Leonida Keys
Real-world equivalent: Florida Keys, Florida
A chain of tropical islands stretching south from the Leonida mainland, connected by a scenic overseas highway — GTA 6's take on the Florida Keys.
Deep Analysis
The Leonida Keys represent one of GTA 6's most exciting confirmed locations — a chain of small tropical islands connected by bridges and causeways that mirror the real Florida Keys' Overseas Highway. This is unprecedented territory for a GTA game: a linear chain of islands stretching away from the main map, offering a completely different vibe from the urban chaos of Vice City.
From what we've seen in trailer footage and screenshots, the Leonida Keys capture the laid-back, salt-crusted atmosphere of the real Keys perfectly. The architecture shifts dramatically from Vice City's high-rises to low-slung wooden buildings, tiki bars, bait shops, and pastel-painted cottages elevated on stilts. It's the kind of place where flip-flops are formal wear and happy hour starts at noon.
The Overseas Highway equivalent is a visual marvel. Long stretches of road bridge crystal-clear turquoise water, with the ocean visible on both sides. Based on the trailer footage, these bridges appear to be fully driveable with no loading screens — a seamless transition from mainland Leonida through the island chain. The engineering required to render these long water vistas without pop-in is impressive.
Each key appears to have its own character. We've spotted what looks like a Key West equivalent — the largest and southernmost island — featuring a downtown strip with bars, souvenir shops, and a famous sunset pier that mirrors Mallory Square. Smaller keys show fishing villages, dive shops, private island mansions, and at least one that appears mostly undeveloped — just mangroves and beaches.
The water around the Keys is notably different from the deeper ocean waters elsewhere in the map. It's shallow, clear, and teeming with visible marine life. Screenshots show coral reef formations visible from the surface, suggesting underwater exploration will be a significant gameplay element here. This aligns with real Keys life, where snorkeling and diving are primary activities.
The Keys also appear to serve a narrative purpose. Several trailer shots show Lucia and Jason on the Keys in what appear to be both mission and leisure contexts. The remote location, limited escape routes (just one highway in and out), and small-town atmosphere make the Keys a perfect setting for tense story moments — drug runs, boat chases, and hideout sequences that leverage the unique geography.
Fishing appears to be a major activity here. We've spotted fishing charter boats, pier fishing, and what looks like a fish market or seafood restaurant where catches might be sold. Combined with boat access to open water, the Keys could be GTA 6's premier maritime gameplay zone.
Key Details
The Overseas Highway
The signature road connecting the Keys is rendered as a continuous driveable route with multiple bridge segments. The famous Seven Mile Bridge equivalent is visible in panoramic shots — a long, low-slung bridge over open water that's perfect for scenic drives, high-speed chases, or dramatic set pieces.
Key West Equivalent
The southernmost island features a compact downtown with bars (Sloppy Joe's analogue spotted), a sunset celebration pier, Victorian architecture mixed with Caribbean cottages, and the kind of tourist-meets-local atmosphere that defines real Key West. A lighthouse is visible on the coast.
Marine Activities
The Keys appear to be the hub for water-based gameplay: snorkeling, diving, fishing, jet skiing, and boat access. The clear shallow waters and coral reefs suggest underwater content ranging from treasure hunting to marine encounters. Glass-bottom boat tours may even be an activity.
Smuggling & Criminal Potential
The Keys' real history as a smuggling corridor is almost certainly reflected in GTA 6. Remote islands, hidden coves, boat access to open ocean, and proximity to fictional Caribbean nations make this the perfect setting for drug running and contraband missions.