One Of Florida's Best-Kept Secrets Is A Series Of Serene Islands With Uncrowded Beaches

Florida offers nature and wildlife found in few other places across the United States. From its panhandle to its barrier islands and everywhere in between, you'll find marshlands, natural springs, white sand beaches, and national parks — one of which is almost completely underwater. The Sunshine State is popular worldwide, but there are still amazing places away from the crowds.

The Florida Keys include multiple Florida favorites. From Key Largo to Key West, this string of islands makes for an unforgettable Florida road trip. Among the region's hidden gems are the seemingly untouched Mud Keys, just 30 minutes northeast of Key West. The name is a bit deceiving, however. Rather than consisting of actual mud, Mud Keys are a group of small islands — little more than sandbars — grouped together by mangroves, but still with the heavenly white sand and vibrantly colored water associated with Florida. They barely even show up on a map and you can only get there by boat, but the uncrowded scenery is pristine both above and below the water.

Key West Sandbar Tours is an organization of private charter boats operating excursions around many of Key West's sandbars. Their Mud Keys Mangrove Safari tour can take you to the remote and otherwise inaccessible Mud Keys. On the way to and from Mud Keys, look out for dolphins and birds, including spoonbills and ospreys among the mangroves. Once you arrive, you'll see why these formations are special for more than just their appearance. The clear water around these small sandbars is gorgeous, but also shallow enough for all ages to enjoy. Wade among peaceful nature or do some snorkeling to spot crabs and fish.

The Mud Keys Mangrove Safari tour picks guests up from the Beachside Resort & Residences Key West, but you don't have to be staying here to join the tour. Room rates range from around $149 to $500, and this resort is conveniently located right next to Highway 1 — the highway connecting Key West all the way back to mainland Florida.

If you're an experienced boater and want to visit Mud Keys more independently, check out boat rentals from Fun in the Sun. You can also rent a boat with a captain on board if driving it on your own sounds a bit daunting. They will also know where to find the best uncrowded beaches in the area and can help you spot wildlife.

The best time of year to visit the Florida Keys — including Mud Keys — is December through May, though the weather is warm year-round. Given that Mud Keys is one of Florida's best-kept secrets, crowds are usually not a problem at any time of year. If you want to lower your chances of encountering crowds as much as possible, narrow down this window of time to March through May. This is also when birds like Bahama mockingbirds, LaSagra's flycatcher, herons, ibises, and western spindalis spend time around the Keys during their migration.