Discover Monroe
56 carefully curated photography spots with GPS coordinates, shooting tips, and local insights
Key largo
Key Largo is the Florida Keys' snorkeling and diving gateway—crystal shallows, coral reefs (John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park), mangrove shorelines, sunrises over flats and vivid sunsets over the Gulf. Best light is at golden hour; calm mornings offer glassy water for reflections and underwater clarity. Pennekamp has entry fees and paid parking; boat charters launch from multiple marinas. Expect warm, humid weather year-round and a relaxed Keys culture—plan for bugs in mangroves and bring sun
Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park
A rare Caribbean hardwood hammock on Key Largo with shady boardwalks, dense canopy, epiphytes, and seasonal migratory birds — ideal for intimate forest, macro and wildlife shots. Visit at sunrise or late afternoon for soft side-lighting and active birds. Dry season (Nov–Apr) has fewer mosquitoes and clearer skies. Small state-park entrance fee and parking at the visitors lot; trails are short and mostly flat but can be muddy—bring bug spray and water. Weekday mornings are least crowded.
Key Largo
Key Largo offers Caribbean-blue waters, mangrove-lined canals, and access to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park — prime subjects for underwater, seascape and coastal landscape photography. Best visited at sunrise or golden hour for warm light and calm seas; late morning is best for snorkeling when visibility peaks. The state park has entrance fees and paid parking; boats, glass-bottom tours and dive charters operate year-round. Expect humid subtropical weather; weekdays and shoulder seasons (春
National Key Deer Refuge
Small, endemic Key deer, mangrove shorelines, salt marshes and freshwater ponds provide intimate wildlife and landscape subjects. Best at dawn/dusk when deer graze along roadside and light is warm; dry season (Nov–Apr) has fewer bugs and clearer skies. Refuge is free to enter; park at the visitor center/Blue Hole or pullouts on Overseas Hwy. Trails and boardwalks offer accessible viewpoints; never approach or feed deer — maintain distance and follow refuge rules.
Anne’s Beach
Small roadside beach with shallow turquoise water, exposed sandbars, wind-sculpted palms, mangroves and a raised boardwalk — ideal for intimate seascapes, sunrise color, birdlife and minimalist compositions. Free entry and a small parking lot off US-1; accessible ramps; best light at sunrise and golden hour. Weekday mornings have fewer visitors; watch tides and afternoon winds that sculpt the water surface.
Paddlin' Madeleine - Paddleboard Tours & Rentals
Shallow turquoise channels, mangrove-lined keys and abundant coastal wildlife make Paddlin' Madeleine ideal for on-water photography: reflections, close-up bird and manatee shots, and sunset silhouettes. Best at calm sunrise or golden-hour sunset for soft light and mirror-like water. Mornings (esp. weekdays) have fewer tour groups; dry season (Nov–Apr) offers clearer skies. Launch is from East Rockland Key via rental/tour — reservations recommended; bring reef-safe sunscreen, waterproof gear, &a
Dolphin Research Center
Dolphin Research Center offers close-up, behavioral and action shots of Atlantic bottlenose dolphins, trainers and dockside interactions against tropical seascape backdrops. Photograph training sessions, rescue stories, and playful surface behavior; mornings (sunrise–midday) give crisp light and active animals, golden hour adds warm reflections. Site is on US-1 with onsite parking and public visiting hours—entry fees and guided programs may apply. Weekdays and early sessions are less crowded. Em
Key West Fly And Spin Fishing Charters
A working sportfishing charter base on Cudjoe Key offering boats, captains and scenic flats for fly and spin fishing. Photograph dynamic angling action, sleek boats, anglers casting against sunrise/sunset backdrops, and glassy shallow-water flats with wading anglers and occasional tarpon or bonefish. Best at golden hour and calm early mornings for reflections; requires booked charter to go offshore—parking available at the marina area. Bring waterproof protection and expect boat transfers, light
Florida Keys Swim with Dolphin Tours and Tickets
Boat and dock-based dolphin encounters in Key Largo offer dynamic wildlife action: close-up dolphin portraits, leaping acrobatics, splashes, and human-animal interaction shots. Best morning sessions for calm seas and active dolphins; golden hour can add warm side light for portraits. Check operator rules — some programs restrict in-water cameras or require waterproof housings. Facility parking available at the marina; advance booking recommended. Respect animal welfare guidelines and staff brief
Pine Channel Nature Park
Small coastal reserve on Big Pine Key with mangrove tunnels, shallow flats, tidal channels and abundant shorebirds—great for reflections, intimate landscapes and wildlife (eg. wading birds, occasional Key deer). Best at golden hour and low tide for exposed textures; short boardwalks and a small parking area make it easily accessible. Expect mosquitos; bring repellent. No entry fee; weekdays and early mornings are least crowded.
