Guide to Duck Key

'With its enchanting canals and bridges, Duck Key is like a tropical little Venice, floating in the Florida Keys.'

Wonderfully carefree and about as laid-back as you can get, Duck Key is one of the tiny islands that makes up the exotic Florida Keys. Its relaxed residents are infectiously easy-going and you'll be stepping in time to their unhurried pace from the moment you arrive. It's the ultimate holiday unwind. Crammed full of Spanish and West Indian-influenced architecture, you'll find the isle's good looks as welcoming as the locals. Even as you step onto Duck Key, you'll pass through a Spanish-style stone gateway. And you don't have to travel far to see snaking canals spanned by beautiful arched bridges and West Indian inspired buildings. You're in for a treat with the scenery here, too. Lush green countryside sweeps out to sugary pearl beaches and the crystal-clear waters are to die for. A completely natural island, Duck Key is actually a fusion of five isles - Yacht Club Island, Centre Island, Harbour Island, Plantation Island and Indies Island, with only one road to the mainland. So you're guaranteed a totally secluded getaway. While you're here, why not check out the wonderful wildlife. Like its name suggests, Duck Key is a haven for all sorts of animals – not just ducks! Take a closer look at the gorgeous coral reefs surrounding the island and you'll discover an underwater world teeming with colourful marine life. Do as the locals do and snorkel right off your doorstep! The Dolphin Research Centre is one of the area's biggest attractions, and you can also see acrobatic dolphins and other deep sea stars at Windley Key's Theater of the Sea. Or head for Veterans Memorial Park with its breathtaking sandy beach and sit with a picnic as you spot seabirds. Spend a bit of time browsing the shops and galleries here too, and buy some colourful art pieces and handicrafts to take home. And after you've watched the sun set in a dazzling display, take a stroll around and peruse the menus of the enticing restaurants with, of course, the freshest of seafood on the menu.

While you're here, why not check out the wonderful wildlife. Like its name suggests, Duck Key is a haven for all sorts of animals – not just ducks! Take a closer look at the gorgeous coral reefs surrounding the island and you'll discover an underwater world teeming with colourful marine life. Do as the locals do and snorkel right off your doorstep! The Dolphin Research Centre is one of the area's biggest attractions, and you can also see acrobatic dolphins and other deep sea stars at Windley Key's Theater of the Sea. Or head for Veterans Memorial Park with its breathtaking sandy beach and sit with a picnic as you spot seabirds. Spend a bit of time browsing the shops and galleries here too, and buy some colourful art pieces and handicrafts to take home. And after you've watched the sun set in a dazzling display, take a stroll around and peruse the menus of the enticing restaurants, with of course – the freshest of seafood on the menu.

Find the cheapest late deals to Duck Key leaving in the next six weeks.