is key west worth the trip

Is Key West Worth Visiting? 15 Pros and Cons

Planning your next tropical holiday in Florida and wondering if Key West is worth visiting? Worry not. I’m here to help you decide.

Key West is one of the most popular destinations in the Florida Keys , and as a result, has made it very expensive to visit. But is it worth the hype?

After visiting myself, I realized that the answer might not be so simple. That’s why I’ve written this article on the pros and cons of visiting Key West and help you decide whether it is worth visiting or not.

Is Key West Worth Visiting?

Generally speaking, Key West is worth visiting. This island paradise is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the U.S. for a reason.

It’s home to one of the best beaches in the country such as the white sand Fort Zachary Taylor Beach, as well as some of the most fascinating historic sites in North America , such as the Ernest Hemingway House and The Truman Little White House !

Not forgetting that the foodie scene in the birthplace of Key Lime Pie is top-class; it rivals Miami, in our opinion! Plus, it’s one of the sunniest places in America, with a whopping 260 days of sunshine annually – so it’s fair to say if you’re a sun-worshipper (like us), Key West is 100% worth visiting!

Pros Of Visiting Key West

1. amazing key lime pie.

Key West is well-known for many things, but it’s perhaps most famous for being the birthplace of Key Lime Pie. This refreshing and indulgent dessert is named after the Key limes that are grown here, and – they are unique because their juice is yellow, not green!

Key Lime Pie is made of key lime juice, sweetened condensed milk, and egg yolk and is typically topped with a meringue topping. 

The best spot in Key West to try this delicious sweet treat is at the aptly named Key Lime Pie Bakery , a short walk from Duval Street.

You’ll notice the green benches out front before you see the store, where inside, they serve up Key Lime Pie in various ways, from standard slices to slices dipped in chocolate. You can even try out a Key Lime Pie on a stick!

2. Incredible Weather Year-Round

Key West and great weather go hand-in-hand. This tropical paradise is, after all, the most southern city in the U.S. and is, in fact, geographically closer to Cuba than it is to the closest Walmart (which is in Florida City, by the way!)

So, as you can guess, Key West enjoys balmy weather for most of the year – to be precise, it enjoys a whopping 260 days of sunshine per year compared to the national average of 205! 

And if you’re planning to visit Key West in the winter, you’re in luck as the Key West area enjoys some of the hottest temperatures of anywhere in the United States in December , with an average of 80 Fahrenheit!

But, the most popular months to visit Key West, Florida, are March and April, when temperatures range from 82 – 85 Fahrenheit with very little rainfall. The hottest months in Key West are June, July, August, and September when daily highs regularly rise over 86 Fahrenheit.

3. Epic Sunsets

If you love sunsets, then Key West is most definitely worth visiting for you.

Known for some of its most epic sunsets, there are many different ways to enjoy it in Key West. Two of the most popular are to head to the aptly named Sunset Key or to Mallory Square to watch the daily sunset celebration and enjoy the free entertainment on offer.

Every night, magicians, comedians, jugglers, clowns, etc., put on a show before the real show (the sunset). The festivities typically start two hours before sunset! 

Another great sunset spot is Fort Zachary Taylor Beach, regularly touted as the best beach in Key West. Bring your own beach chairs or picnic blankets, pack some snacks and drinks, and watch the sun set into the Gulf of Mexico as boats pass by. 

4. The City is Very Walkable

Due to its compact size, Key West is very walkable. Most of the restaurants, stores, and cafes can be found along Duval Street and Whitehead Street, as well as in Mallory Square.

In fact, we’d go so far as to say that you can walk pretty much everywhere in Key West, but if you don’t feel like walking, you can use the Key West Trolley, a hop-on-hop-off-bus tour that stops at the top attractions in Key West, like the Hemingway House and the Harry S. Truman Little White House. 

5. Incredible Food, and Not Just Seafood

As we said earlier, Key West is very close to Cuba (there are just 96 miles between the two destinations), so as you can guess, Cuban and Caribbean cuisine is a big thing in this island city.

So, expect to see Cuban bread and lots of meat with jerk seasoning on menus here. Because it’s a coastal city, seafood is extremely popular in Key West.

Depending on the time of year, you may find mahi-mahi, grouper, snapper, lobster, or the very tasty Key West pink shrimp dominating the specialty menu.

Some of our favorite restaurants when we visited Key West included Blue Heaven , a romantic eatery focusing on Caribbean cuisine and seafood.

Cafe Marquesa is another top pick from our trip to Key West, and it boasts a luxurious and elegant atmosphere, just off Duval Street. Come try their scallops and foie gras in a tranquil garden setting! 

While, if you’re after something a little more low-key, you can’t go wrong with Cuban Coffee Queen , a casual cafe known for its excellent coffee and sandwiches.

6. Lively Atmosphere and Vibrant Nightlife

Key West is famous for its nightlife, especially the vibrant Duval Street, which is lined with lots of fun bars and nightclubs. In fact, the “Duval Crawl,” aka the Duval Street bar crawl, is a rite of passage for any party-loving visitor.  

We recommend starting your night in Upper Duval, which has a more sophisticated vibe with lots of romantic wine bars. Grand Vin Wine Bar is our top pick for Upper Duval.

Then, ease your way down to the more raucous Lower Duval, which houses many late-night bars and nightclubs. Here, we like Rick’s Bar , home to the largest dance floor in the Florida Keys.  

7. Beautiful Scenery

As soon as you step foot in Key West, you’ll be captivated by its natural beauty, from bougainvillea-lined streets to picture-perfect white sand beaches. Not forgetting, it’s home to the Key West Garden Club, a tropical oasis where you can find the Key West Butterfly Garden and Perfume Garden .

This paradise-like island city is also within close proximity of some of the most beautiful destinations in North America, like Dry Tortugas National Park and Fort Zachary Taylor Beach! 

📚 Read More: What Is Florida Known For?

8. Interesting Historical Sites

Key West’s history is littered with tales of pirates and smugglers, which lies in stark contrast to the luxurious Key West today!

The best places to learn about Key West’s fascinating history are at the city’s top sites like the Truman Little White House , the former residence of the U.S. Naval Commander, and the Hemingway House , where the famed writer lived during the 1930s. 

Opposite the Hemingway House, you’ll find the Key West Lighthouse, which dates back to 1848 and helped boats navigate the shallow waters here for over 100 years.

It was decommissioned in 1969, and today, it houses a museum where you can learn all about Key West’s maritime history and the lighthouse keepers who once called the lighthouse home! 

9. Access to Dry Tortugas National Park

The hard-to-reach but breathtakingly beautiful Dry Tortugas National Park is just 70 miles from Key West. This park is huge with 100 square miles of mostly open water and seven tiny islands. It is only accessible by seaplane or, more commonly, by boat!

Most famous for being the home of magnificent Fort Jefferson (used as a prison during the Civil War), the park also boasts bright blue waters, coral reefs, abundant marine life (especially sea turtles), and bird life!

It’s super-easy to reach this remote National Park from Key West. Just hop on the Dry Tortugas National Park ferry from 100 Grinnell Street. It’s about a 2-hour and 15-minute ferry ride.

10. The Most Southern Tip of Continental United States

Key West is the southernmost city of the continental United States. And for anyone that questions whether this is true or not, the city has planted the Southernmost Point Buoy at the corner of South Street and Whitehead Street.

Since then, this Buoy has become of of the biggest attractions in Key West. No itinerary is complete without getting an iconic photo at this location!

Cons Of Visiting Key West

Key West is quite an exclusive vacation destination thanks to its remote location (it’s a 3-4 hour drive from Miami), and it attracts a mostly upmarket crowd.

In fact, Key West has some of the most expensive hotel rooms in the country during peak season (from March to May!) And when you add into the mix the fact that Key West is known for its upscale restaurants, it can dissuade some tourists from visiting. 

It’s also quite expensive to fly into Key West International Airport , so many budget-savvy travelers instead opt to fly into Miami and travel the 3-4 hours to Key West. 

2. Too Crowded

Key West is far from being a quiet beach destination in Florida and many tourists will tell you it is too crowded to be enjoyable.

Because the island is so small, even a bit of tourism can make the island feel busier than usual. It’ll help if you travel outside of the peak season, which is from March to May.

Another point to note is Key West is a popular cruise ship destination, and December through April are the busiest months for cruise ships. So, during these months, Key West will be flooded with cruise ship passengers during the day, meaning restaurants and activities will sell out quickly.

3. Better Beaches Elsewhere

Although the beaches in Key West, like Smathers Beach and Higgs Beach, are pretty, we think more beautiful beaches can be found elsewhere in the state and the other Florida Keys.

For example, the Gulf Beaches such as Clearwater Beach and Siesta Beach are more sandy and generally feature more pristine water than the beaches in Key West.

4. The Weather Can Be Too Hot and Tropical

If you’re traveling here from colder destinations, you may find the Key West weather too hot! I mean, with average highs of 92 Fahrenheit (33 C) in the summer, it’s definitely not somewhere to visit if you’re not a fan of sunshine.

Plus, Key West offers 260 days of sunshine annually, so cloudy, rainy days are few and far between. It is no wonder that it is one of the sunniest and warmest places in Florida in the winter .

The rainy or hurricane season (May through October) experiences very high humidity levels, which can be uncomfortable for some even if the temperatures are slightly lower. It is one of the worst times to visit Florida in general!

5. Traffic Can Get Quite Bad

It is surprising to find that the traffic in Key West is horrific, especially given its small size. Heavy traffic on this small island, particularly on weekends and holidays, can bring things to a standstill, which can be frustrating if you’re trying to get somewhere in a hurry.

Most highways in and around Key West, such as the Overseas Highway , are just two lanes, and passing is only allowed in specific sections – so bad luck if you get stuck behind a slow driver here!

Things To Do In Key West 

1. duval street.

The beating heart of downtown Key West – Duval Street is easily the busiest street in the Florida Keys. It’s a little over a mile long and is lined with restaurants, stores, and, of course, bars and nightclubs.

In fact, it is most famous for being the home of the “Duval Crawl” – a bar crawl and a must-do for partiers! Start your evening in a wine bar in Upper Duval, then catch the sunset celebrations in Mallory Square and end your night in one of the cool nightclubs on Lower Duval!

2. Mallory Square

Another vibrant hub of activity in Key West is Mallory Square, which we mentioned earlier as “the place” to watch the sunset because street performers take to the square every night to put on a show about two hours before sunset!

It’s also home to the Shipwreck Museum, Key West Aquarium, and Shell Warehouse & Sponge Market . And if you love to shop ’til you drop, you’ll be in heaven at The Shops at Mallory Square, an air-conditioned building that sells everything you could imagine!

3. The Hemingway Home and Museum

No trip to Key West is complete without a visit to the Ernest Hemingway House. Located opposite the Key West Lighthouse, it was the home of well-known American writer Ernest Hemingway in the 1930s.

It’s a very photogenic building with a fabulous in-ground pool and a great place to learn more about the famed author. Yet, perhaps the most interesting thing about this attraction is the many cats that live on the grounds.

They are all believed to be descendants of Hemingway’s pet cat, Snow White, who famously had six toes!

4. Southernmost Point of the Continental U.S.A.

Easily the most Instagram-famous spot in the whole of the Florida Keys is the Southernmost Point Buoy, which highlights that Key West is the most southerly city in the U.S. and marks 90 miles to Cuba! Spend a few moments here snapping photos and testing your eyesight to see if you can see Cuba across the water!

5. Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

Not only is the 54-acre Fort Zachary Taylor home to Key West’s best beach, but it’s also one of the best sunset-watching spots in the Sunshine State . As well as that the Fortress here is a National Historic Landmark that played a very important role in Florida’s history. Conveniently, it’s just a 10-minute drive from downtown Key West.

Visiting Key West FAQs

Is it safe to visit key west, how to visit key west from miami, when is the best time to visit key west, so, is key west worth visiting.

If you have gotten to the end of the article, then you can see that there are definitely pros and cons of visiting Key West. Its unique location on the southern tip of the continental US gives travelers a unique experience, along with a lively atmosphere and nightlife that are quite enjoyable.

But there are cons to visiting Key West, such as the high prices and sub-optimal beaches. If you are looking for those things, perhaps check out some of the Gulf Beaches in Florida instead.

Disclaimer: Some of the links above are affiliate links. That means if you book or make a purchase through the links, we will earn a small commission at  no extra cost to you ! The money will help run this site! Thank you !

World Traveler, Travel Blogger, Photographer

LivingOutLau

Sean is the founder of the travel blog, LivingOutLau. He has been to over 30 countries in over 5 years of travel. Every day, he is traveling and sharing his discoveries of the world through exceptional travel guides on his blog!

10 Reasons Why You Should Totally Visit Key West, Florida

Key West, the last of the Florida Keys, is a wonderful place to visit. Whether you plan on staying for the day, week or year, it’s a great place to relax and enjoy yourself.

It is the southernmost city in the continental USA and is famous for its beaches, coral reefs, and laid-back atmosphere.

While it used to be visited mostly by locals, tourists started coming here after the road bridge was built in 1938. Today, around two million people visit Key West every year, making it one of Florida’s premier tourist destinations.

The thing about this island is that it is quite remote and expensive to visit, as wonderful as it is. So is Key West really worth visiting?

Having lived there for a few months myself, I would say: Absolutely!

In this post, you will find ten reasons that will help you decide whether Key West should be your next vacation destination.

Plan your Perfect trip to Key West

🏨 Find the perfect hotel on Booking.com

🎫 If you’d like to go on a tour, check out the best tours to take in Key West

🎒 Pack a universal travel adapter , your favorite travel camera (We love this one !), and a good portable solar phone charger

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. Meaning, I get a small commission if you purchase through my links, at no cost to you.

in a hurry?

