Kids Miami - June 08, 2009

Right on Key

Road Trip to the Keys

It’s either creatures in the Everglades (mosquitoes, alligators, the Skunk Ape) or creature comforts in the Keys. Call us domesticated; we vote for the latter.

REST
Take a load off at Hawks Cay Resort (61 Hawks Cay Boulevard, MM 61, Duck Key; 305-743-7000) while the kids (ages 5-12) spend the day at Camp Hawk (pool games, snorkeling, and crafts). Or stay at Ocean Key Resort & Spa (Zero Duval Street, Key West; 305-296-7701), just a short walk from the Key West Aquarium and Mallory Square.

PLAY
Warm, shallow water and a nature center make Bahia Honda State Park a favorite for fams (MM 37, Bahia Honda Key; 305-872-2353). Observe up to 60 butterfly species at The Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory (1316 Duval Street, Key West; 305-296-2988). Check out famous sights on The Southernmost Scavenger Hunt (305-292-9994; Friday-Sunday, noon).

NOURISH
Get a taste of the Keys with house-smoked fish dip at The Fish House (102401 Overseas Highway, MM 102.4, Key Largo; 305-451-4665) or nosh on coconut shrimp at Square Grouper (22658 Overseas Highway, MM 22.5, Cudjoe Key; 305-745-8880). End the day at Flamingo Crossing with mango ice cream (1107 Duval Street, Key West; 305-296-6124).

Always the key to a successful trip.

DESIGN
Kids Club
What: Kids paint custom visors for pops.
Why: Cap off the morning.
When: Sat., 9-10 a.m.
Where: Whole Foods Market, 21105 Biscayne Blvd., Aventura (305-933-1543).

TWIRL
Drop-in Ballet Classes
What: Former Miami City Ballet dancer teaches movement and basic ballet skills to 2-4 year olds.
Why: Tu-tu cute.
When: Sat., 10-10:45 a.m.
Where: Tula and Tupi, 3133 Commodore Plaza, Coconut Grove (305-441-2153).

EXPLORE
Come Aboard the S.S. Caribbean
What: The story of the islands presented for curious youngsters.
Why: The rest is history.
When: Sat., 2-4 p.m.
Where: Historical Museum of Southern Florida, 101 W. Flagler Ave. (305-375-1492).