Knowledge Center

Forget chilly autumn nights and rustling leaves – in the Florida Keys, Halloween comes with a side of sunshine, shimmering waters, and seriously spirited celebrations! While the whole island chain embraces the spooky season, Key West is undeniably the epicenter of the outlandish and unforgettable, home to one of the world's most famous costume festivals. But whether you're looking for family-friendly fun, a thrilling haunted experience, or an adults-only extravaganza, the Keys have a Halloween treat for everyone.   Key West: The Epicenter of Extravaganza - Fantasy Fest!   When you talk about Halloween in the Keys, you have to...

Ah, September! As the summer sun mellows and a crispness enters the air, we turn our attention to the magnificent gemstone that perfectly embodies this shift: Sapphire! While its name immediately conjures images of deep, velvety blues, prepare to have your mind (and jewel box!) expanded, because sapphire is so much more than just blue. This cherished gem has captivated royalty, clergy, and gem lovers for millennia, symbolizing truth, sincerity, faithfulness, and nobility. It's no wonder it's been a favorite for engagement rings and heirloom pieces for centuries!   The Regal Blue: More Than Just a Shade   When most people...

Labor Day weekend is almost here, and in the Upper Keys, that means one thing: the water is going to be buzzing! From Key Largo to Islamorada, our beautiful turquoise waters will be alive with boats, jet skis, and divers all eager to soak up the last unofficial days of summer. It’s a fantastic time to be out on the water, but with more people comes a greater need for vigilance and responsible boating. Here in the "Dive Capital of the World" and the heart of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, we take our water safety and environmental protection...

Welcome, fellow adventurers, to Key Largo – the "Dive Capital of the World"! If you've ever dreamt of exploring vibrant coral reefs, encountering diverse marine life, or venturing into the mysterious depths of historic shipwrecks, then you've found your paradise. Nestled at the northern tip of the Florida Keys, Key Largo offers an unparalleled underwater experience for divers of all skill levels. The entire area off Key Largo is part of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary and the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, ensuring these precious ecosystems are protected for generations to come. This commitment to conservation means...

As the summer sun blazes brightly and August arrives, it brings with it a gemstone that perfectly captures the season's vibrant energy: Peridot! With its dazzling, lime-green to olive-green hues, peridot is a true ray of sunshine in the world of gemstones. Often mistaken for emeralds in historical accounts (even Cleopatra's famed emerald collection is now thought to have included a fair share of peridot!), this beautiful stone has a rich history and a unique charm all its own.   The "Gem of the Sun" with a Fiery Origin   Peridot is the gem-quality variety of the mineral olivine, and it...