These are our favorite things to do in Key West:

• Key West Sunset Sail with full bar and live music
• Eating key lime pie
• Snorkeling on a Reef Half-Day Snorkeling Excursion
• Exploring Fort Zachary Taylor State Park
• Seeing sharks on a Shark and Wildlife Viewing Adventure
• Kayaking the mangroves
• Day trip to Dry Tortugas
• Sailing & Watersports (check out this tour !)

How to get to Key West

There are a few ways to get to Key West. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, but the best method will depend on your circumstances.

The most direct way is by plane using commercial flights from various major airports across the United States. The size of aircraft used for these flights varies between 50 and 200 passengers, depending on the airline and type of aircraft; however, there are no non-stop flights longer than about three hours duration.

Another option would be to take one of the ferry services out of Fort Myers Beach and Marco Island. However, the most popular way of getting to Key West is driving.

The only way to drive directly to Key West is over the Overseas Highway, a 113-mile) highway carrying U.S. Route 1 through the Florida Keys to Key West. The drive between Miami and Key West takes approximately three and a half hours without stops.

10 Wonderful reasons to visit Key West, Florida

Here are, without further ado, the reasons that explain why Key West is worth visiting at least once in a lifetime.

Each of them is a key component of all the sweet things that make this place really one of its kind. If you have already been to Key West, you know exactly what I’m talking about.

Amazing food

The food in Key West Florida is as eclectic and amazing as the people who live there, making it a true paradise for any foodie out there.

In most of the island’s restaurants, you can find everything from gourmet Italian to Mexican and even some Key West classics, such as conch fritters and Key Lime Pie.

Also, Key West’s proximity to the ocean always guarantees the freshness and deliciousness of the local seafood.

Great restaurants to try in Key West

Choosing a restaurant among all the great options on the island is no easy task, but I wouldn’t miss going to Santiago’s Bodega (their tapas are to die for!), Blue Heaven (amazing eggs benedict), and the Southernmost Beach Café.

If you are willing to splurge, you should also absolutely check out Latitudes, an award-winning restaurant located on Sunset Key, an exclusive 27-acre island just 500 yards off Key West.

To get there, you can take the free boat that departs from the Margaritaville Key West Resort and Marina. Oh, and reservations are mandatory.

Good weather year-round

The weather in Key West, as common in Florida, is warm all year round.

The warmest month of the year, July, averages 82 degrees Fahrenheit (28 Celsius), while the coldest months, January and February, average 77 degrees.

This is great because you will never need to pack heavy clothes or be concerned about finding an umbrella, making it, in fact, an amazing getaway for winter.

Personally, I lived on the island from December to April, and I can honestly say that the weather was absolutely perfect during all those months.

It was warm and ideal for spending the day at the beach, practicing watersports, and just living the island life at its best.

It has one of the most beautiful sunsets in the world

Key West is home to one of the most beautiful sunsets in the world and even hosts a sunset ceremony daily at Mallory Square.

This event is a great place for people watching and enjoying the Key West sun slip below the horizon while listening to local music groups play traditional songs of the sea.

After the sunset, make sure to hang out at Mallory Square for a while to enjoy a cold margarita, watch the street artists perform and maybe even grab dinner at Mesón de Pepe, one of the most traditional restaurants in that area.

6 Awesome Places To Watch The Sunset In Key West

Read: 6 Awesome places to watch the sunset in Key West

It has a very exciting nightlife

There is nothing quite like the Key West nightlife!

There is something for everyone’s cup of tea in Key West, from live music venues to drag shows and clubs featuring live entertainment.

Some of the coolest places to hang out at night and satisfy all your partying needs include Sloppy Joe’s, Rick’s, the Green Parrot, and Irish Kevin.

Another fun thing to do is have a Duval Street Pub Crawl, which basically means grabbing a drink in every one of the most fun bars on Duval Street.

Incredible locals

Another great thing about Key West is how unique, friendly, talented, and passionate its locals are. The island has become a kind of refuge for artists and fun people looking for a more slow-paced life.

A good example of that are the former Key West residents Ernest Heminway, Jimmy Buffet, and Judy Blume.

If you visit the island with an open heart, getting to know the locals will for sure be a memory you will treasure forever. If you can grab a drink, that’s even better! (:

It truly feels like a piece of paradise on earth

With the unbelievable beauty of the Atlantic ocean, picturesque buildings, and iconic Florida sunsets, there’s nothing quite like relaxing in Key West after a long day.

The island really feels almost too perfect to be true, which makes it so magical.

Imagine blue skies, fresh seafood, beautiful historic building, and indescribable nature. Well, that is Key West! No wonder so many people travel there every single year.

You can ride a bike everywhere

Key West is an extremely walkable city. However, to reach those places where walking takes a little too long, you can always rent a bike and go around the city.

If you have the time, I recommend riding to Smathers beach or even all the way to Fort Zachary Taylor State Park .

There are many bike shops around town, but many hotels and guesthouses in Key West provide bicycle rentals for their guests so that you can rent one at your convenience.

Interesting historical sites

Because of its privileged location, the small island had a big role in historical events such as the Civil War, so there are many historical sites to visit when in Key West.

These places include the Ernest Hemingway House, Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, Key West Lighthouse, and the Key West Shipwreck History Museum.

You can visit these sites at your leisure for a complete educational yet relaxing day trip.

Great shopping opportunities

Key West provides ample shopping opportunities for its guests.

Some of the various shops include clothing boutiques, art galleries, wine/liquor stores, and souvenir shops, which are perfect if you want to take home some great memories from your time spent in Key West.

It is close to Dry Tortugas National Park

Going on a day trip to Dry Tortugas National Park is a must on any Key West adventure.

The National Park is located about 70 miles west of the island and is accessible by boat or seaplane tours, which are available throughout the city.

The park offers incredible historical sites, great snorkeling, and beautiful turquoise water for all nature lovers during their visit.

Fun facts about Key West, Florida

If Key West hasn’t completely won your heart (yet!), last but not least, I have gathered a list with all my favorite facts about this place.

• It is located closer to Cuba than Miami

The Southernmost Buoy at the end of Simonton Street in Key West is a famous landmark that marks 90 miles to Cuba, but for those who want an adventure and stay longer than just one night, it’s 150 miles down Overseas Highway from Miami.

• The island is completely full of chickens

Don’t be surprised if you wake up to a rooster crowing at dawn during your visit to Key West. The island has an insane population of chickens, which today are part of the city’s unique atmosphere.

• Key Limes are not harvested in Key West

Even though the Key Lime Pie is undoubtedly Key West’s most traditional dessert, key limes are not harvested on the Florida Keys.

The produce is actually imported from Mexico, India, and the West Indies.

• There is a little White House on the island

Originally built in 1890 as the first officer’s quarters on the submarine base naval station, Key West’s little White House served as the winter home for President Harry S Truman in his eleven visits to the island.

Even today, the house still has incredible historical value.

• Key West celebrates Fantasy Fest every year

Fantasy Fest is a traditional annual parade commonly known for the characteristic outrageous and creative costumes people wear to it – body painting is allowed!

Best places to stay in Key West

Now, I would like to share some recommendations of great places to stay in Key West.

Choosing a nice hotel with a great location on the island is very important and will surely make your trip even nicer.

Here are some of my favorites:

Pier House Resort & Spa – Booking | Hotels.com

This hotel is located in the heart of Key West, ideally set on a private beach in Key West’s Old Town.

It boasts an incredible view over the harbor and the Atlantic Ocean. All rooms are well-appointed, spacious and come complete with plush bedding, 32″ flat-screen TVs, iPod docking stations, and fully equipped bathrooms. There is also a fitness center for guest use.

Casa Marina Key West – Booking | Hotels.com

Casa Marina Key West, a Waldorf Astoria Resort

Casa Marina Key West is located on its own private beach. It is an elegant landmark hotel with commanding views of both the Atlantic Ocean and Florida Straits.

The rooms are elegantly decorated and come complete with plush bedding, 32-inch flat-screen TVs, state-of-the-art bathrooms, and fully equipped work desks.

Oceans Edge Key West – Booking | Hotels.com

Oceans Edge Key West, one of the most luxurious hotels on the island, offers no less than six swimming pools and a waterfront bar and restaurant.

Its rooms are classic, well-decorated, and perfect for a comfy stay.

Best tours to take on your trip

Now that you know all the best reasons why Key West is worth visiting, I wholeheartedly recommend booking a few tours to experience the island to its fullest and make the most out of your trip.

Here are some of the most popular ones:

Key West Sunset Sail with Full Bar, Live Music & Hors D’oeuvres

Watch the sunset and the moon rise off the coast of Key West on this sunset cruise. Enjoy the scenery and peaceful calm of a late afternoon sail aboard a 70-foot catamaran with plenty of deck space to stretch out and enjoy the breathtaking view.

Then watch a legendary Key West sunset as the sun glistens and gently settles into the water. Hearty appetizers plus champagne, wine, a full liquor bar, ice-cold beer, and soft drinks.

Shark and Wildlife Viewing Adventure in Key West

Get up close with sharks and other marine wildlife on this boat tour from Key West. Travel onboard an eco-friendly, 34-foot catamaran just a few miles off the coast of Key West.

See dolphins, stingrays, turtles, and birds and learn about Key West’s waters, and then watch as the pilot drops bait to draw a variety of sharks right to the edge of the boat. Bring a camera to capture the excitement as these super predators swarm.

Cold drinks, snacks, and polarized sunglasses are included on this Key West shark cruise.

Key West Florida Reef Half-Day Snorkeling Excursion

Enjoy an afternoon of swimming and snorkeling on this cruise off the coast of Key West. Spend a relaxing afternoon on a 69-foot catamaran headed to North America’s only living coral barrier reef for the adventure of a lifetime.

Pass some of Key West’s top attractions on the way, then dive right in to see more than 600 species of colorful fish, coral, and other sea life.

This cruise includes professional snorkeling gear and instruction, plus beer, wine, and soft drinks.

Key West Full-Day Power Adventure: Sailing & Watersports Package

Enjoy the Key West sunshine on a full-day catamaran excursion, and take part in a range of watersports, too. As you cruise around the alluring Gulf of Mexico, gaze out at the scenery and spot local marine life.

Choose from a range of activities from snorkeling and kayaking to adrenaline-fuelled parasailing or Jet Skiing. Breakfast and lunch are served on board.

Wrap-up: 10 Reasons why you should visit Key West

That’s a wrap! Now you know all about whether if it is really worth visiting Key West and all the best reasons to give this beautiful island a try.

As you can probably tell, I had a spectacular time there and recommend it to everyone.

So now tell me: would you like to visit Key West? Let me know in the comments 🙂

For more travel tips, make sure to follow me on Instagram .

Travelcami Inspires the best solo travel destinations ✈️, and unique experiences

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Steve Kanelos

Thanks Cami for doing such a wonderful job covering my favorite place in earth.

Camila Neves

It’s my pleasure! 🙂

Go Wander Wild

I enjoy this list! They really make us want to pack our bags and go!

Marcia Stapleton

We hear that it is very crowded in March, especially Duval St, Hemingway’s house, the Shipwreck Museum etc. What is your experience?

Hi! It was pretty crowded 🙂

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Is key west worth visiting 15 reasons to visit.

Is Key West Worth Visiting: Key West is often overlooked as a beach vacation destination because of its close proximity to Florida, many don’t realize how fantastic the weather is or how much Key West has to offer. So when we get asked, “is Key West worth visiting?,” the answer is always a resounding yes! The subtropical island not only boasts sea water that is the brightest blue you’ve seen but a host of activities for adults and kids to enjoy and a number of quirky events that run throughout the year. Immerse yourself in the local culture, gourmet food, beaches and beautiful sunsets.

Is Key West worth visiting? Yes! Here’s why…

First of all, there is so much to love about Key West! It’s famous for:

• It is located at the southernmost tip of the United States
• It has some of the most beautiful sunsets you’ll ever see
• Roosters are common in Key West and you’ll often find them just roaming the streets
• Famous novelist and Nobel Prize winner Ernest Hemingway called Key West home in the 1930s
• With an annual Key Lime festival it’s no wonder Key West is known for its Key Lime Trees and Key Lime pies.

15 reasons to visit Key West

When answering the question, “is Key West worth visiting?,” these are just 15 out of so many reasons why it is always worth visiting the beautiful island of Key West .

Duval Street

As the main street in Key West, Duval Street is the right spot to start exploring. Along this palm-line street you will find many historic homes, quaint little coffee shops and a generally relaxing atmosphere. Take your time strolling along the main street and getting acquainted with the town. As a bonus Duval Street ends at the Southernmost Point, your next must-see on the island.

Incredible Food

There is a strong Bahamian and Cuban influence in Key West, however you can find a mix of global cuisine at most restaurants. Definitely do yourself a favor and sample the local culinary delights which include conch fritters and Key Lime Pie.

Southernmost Point in the Continental USA

As we mentioned, Key West is considered the southernmost point of the continental US. Stand at the Southernmost Point concrete buoy and tick that off your bucket list! The buoy is painted in bright red and yellow, so you can’t miss it.

Ernest Hemingway’s House

Famous writer and Nobel Prize recipient Ernest Hemingway called Key West home for over 10 years in the 1930s. He lived in a beautiful Spanish colonial home complete with cheerful yellow shutters, much of which has been preserved. Visiting the home will take you on a trip back in time, plus if you’re a cat lover you’ll definitely run into the home’s new residents… polydactyl cats!

Harry Truman’s Little White House

President Harry S. Truman used this historical home as his “winter White House” back in the 1940s, prior to which it was a naval station command centre. If you’d like to see first-hand where a former American president once resided you can book a guided tour any day of the week or year, it’s always open.