Curry Hammock State Park
Coastal mangroves, seagrass flats and a sandy beach make Curry Hammock ideal for intimate Keys landscapes and wildlife shots. Photograph shorebirds, wading herons and mirrored tidal flats at low tide; sunrise and golden hour deliver warm side-light across the shallow water. Park is off Overseas Hwy with pay-to-enter state-park fee, limited parking, kayak launch and short boardwalks. Visit weekdays at low tide or sunrise to avoid crowds; bring insect repellent and sun protection.
Curry Hammock State Park Trail
A compact coastal park on the Overseas Heritage Trail with mangrove boardwalks, seagrass flats, and open Atlantic/Florida Bay views — ideal for intimate nature, waterscape and golden-hour shots. Expect varied birdlife, reflections in tidal pools, and Everglades-edge light. Visit at sunrise or late afternoon for warm side-light and long shadows; low tide reveals textured flats. Small state-park vehicle fee and parking available at the trailhead; boardwalks are mostly accessible. Weekdays and off-
Coupon Bight Aquatic Preserve Kayak Launch
A small kayak launch into Coupon Bight Aquatic Preserve offering intimate mangrove channels, shallow seagrass flats and clear water reflections — ideal for close-up wildlife, abstract rootscapes and pastel sunrises/sunsets. Best at golden hour or high tide for reflections; early weekday mornings reduce crowds and mosquitoes. Parking is limited along Long Beach Dr; bring kayak or arrange shuttle. No special entry permits for shore access, but respect protected habitats and nesting birds.
Skydive Key West
Active drop zone on Summerland Key offering dramatic skydiver action over turquoise Florida Keys waters. Photograph parachute canopies, the plane exit, landing sequences and expansive ocean views at golden hour. Best light is sunrise and late afternoon for warm side-light; sunsets can silhouette jumpers. Site is roadside off US-1 with on-site parking and spectator area; expect waivers for participants and limited access near runways—call ahead for group shoots and operations. Weather and sea-haz
Sugarloaf Key / Key West KOA Resort
Small waterfront KOA resort on Summerland/Sugarloaf Key offers mangrove-lined canals, docks, palm-fringed cabins and broad Gulf/Florida Bay skies — ideal for golden-hour waterscapes, reflections, and relaxed Keys lifestyle shots. Best at sunrise or sunset for warm side-light and color; clear nights offer Milky Way opportunities. Resort parking and access favor registered guests—ask front desk for day-use or stay overnight. Expect mosquitoes; check tide and weather forecasts for exposed flats and
Big Pine Key Park
Small waterfront park on Big Pine Key offering mangrove-lined channels, shallow flats, boating docks and broad views across the Gulf/Atlantic channels. Ideal for golden-hour seascapes, reflections and coastal wildlife. Best at sunrise or sunset for warm sidelighting; low tide reveals sandbars and tidal textures. Easy roadside parking, no fee; wheelchair-accessible boardwalks in parts. Weekday mornings are quieter. Watch local signage for protected wildlife and respect sensitive habitats.
Marathon boat ramp
Small public boat ramp on Marathon’s Overseas Hwy offering open seascapes, docked boats, anglers, and easy views toward the Seven Mile Bridge and sunrise/sunset horizons. Best at golden hour and early morning for glassy water and bird activity; weekdays and winter months have clearer skies and fewer crowds. Easy street parking nearby; accessible launch area—no special permits for shore photography. Great for reflections, boat silhouettes, and coastal wildlife.
Sunset Park
Small oceanfront park on W Ocean Dr in Key Colony Beach offering wide Gulf views, low seawalls, palms and nearby docks — ideal for dramatic sunsets over calm flats, boats and silhouette compositions. Best at golden hour and blue hour; arrive 30–45 minutes before sunset. Easy, free public access with limited street/park parking; mostly flat and walkable. Weekdays and shoulder season have fewer people. Low tides reveal reflective sandflats for foreground interest.
Dolphin Life Key Largo
Dolphin Life Key Largo offers up-close marine wildlife encounters—action shots of bottlenose dolphins, trainer interactions, and clear turquoise pools. Best visited for morning programs (calmer water, softer light) or late afternoon exteriors. Facility is accessible with on-site parking and entry/encounter fees; flash and distracting behavior may be restricted. Perfect for behavioral and portrait-style marine images; expect controlled environments and staff-led sessions.
