The Florida Keys is a diving paradise that isn’t too far from the Tampa Bay area. Not only are The Keys fabulous for diving, they are a great, inexpensive winter getaway with lots of variety. Surprising affordable! The Caribbean blue waters of the most southerly mainland United States offers 120 feet visibility and scuba divers from around the world come down to the Florida Keys underwater paradise to experience the colorful life within the coral reef. There are more than 600 species of fish and the sea creatures and plants never stop moving so the landscape is constantly changing. Elkhorn coral, brain coral, and sea fans are just a few of the plant life that draws the exotic underwater animal life.

Along with reef diving, there is an array of historical wrecks that await scuba divers (and photographers, artists, writers, fishermen, and vacationers) of all levels. Civil War wrecks and Spanish galleons are amongst all the underwater history. Artificial reefs have been created by people who want to protect the natural reef and give it some R&R from all the divers and diving.

There are many dive operations on Florida Keys islands and they are outfitted to provide beginner lessons, scuba diving certifications, equipment, and even boats and boat rides to the reef and wreck dives. A local dive shop can even provide you with a professional who can go out with you as little or as long as you wish. It is a diver’s heaven down there and there are businesses that will teach you the ropes of underwater photography and recording. If you don’t have the video and photography equipment that you need, all can be rented or purchased along this string of islands called The Keys. Writers and artists from around the world are inspired by the underwater paradise that they followed Ernest Hemingway (who lived on Key West) by making the Florida Keys their home and destination for creative material.

Each island offers its unique gifts so you’ll want to make time to go from Key Largo, the diving capital of the world and where you can swim with the manatees, all the way to the lively Key West  full of cultural, history, literature, and art if you get the chance. The laid back life of these islands are reminiscent of the Caribbean life where the lazy sunny days lull you into relaxation and the easy way of life is also gentle on your wallet. Hotels and rooms start at $79.00. Sometimes you can get online discounts, coupons, and Florida resident specials for even lower than that!

Whether you live in Tampa Bay or are visiting this area, head on down to the cluster of islands in the Caribbean to savor the inexpensive, amazing diving and the underwater adventure AND island life. Stay a little longer because you can afford to!

Hit these hot deals before hitting the sunny Florida Keys: