From mangrove-lined creeks in Key Largo to secluded coastlines in the remote Dry Tortugas, the Florida Keys and surrounding shallow tropical waters possess natural and man-made wonders unmatched in the continental United States. In this water paradise, paddlers have an almost unlimited number of creeks, mangroves, and shorelines to explore, from sheltered paddling on the oceanside of the Upper Keys to open-water crossings in the Middle Keys to explorations of outlying islands in the Lower Keys.

 

The Florida Keys Paddling Atlas provides custom-made charts, from Key Largo to Key West and the Dry Tortugas, specifically designed for paddlers, fly fishers, snorkelers, and other small-craft water enthusiasts interested in shallow water exploration. Each chart is fully annotated with key put-ins, paddle-friendly marinas, and ­hidden waterways. Accompanying field notes provide route-finding information, including distances and suggested routes, paddling highlights, cautions, natural history, flora and fauna, and points of interest, to help guide water travelers on their own excursions and adventures. An extensive appendix contains information on kayak launches, outfitters, guides, rentals, camping, and paddle-friendly lodging and dining.

 

Bill and Mary Burnham have authored six guidebooks and hundreds of articles on hiking and paddling in the southeastern United States. They are American Canoe Association certified kayak instructors who lived in Key Largo and guided kayak trips throughout the Keys while researching this Atlas.