Channel 2 fishing spot
Shallow tropical waters, rocky jetty and anglers along the Overseas Heritage Trail offer classic Keys seascapes, fishing-action and sunrise/sunset silhouettes. Best at golden hour for warm light and reflections; early weekdays are quiet. Easy roadside access and informal parking; no entry fees. Expect breezy conditions and salt spray — protect gear. The spot is beloved by local anglers, so be respectful when composing near people.
Sunset Bay Park on Grassy Key
Small waterfront park on Grassy Key offering wide bay vistas, low mangrove shoreline, and classic Florida Keys sunset scenes. Prime for golden-hour seascapes, silhouetted palms and wading birds. Easy roadside access off Overseas Hwy with limited parking; free entry. Visit at sunset (or 30–60 min before) for dramatic skies; low tide reveals foreground textures. Expect mosquitoes in warm months and occasional windy conditions.
Sunrise Beach Resort
Small beachfront resort on Cudjoe Key offering wide Atlantic/Florida Bay vistas, pier/boardwalk scenes, boats and mangrove-lined shoreline. Best at sunrise and golden hour for warm sidelighting; blue hour and clear nights for stars. Accessible from US-1 with on-site parking for guests; public access may be limited—check resort policies. Tropical weather with calm mornings ideal for reflections; hurricane season Jun–Nov can be disruptive. Laid-back Keys atmosphere lends relaxed, local character.
Best Keys Picnic Spot
Small waterfront picnic area in Islamorada offering open views across Florida Bay, mangrove-fringed shoreline, and frequent passing boats — ideal for sunrise/sunset colors, reflections, and coastal details. No entrance fee; roadside parking is limited (park early). Best light is golden hour at dawn or dusk; mid-morning gives clearer water and bird activity. Expect light sea breeze, tropical sun; casual Keys culture—respect local fishermen and wildlife.
Stray Cat Sailing Adventures
A small catamaran charter operating out of Stock Island/Key West — prime for shooting colorful boat portraits, action shots of sails and snorkelers, golden-hour sunsets over open water, and candid lifestyle images of crew and guests. Best light at sunrise for glassy turquoise water or at sunset cruises for dramatic skies and backlit sails. Dock access at 7009 Shrimp Rd with limited parking; reservations required for trips. Weekdays and early-morning departures are less crowded. Check weather and
Boca Chica Beach Park
Small sandy beach on Naval Air Station Key West offering wide seascapes, low dunes, shorebirds and frequent military/GA aircraft movements. Best for sunrise and golden-hour seascapes, dramatic skies at sunset, and aircraft overwater approaches. Note: site is on a military base—bring ID, check visitor pass rules and base hours. Parking is available near the park but can be limited during events; weekdays and early mornings are least crowded. Tropical weather means sudden showers—plan shelter and,
Lower Sugarloaf Key
Lower Sugarloaf Key offers classic Florida Keys scenery: mangrove-lined channels, calm turquoise flats, small bridges and roadside vistas ideal for reflective waterscapes and birdlife. Best at golden hour for warm light and vivid skies; accessible by car on US-1 with limited roadside parking. Mornings are quieter for wildlife; watch for bugs and seasonal storms. No entry fees — respect private property and local anglers.
Florida Keys National Wildlife Refuge ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICE
The refuge office on Big Pine Key is a gateway to the Florida Keys National Wildlife Refuge — ideal for photographing Key deer, pine rockland and nearby mangrove/waterscape scenes. Visit at sunrise and early morning for wildlife and soft light; late dry season (Nov–Apr) has clearer skies and fewer bugs. Small parking lot and basic visitor facilities; stop here first for maps, permits and local trail recommendations. Weekdays are quieter.
Marathon Park
Small waterfront park on Marathon’s Vaca Key offering low dunes, a short pier, palm-lined shoreline and wide sky — ideal for coastal panoramas, sunset reflections, fishing silhouettes and long exposures. Best visited around golden hour for warm light and dramatic clouds; weekday mornings are quieter. Easy roadside parking off Overseas Hwy, wheelchair-accessible paths in parts; no special entry fees but expect insects in summer and occasional gusty winds.