Key West Butterfly Conservatory

Bird watchers and nature lovers won’t want to miss out on visiting the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservancy. 50 butterfly species and over 20 exotic bird species can be found in the conservatory with visitors being offered a rare opportunity to walk amongst hundreds, if not thousands, of colorful butterflies. The conservatory also has a learning centre with resources to teach you about all the beautiful butterflies you’ll have encountered.

Fort Zachary Taylor State Park

If you came to Key West to do some snorkeling, this is where to do it! The sea water is crystal clear and perfect for snorkeling. The park was developed during the 1800s Civil War era so guided tours operate twice a day for those who want to know more about its history. There are also barbecue facilities and plenty of space to relax and unwind.

Dry Tortugas National Park

If you’re open to taking a quick day trip, definitely visit Dry Tortugas National Park which lies 70 miles west of the island and is home to Fort Jefferson. The station was built to protect the shipping channel and was also used as a jail. Nowadays, Fort Jefferson is part of the National Park which is known for its reef system and bird life. Definitely take the opportunity to do some snorkeling during your visit.

Friendly Locals

There’s nothing worse than unfriendly locals who couldn’t be bothered to give you the time of day. The locals in Key West are some of the friendliest and most helpful people you’ll ever meet and make visiting the island all the more enjoyable.

Key West Boat Tour

Do yourself a favor and hop aboard a boat tour if getting to see some of the best views is high on your priority list. Our top pick is the sunset cruise. Glide through the blue waters on a Schooner America 2.0 and get a glimpse of the ‘Green Flash’ phenomenon at sundown. You’ll also spot marine life and lots of birds throughout the tour.

Mallory Square Dock

Mallory Square Dock is the best place to watch the sunset apart from being on the water. In the worn square you’ll be entertained by jugglers, performers and street vendors with a number of shops and restaurants in the area as well.

Audubon House and Tropical Gardens

Travel back in time and experience the life of the wealthy folk who once lived on the island. This home still has all the original furniture, fixtures and artworks, capturing a moment frozen in time.

Shipwreck Treasure Museum

Discover all the salvaged cargo from shipwrecks dating back to the 1800s. There are also actors and film recreations of the shipwrecks which are fascinating to watch.

Is Key West worth visiting? If all that didn’t convince you then nothing will! You won’t regret visiting an island that perfectly fuses history, nature and food into an indulgent experience for all who are lucky enough to visit it.

Best Time To Visit Key West (& Monthly Events)

What To Pack For Key West: 14 Things to Bring & What to Leave Behind

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“Do they still have SUNSET PIER, in Key West, Florida, U.S.A.? I use to VISIT there, from 1998 TO 2002!!!”

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6 Reasons Why Key West Should Be Your Next Family Vacation Spot

Update: Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

Think of Key West, and you probably think of it as anything but a place you'd want to take your kids. Key West, with its walkable downtown area and a plethora of bars, is a favorite spot for a bit of good old-fashioned debauchery. At the right time of year, you will find spring breakers with drinks in hand barhopping along Duval Street or day drinking under the sun at any given beach.

But that's not all you'll find in Key West. The chain of islands that make up the Keys are known for its quirky people, endless sunshine and warmth. I'm here to tell you that there's a softer, charming side to Key West that is relaxed, fun -- and perfectly appropriate for families with young travelers.

Here are six reasons we love Key West and why you will too.

1. The Ocean Is Everything

The water in Key West is borderline absurd. It's a tropical gem on the East Coast of Florida: A crystal clear, aquamarine-tinted seascape that stretches until it abruptly butts up into a darker turquoise expanse. The lowest water temperatures hover around 70 degrees in January, and by July and August, the water can reach nearly 90 degrees. For young travelers, this means hours of endless water play .

Smathers Beach is the best public beach for kids. It boasts a sandy shoreline and tame waters, as well as public bathrooms, food concessions and rentable gear for snorkeling, kayaking and other water sports.

A local hideout, Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park , is another beach favorite. The shoreline is mostly ground coral (bring your water shoes!), but the rocky bottom attracts tropical fish, so snorkeling here is exciting. Australian Pines and a few Palm trees offer much-coveted shade for a picnic and sun protection, and when you need a break from the water, there are two nature trails that wind through the park; you can also tour the fort itself. Entrance fees are currently $4.50 per single-occupancy car and $7 for a double-occupancy car, with each additional person just 50 cents. It's $2.50 per person for pedestrians or bicyclists.

2. Family-friendly Lodging at Nearly Every Corner

Although Key West is just 7.24 square miles, you'll find a plethora of options for family-friendly lodging . As you wander the streets, you'll notice picturesque little bed-and-breakfasts that feature inviting porches and tropical, shady yards. Sadly, these spots do not offer any redemption opportunities, but there are a number of hotel chains on Key West that do.

Some points-friendly hotels in Key West include:

• DoubleTree by Hilton Grand Key Resort — from 51k–70kk Hilton Honors points per night
• The Reach Key West, A Waldorf Astoria Resort — from 76k–80k Hilton Honors points per night
• Casa Marina Key West, A Waldorf Astoria Resort — from 69k–80k Hilton Honors points per night
• Hilton Garden Inn Key West — from 30k–60k Hilton Honors points per night
• Sheraton Suites Key West — Category 6, from 50k Marriott points per night
• Fairfield Inn & Suites Key West at The Keys Collection — Category 6, from 50k Marriott points per night
• Key West Marriott Beachside Hotel — Category 7, from 60k Marriott points per night (sometimes available for 55,000 points)
• Crowne Plaza Key West La Concha — from 60k IHG Rewards Club points per night
• Hyatt Centric Key West Resort and Spa — from 25k World of Hyatt points per night

3. It's Affordable

I don't know about you, but traveling with my family means an even stricter budget than we already have. To keep overall costs low, travel during the offseason. Aim for a visit between late March and May and you'll likely secure lower prices and a tamer crowd. Use Ultimate Rewards points, like those from Chase Freedom (No longer open to new applicants) , Chase Sapphire Preferred Card and Chase Sapphire Reserve, to cover lodging and hotel costs and help offset other expenses. Check out the Chase Travel Portal to see what's bookable in terms of hotels and activities in Key West.

4. A Caribbean-like Vacation Right Here in the US

In addition to being affordable, Key West is extremely easy to get to. There is an airport in Key West, Key West International Airport (EYW), served by airlines that include American Airlines, Delta and Silver Airways. Otherwise, fly into Miami International Airport (MIA) and drive, with airlines including American Airlines, Alaska Airlines and Virgin Airlines. Fort Lauderdale International Airport (FLL) is yet another choice, where you can fly Spirit, Southwest Airlines and JetBlue, among others.

If you land in Miami or Fort Lauderdale, you'll make your way down the 120-mile coral cay archipelago that makes up the Florida Keys. The last one of all is Key West, putting you about 90 miles from Cuba. The drive to Key West is sensational; it's well worth it to fly into Miami or Fort Lauderdale just for the chance to make that drive (though traffic in peak season can be a bear; plan accordingly).

Once at your destination, it might feel more like a Caribbean getaway than a trip to a US state.

5. There's No Shortage of Things to Do

Aside from beach time and biking around town , Key West has enough family-friendly activities to keep the kiddos enthralled, including snorkeling. At every beach and state park I visited, young kids were enthusiastically popping up out of the water to extol what they were witnessing below the surface.

For in-town fun, try any of the following pastimes:

• Conch Train Tour (when buying ahead of time online: about $28 for adults, $14 for kids 4–12 and free for those 3 and under)
• Shipwreck Treasure Museum (when buying ahead of time online: about $15 for adults, $9 for kids 4–12 and free for those 3 and under)
• Truman Little White House (when buying ahead of time online: about $19 for adults, $9.50 for kids 5–12)
• Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory (adults are $12, kids 4–12 are $8.50 and children 3 and under are free)
• Key West Lighthouse (adults are $12 and kids 6 and up are $5; children under 6 are free)
• The Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum , where kids love meeting the six-toed cats in residence (adults $14, kids 6–12 are $6 and 5 and under are free)
• Mallory Square Sunset Celebration with street performers (free)

And make time for a photo op at the Southernmost Point marker . It's a tourist trap, but it's fun.

6. The True Gem of Key West Is Its Atmosphere

The best part of Key West is the feeling here that everyone is free to just be themselves. Simply put, Key West is eccentric. Island life is relaxed, open, and charged with a sense of joy. The atmosphere of modern-day Key West is rooted in its history, mixing its rowdy, raucous past with its relaxed, anything-goes present. It's a delightful mix.

Bottom Line

It's understandable if you're on the fence about a family vacation to a well-known party spot, but you need not worry. Key West is absolutely a wonderful place to explore with little ones in tow. If you do little more than lay on the beach, snorkel and visit nearby state parks , it'll still be a wild success.

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The Ultimate Itinerary for a Day Trip to Key West

I tend to think that after spending an entire summer living and working in Key West that I should be able to curate the perfect day trip to Key West… and that’s just what I’ve done for you. When I lived and worked on the island I spent each day off exploring as much of Key West as possible and eating as much awesome Key West food as possible. You can read my ultimate Key West bucketlist with seriously almost every single cool thing there is to do on the island (almost 100 things!). However, if you are looking for what to do in Key West for a day, I am here to give you (from all of my experience and research) the perfect one-day itinerary!

check out this post: The Ultimate Key West, Florida Bucket List | 98 Things to Do

*There may be affiliate links in this post.  Read my  privacy/disclosure policy  to learn more.

Best Time of Year to Spend a Day Key West

One of the magical things about visiting Key West is that you can basically go any time of year and have a great experience. That being said, there are a few things to note about the weather and potential crowds at different times of year in the Florida Keys.

Spring and fall generally are the best times to visit Key West for the most moderate weather. You can expect temperatures to be in the 80s F and you will find fewer crowds than in winter. Speaking of winter, you can expect the most crowds in winter and temperatures to drop to the mid-70s F with lows around 65° F.

In the summer you can expect high humidity and temperatures in the 90s F. Speaking from experience, this definitely feels quite toasty. However, if you are willing to bear the heat, you will be rewarded with less crowds (and possibly a little bit or a lot a bit of seaweed along the beaches depending on the year). Hurricane season generally runs from June-November with higher chances of hurricanes forming towards the latter end of that period.

Obviously, hurricanes don’t pass through the Florida Keys every year, but it’s something to be aware of when planning your ideal Florida Keys itinerary. As I said, I have experience with being in Key West for an entire summer, however, I also returned with my husband on a  Florida road trip  end of October/early November and the weather was perfect and it really felt like the perfect time to visit (minus the fact that a hurricane had come through that summer leaving a few things in shambles 😬 but we were happy to support Key West during a hard time).

Related post: 17 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Key West, Florida

1 day key west itinerary: quick look.

• Morning: Breakfast/Brunch at Blue Heaven
• Go snorkeling at Fort Zachary Taylor Beach
• Afternoon: Eat Lunch at the cute Cuban Coffee Queen shack along the waterfront
• Snap a pic at the iconic ‘Greetings From Key West’ mural
• Stroll/shop along the Key West Historic Seaport
• Taste Key Lime Pie on a stick from Kermit’s Key Lime Shoppe
• Visit the Southernmost Point and Mile Marker Zero
• Evening: Watch the sunset at the Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square
• Eat Dinner on Duval at Amigos Tortilla Bar

*Use this interactive map to see where all the top stops are for a great day in Key West*

Key West Day Trip In-Depth Itinerary

1. breakfast or brunch at blue heaven.

You have probably seen other sites recommend Blue Heaven for a meal and it is definitely for good reason. Eating breakfast or brunch at Blue Heaven is one of my top recommendations for things to do in Key West. Thankfully, breakfast is served until 2:00 pm, so even if you are running late you can most likely catch breakfast!

Blue Heaven is such a cute eatery and it’s a local hotspot. Unfortunately, reservations aren’t available, but when you arrive, be sure to ask for a seat outside in their relaxed open-air area. It really is my favorite place to sit and eat. If you’re lucky, you’ll get to hear some live music and watch the infamous Key West chickens roaming the patio.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Key West Blue Heaven (@keywestblueheaven)

I recommend ‘Richard’s Very Good Pancakes’ which are huuuge pancakes with chunks of either banana, pineapple, pecans, or blueberries within! If you are feeling up for some Key Lime Pie, Blue Heaven has one of the most unique pies in Key West with a crazy high topping of meringue.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Blue Heaven (@blueheavenkw)

related post: Ultimate Key West Food Guide | 19 Places You Must Try

2. snorkeling at fort zachary taylor state park.

Fort Zachary Taylor beach is the ultimate hidden gem of Key West. When I worked in Key West for a summer I quickly learned the locals call it Fort Zach and that it’s one of their favorite spots on the island to visit. I returned to Key West with my husband a few years back and even though we only had about 1.5 days on the island, we made sure to snorkel at Fort Zach.

Key West has a lot of beaches, but only one of them is good for snorkeling, and that’s the beach at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park. The only other option for snorkeling (which is also a great option) is to take an excursion to snorkel at the Florida Reef a few miles offshore. However, if you want to stay on the island, Fort Zach beach is amazing.

The beach has two rocky jetties home to many colorful fish plus the water is a lovely blue/green color. You can rent snorkel gear, seats and umbrellas from a stand on the sand and even grab a snack from Cayo Hueso Cafe if you get hungry.

If you have more time, you can also take a self-guided tour of a Civil War Era Fort at the state park and wander the pretty walking trails in the area. Check out my 10 Best Things to do at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park post to learn more!

related post: 10 Best Things to do at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park in Key West Florida

3. lunch at cuban coffee queen.

If you aren’t totally still stuffed from breakfast at Blue Heaven, after snorkeling you’ll want to swing by Cuban Coffee Queen for a yummy drink, Cuban favorites or other sandwhiches and salads. And the best part is, everything is super reasonably priced (which is a huge bonus to find in Key West).

