Florida Keys

Stretching across fragile coral islands between the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, the Florida Keys offer students an immersive learning environment where climate science, marine biodiversity, culture, and community resilience are inseparable. From coral nurseries and mangrove forests to historic neighborhoods shaped by migration, literature, and maritime trade, students explore how life in the Keys is defined by water, weather, and adaptation.

Through hands-on work with marine scientists, conservation organizations, writers, and local educators, students investigate how communities respond to climate change, protect ecosystems, and reimagine sustainability in one of the most climate-vulnerable regions of the United States.

Learning through the SDGs

Click an SDG below to see examples of how select SDGs are explored on our programs.

11
Sustainable Cities and Communities

Life in the Florida Keys requires intentional design and collective responsibility. Students explore how island communities manage tourism, housing, transportation, and environmental protection in a place with limited land and resources. Learning emphasizes resilience, local decision-making, and the balance between economic livelihoods and environmental limits.

13
Climate Action

The Florida Keys sit on the front lines of climate change. Students engage directly with scientists and educators to understand coral bleaching, sea-level rise, warming waters, and extreme weather. Through data-driven learning and field experiences, students explore both mitigation efforts and adaptation strategies in a rapidly changing environment.

14
Life Below Water

Surrounded by North America’s only living coral barrier reef, the Keys provide unparalleled access to marine ecosystems. Students investigate coral reef health, invasive species, and marine conservation through snorkeling, lab work, and field research, building scientific literacy and a deeper understanding of ocean stewardship.

Where Ocean Meets Story

The Florida Keys have long attracted writers, artists, scientists, and dreamers drawn to the edges of land and sea. Students explore how place shapes creativity and identity through literary walking tours, writing workshops, and visits to the homes of influential authors such as Elizabeth Bishop and Ernest Hemingway.

At the same time, learners confront the realities of environmental vulnerability and historical injustice, examining how climate change, colonial legacies, and economic pressures affect who gets to stay, adapt, and thrive. This theme invites students to see resilience as both ecological and cultural.

Sample itinerary

At Insight, our programs are designed to reflect the unique interests, goals, and needs of your students. Each itinerary is thoughtfully customized in collaboration with schools, ensuring meaningful alignment with your learning objectives.

Travel from home to South Florida and continue by road to Key West, crossing the Overseas Highway as land gives way to sea. Settle into the Keys and gather for a welcome and orientation introducing program themes around climate, biodiversity, and island life.

Begin with a literary walking exploration of Old Town Key West, uncovering how writers have captured the Keys’ unique landscapes and cultures. Continue to Mote Marine Laboratory for an in-depth look at coral restoration, touring land-based nurseries and engaging in hands-on coral and fish identification activities.

The day concludes with a writing workshop in a tropical garden setting, connecting scientific observation with creative expression.

Dive deeper into marine ecology through a hands-on lesson on invasive species, including a guided lionfish dissection examining its impact on reef ecosystems. Visit The Turtle Hospital to learn how injured sea turtles are rehabilitated and released, highlighting the intersection of science, ethics, and conservation.

Later, participate in a writing workshop at the Elizabeth Bishop House, reflecting on how place shapes voice and perspective.

Head out on the water for a combined snorkeling and kayaking experience. Explore coral reefs, mangrove tunnels, and seagrass beds while learning how these ecosystems protect shorelines, support biodiversity, and store carbon.

In the afternoon, visit the Hemingway Home and the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center to explore natural history, marine science, and storytelling through both science and literature.

Travel by ferry to Dry Tortugas National Park, one of the most remote national parks in the U.S. Explore Fort Jefferson’s history, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and investigate marine life around the fort’s moorings. Discussions focus on conservation, isolation, and the challenges of protecting fragile ecosystems.

Visit the African Cemetery at Higgs Beach to learn about the lives of enslaved individuals whose stories were long erased. Continue through historic forts, museums, and cultural landmarks, examining how trade, migration, and maritime industries shaped the Keys.

End the day at Mallory Square, experiencing the communal ritual of sunset before a final group dinner and reflection.

Depart the Keys in the early morning and return home, carrying forward new perspectives on climate resilience, marine conservation, and the human stories tied to fragile environments.

Highlights

Coral Conservation in Action

Work alongside marine scientists to understand coral restoration, invasive species management, and reef protection.

Life at the Edge of Land and Sea

Snorkel reefs, kayak mangroves, and explore coastal ecosystems that demonstrate the urgency of climate action.

Creativity Rooted in Place

Connect literature, writing, and observation to environmental learning in a landscape that has inspired generations of artists.

What’s included

  • All accommodations
  • All meals and water
  • All programs activities and experiences
  • All teacher chaperone costs at an 8:1 ratio
  • Comprehensive travel insurance (medical, travel and cancellation)
  • Curriculum units to accompany program themes
  • Global and locally-based facilitators
  • Pre-program orientations and post-program debriefing

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