The Key Rides
The Key Rides rents and showcases vintage-style open-air jeeps and classic cars against Key West’s pastel streets and tropical light. Photograph colorful vehicles, drivers in costume, and candid street interactions. Best at golden hour or blue hour for warm tones and reflections. Easy curbside access on 3rd Ave; short-term parking nearby and operator permission required for close-ups. Weekday mornings are quieter. Great for lifestyle portraits and travel editorial shots that capture Key West’s t
McJunkin's Hole
McJunkin's Hole is a small mangrove-fringed tidal inlet on Big Pine Key offering intimate waterscape compositions: winding mangrove roots, glassy reflections, shallow flats with birds, and dramatic skies at golden hour. Easily reached from the Overseas Highway with limited roadside parking; bring bug spray and tide awareness. Best at sunrise or sunset for warm side-light and color; low tide reveals textured flats and foreground interest. Weekday mornings are quieter.
Jet Ski Rental Marathon, FL
Jet Ski Rental Marathon sits on the Overseas Highway with direct access to turquoise Atlantic waters and Florida Bay — ideal for dynamic water-action shots, wide seascapes, and sunset silhouettes including nearby bridges. Visit at sunrise or late afternoon for soft light and calmer water; weekdays are quieter. Parking is available on-site; bring waterproof protection. Check weather and rental requirements (license/waiver) before shooting.
Florida Keys Aquarium Encounters
Interactive marine exhibits, close-up shots of sharks, rays, tropical fish and touch tanks, plus outdoor lagoon scenes—great for intimate wildlife and macro work. Best visited weekday mornings or late afternoon to avoid crowds; indoor exhibits have low light so bring fast lenses and higher ISO. Admission and timed tickets required; free on-site parking is available. Respect handling rules and staff directions for animal welfare and safety.
Dolphins Plus Bayside
Dolphins Plus Bayside offers close-up marine life photo opportunities: dolphins in shallow bays, trainers during interactions, dockside portraits and boat approaches with the Florida Keys skyline. Best light is golden hour (sunrise or late afternoon) for warm tones and calmer water. Arrive on weekday mornings for smaller groups; reservations and signed waivers are required for swim programs. Onsite parking is available. Bring waterproof protection — the operation emphasizes rescue and education,
Main Attraction
A waterside tourist spot in Marathon, FL offering coastal light, boats, and local activity—ideal for seaside and small‑town scenes. Best at golden hour (sunrise and sunset) for warm colors and reflections. Accessibility is generally good from Ave I; parking is typically street or small lots—check signage for private spaces. Weekday mornings are quieter. Bring insect repellent in summer and expect strong midday sun. No special entry requirements for public areas; respect local businesses and boat
Geiger Key
Geiger Key is a small Lower Keys island of mangrove shorelines, boat marinas, reef flats and quiet docks — ideal for intimate waterscape and nature shots: reflections at golden hour, mangrove root patterns, shorebirds and boating life. Best at sunrise or sunset for warm light and glassy water; low tide reveals exposed roots and tidal textures. Accessible by car on the Overseas Highway (limited roadside parking) or by boat; no entry fee but facilities are minimal. Expect bugs in warm months and a
Shark Key
Shark Key offers low-lying mangrove shorelines, turquoise flats and neighborhood docks — a calm Keys scene for water reflections, shore birds and pastel sunrises/sunsets. Best at golden hour and blue hour; weekday mornings have fewer boats. Easy roadside access off Big Coppitt Key but little formal parking; respect private docks and local wildlife. Drone use regulated — check NOAA/local rules.
Greenberg Park
Small waterfront park on Key Largo with open views over canals and Florida Bay—great for sunrise/sunset skies, reflections on calm water, fishing and local-boating scenes. Easy street parking and no entry fee; accessible paths but bring insect repellent in warmer months. Best light at golden hour and after storms when clouds add drama; weekdays and early mornings are least crowded.
Reel G Company LLC
Small marina/charter launch on Key Largo with colorful sportfishing boats, dock reflections and open views of the bay—great for maritime detail shots, golden-hour seascapes and environmental portraits of captains. Best at sunrise/sunset for warm light and calm water; weekdays and early mornings are least crowded. Public dock access may be limited—ask staff for permission to photograph on private docks. Street parking nearby; bring weather protection (sun/rain) and expect tropical light and sea-b
Sugarloaf Key Hotel
Small island hotel on Summerland/Sugarloaf Key with pastel architecture, palm-lined drive, and nearby mangrove-edged water where dramatic tropical sunsets and moody blue-hour scenes are common. Photograph façades, reflections in calm channels, dock and boat silhouettes at golden hour. Best at sunrise/sunset for warm side-light and colors; weekdays and off-season reduce crowds. Easily accessible by car (US-1), free on-site parking; public dock access may be limited—ask staff. Expect humid weather
Big Pine Key Dog Park
Small coastal dog park on Big Pine Key offering candid action shots of dogs, island vegetation, nearby mangrove shoreline and occasional Key deer sightings. Best at golden hour for warm light and long shadows; weekdays or early mornings reduce crowds. Small parking lot; no entry fee. Bring insect repellent and respect local wildlife and leash rules.
