January 12th, 2011 
Admin Looking for the perfect place for Halloween thrills and chills this October? The Florida Keys, made up of more than 1700 picturesque islands about 15 miles south of Miami, feature scores of breezy, tree-laden beaches, fine restaurants and vibrant nightclubs. What’s more, each year they host a wide array of family-friendly events sure to satisfy even the most demanding Halloween reveler. Whether your idea of a memorable Halloween celebration involves chilling boat rides, underwater pumpkin carving, or thrilling costume contests, the Keys offer something for people of all ages to enjoy. Below is a rundown of not-to-be-missed happenings in the Florida Keys this October, as well as Florida Keys hotels not far from the action.
Key Largo: If you’re an avid diver, you’ll no doubt feel right at home in the Florida Keys, a prime diving and snorkeling destination whose coral barrier reef is the world’s third largest. The annual Underwater Pumpkin Carving Contest in Key Largo, scheduled for Sunday, Oct. 24 at 8:30 a.m. at Mile Marker (MM) 104.5, is open to all certified scuba divers. Using nothing more than dive knives and boundless creativity, each team will attempt to turn a hollowed-out pumpkin into a jack-o-lantern while submerged roughly 30 feet underwater. Entry into the contest is free – contestants need only pay a dive boat fee. Noteworthy Key Largo hotels include Ocean Pointe Suites at Key Largo; if time permits, fuel up with breakfast in its waterfront cafe or walk along the property’s private boardwalk and marina before hitting the road.