocean Residences Vacation homes in Key Largo. But all up and down the Keys, you will find a wide array of grilles, tiki bars, breweries, and waterfront restaurants offering a quiet table for two or accommodating a party of family and friends.

Visit Playa Largo Ocean Residences for a memorable stay

There are endless sways to spend time in Key Largo when you stay at Playa Largo Ocean Residences. Our world-class amenities and one-of-a-kind service will make your vacation one to remember. Contact us today to learn more about how to play your dream vacation!

Build the Ultimate Florida Keys Vacation Itinerary

The team here at Playa Largo Ocean Residences is excited to be a part of your journey from start to finish with a goal to turn your Florida Keys vacation dream into a reality!

Our knowledgeable staff, exceptional customer and concierge services and an effortless and secure and booking process, from reservation to check out, ensures you have a dream vacation with a personalized touch. Our Local Area Guide is at your fingertips with insider tips, pet-friendly attractions, and all you need to start planning the vacation of your dreams. If you have any more questions about Playa Largo Ocean Residences, please Contact Us today!

Image Credit: Paulo Miguel Costa / Shutterstock

Mar 01 2024

Best Time to Visit Key West, Key Largo & The Florida Keys

Key West is undoubtedly the best seaside haven in the Sunshine State. It boasts pristine beaches, turquoise waters, year-round sunshine, and a vibrant culture. At this destination, you can bask under the sun, casually stroll on the pristine beaches, and do water sports like snorkeling.

Unlike many destinations, Key Largo has something fun to do in every season—there is no inconvenient time to visit. Assuming you plan to explore the haven, we have suggested the best time to visit Key Largo and the activities to try out.

Honestly, the best time to visit the Florida Keys is whenever you want to! There may be some concern that mid-August through October is referred to as hurricane season here, but with proper planning, it should not hold you back from a visit.

Winter in Playa Largo: A Tropical Escape for Travelers

Winter is one of the best times to go to Key West. While the season is synonymous with freezing temperatures and snowfall, that isn’t true in Key Largo. This destination boasts a warm winter climate, with temperatures averaging around 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

Many travelers from other states regard Key Largo in December as an ideal escape from cold temperatures. With the warm Key Largo climate, you can indulge in many outdoor activities, including exploring and shopping in the charming historic district.

Whether you are planning a trip for yourself, as a couple, or for the whole family there is so much to see and do while enjoying the comfortable temperatures throughout the Keys. Spend a day in the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and take a glass-bottom boat ride.

Visit the Laura Quinn Wild Bird Sanctuary, a part of the Florida Keys Wild Bird Center, to learn about and see the variety of birds that make the Keys their home. Take a short drive to the Everglades to see other wildlife while hiking or biking the trails. And enjoy a romantic sunset cruise or a family sightseeing trip through the waterways.

Besides the exploration, you can snorkel and dive in the crystalline waters or rent a bike and explore the Island’s scenic landscape. Winter is also the best time to visit Key West and witness popular events like the Florida half-marathon and the Old Island Art Days.

Spring: Blooming Beauty

As spring sets in, Key West blooms with a charming beauty you can hardly find elsewhere. Lush vegetation with vibrant blooms paint the Island, giving you a deeper connection with nature. The best time to visit Key Largo runs from March to May.

Unlike winter, spring attracts fewer customers to Key Largo. Not surprisingly, the season ranks as the best time to visit Key Largo for travelers on a budget. Airlines and hotels offer great deals since the demand for services is low.

Spring is also one of the best times to visit Key Largo. Check out the Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park. While particularly popular in spring, it is open year-round from sunrise to sunset. There are 84 protected species of plants and animals here, along with some more common ones, and the Florida National Parks website is home to one of the US’s largest tracts of Western Indian tropical hardwood hammock.

The drive from Key Largo to Key West averages between two to two-and-a-half hours, and the Key West Tropical Forest and Botanical Gardens is well worth the drive. Referred to as the only frost-free botanical garden within the continental US, here you will find a sub-tropical botanical garden featuring native flora and fauna, including Champion Trees and Historic Legacy Trees as recognized by the National Register of Big Trees. You can also see a wide variety of bird species and butterflies.

With temperatures averaging around 78 degrees Fahrenheit, the spring climate provides perfect conditions for outdoor adventure. It is the best month to visit Key West, bask in the sun, or partake in water sports like snorkeling and kayaking. You can also explore botanical gardens to experience the tropical flora at its best.

Summer: Water Adventures – Drive Down from Miami!

Summer is the season when the Keys experience frequent hurricanes and occasional showers. Despite the unappealing weather, summer is the best month to visit Key West for many reasons.

For one, hotels, airlines, and other accommodations experience a lower demand. For this reason, they offer competitive rates you can take advantage of. As such, summer would be your best time to go to Key West if you are on a budget and don’t mind the hurricanes and showers. If you live in Miami, make sure to visit us.

When is hurricane season in the Florida Keys? In summer, temperatures soar to around 86 degrees Fahrenheit. These high temperatures warm the waters, perfect for travelers who enjoy various water activities like snorkeling, diving, and swimming.

Summer is a wonderful time for a dolphin encounter at the Dolphin Research Center in Grassy Key. You can meet a dolphin, become a trainer for the day, or simply view the dolphins or sea lions interacting, or watch their training sessions. Summer is also a fun time for boat tours or a cruise. Classical film lovers will want to check out the African Queen, the movie with the same name starring Humphrey Bogart and Katherine Hepburn, and enjoy a sightseeing canal cruise.

Fall in Playa Largo: Fishing Galore

Key Largo’s fall season is characterized by cooling temperatures, which induce a sense of tranquility and calm. Many travelers regard fall as the best month to visit Key West and enjoy fishing amidst the cool ocean breeze. September and October are considered some of the best fishing months at the Keys, especially for tarpon, permit, and bonefish.

In the fall, take out a kayak or paddleboard and explore the mangrove trails. Fall is also a perfect time for hiking one or more of the many trails in the Keys. And the pleasant weather encourages a visit to the home of Fort Jefferson in Dry Tortugas National Park. The 100-square-mile park is mostly composed of water, with seven islands spread across the water. You will have to take the ferry or a seaplane to get there.

The Keys become a lively wonderland as the season progresses, attracting more visitors. Beyond fishing, the visitors flock here because fall is the best time to go to the Keys and enjoy various outdoor activities and events.

You can explore the island’s natural wonders, hike, or enjoy seafood at local restaurants. Events enthusiasts can attend the Key West Film Festival, the Key West Harbor Walk of Lights, or the Fantasy Festival.

Your Florida Keys

No matter what age, no matter the weather, Key West and the rest of the Florida Keys have something for everyone at any time of year. From bird watching to jet skiing, glass-bottom boat rides to cycling or hiking, all part of the 106-mile Florida Keys Overseas Heritage Trail, you can enjoy it all, starting with your temporary home base at Playa Largo Ocean Residences.

Book Your Accommodation at Playa Largo Ocean Residences

Playa Largo Ocean Residences is a top choice for accommodation in Key Largo. The upscale residences have outdoor terraces and chic island interiors to give you the most island living. All these residences give spectacular ocean views that immerse you in the beauty of the surroundings.

Book today to enjoy the best of island living.