Cuban Coffee Queen has multiple locations on the island, however, my favorite (and in my opinion the cutest) is their original location on Margaret Street near the Key West Historic Seaport. It’s an adorable walk-up stand right near the water and the side of the establishment has the infamous ‘Greetings From Key West’ mural. From here, you’ll be able to walk to enjoy another great area of Key West (more on that below).

4. Snap a Pic at the Iconic ‘Greetings From Key West’ Mural

Be sure to snap a pic at the infamous ‘Greetings From Key West’ mural on the side of Cuban Coffee Queen. Even if you don’t want to stop for food, this is still a great area for a cute pic and a perfect place to start exploring the Key West Historic Seaport.

5. Stroll Through the Key West Historic Seaport

Right near Cuban Coffee Queen and the Key West mural, is the lovely historic seaport. It’s a nice area to go for a relaxed stroll (much quieter than Duval Street). You can get great harbor views of the sailboats and yachts plus even do some shopping and pick up some trinkets or other items to take home as souvenirs.

The cutest road to stroll is the pedestrian-only road called Lazy Way Lane. It has cute, colorful shops, palm trees and lots of islandy trinket shops.

6. Get Key Lime Pie on a Stick at Kermit’s Key Lime Shoppe

Even if you only have one day in Key West, you MUST try Key Lime Pie. One of the quirkiest and yummiest pies to get is the Kermit’s Key Lime Pie, dipped in chocolate served on a stick. Yep, you heard that right, served like a popsicle! If that sounds like a little much to you, you can also buy it on a stick NOT dipped in chocolate, or you can just purchase a traditional slice of pie. However, if you’re only going to try one piece of Key Lime Pie, I definitely recommend Kermit’s Key Lime Shoppe .

They have a few locations in Key West, however, I like the Elizabeth Street location that is right near the Historic Seaport. It’s a super cute yellow and green wooden building and their original location on the island.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Key West Food Tours® (@keywestfoodtours)

check out this post: 8 Best Places to Try Key Lime Pie in Key West

7. walk and shop on duval street.

Duval Street is the largest main street in Key West known for bars, restaraunts, galleries and tourist shops and one of the most popular things to do during a day in Key West. For a calmer, more family-friendly experience on Duval, you may want to walk and shop Duval Street during the day.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Key West, FL🌞 (@keywest)

One of my favorite spots is the fanciest Walgreens you’ll ever see (yes… Walgreens). The Walgreens on Duval is stationed in a converted, colorful, vintage building called The Strand Theater. From the outside you would neverrrr guess this beautiful building is currently home to a Walgreens. Another favorite cute spot on Duval is the rainbow crosswalk intersection.

At night, the bars on Duval come alive and the sidewalks are crowded. If the bar scene is your thing, you may consider booking a Duval Street pub crawl to experience some of the island’s most iconic bars like Sloppy Joe’s.

8. Visit the Southernmost Point and Mile Marker Zero

While definitely touristy, making a quick stop at the Southernmost Point and Mile Marker Zero are two classic things to do in Key West in one day. The Southernmost Point marker indicates the Southernmost Point of the Continental United States, from this point you are actually closer to Cuba than Miami! It’s a fun spot that’s mostly a quick photo opportunity.

Mile Marker Zero is similar to the Southernmost Point in that it’s a very quick stop/photo-op. It’s the end of Highway US 1 and just a fun spot to see as you are so far south in the Florida Keys.

Related post: The Ultimate Key West, Florida Bucket List | 98 Things to Do

9. watch the sunset at the sunset celebration at mallory square.

If you are doing Key West in a day, I sure hope you have time to stick around for sunset because the Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square is one of my favorite things about Key West. I have visited the sunset celebration many, many times and it’s always a fun experience.

Beginning about two hours before sunset, right on the water in Mallory Square, you’ll catch the Sunset Celebration every single night of the year. There are local vendors, musicians, stunt performers and more! From here you get to watch the huge ball of sun drop below the horizon and possibly even clap once it’s set! It really is a great time.

If you prefer a quieter and possibly more romantic experience watching the sunset, be sure to check out one of the many awesome sunset sails that Key West offers. You can hop aboard a large catamaran, sailboat or even a small private boat to experience the sunset from the water. I also have done a sunset sail in Key West and it’s another awesome way to experience the sunset that I highly recommend. For other great excursion ideas check out my top Key West excursions guide (they are all worth the price!).

related post: The 7 Most Beautiful Places You Need Watch the Sunset in Key West

10. eat dinner at amigos tortilla bar.

When living in Key West, Amigos was by far the restaraunt I most frequently visited. It’s a super yummy Mexican joint with the option to sit in the open-air facing Duval Street (makes for great people watching). You can buy delicious tacos, burritos or bowls with various veggie and meat options with (of course) Baja fish being a top contender.

Amigos is a great option for a relaxed, yummy dinner on Duval in the heart of Key West. If you are curious about other great places to eat, be sure to check out my Ultimate Key West Food Guide.

And that is the best way to spend your day in Key West! Please let me know if you have any questions about a day trip to Key West from Miami or from anywhere in the Florida Keys!  I’m a real person  that loves to talk travel and I’ll be sure to get back to you!

Check out these other posts, I know you’ll love them:

• Ultimate Key West Food Guide | 19 Places You Must Try
• 17 Things You Need to Know Before Visiting Key West, Florida
• The Ultimate Key West, Florida Bucket List | 98 Things to Do
• 10 Best Things to do at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park in Key West Florida

8 Key West Excursions Definitely Worth the Money

• 8 Best Places to Try Key Lime Pie in Key West
• The 7 Most Beautiful Places You Need Watch the Sunset in Key West
• 5 Reasons You Need to Rent Jet Skis in Key West + How to Rent

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Is this a walkable route or should we rent a golf cart? We will be in KW for a day on a cruise ship. Thanks

Hey Meggan! How fun you’ll be in Key West for a day. I’d say it depends on how comfortable you are with walking and how much time you have in port. the longest walk is only 30 minutes with a couple 20 minute walks in there as well. However, walking is a great way to see the area so I do recommend it if you have time/ability. Otherwise, a golf cart is the next best idea!

Karen Schopp

I would like to go in April. Can you recommend a clean affordable place to stay for 2-3 days ?

Hey Karen! I don’t have many hotel recommendations, however, on the top of my list for next time we visit is The Perry Hotel & Marina Key West which is just barely off Key West on Stock Island which helps with the price a little bit (but they have a shuttle that takes you to Duval Street if needed).

Do you think it’s worth visiting Key West if I can only go for the day via Key West Express? Is that too short of a time? I’ll be visiting Sanibel for a while in late august and was thinking of taking a day trip from Fort Myers. Thank you.

Hey Barb! I hope you have a great time in Florida. It looks like the ferry is about 3.5 hours each way leaving around 4-5 hours to explore Key West in one day. To me that seems like a lot of travel time for not much time in Key West, however, it that sounds okay to you it could be worth it! A great option would be to take the Conch Tour Train to get a tour of the island and see all of the highlights. That would be a great way to make the most of your time there. I’d also recommend checking out the Historic Key West Seaport and picking up food from Blue Heaven or Cuban Coffee Queen. I hope this helps!

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The 7 Most Beautiful Places You Need to Watch the Sunset in Key West

12 reasons to visit Key West, Florida

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updated 14.05.2021

Once a rip-roaring buccaneers’ town, Key West is now the quirky, tropical heart of the  Florida Keys . Closer to Cuba than mainland Florida, visiting Key West feels a million miles from the rest of the USA . The island’s boisterous history, free-spirited outlook and unique “Floribbean” vibe are powerful draws for all kinds of visitors, whether you’re into water-sports, night-life, nature, or art. Here are our twelve top reasons to visit Key West.

1. Awesome aquatics

2. bahama village, 3. sunsets worth celebrating, 4. duval street drinks, 5. hemingway’s home, 6. key lime pie, 7. maritime marvels, 8. charming old town architecture, 9. cuban culture, 10. birds and butterflies, 11. african cemetery, 12. smathers beach, key west in brief.

The entire Florida Keys is an ocean-lover's paradise, with a host of unforgettable water-based activities and experiences to enjoy . So, whether you’re an experienced diver or novice snorkeller, oceanic activities should figure high on your to-do list when visiting Key West.

Head to the historic Seaport to take your pick from several longstanding operators offering everything from wreck dives, reef dives and mangrove kayaking, to glass bottom boat trips. To make the most of Key West's watery wonders, you could book a "double dip trip" . With stops at two top snorkelling sites reached on a high-speed state-of-the-art catamaran, this provides fun and thrills aplenty.

Fancy fishing Key West’s stunning waters? Check-out  Andy Griffiths Charters .  An experienced local fisherman, Andy can arrange epic three-day excursions out to the Dry Tortugas or, for a less full-on (and more affordable) experience, you could try the four-hour fishing option.

For excellent onsite watersports, you could investigate booking a stay at Parrot Key Hotel and Villas . One of the most luxurious resorts in town, it's lushly-landscaped and set on a white-sand beach, with four swimming pools and close proximity to Old Town.

Florida coral reef © John Pennekamp/Shutterstock

To soak up the old-time atmosphere of Key West, visit the narrow streets around the lighthouse and to the west of Whitehead Street - aka Bahama Village. Many of the small buildings - some of them former cigar factories - are pretty run-down and provide a contrast to the restoration found elsewhere in Old Town. The Caribbean vibe here is authentic, deriving from the Bahamians who worked in the salvage trade and eventually settled in Key West.

Key West's Bahama Village © travelview/Shutterstock

Taking time out to take-in an epic sunset (or several) is an absolute must when visiting Key West. And, thanks to the daily Sunset Celebration - started by hippies in the 1960s, and now managed by the Key West Cultural Preservation Society - you can enjoy this exceptional solar spectacle in the company of jubilant jugglers, flamboyant fire-eaters and fellow revellers. The celebrations kick off two hours before sunset on bustling Mallory Square, with plenty of food stalls, cocktail stands and craft vendors adding to the distinctly Key West vibe.

For a more serene sunset-watching experience, you could take to the seas on a schooner and book a two-hour sunset sail that also offers opportunities to see dolphins, sea turtles and water birds as you sit back and sip sun-downers.

Typical Florida sunset © Shutterstock

Many of Key West’s best nightlife joints are centred around Duval Street, which is home to a host of bouncing bars enjoyed by everyone from ageing rockers to students. Try the Green Parrot for live music, where locals dance and drink until the early hours.  Sloppy Joe's  is another popular spot but, despite what you may hear (it's a much-debated topic), its original location (now Captain Tony’s Saloon) was the bar frequented by Ernest Hemingway.

Sloppy Joe's on Duval Street

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Literature lovers visiting Key West would do well to check-out the  Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum , where this giant of American literature wrote some of his most acclaimed work. One of Key West’s grandest homes when it was built for a wealthy merchant in 1851, it was seriously run-down by the time Hemingway and his then wife bought it in 1931 (thanks to a gift from her wealthy uncle), though they soon spruced it up in luxurious style with the likes of a 60ft turquoise swimming pool carved from solid coral.

While visiting, be sure to keep an eye out for descendants of the writer’s famous six-toed cats.

Sampling Key lime pie is must-do when visiting Key West. This sweet-crusted dessert made from the citrus fruits every local seems to grow in their backyard is a tantalisingly tangy delight. While many places lay claim to having the best recipe, we recommend  Blue Heaven  for its distinctive take on this iconic dish - here slices are topped with colossal clouds of meringue in place of whipped cream. For a decadent portable version (frozen, served on a stick and slavered in chocolate), head to  Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe . 

Key West's iconic Key lime pie © Shutterstock

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With  family fun a feature of Florida  as a whole, Key West is no exception, and Greene Street’s  Mel Fisher Maritime Museum  definitely entertains and informs all ages. It's a fabulous way for kids to get up close to one-of-a-kind sixteenth and seventeenth-century galleons and their curious cargoes, including a stunning emerald cross, enormous cannons and a “poison cup” (reputed to neutralize toxins) that were salvaged from two seventeenth-century wrecks.

After years of searching, treasure hunter Mel Fisher discovered the Santa Margarita in 1980 and, five years later, the Nuestra Señora de Atocha. Both ships sank forty miles southeast of Key West during a hurricane in 1622 and yielded a haul that’s said to be worth at least $200 million. Monetary value aside (the Atocha alone contained 1041 silver bars and 77 gold bricks), the collection has huge historic importance, offering a window into the early years of Spanish colonization of America.

There’s also a sobering display dedicated to the slave ship Henrietta Marie, which sank in 1700. Hands down, for history buffs this unique museum is a top reason to visit Key West.

Strolling or cycling the Old Town is the perfect way to see Key West’s distinctive pastel-coloured homes. Nestled behind white picket fences, their porches are typically furnished with rocking chairs - the perfect setting for sipping iced tea in the balmy heat.

A saunter along Caroline Street or Greene Street will give you great glimpses of these late-1800s “conch houses”. Built in a mix-and-match style that fuses Victorian, Colonial and Tropical architecture, they’re raised on coral slabs and edged with gingerbread wood trimming. Fun fact - the reason they’ve lasted so long is that many were constructed by shipwrights using boat-building techniques.

If time is tight, you could take an Old Town tour aboard the Conch Train . It's a fun, fast and informative way of seeing a whole lot of sights, including Hemingway’s home and Harry Truman’s Little White House.

Head to the imposing  San Carlos Institute  on Duval Street to discover Key West’s fascinating Cuban history. The Institute has played a leading role in Cuban exile life since it opened on nearby Anne Street in 1871. It was here in 1892 that Cuban Revolution hero José Martí gathered exiles into a force that would achieve the island’s independence from Spain ten years later. The current building dates from 1924 and was financed by a grant from the Cuban government after a hurricane wrecked the original building.

