A Guide to Seafood Festivals in the Florida Keys

The Florida Keys are renowned for their breathtaking beauty, vibrant culture, and, most notably, their exquisite seafood. Come taste the best local eats at the many Seafood Festivals in the Florida Keys. Seafood festivals are a must-visit event for both locals and tourists in the Florida Keys. This guide to seafood festivals in the Florida Keys will help you find the best eats around.

The Best Seafood Festivals in the Florida Keys

Seafood festivals in the Florida Keys offer a unique blend of culinary delights and entertainment, set amongst the beautiful and serene backdrop of this area. For those planning to explore seafood festivals in the Florida Keys, you’ll find perfect accommodations at Ocean Pointe Suites in Key Largo, Florida. This guide will navigate you through the best seafood festivals in the Florida Keys, plus offer insights into each seafood festivals’ unique offerings, best time to go, and more.

1. Marathon Seafood Festival

In March, you’ll want to come to the Florida Keys for the Marathon Seafood Festival. It is not just the oldest but, also the largest seafood festival in the Florida Keys. Here’s why it’s a must-visit:

Location and Accessibility: Located in Marathon, Florida, it's easily accessible by car with ample parking available for attendees. Shuttle services are often arranged from various points, including Key Largo.

Entrance Fees: A minimal entrance fee is charged, which goes towards supporting local causes.

Family-Friendly: The Marathon Seafood Festival is designed to cater to all ages, with plenty of kid-friendly activities.

Seafood and Vendors: Expect a wide range of seafood vendors, from local fishermen selling their fresh catch to gourmet food stalls offering everything from stone crab claws to lobster rolls and conch fritters. Must-try delicacies include the locally sourced shrimp and the key lime pie. Here's a list of Marathon Seafood Festival vendors.

Best Time to Go: To avoid the crowds and enjoy cooler weather, attend the Marathon Seafood Festival in the early morning or late afternoon is advisable.

Directions and Parking: The Marathon Seafood Festival is easy to find by heading south down the big green Mile Markers to #49 in Marathon, FL.  Parking at the seafood festival is available at Stanley Switlik Elementary School.

Entertainment and Live Music: From classic rock to harmonica playing mastery, the Marathon Seafood Festival entertainment lineup is an incredible experience waiting for you.

2. Key West Lobsterfest

Celebrating the start of the lobster season, the Key West Lobsterfest occurs in August. It is a tribute to the beloved crustacean. Here’s what you need to know about the Key West Lobsterfest:

Location and Accessibility: Key West is the host, with several parking garages and street parking available.

Entrance Fees: Entry to the street fair is free, with various events within the festival requiring tickets.

Family-Friendly: The Key West Lobsterfest is suitable for all ages.

Seafood and Vendors: The Key West Lobsterfest features lobster in every form imaginable - from grilled to boiled and even in tacos. Exclusive vendors offer unique lobster-themed merchandise and local crafts.

Best Time to Go: Evening times are magical, with the street fair lighting up and cooler temperatures.

3. Florida Keys Seafood Festival

In January, Florida Keys Seafood Festival celebrates the bounty of the area’s waters. Here’s what attendees can look forward to at the Florida Keys Seafood Festival: 

Location and Accessibility: Situated in Key West, it's easily reachable by car from Key Largo, with parking options available around the venue.

Entrance Fees: A nominal entry fee is required, offering full access to the festivities.

Kid and Pet-Friendly: The Florida Keys Seafood Festival is welcoming to families and their furry friends, making it a perfect outing for everyone.

Seafood and Vendors: The Florida Keys Seafood Festival prides itself on a vast selection of seafood, including grilled lobster, fried fish, and the famous Key West pink shrimp. Unique vendors also offer artisanal goods and seafood-related products.

Best Time to Go: Midday is ideal to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and live music.

Accommodations Near Seafood Festivals in Florida Keys

While visiting seafood festivals in the Florida Keys, stay at Ocean Pointe Suites in Key Largo. These accommodations near the Marathon Seafood Festival, Lobsterfest and more, offers several benefits:

• Central Location: Situated in Key Largo, Florida, Ocean Pointe Suites offers easy access to the festivals, positioned at the gateway to the Keys.
• Luxury and Comfort: With spacious, fully equipped suites, guests enjoy luxury and comfort, including private balconies with ocean views.
• Amenities: The resort boasts a private beach, swimming pool, tennis courts, and a marina, ensuring a delightful stay beyond the festival grounds.
• Family and Pet-Friendly: Ocean Pointe Suites welcomes families and pets, ensuring a comfortable stay for everyone.

Why Ocean Pointe Suites?

Ocean Pointe Suites in Key Largo, Florida, is not just a place to stay; it's a destination in itself. With its prime location, it serves as the perfect base for exploring the Seafood Festivals in the Florida Keys. The resort's amenities, from the lush tropical setting to the waterfront café and cocktail lounge, offer relaxation and enjoyment. The convenience of having a fully equipped kitchen in each suite, along with the barbecue facilities, allows guests to try their hand at cooking the fresh seafood acquired from the festivals.

Each of the Seafood Festivals in the Florida Keys offers a unique taste of the region's rich marine life and culinary heritage. From the Marathon Seafood Festival's community spirit to the gourmet offerings at the Florida Keys Seafood Festival and the celebratory vibe of the Key West Lobsterfest, there's something for every seafood lover. Ocean Pointe Suites in Key Largo, Florida, enhances this experience, combining the comfort of luxury accommodations with the natural beauty and culinary riches of the Florida Keys. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or culinary delights, the Seafood Festivals in the Florida Keys and Ocean Pointe Suites await to offer an unforgettable experience.  

Reserve your accommodations at Ocean Point Suites, where you'll be perfectly positioned to savor the flavors of the renowned seafood festivals of the Florida Keys. Don't wait until it's too late - book today!