Honeymoon like royalty in the Florida Keys

The royal couple opted for the ultimate in romance for their honeymoon: a luxury tropical island resort offering them the ultimate in privacy.

Like their hideaway, the Florida Keys & Key West offer honeymooners an exciting destination to explore together, a place to relax after the hectic period leading up to a wedding and a gloriously romantic subtropical setting.

One of the most romantic and tranquil resorts in the Florida Keys is Little Palm Island, located just over three miles off- shore from the Overseas Highway and the Lower Keys’ Little Torch Key. Accessible only by boat or seaplane, this private-island resort offers 28 thatched-roof oceanfront bungalows and two grand suites. There are virtually no distractions — no telephones, televisions or guests under the age of 16 are allowed. littlepalmisland.com.

The ancient romantic tradition of watching the sunset together is celebrated nightly at Mallory Square in Key West. Each evening, the festivities include street performers and vendors against the backdrop of the fiery sun settling into the Gulf of Mexico - sunsetcelebration.org. Alternatively, toast the sunset with a glass of champagne on board a sunset catamaran cruise. furycat.com.

To walk hand-in-hand on a pristine white-sand beach is a wonderfully romantic excursion, especially when that beach is only exposed at low tide and can only be reached by boat or kayak.  “The Beach Under Water,” an extensive sandbar located several hundred yards off Grassy Key, is a real locals’ spot that offers warm shallow waters for snorkeling.

It may not be possible to hire a vintage Aston Martin, such as Kate and William drove away in, but it’s well worthwhile renting a convertible car to enjoy the drive down the spine of the Florida Keys. The Overseas Highway, also called U.S. 1, is one of America’s most unique car journeys, offering spectacular scenery and an astonishing 42 bridges to cross.

Newlyweds can also copy the royal couple with a helicopter trip. Marathon’s Island Hoppers offers helicopter charters and sightseeing tours including the new Scenic Shoreline Flight and Lunch at Cabbage Key. ravenair.net.

For more information about the Florida Keys & Key West, visit: fla-keys.co.uk