Today it contains a permanent exhibition focusing on Martí and his followers alongside exhibits on Cuban presidents from 1902 to 1958 and a section on Cuban immigrants. San Carlos Institute is a Key West cultural highlight, for sure.

With Florida and the Keys frequently featuring in lists of top US National Parks , it's little wonder that Key West has its share of natural beauty.

For example, the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory  is a paradisal oasis on Duval’s Street’s lower drag. With over fifty butterfly species and over twenty exotic bird species housed in a climate-controlled habitat, visitors can enjoy the dazzling experience of being surrounded - and settled upon - by dozens of its fluttering inhabitants.

More botanical beauty abounds at the  Audubon House and Tropical Gardens . The house takes its name from famed ornithologist John James Audubon, who was so taken with the property’s one-acre tropical garden that he made it his alfresco studio to paint regional birds when he visited in 1832. Twenty-eight of Audubon’s original lithographs are displayed in the house, which visitors are free to explore after a ten-minute guided tour.

For bird-watchers, butterfly buffs and appreciators of botanical beauty, these sites are top-of-the-list reasons to visit Key West.

Stunning roseate spoonbill in a Florida mangrove © Shutterstock

Next to the Key West Garden Club, this monument to a little-known, grievous chapter in American history commemorates the 294 African men, women and children who died and were buried here in 1860 as a result of the slave trade. During that summer, the US Navy rescued 1432 slaves from three American-owned ships headed to Cuba for illegal trading.

The freed slaves were given temporary residence in Key West, but after having suffered intolerable conditions during the crossing, nearly three hundred of them perished here from disease. Those who survived were given a return passage to Liberia in West Africa. But don’t expect to see any tombstones - West Martello Tower was built on the unmarked graves. The memorial itself is a cartographic mural depicting the ships' path and the community’s return to Africa.

While Key West isn’t as famed for its fabulous beaches as other parts of Florida , it has its share of pretty places to soak up the sun in style. Smathers Beach is the most bustling beach on the island, particularly at weekends when it draws local windsurfers and parasailers. This one-mile stretch of powdery sand is also a popular spot during Spring Break, and well-served by food trucks, umbrella rentals, and places to hire kayaks and jet-skis.

Given its popularity and proximity to the airport, Smathers Beach might not be the best spot to chill-out in peace, but it is perfect for trying your hand at water-sports and sampling Key West’s livelier side.

Beautiful Key West beach

1. Is Key West worth visiting?

If you’re looking for a multi-purpose destination - lively nightlife, exceptional water-sports, Old Town atmosphere, plus plenty of literary and political history - then quirky Key West should suit you down to the ground.

2. Why is Key West famous?

Thanks to its buccaneering history, Caribbean connections, picturesque pastel-hued houses, Ernest Hemmingway, iconic Key Lime Pie and legendary sunsets, Key West sure isn’t short of famous draws. What's more, its eclectic, off-beat vibe ( eccentricity is something Florida is famed for more widely) make it extra fun, and extra welcoming.

3. Why should I visit Key West?

One of the great things about Key West is how it suits a whole range of traveller types - groups of mates, couples, families, retirees. With plenty of museums, marine parks, water-sports and cultural attractions, it’s a top destination for those seeking a holiday experience that ticks a tonne of boxes.

4. Is Key West expensive to visit?

While it certainly isn’t the cheapest of destinations, with forward-planning it’s perfectly possible to enjoy visiting Key West within a budget - look to travel off-season (September and November are cheapest), take advantage of happy hour offers at the Seaport bars and restaurants, and research smaller guest houses and B&Bs. For great value, Caribbean charm, and scrumptious cinnnamon breakfast rolls, we recommend the Angelina Guest House tucked in the backstreets of Bahama Village.

At Rough Guides we’ve always taken pride in telling it like it is - whether we’re updating details in our guide books, or researching emerging destinations. With that in mind, we want you to know that when you click on links that lead to our affiliate partners’ sites, we can earn a small commission (at no cost to you). This is one of the ways we’re able to keep doing what we do best - provide you with travel advice and inspiration you can trust. Speaking of which, you can trust what we link to - our travel writer experts are exactly that (experts) and have highlighted them to share ideas that might make your trips all the more satisfying.

Header image: stunning Key West sunset © ventdusud/Shutterstock

Joanne is a Pembrokeshire-born writer with a passion for the nature, cultures and histories of the Caribbean region, especially Dominica. Also passionate about inspiring a love of adventure in young people, she’s the author of several books for children and young adults, hosts international writing workshops, and has written articles on the Caribbean and inspirational community initiatives for Rough Guides. Follow her @JoanneOwen on Twitter and @joanneowenwrites on Instagram.

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Your Trip to Key West: The Complete Guide

• Best Time to Visit
• Weather & Climate
• Key West International Airport Guide
• Driving From Miami to Key West
• Things to Do in Key West
• Things to Do in the Florida Keys
• Best Beaches in Key West
• Fishing in Key West
• Best Key Lime Pie
• Food to Try in the Florida Keys
• Top Key West Restaurants

The nation’s southernmost city is filled with fun bars, restaurants, historic homes and museums, beaches, water sports and eclectic characters with stories to tell. A three-hour trip from Miami (you can also fly into Key West International Airport ), the drive to Cayo Hueso is anything but stressful when you’re surrounded by crystal blue, sparkling waters on both sides of the highway. A therapeutic drive forces you to slow down and will get you in the mood for what’s to come—boozing, cruising, and possibly some dolphin-watching. Use this guide to plan your trip including where to stay, what to do, when to go, and more

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit : Visit between March and May when the weather is milder for South Florida (think 70s and low 80s Fahrenheit and less humidity all around) and there aren't as many tourists.
• Language: English, though there are many native Spanish speakers.
• Currency: U.S. dollar.
• Getting Around: You can rent a car in Key West or use a rideshare app, but a pretty common and somewhat adventurous way to get around Key West is on a Vespa. Many hotels on the island have rental programs for guests, as do local tour companies.
• Travel Tip: If you’re not much of a scooter fan or even a bike rider, you can get around Key West perfectly fine on foot. Old Town is worth exploring at a leisurely pace, anyway. There’s a European-style (above ground) cemetery worth checking out and most of the restaurants, bars, and sights we’ve listed are easily accessible when you’re walking.   

Things to Do

Local bars stay open really late here, and most of them hire local talent to play originals, as well as covers of songs we all love. The Ernest Hemingway Home is a must-do, as is a photo at the southernmost point of the continental U.S.   , designated by an anchored concrete buoy. The well-known tourist attraction has been at the corner of South and Whitehead Streets since 1983 and is one of the most visited and photographed attraction in the Keys.

• You’ll likely end up on Duval Street at some point, where you'll find shopping, dining, and drinking galore.
• Mallory Square is where a daily Sunset Celebration takes place with live entertainment that includes fire breathers and artists of all sorts.
• If tours are more your speed, reserve a spot on the Ghosts and Gravestones trolley tour . Guides combine Key West history with some clever ways to make you scream, so this activity may not be suitable for children under the age of 13. 

Explore more attractions with our full-length article on the best things to do in the Florida Keys.

What to Eat and Drink

If you like seafood, you’re in the right place. It’s always fresh and always perfectly cooked. If you’d rather go fishing and present your catch at a restaurant, they’ll season and cook it for you. While you're in town you have to try a slice of Key lime pie. Some of our favorite restaurants in Key West include El Siboney (Cuban food), Eaton Street Seafood Market & Restaurant (go for the stone crabs), Half Shell Raw Bar (oysters, pelicans and the decor here will leave you wanting more) and Croissants de France (for a full-on carby French breakfast of crepes, fresh-baked pastries and French toast—with a side of eggs for balance).

When it comes to imbibing, the options are endless, but for craft cocktails, Caroline’s Other Side is a cozy, cool bar hidden in a Key West-style home. Breweries are abundant here, too. Waterfront Brewery and First Flight Island Restaurant & Brewery are a couple; there are also rum distilleries (Key West First Legal Rum Distillery) and the down and dirty, good old bars that haven’t changed since they opened, like Sloppy Joe’s (one of Hemingway's favorite haunts   ), Green Parrot Bar, Capt Tony’s Saloon and El Meson de Pepe where you can dance nightly to salsa.

Explore our articles on the best restaurants in Key West , the best places to eat key lime pie in the Florida Keys and the most fun bars .

Where to Stay

Where do we begin? If you want to relax right outside town, there are some newly renovated and reopened hotels worth getting to know, like Havana Cabana, 24 North Hotel, the Perry Hotel Key West and the Gates Hotel. Smack in the middle of the downtown area, though, the possibilities are endless. La Concha Hotel & Spa serves up glamorous 1920s vibes (it opened nearly 100 years ago), Casa Marina Key West, a Waldorf Astoria Resort channels Old Hollywood but in Florida, and the Saint Hotel Key West, an Autograph Collection Hotel, feels dark and mysterious in all the right ways that New Orleans might feel dark and mysterious. Old school bed and breakfasts are abundant in the Southernmost City, too, and there’s something refreshing about booking the old-fashioned way and having bread baskets delivered to your door in the morning.

Explore the best camping spots in the Florida Keys , best hotels for tourists and everything you need to know about visiting the Keys in summer . 

Getting There

You can drive into town (there’s only one road on and off the island  ) or fly into Key West International Airport . While cars are helpful to get around, especially when traveling from one side of the island to the other, most areas are easily walkable. On the rare occasion you’re sailing around the world, or even just the state of Florida, you can dock nearly anywhere on the island. Some hotels give guests the option of parking their boat instead of a car.  

Money Saving Tips

Take advantage of parks and museums that are free of charge for all visitors. Walking, of course, is free, good for you, and a more affordable option than hopping in a rideshare car. If you and everyone in your crew is of legal drinking age, First Legal Rum Distillery offers free rum tastings, with the purchase of one shot glass per person. 

• The Children’s Animal Park has a petting zoo, which will delight kiddos of all ages. 
• The Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center is another fun and educational place to learn about local plant and animal species. 
• Higgs Beach is free to visit, too. Pack a blanket, a picnic, and lots of water, and spend the day soaking in the sun and saltwater. 

City of Key West, Florida . "Southernmost Point."

VISIT FLORIDA . "Key West."

Key West Chamber of Commerce . "Getting Here."

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The Perfect 4 Day Key West Itinerary

We spent an amazing 4 days in Key West. Well, any time in Key West is amazing, right? The Kimpton Key West hosted us for a fun time. We explored all of their properties and tried a few new places for dinner. Along the way, I learned a few things I thought I would share about our Key West itinerary.

First off, let’s talk about planning an itinerary… do it, but don’t overdo it. Leave space in the day for random stuff. You are on vacation, after all, not every second of every day needs to be planned. Plan for an island time experience.

Below are affiliate links, which means we will earn a small commission at no extra charge to you. As always, thanks for your support.

Getting to Key West

How do you get to Key West? There are really three ways… by car, by plane and by ferry.

A lot of airlines now offer direct flights into Key West. Or, you can fly into Miami International Airport and experience the Key West Road trip. If you have never done this, I would plan it at least once. Plan to make stops along the way. Check out the Everglades National Park, Key Largo, and other cool spots along the overseas highway. Did you know there are 11 National Parks in Florida? Two can be found in the Keys (the Everglades and the Dry Tortugas)

The Ultimate Road Trip from Miami to Key West

Along the Overseas Highway, you will notice everything is marked by mileage, with Mile Marker Zero being in Key West.

Rather take a ferry? Check out the Key West Express.

So… with the ground rules set… let’s see how to explore Key West, enjoy some downtime, AND have an amazing time in just 4 days.

The Beginning

Ok.. we planned this on purpose, we arrived very early in Key West. This meant we traveled with very little sleep, but that’s ok.

Side note, I booked our plane tickets directly with the airline. So, they set the schedule, departure/arrivals, and time for the layover. BUT, their itinerary only allowed for 25 minutes from touchdown to take off on our layover down. Might work, if you aren’t 10 minutes late leaving …. but, we managed to make the connecting flight, so all good. But, next time, I will ensure we have plenty of time between connections.

We always travel with carry-on only. It just makes the trip that much easier. Plus, for 4 days… you really don’t need that much stuff. Once we land it’s straight to the hotel. For this visit, we headed to Winslow’s Bungalows. This Kimpton property is just amazing.

Winslow’s Bungalows

Located at 725 Truman Ave, you are fairly close to everything. If you get tired of walking you can always take an Uber or the free Duval Loop bus. If you are taking a cab from the airport to the hotel, you may want to let them know it’s the Kimpton on Truman instead of Winslow’s Bungalows. The reason is these properties used to be part of the Historic Key West Inns, but now are part of the Kimpton family.

This property used to be the Chelsea House and Key Lime Inn. Kimpton has combined them into one property now known as Winslow’s Bungalows.

Here’s a bit of quick history about the property…..

• It’s named after the famous painter and summer Key West resident Winslow Homer
• Has 3 pools, an outdoor bar, and vibrant gardens
• 85 guestrooms including 2 deluxe suites and is Kimpton’s largest Key West hotel
• The room designs pay homage to the property’s past owners including an Army officer, an Irish steamboat Captain, and a circus performer
• On the property is Maloney House, where the first mayor of Key West lived. He planted an amazing fruit grove that is still used by the hotel today.
• The property has 3 stand-alone bungalows to accommodate guests wanting a bit more privacy
• The property is very pet friendly. They offer Henry’s dog treats to their dog guests
• If you want to try the famous Key West bagel made by Goldman’s, they are offered at breakfast (they are very very yummy)
• Music is played at the pool bar
• The old Blue Parrot Inn is across the street and is now part of this property. They have 11 rooms and their pool is called the serenity pool because they don’t play music and it offers a zen tranquil feeling

They didn’t have our room ready yet, remember we arrived early (before checkout). But, that was ok. They held our luggage so we could head off to have breakfast and a much needed cocktail to start the vacation off. Our breakfast of choice? Blue Heaven of course.