Bob Eanes Memorial Park
Small waterfront park on Big Pine Key with mangroves, tidal flats, calm channels and regular wildlife (Key deer, shorebirds). Shoot golden-hour reflections, dramatic skies at sunset, and intimate nature frames among mangrove roots. Easy roadside parking off Overseas Hwy, no fee; accessible paths but limited facilities. Visit at low tide for exposed flats and at sunrise/sunset for best light; be respectful of protected wildlife and local homes nearby.
Peace Park
Small waterfront park on Key Largo with open views over the bay, mangrove edges and low docks — ideal for sunrise and sunset seascapes, reflections and intimate nature shots. Easy roadside access and free entry/parking; visit at golden hour for warm light and calm water. Expect mosquitoes in the evening and occasional crowds on weekends; bring polarizer for glare and plan for changing tides and wind.
Friendship Park
Small waterfront park on Key Largo with open bay views, mangroves, a short pier and palm-fringed shoreline — good for sunrise/sunset colors, reflections and coastal detail shots. Easy roadside parking; no entry fee. Best at golden hour for warm light and low tides for exposed textures. Weekdays and early mornings are quieter; expect occasional anglers and local wildlife (herons, shorebirds).
Bay Point Park
Small waterfront park on Key West with mangroves, a curved shoreline and wide views across Florida Bay — ideal for pastel sunrises, reflections, and local birdlife. No entry fee; small parking lot and street parking on E Circle Dr. Best at golden hour; watch tides and occasional wind for dramatic skies. Accessible paths and picnic benches make quick stops easy; expect more visitors at sunset and on weekends.
Bluewater Key Resort RV Lot 8
Small, private waterfront RV resort on Key West with palm-framed slips, colorful RVs and marina reflections — great for intimate waterscape and lifestyle shots. Best at sunrise and golden hour for soft light; dramatic sunsets over nearby channels. Access is private (ask permission or stay as guest). Lot parking is for registered RVs; weekdays are quieter. Expect tropical humidity and typical island light; compact compositions work well here.
Bluewater Key RV Resort Lot 69
A private canal-front RV resort in Key West offering intimate waterscape scenes, palm-lined lots, docks and colourful RV/vacation setups. Best for golden-hour reflections, sunrise over canals and intimate lifestyle/architecture shots. Access is private — request entry or stay as a guest. Weekday mornings and late afternoons have best light and fewer people; be mindful of strong midday sun and summer storms. Limited parking for visitors; expect tight spaces and residential calm rather than public
Artists In Paradise Gallery
Small, colorful coastal art gallery showcasing local Keys painters and photographers. Shoot vibrant paintings, textured frames, gallery interiors and candid artist interactions. Best visited weekday mornings or late afternoons for softer window light; exteriors pop at golden hour. Easy street parking on Key Deer Blvd; casual entry—ask before tripod use or photographing people. Special for documentary shots of island culture and Florida Keys hues.
Little Torch Key
Low, undeveloped island in the Lower Florida Keys offering mangrove-lined shorelines, calm tidal channels, boat docks and broad Atlantic/Florida Bay vistas — ideal for golden-hour seascapes, reflected water patterns, and intimate nature scenes. Reachable via US‑1 with roadside pullouts; parking is limited and many shoreline spots are on private property so use public boat ramps or kayak to get better angles. Best at sunrise or sunset for warm side-light and reflections; clear nights offer Milky‒
Wilhelmina Harvey Children's Park
Small, colorful community playground in Old Town Key West — great for capturing candid children/family moments, bright play structures against tropical palms, and neighborhood life. Visit during golden hour or weekday mornings for softer light and fewer crowds. Easy street parking nearby, free entry, wheelchair-accessible paths; expect strong midday sun and frequent summer showers. Local, friendly atmosphere adds cultural charm.
Reef Seeker Scuba
Reef Seeker Scuba is a local dive shop and launch point for Florida Keys reef and wreck dives — prime for photographing dive boats, dockside prep scenes, sunrise over open water, and underwater reef life if joining a charter. Best light is early morning (calm water, soft light) and golden hour at sunset. Accessible parking at the shop; book trips in advance and bring dive certification or plan for guided/intro dives. Expect classic Keys colors, salt-scarred textures, and conservation-minded crew