"...The conventional way to explore the Florida Keys is by car. The chunk of U.S. 1 that stretches from the Florida mainland to Key West — 127.5 miles with 42 bridges and vast stretches of water on each side — is often counted among the most scenic drives in the country...it quickly becomes evident that pavement takes an island-hopping traveler only so far. A deeper immersion requires not just looking at the shallow water, but getting on it. And a kayak may be the best way to do it..."