After breakfast, it was time to head back to the hotel and enjoy a bit of pool time. Best way to cool off and refresh after a day of traveling.

As you can see, our room was, perfect. Winslow’s Bungalows offers great spaces to relax and enjoy Key West. Not too far from the heart of Duval Street, this place offers three pools and an amazing pool bar.

Fully refreshed, we head out to explore. First stop… the Mile Zero sign. No vacation in Key West is complete without a picture in front of the Mile Zero sign.

Needing a place to cool off, we then headed over to the Custom House. This place offers rotating exhibits all about Key West and those who influenced Key West. Always a great stop. Some the coolest and best things can be found in their gift shop.

Now, it’s time for dinner. A favorite stop of ours is Sloppy Joe’s. I know, I know, it can be a bit touristy, but I still love this place. The food is always good, the drinks are poured strong and they offer live music. Who could ask for more?

Speaking of live music, plan a stop at the Smokin’ Tuna, one of the best places in Key West for music. They have an outdoor courtyard that offers shade and cold adult beverages.

Most of the time I suggest sunset celebration at Mallory Square, but this night, we opted for a different perspective. Sunset from the top of Schooner Wharf. This is the perfect place to see the harbor, enjoy a cold beverage and listen to live music.

Today, hubby heads off to enjoy a morning out on the water fishing. Me… well, I do what I love to do while in Key West, I head out for a morning walk. Who doesn’t love a morning walk around Key West? I love to look at the historic homes that are scattered all over this small island. It’s one of the great things about the Island, they have kept the charm and preserved its history.

Historic Walking Tour

When I get back, it’s time for breakfast. I head down this wandering path at Winslow’s and partake in their complimentary breakfast. It’s a basic continental breakfast. It’s served in the bar area. Enjoying my second (and maybe third) cup of coffee, I did a bit of work. Caught up on a few emails, and, worked on this blog post. At the bar, is a great spot to work. I don’t spend too much time working… after all, there is a lot more to see and do before Kevin returns from his fishing trip.

Kevin returned after a successful fishing trip, and we then set out for the next adventure. Kimpton Hotels hosted us for a tour of their Lighthouse property. This place is very cool Across the street from the Hemingway House, it offers a great view of the lighthouse and they have a very nice bar.

Not staying at the Lighthouse? No worries, the bar is open to the public, Plan to stop in and enjoy this place. The bartender is engaging and can mix many amazing cocktails. We had the best time trying the house specialties. We actually couldn’t decide which ones we liked best. It’s ok to like them all, right?

While in Key West, it seems to always be cocktail time. With that in mind, we had time before our dinner reservations and headed over to General Horseplay. This place is known for their cocktails and fun Happy Hour. It’s a great place to start off an evening.

For dinner… we were hosted by Poke in the Rear. Don’t overlook this place. It was, one of the best dinners we had while on Island.

Today we have a quick bite of breakfast and then head out to explore the streets of Key West. Being married to a photographer, I spend a lot of time wandering around. But, I wouldn’t have it any other way. We saw roosters, flowers, palm trees, and stickers. All my favorites.

Grabbed a cold brew from Cuban Coffee Queen and walked around the Historic Seaport.

Heard the band starting to play at Sunset Pier… which means we are stopping to listen and enjoy a cold beverage. Here’s where I would insert the idea of having free time built into your Key West itinerary. If you “had” to be somewhere … you might miss out on an awesome view, cold beverages, and amazing live music.

A few more stops for pictures and then we are heading back to Winslow’s Bungalows. Not only do they have a great pool bar and pool area, but they offered a free tasting of Mutiny rum. It was yummy and the story was just as interesting.

We didn’t have any dinner plans to speak of so we “thought” we would head over to Mallory Square and enjoy sunset and then play it by ear. I think that’s a great way to spend any evening in Key West, at least one night. No particular plans and let the evening unfold.

Well, as we walked by Little Pearl and saw they had two chairs open at the bar… and we hopped on the chance to eat at Little Pearl. This place offers a tasting style menu and is worth every penny if you can get a reservation.

We have a later flight, also planned on purpose, which gives us almost a full day to play in Key West. What is always fun to see is the “guest” ships that dock at Mallory Square. On this day we were able to see the USCGC Eagle. This 295-foot, three-masted barque is used as a training vessel for future officers of the United States Coast Guard. This is also known as “America’s Tall Ship” and is the largest tall ship flying the Stars and Stripes and the only active square-rigger in US service. Very, very cool to see in Key West.

Then it was off to lunch at First Flight. This is the Southernmost microbrewery and they offer a great courtyard seating area and a wonderful menu.

Afterward, we head off to the airport to head home. As per usual, we grab a last vacation cocktail and share a frozen Key Lime pie on a stick (dipped in chocolate).

We tried new places for food and drinks and had plenty of down time to relax. That’s what makes the perfect vacation… a perfect balance.

More…

I get it, we didn’t do much on this trip. But, we had a really good time. If this seems a bit too slow for you, then check out these ideas:

• Take a guided tour – a food tour, a walking tour, a ghost tour ( see our recommendations here )
• Take the ferry (or seaplane ) out to the Dry Tortugas National Park – be sure to book this one in advance as it sells out quickly.
• Head out on the water to snorkel the coral reefs
• Go up the Keys for a day trip and see Bahia Honda State Park, sea turtles, or the Key Deer on Big Pine Key.
• 3 Reasons Smathers Beach is the best
• Visit one of the 18 museums on the island… like the Truman Little White House

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20 Best Things To Do In Key West, FL You Shouldn’t Miss

January 6, 2022 //  by  Florida Trippers

There are so many exciting and unique things to do in Key West, Florida. This town is found at the southern tip of the Florida Keys and is known for its nightlife, entertainment, and relaxing island vibes.

Driving down from Miami to Key West is one of the best Florida road trips . You will pass many beautiful sights along the way!

Planning your trip to Key West last minute?

Make sure to book ahead! Hotels and tours often sell out the closer you get to your trip. Here are our top picks for Key West!

Top Experiences And Tours In Key West:

• Dolphin Watching And Snorkeling Eco Tour (Top pick!)
• Schooner Sunset Sail (2 hours)
• Reef Snorkel From Key West (Includes breakfast and mimosas)
• Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour (Great way to see the city)

Top Places To Stay In Key West:

• Margaritaville Beach House Key West (Modern mid-range)
• Blue Marlin Motel (Affordable in downtown)
• Hampton Inn Key West (Waterfront with pool)
• Wicker Guesthouse (Great location!)

Along with a party atmosphere, Key West offers a lot of history and adventures. Whether you are here for a day trip , weekend getaway , or even longer, there are plenty of fun Key West activities to keep everyone entertained.

Are you a history buff? Explore the home of a great American author or the winter getaways of former U.S. Presidents! Maybe you want to live life more on the edge? Key West is filled with dives and rentals that will keep you going!

This Florida beach town is perfect for everyone in the family, and this list will help you decide what to do in Key West, Florida!

If you are looking for places to stay in Key West, there are a ton of cute Airbnbs and hotels that range from budget to luxury !

Before you plan your trip, make sure to check out The Best Times To Visit The Keys where we break down each month and talk all things weather!

Get a Drink on Duval Street

It’s not a trip to Key West if you don’t spend time on Duval Street! This lively and colorful area is one of the most popular things to do in Key West for adults.

Make sure to check out the best bars and nightlife in Key West!

This is the best place in Key West to take in some sights and enjoy local food and drinks. You will also enjoy the sounds of live music and street performers while you embrace the city! This is truly one of the Best Places To Stay In Key West!

The bar crawling scene is notorious on Duval and is a great way to spend a day or two. Even if you don’t drink, you can come for the fun atmosphere. Hanging out on Duval Street is easily one of the best things to do in Key West at night .

Sloppy Joe’s Bar is a staple in Key West and is a great stop for a drink or history. It has been around since 1937 and many famous people have ordered a drink here. It was allegedly Ernest Hemingway’s favorite bar. They even have a “Papa” Hemingway look-alike contest every year.

Book Here: Key West: 2.5-Hour Duval Street Pub Crawl

Celebrate Sunset at Mallory Square

Mallory Square is one of the most notable Key West attractions! This location is famous for its beautiful Florida sunsets and is the perfect place to unwind from your busy day.

Located on the water in the Old Town, Mallory Square is full of family fun. The Square has shops and restaurants that the whole family can enjoy!

The fun doesn’t stop there! While you’re walking through the Square, you will enjoy the entertainment of musicians and street performers, and you can even buy something unique from a street vendor!

Make sure to come for the nightly Sunset Celebration. This tradition has been happening for decades and should not be missed! Crowds fill the Square to watch the sun sink over the Gulf and watch street performers such as jugglers and magicians. This is one of the best free things to do in Key West !

Tour Harry S. Truman’s Little White House

You can learn a little bit about American history by stopping into Harry Truman’s Little White House. This is Florida’s only presidential museum and is one of the best places to visit in Key West for American history.

The home was built in 1890 and was originally used as housing for naval officers. During his presidency, Harry Truman used this house in Key West as his winter getaway when D.C. got too cold to bear. He use the house from 1946 through 1952.

It may be named after President Truman, but he is not the only president to seek the warm weather of Key West. Presidents Taft, Eisenhower, Kennedy, Carter, and Clinton have all visited as well.

For $20 per adult and $10 per child, you can tour the house and the grounds and see how the presidents lived while they were visiting Key West.

Book Here: Truman Little White House: Key West

Visit the Ernest Hemingway House

Another place to visit in Key West for history buffs is the Ernest Hemingway House and Museum. Nestled just a block from Duval street, the Hemingway House is a great way to take in some beauty and local history.

The beautiful Spanish Colonial-style mansion is full of the famous writer’s personal items, historic furnishings, photographs, paintings, and more. This is a must-see Key West destination for anyone who loves history, architecture, or literature. Make sure to put this on your list when doing a Florida Keys Road Trip!

Hemingway and his wife were gifted the home in 1931 from his uncle-in-law. They lived here from 1931 to 1939 and the deed stayed in his name until his death in 1961.

As you walk through the grounds, you will see stunning decor, lush gardens, and even some feline friends prowling around! These famous cats are descendants of cats that roamed the grounds while Hemingway himself lived in the house. Interestingly, they all have six toes like their ancestors.

Book Here: Key West Conch Train Tour

Find Great Views at the Key West Lighthouse

If you’re going to pop into the Hemmingway House, you might as well cross the street and take in the sights at the Key West Lighthouse and Keeper’s Quarters Museum!

Lighthouses always bring an extra bit of history, and this one is no exception. This black and white structure was built in 1848 to protect ships from the surrounding shallow water and coral reefs.

If you take a tour of the lighthouse, you will learn about the first lighthouse keeper, who was a woman, and you will see historic photos from when the lighthouse was operational.

Climb 88 stairs to the top of the 65-foot lighthouse to be greeted by amazing sights. You will have a 360-degree view of the island of Key West and the surrounding ocean! Don’t forget your camera!

Dive to Discover Vandenberg

Key West is one of the best places in Florida for scuba diving . One of the most stunning dives you can take is down to the Vandenberg.

This retired Navy ship was sunk seven miles off the coast of Key West in 2009 to become an artificial reef to help aquatic wildlife. The skeletal ship can be explored 150 feet below the surface if you have an up-to-date scuba certification.

The ship is found in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary which offers many other places to dive. You can find North America’s only coral barrier reef and many shipwrecks. Some attractions are not as deep underwater as the Vandenburg and can be explored by snorkeling if you are not scuba certified.

Book Here: Key West: SNUBA Experience

Admire Wildlife at the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory

The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is one of the best things to do in Key West with kids who love animals and nature. This is truly a tropical paradise that will cause visitors of all ages to gaze in wonder.

If you like butterflies, this place will be your heaven! There are between fifty and sixty species of butterfly housed here and over twenty species of exotic birds. Stroll through the climate-controlled, enclosed habitat and try to spot as many creatures as possible.

The conservatory has a learning center where you can learn all about the butterfly’s anatomy, life cycles, and migratory patterns. There is also an art gallery where you can see tons of art inspired by the butterflies and birds of the conservatory.

The Nature Conservatory is located right near Duval Street and is in the heart of Key West.

Taste Test at Some Rum Distilleries

Key West is known for its rum and the Rum Runner is said to be the island’s official drink. This cocktail dates back to the 1950s and is named after the rum runners who would illegally bring alcohol to the U.S. during Prohibition.

If you are interested in the production of rum, or just drinking it, there are actually three locations in Key West that may be of interest. Key West’s First Legal Rum Distillery, Papa’s Pilar, and Key West Distilling are all excellent places to pop in and learn about the distilling process of delicious rum and other liquors.

Each distillery has its own unique taste, so you have to tour each one, right? These distilleries are also a great place to learn how to whip up some new recipes!

Take a Day Trip to Dry Tortugas National Park

If you have the time, taking a tour to Dry Tortugas National Park is worth it! Exploring Dry Tortugas is definitely one of the most unique things to do near Key West. If you love checking off the U.S. National Parks , make time for this activity.

Technically Dry Tortugas is not on the island of Key West. It’s seventy miles off the coast, and while it’s not the easiest excursion to get to, it is so worth the trip.

Once on the island, you are free to explore the grounds, relax by the beach, and even go snorkeling! It is a fantastic opportunity to take in history and adventure at the same time!

The biggest attraction of the park is Fort Jefferson, which was built between 1846 and 1875. Take a guided tour to learn the complete history of this place and see how soldiers lived.

