Unlike the major metropolitan areas of Florida, the Florida Keys do not have professional sports teams in the traditional sense. However, the region is deeply connected to the pro sports scene in South Florida. Many professional athletes, especially in baseball, football, and golf, vacation, train, or own homes in the Keys due to the relaxed lifestyle, warm weather, and access to world-class fishing and boating. Some former professional athletes have even moved to the Keys permanently after retirement.
The Sports Scene in the Florida Keys & Monroe County
Despite the lack of major professional teams, sports play a vital role in the lifestyle and culture of the Keys. The primary sports in the area revolve around the water, with fishing, boating, and diving taking center stage.
Popular Sports: Fishing, Boating, Diving, Kiteboarding
- Fishing (sport fishing, deep-sea, and inshore) is king, with Key West known for world-class tournaments.
- Boating is a lifestyle, with the Florida Keys attracting yacht and sailing enthusiasts.
- Scuba diving and snorkeling are major draws, with coral reefs and shipwrecks among the best in the U.S.
- Kiteboarding is rising in popularity, especially in areas like Islamorada
Florida Keys & Monroe County
The Florida Keys are a paradise for water sports, with fishing, diving, and boating being the lifeblood of the region. Sport fishing tournaments attract anglers from around the world, while scuba diving and snorkeling around coral reefs make it one of the best dive destinations in the U.S. Sailing and yachting are also highly popular, drawing maritime enthusiasts year-round.
Fishing (Sport Fishing & Deep-Sea Tournaments)
The Florida Keys are considered one of the best sport fishing destinations in the world.
- Key West and Islamorada are known as the “Sport Fishing Capital of the World,” attracting both amateur and professional anglers.
- High-profile fishing tournaments, such as the Sailfish Tournament, Tarpon Cup, and Hemingway Days Marlin Tournament, bring in competitors from across the globe.
- Some of the most sought-after fish species include marlin, sailfish, tarpon, snapper, and mahi-mahi, making the Keys a hotspot for professional and recreational fishing.
- Several pro athletes and celebrities participate in these tournaments, further connecting the region to the professional sports world.
Boating, Sailing & Yachting
- The Keys are a major hub for competitive sailing and yacht racing, with events like the Conch Republic Cup and Key West Race Week.
- Professional sailing teams and world-class yachtsmen often train in the region due to its unique wind and water conditions.
- The Florida Keys Challenge is a major long-distance canoeing and kayaking race that tests endurance athletes on the open water.
Diving & Snorkeling Competitions
- The Keys are home to the only living coral reef in the continental U.S., making it a global center for scuba diving and freediving competitions.
- Events like the Key Largo Lionfish Derby help control invasive species while promoting competitive spearfishing.
- Professional and recreational divers from around the world come to explore sites like the USS Spiegel Grove and the Christ of the Abyss underwater statue.
Paddleboarding, Kiteboarding & Water Sports
- Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) races have grown in popularity, with the Keys hosting major competitions that attract elite athletes.
- Kiteboarding and windsurfing are particularly popular in Key West and Islamorada, where strong winds and shallow waters create ideal conditions.
- Jet ski racing and long-distance endurance paddling events draw participants from across the state.
Local & Amateur Sports in the Keys
While the Florida Keys may not have the large stadiums or arenas seen in other parts of the state, high school sports play an essential role in the community.
- Football, baseball, and soccer are the most popular team sports, with high schools like Key West High School and Marathon High School producing competitive programs.
- Youth sports leagues are heavily involved in fishing, boating, and aquatic endurance events, rather than traditional land-based sports.
Connection to Miami & South Florida’s Pro Teams
Many residents of the Keys are fans of South Florida’s professional teams, particularly the Miami Dolphins (NFL), Miami Heat (NBA), Miami Marlins (MLB), and Inter Miami CF (MLS).
- Dolphins Training Camps & Events – The Miami Dolphins have hosted fan engagement events and youth football programs in the Keys.
- Baseball Spring Training – While the Keys don’t have an MLB spring training site, many baseball players visit the region for offseason fishing and relaxation.
The Florida Keys may not have professional sports teams, but its sports culture is deeply tied to the water. Fishing, boating, diving, and paddle sports are not just recreational activities but major competitive events that attract elite athletes, celebrities, and former pros. The connection to Miami’s pro sports scene also ensures that the Keys remain engaged with the broader Florida sports culture.