Unfortunately, visiting Dry Tortugas is not the cheapest or easiest thing to do. To get here, you have three options.

You can take the ferry for $190 per adult and $135 per child. The seaplane is the fastest and most scenic option, but it will set you back anywhere from $361 to $634 per person depending on how long you plan to stay. You can also charter a boat or take your own.

If you want to stay longer than a day trip, this is one of the best places to camp in Florida .

Book Here: Dry Tortugas National Park Day Trip by Catamaran from Key West

Learn at the Coast Guard Museum

American history can be found all over Key West, especially tied into the ocean. One of the best Key West activities to entertain history buffs is the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Ingham Maritime Museum.

Take a tour of the Coast Guard Cutter Ingham and learn all about what life was like on board while it was in service and after. This ship was in service from 1936 to 1988 and helped save lives during both World Wars.

You will be immersed in testimonials from those who served aboard. You will also see equipment, weapons, and uniforms used by the servicemen at the time.

Step Back in Time at the Audubon House and Tropical Gardens

The Audubon House is a beautiful historic site, allowing us to catch a glimpse of the wealthy lifestyle of the mid-1800s. Built by Captain John Huling Geiger in 1840, the home was made to fit his family’s wealthy lifestyle in the heart of Key West.

In 1958, the house was saved from demolition and renovated to reflect its heyday. The house has become a beautiful destination for tourists to enjoy. Inside, you will find decor and art dating back to the home’s beginnings.

The outside is just as intriguing as the inside. The gardens are landscaped with picturesque flowers and greenery. Stroll the winding paths and admire the blooming flowers and tropical plants.

Book Here: Key West Historic Homes and Island History – Small Group Walking Tour

Stroll the Historic Seaport and Harbor Walk

Taking a walk down the Historic Seaport and Harbor Walk is one of the top things to do in Key West because there is so much to experience along the way. The seaport is lined with restaurants and happy hour’s to enjoy. There are also great gift shops and picturesque, Instagram spots.

If you make your way down the Harbor Walk, you are sure to find fishermen coming in with their catches of the day and some of the expensive private boats parked by wealthy people from around the world.

This area has been a cultural and economic hotspot for almost two hundred years! This is a great place for a relaxing walk away from the larger tourist crowds, even more so when you are taking in the sunset! Bring your significant other for one of the most romantic things to do in Key West for couples

Rent a Kayak or Jet Ski

Seeing Key West from the water is such a fun experience, and it can be yours with a simple jet ski or kayak rental. You are in Florida; you have to get out on the water!

If you prefer high-octane water sports then there are a variety of locations you can choose from to rent jet skis and tour around the island. Get your heart pumping as you zoom through the bright, blue ocean water.

Kayaking is also a popular way to explore the surrounding ocean waters. Take a solo or a tandem kayak beyond the break of the waves and enjoy a relaxing day out on the water. This is a great way to spot wildlife as well. There are also guided tours to take that are both entertaining and informative!

Book Here: Key West: Jet Ski Island Tour with Free Second Rider

Book Here: Florida Keys: Key West Kayak Eco Tour with Nature Guide

Enjoy Nature at the Key West Garden Club

The beautiful grounds of the Key West Garden Club are stunning for so many reasons.

This garden has the goal of teaching guests about tropical gardening. You will be amazed as you along the brick paths and through gorgeous courtyards all the while surrounded by amazing greenery and colorful flowers. There is a pretty water lily pond and waterfall as well.

Within the garden, you will also find the West Martello Tower. Built in 1862 during the Civil War, this tower is now listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.

The Garden Club also sits right near Higgs Beach. The edges of the gardens overlook the ocean making for a serene experience.

This attraction is great for the wallet, too, because this is one of the best free things to do in Key West, Florida!

Take an Old Town Trolley Tour

Old Town Trolley Tours have always been a popular way to take in scenery and history while traveling.

Luckily, Key West has implemented Old Town Trolley Tours into their city so you can see all of the hidden and not so hidden gems this city has to offer!

The trolley is a great way to see a lot of the city without having to walk all over, especially in the Florida heat. If you have kids, this is an easy way to see the city without fear of them getting lost or tired.

If you want to add a bit of a spook factor to your trip, take the trolley after dark when it transforms into the Ghosts and Gravestone’s Tour where you can learn about the creepy history and present of Key West!

Book Here: Key West: Old Town Trolley 12-Stop Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

Book Here: Ghosts & Gravestones Tour of Key West

Dine at Sunset Pier

Sunset Pier is one of the best restaurants in Key West , not just for the food, but for the view!

Located at the Ocean Key Resort near Mallory Square, Sunset Pier is everything you can expect from Key West. Dine at a colorful table right on the pier and look out over the water.

They do not take reservations, so make sure you get there in time to snag a seat for the sunset. The seafood is delicious, especially the seasonal oysters!

Since it is part of the resort, there is much less bustle than at Duval Street or Mallory Square, but the atmosphere and views are everything you would expect from Key West!

Take a Selfie at the Southernmost Point

One of the best attractions in Key West is the one that can only be seen here. Did you know Key West is the southernmost point of the continental U.S.?

At the corner of South Street and Whitehead Street, you’ll find a big, brightly colored buoy that marks this claim to fame. The buoy was placed in 1983 and has been a popular tourist spot since. If you want to take a picture with the monument, make sure to get there early because the line can get long.

There are also plenty of other things to do in this area. Take a picture of the Southernmost House Hotel with its pretty, pastel colors or eat at one of the nearby restaurants.

Book Here:  Key West: History and Culture Southernmost Walking Tour

Try Key Lime Pie

You cannot come to the Florida Keys and miss an opportunity to eat some genuine key lime pie! No one knows exactly when or where this Southern delicacy was first created, but the first written recipe dates back to the early 1930s.

Key West offers the perfect climate for growing key lime trees and the famous pie is the signature dessert here. Almost all restaurants have some sort of version for you to try. If you want to do a tasting to find your favorite, you can check out our list of best places to get key lime pie in Key West .

Key lime pie is a light and refreshing dessert with a crumbly graham cracker crust and a fluffy, sweet, and tart filling. Pie is not the only way to enjoy key limes. You can try key lime ice cream, fudge, cocktails, and more! Satisfy your sweet tooth with the best of Key West desserts!

Book Here:   Key West: 3-Hour Guided Bicycle Tour with Key Lime Pie

Explore Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park at the southern tip of the island is one of the best activities in Key West for the whole family. If you have the time, this is an awesome place to spend a couple of hours relaxing.

Explore the Civil War-era Fort Zachary Taylor and learn about the significance of this location. Come for one of the monthly historic reenactments to see history come alive.

The beach here is one of the best beaches in Key West , especially for snorkeling. Just off the beach, you will find amazing tropical marine life. Don’t have snorkel gear? You can rent some at Chickee Hut Beach Rentals. You can also get umbrellas, chairs, and rafts here.

Bring water shoes to protect your feet from the coral beach. This is a great place for fishing and birdwatching, too. Stop by the Cayo Hueso Café for a snack.

Relax at Smathers Beach

If you want more beach time, head to Smathers Beach . While it is a manmade beach with imported sand, it is just as beautiful as any of the natural beaches in Florida .

This is the largest beach in Key West and has a half-mile of soft sand. This beach is known for its clear water and calm waves. It is the perfect place to swim with your kids. This is also a great place for snorkeling , parasailing, and playing beach volleyball.

This beach is free to access, so it should be on your list of best places to go in Key West if you are looking to save money. Bring a picnic to enjoy at one of the tables.

Don’t forget to check out our list of the Best Florida Keys Beaches for some more ideas of places to visit!

There are so many fun things to do in Key West that everyone can enjoy! It’s a location rooted in fun and relaxation, so it is virtually impossible not to have a good time!

There is history and adventure sprinkled throughout all of Key West. That coupled with the natural beauty of the island is what keeps tourists coming back year after year.

Add some of these locations to your list of places to visit in Florida and your next trip will surely be a vacation you will never forget.

30+ Best Things to Do in Key West, Florida

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Welcome to Key West — one of my favorite places on the planet! There are so many fun things to do in Key West, Florida, the southernmost city in the contiguous United States. This town is a lively place with something for everyone.

Whether you’re here for Key West’s legendary festivals or nightlife, snorkeling and kayaking adventures, historic sites and museums, or all of the key lime pie (raises hand), you are going to love Key West as much as I do!

Planning your trip to Key West last minute?

Key West is super-popular year round. Be sure to book ahead!

🐚 Top Experiences and Tours in Key West:

• Sunset Cruise with Open Bar (I LOVED this cruise!)
• Bicycle Tour of Old Key West (Most popular tour in town!)
• Key West Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour (Easy way to get around)

🛌  Top-Rated Hotels in Key West:

• Parrot Key Hotel & Villas (So luxurious!)
• Simonton Court Historic Inn & Cottages (Cute, modern, super central)
• Blue Marlin Motel (Great budget option)

🚗 Renting a car on your Florida Keys trip? Find deals on car rental rates here.

I adore Key West and I find something new to do every time I visit.

From following in Hemingway’s footsteps to celebrating the sunset every night, let me show you my favorite things to do in this little slice of heaven in South Florida. 

This post was published in January 2024 and was co-written by Adventurous Kate and Riana Ang-Canning.

Table of Contents

Best Things to Do in Key West, Florida

Catch the sunset celebration at mallory square.

The Sunset Celebration was the first thing that I ever did in Key West — and it made me fall in love with the place immediately! Two hours before sunset, locals and visitors gather at Mallory Square for a big party. Enjoy live music and street performers, take in a comedy show, shop from local vendors, and grab a bite (or a frozen cocktail!) from the food trucks on site.

Be sure to check out my favorite — the cat man! He performs an acrobatics show with his cats!

As the sun starts to sink into the Gulf of Mexico, lighting up the sky in pinks and oranges, everyone gathers to take in the view, just like frequent Key West visitors Mark Twain and Tennessee Williams once did. They don’t call Key West “Home of the Sunset” for nothing! 

Stroll Duval Street

Duval Street is Key West’s main drag, where you’ll find plenty of places to eat, drink and shop. Yes, this place is extremely touristy — but that’s the charm of it all. You’ll see plenty of Key West locals and visitors hanging out in the bars, no matter what time of day it is!

Many of Key West’s festivals and parades go down Duval Street, including Fantasy Fest in October and Hemingway Days in July. This street is also where you’ll find the Hemingway House, Mallory Square and the Conch Tour Train, all some of the best things to do in Key West. 

Grab a drink at famous bars like Sloppy Joe’s or Captain Tony’s Saloon, buy a souvenir from one of the many gift shops, enjoy a drag show, browse a local art gallery, and snap a photo of the 1920’s Strand Theater. And you can walk all the way down to Pocket Park and its small beach, a block from the Southernmost Point. Speaking of that…

Visit the Southernmost Point

The southernmost point of the continental United States is found in Key West, where Duval Street meets the Atlantic Ocean. It’s marked by a large red and yellow concrete buoy and you can’t leave Key West without taking a photo next to it. The buoy even has its own live webcam ! 

While the Southernmost Point Buoy claims to be the southernmost point of the continental US, that might not technically be the truth. Points on Fort Zachary Taylor, Truman Annex US Navy property, and Ballast Key all appear to be a bit farther south — but none of them have a large buoy for a photo op! 

Try all the key lime pie

Every time I’m in the Florida Keys, I eat my way through the key lime pies , all the way from Key Largo to Key West. You might think that might get boring, but there is so much variation to them!

While the exact origin of key lime pie is up for debate, what’s not up for debate is how delicious this dessert is and how well it showcases the tiny key limes indigenous to the Florida Keys.

Some of the most beloved key lime pies in Key West come from Key Lime Pie Bakery , Kermit’s Key Lime Shop , Blue Heaven , and The Cafe . Go ahead and try them all!

And at the Key West Key Lime Pie Company , you can try their delicious pies, or even make a tiny key lime pie of your own! They offer classes on Thursday and Friday mornings (though it’s most of an assemble-your-own-pie class than a bake-everything-from-scratch class).

Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum (and say hi to the cats!)

Ernest Hemingway, one of the greatest 20th Century writers, was once a Key West resident. He first visited the island in 1928 and finished his WWI novel, A Farewell To Arms , while in Key West. 

Hemingway and his then-wife, Pauline, fell in love with Key West and decided to settle down in what is now a National Historic Landmark: the Hemingway Home and Museum . 

The Hemingway House is full of personal touches from the Hemingway family, such as antiques collected during their time in Europe and the studio where Ernest Hemingway did some of his best writing — when he wasn’t out fishing off Key West, a favorite pastime of his. 

It’s also home to the famous six-toed polydactyl cats. Hemingway was given a six-toed cat by a sea captain during his time in Key West and descendants of that cat — many of whom also have six toes — still roam around the house today. If you’re a cat person like me, you must come here!

The home and museum are open daily from 9:00 AM-5:00 PM. Tickets cost $18 per adult or $7 per child ages 6-12 (kids under five are free). Tickets include a guided tour. 

Want a deeper dive into Hemingway? There’s a Hemingway-themed food and history tour you can join! (And if you come visit for Hemingway Days in July, BOY is that a fun festival! The Hemingway lookalike contest is one of my favorite festivals I’ve ever attended while traveling!)

Visit the Harry S. Truman Little White House 

I expected the Hemingway house to be my favorite historic site in Key West — but it was actually the Little White House ! I loved my visit to this little time capsule from the mid-20th century. After serving as a naval base in the late 19th and early 20th Centuries, this house was used as a winter residence for President Truman, who loved Key West.

Many other presidents and distinguished guests have stayed in the house over the years, such as Thomas Edison during WWI, President John F. Kennedy during the Bay of Pigs incident, and President Eisenhower while recovering from a heart attack. More recently, in 2001 Colin Powell held talks between the leaders of Armenia and Azerbaijan .

I loved the mid-century designs, and how the furnishings were surprisingly modest for a president. And I especially loved the poker table — Truman loved playing poker with his cabinet, but it had to be kept secret because it would be a scandal if the public knew the president was gambling!

Today, the house is still used for presidential functions, but otherwise operates as a museum for the public. Guided tours leave every 20 minutes and the guides do an incredible job bringing the history of the building to life. 

The Little White House is open daily from 9:30 AM-4:30 PM. Tickets cost $24.67/adult, $10.75/child aged 4-12, and children under four are free.  You can buy tickets here.

Take a walking tour of Key West

Going on a walking tour is an excellent way to get to know a new place, and Key West has all kinds of themed tours you can take. In fact, I’d say a walking tour is one of the best things to do in Key West, as there’s truly one for every interest.

A few noteworthy walking tours include the top-rated Hemingway Food and Walking Tour , where you can follow in Ernest Hemingway’s footsteps as you learn about Key West history and sample chicken street tacos, conch fritters and key lime pie. 

If you’re into architecture or just enjoy looking at cool homes like I do, you will LOVE Key West — and this Key West Historic Homes and Island History walking tour is a lot of fun!

And of course, I can’t not mention the Jimmy Buffet tour of Key West ! For die-hard Parrotheads and anyone who has “Margaritaville” stuck on a loop in their head, discover all of the places that inspired Jimmy Buffett’s songs in Key West, including the site of his first gig, his favorite bars, and even his recording studio. 

Key West also has a pretty spooky history, and a collection of ghost tours to match. Join a guided walking tour to learn about the city’s spooky history , get to know famous ghosts and graveyards when you ride the Trolley of the Doomed , and if you like your boos with a side of booze — or your spirits with a side of, well, spirits? — there’s a ghost tour pub crawl . 

Tour Key West by train or trolley 

Another great way to get to know Key West is by train or trolley. This is an especially good choice if someone you’re traveling with has limited mobility or doesn’t want to spend the whole day on their feet.

The Key West Conch Tour Train has run through Key West since 1958 and has transported more than 15 million people in that time. It’s not a train on tracks; it’s more of a long line of seats pulled by a train-shaped engine. On this 75-minute train tour through the Conch Republic, you can learn about Key West’s history and famous residents. 

Another good option for getting around Key West without having to walk too far is the Key West Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour. A one- or two-day pass takes you around more than 100 Key West attractions — with interesting narration along the way.

And if you’d rather tour Key West with private guide, check out the private pedi-cab tour , which can be customized to your preferences.

Explore Key West by Bike

Key West is an excellent destination to explore by bike, even if you’re not ordinarily a bike tour kind of person. The island is extremely flat, and most of the areas have limited traffic rather than a constant terrifying stream of cars.

You can discover the highlights of Old Town Key West on this three-hour guided bike tour , which takes in sights like Mallory Square, the Southernmost Point, Mile Marker Zero, and the White Street Pier. Helmets and water are provided.

Go on a sunset boat tour 

I do think you should spend one sunset at Mallory Square — and another sunset out on a boat! On my first trip to Key West, I did a sunset sailing cruise with an open bar , and BOY was that a fun night!

(Amusingly, that boat happened to be full of Boston sports fans decked out in Red Sox and Patriots gear. I’m from Boston, Gronk was apparently on a boat nearby, and it led to a LOT of bonding and we finished the night at Kevin’s Irish Pub! I’m still Facebook friends with some of those people!)

There is a huge variety of sunset cruises in Key West. Some are booze cruises, while others are more relaxed. It’s important to find the right cruise for you.

If you’re interested in an open bar sunset catamaran cruise like mine, take a look at this one . It includes live music and appetizers as well.

A similar option is the Key West Sunset Sail , which is also a catamaran with an open bar, but also has live music by local musicians, and hearty appetizers like peel-and-eat shrimp.

The tiki bar boat cruise is BYOB — any booze you want, you must bring, and it’s a small boat with a maximum of six people. A fun choice if your group wants the boat to yourselves (but book early for that).

The sunset sail and dolphin watching cruise is a more relaxed option, and it includes wine and tapas.

And if you’d like to combine snorkeling and sunset, check out the Rum n’ Reggae snorkel and sail . 

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Visit Judy Blume’s Bookstore

Did you know that beloved children’s author Judy Blume lives in Key West — AND co-founded a bookstore here? Books & Books is an independent, nonprofit bookstore located on the corner of Eaton and Simonton Streets, right in the heart of Key West.

At Books & Books you’ll find a wide selection of books across all kinds of genres, as well as a full schedule of events, literary and otherwise. I often enjoy picking up a book by a local author as a souvenir, and this couldn’t be a better place to do it!

And of course — if you do happen to run into the fabulous Ms. Blume herself, please be respectful.

Explore Key West by water

Your water adventures in Key West don’t have to stop with boat tours and cruises. There are lots of water sports and aquatic activities you can enjoy.

How about snorkeling? So much underwater wildlife lurks just off shore! You can try a half-day snorkeling excursion on a reef just off Key West. There’s also a snorkeling tour with breakfast and unlimited mimosas .

Anything else? You can explore the Florida coast on a 90 minute guided jet ski tour or spend the day on a water sports catamaran and try kayaking, snorkeling, parasailing and jet skiing.

You can also learn to SNUBA — a cross between scuba diving and snorkeling with no prior experience required — which is definitely one of the cooler things to do in Key West.

Go kayaking or paddling

If you’re interested in doing a bit of paddling, Key West offers lots of opportunities to kayak through the mangroves, along sandy beaches or in the clear waters at night. 

Head out on a two-hour guided Key West Mangrove Kayak Eco Tour , paddle further on a three-hour mangrove maze guided tour , or spend a half-day sipping drinks on the sandbar, snorkeling with sea turtles and kayaking through the mangroves during Key West’s Ultimate Sandbar Adventure .

And if you’d rather do your own thing without a guide, you can always book a half-day kayak rental — ideal for people who would rather explore independently.

Now if you want to do something REALLY cool, sign up for a Night Glow Kayak Paddle Session ! I did this in Key West and it was so cool! You float on the water in a glass-bottomed kayak lit up with LED lights, so you can see the underwater wildlife that you never get to see by day! It’s one of the most unique things to do in Key West. 

Visit Key West beaches

How have we come this far in the post and not talked about Key West’s beaches? There are, as you’d expect, some really nice beaches in town. Smathers Beach and Higgs Beach especially deserve a visit.

Smathers Beach is the largest public beach in Key West and perfect for swimming or relaxing under a palm tree. There are lots of facilities, food vendors and water activities to enjoy. Being such a beautiful and accessible beach, Smathers can get crowded, especially during spring break.

Higgs Beach, on the other hand, is much less popular, despite being closer to Old Town Key West. In addition to a sandy beach and palm trees, Higgs Beach is also home to picturesque piers, a civil war era fort, and the African Refugee Memorial and burial site.

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, located in the westernmost part of the island, also has a lovely beach to explore, with some snorkeling just off shore. There are also walking paths, bicycle trails, and a cafe.

Climb the Key West Lighthouse

The Key West Lighthouse was first opened in 1848 to guide military and commercial vessels through the coral reefs. Fun fact: the first lighthouse keeper was a woman named Barbara Mabrity! This was extremely rare in the 19th Century.

Today, the lighthouse operates as a museum showcasing the area’s maritime history and offering a beautiful view off the coast. The museum is open daily from 10:00 AM-5:00 PM. 

Entrance costs $17 for adults, $13 for seniors, locals, college students with ID and retired military service members, $9 for youth ages 7-18, and free for children under seven or active military service members. Discounts are available if you book your tickets online. 

Visit more cultural sights in Key West

There is lots more culture, history and natural beauty to explore in Key West. Here are a few more places to add to your Key West itinerary: 

The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is home to over 50 butterfly species plus exotic birds and more, while the Audubon House and Gardens features a 1840s home filled antiques and the lush gardens that surround it.

The Key West Aquarium is a great place to learn about marine life, with a Touch Tank, lots of aquatic wildlife, and regular conservation talks. The Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center is another great place to learn about tropical plants and animals.

For something a bit different, head to the Key West Cemetery. I’m a big fan of the quirky headstones! You can also tour the Key West First Legal Rum Distillery and enjoy rum tastings and a mojito making class.  

And if you’re into shipwrecks, you’re in luck. You can visit the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum and see what they’ve recovered from 17th Century shipwrecks and then head over to the Key West Shipwreck Museum to discover 400 years of shipwrecks off the coast of the Florida Keys. 

Go on a Key West food tour

Key West cuisine is about more than just key lime pie! It’s also well known for its fresh seafood, Bahamian food, and Cuban food. Food tours are one of my favorite activities to do anywhere, and Key West is no exception.

Explore the mom and pop eateries of Old Town Key West on a three-hour food and culture tour , sample tasty seafood and get a history lesson on this three-hour food tour through the Key West Historic Seaport , or figure out where the locals eat on this 2.5-hour secret food tour .  

Take part in one of Ernest Hemingway’s favorite Key West pastimes and head out on a fishing expedition. Whether you’re fishing for fun or for your dinner, this is a Florida Keys must-do activity. 

Set sail on a 64′ catamaran for a half day fishing tour through the Florida Keys, perfect for the whole family, or try your hand at deep-sea fishing on this six hour Gulfstream Fishing Tour . 

For experienced anglers, join a sportfishing charter for you and five friends to see who can reel in the biggest catch of the day. 

Enjoy Key West’s legendary nightlife

Just because Key West is the “Home of the Sunset ,” that doesn’t mean the party stops when the sun goes down. In fact, for many Key West visitors, it’s just getting started! 

Duval Street is the main drag for nightlife, and you might find yourself singing along with Parrotheads at Margaritaville or dancing at Sloppy Joe’s. Or, if you meet a rollicking group of Bostonians on your sunset cruise, you might end up at Irish Kevin’s, just in time for the Guinness chugging contest.

Want to meet new friends on your nightlife journey? Check out a Key West craft cocktail crawl .

You can even get on the other side of the bar in a tiki cocktail class , where you’ll learn to make four different drinks and enjoy a rum tasting!  

Take a SUP Yoga Class

On one of my trips to Key West, one of the surprising highlights was a SUP yoga class, done on a paddleboard out on the water, surrounded by mangroves. Lazy Dog Yoga offers both yoga classes and eco tours, on Stock Island, just east of Key West.

You don’t have to be a hardcore yogi to enjoy this class — it’s for all levels. Even if you’re new to yoga, you’ll appreciate how much holding poses on a paddle board helps your core strength!

This is a great option for a morning class, before it gets too hot for the day — but you might not want to plan it for the morning after your booze cruise.

Take a Day Trip to Dry Tortugas National Park 

Dry Tortugas National Park is a collection of small islands just west of Key West, accessible only by boat or air. These islands make up a unique national park in the US, thanks to their remote location, and access is limited.

Once at Dry Tortugas, you can spend your time exploring Fort Jefferson, snorkeling off the keys, swimming and enjoying the beautiful scenery. The white sand beaches at Dry Tortugas are gorgeous — some of the best beaches in the Florida Keys .

There is only one public ferry to Dry Tortugas National Park and one seaplane company that flies there, so you’ll want to book as soon as you have your trip dates. (Trust me — I’ve wanted to go to Dry Tortugas every time I’ve been in Key West, and they’ve always been sold out.) You can find the ferry information here.

Attend one of Key West’s legendary festivals

Key West is one of the most festival-driven cities in the United States, and it’s so worth coming to celebrate! Just keep in mind that festival times bring sky-high prices and limited availability. Book early, because a lot of regulars book their accommodation a full year out.

So what festivals should you know about? Here are a few:

Key West Songwriters’ Festival (May) — Did you know that Key West is home to the largest songwriters’ festival in the world? Expect performances from all kinds of genres here!

Key West Pride (June) — Key West is one of the most fabulously queer destinations in the United States, and Pride is off the hook! There’s a huge parade here, along with plenty of drag shows, performances, and even a vibrator race (don’t ask).

Hemingway Days (July) — I attended Hemingway Days, a tribute to Ernest Hemingway, including the Hemingway Lookalike Contest, which is one of the funniest events I have ever witnessed. There’s also a bull run!

Fantasy Fest (October) — The 10 days leading up to Halloween are filled with parades, balls, and all kinds of costumed events — most of them VERY much adults-only. Expect elaborate costumes, more than a bit of nudity, and sharing the island with 75,000 of your new best friends.

The Bight Before Christmas (late November through December) — The month leading up to Christmas is filled with all kinds of events from people who know that you don’t need it to be a White Christmas to enjoy it! The Lighted Boat Parade is the major event of the season.

How Much Time to Spend in Key West

I recommend giving yourself a minimum of three days in Key West to enjoy all of the sights. There are so many cool things to do in Key West, as you by now surely know, but this isn’t a destination where you want to run yourself ragged checking every attraction off your list. Part of the fun here is the chilling out.

That said, if you want to spend longer than three days here, you absolutely can. (And enough people spend the whole winter season here!)

I would happily visit Key West for a week or so, and that gives you time to do more day trips — not just Dry Tortugas, but perhaps up the Overseas Highway toward Marathon and back.

Personally, I think the best Florida Keys trip would split a few days in Key West with a few days in the Upper Keys — both Key Largo and Islamorada are great options.

How to Get to Key West

The easiest way to get to Key West is to fly into Key West International Airport, which has direct flights from many cities in the Eastern US. If you don’t have a direct flight, there are plenty of connections.

Otherwise, you can fly into Miami International Airport, which has extensive connections both nationally and internationally. From Miami it’s a 3.5-hour drive to Key West, and if you have a rental car , I definitely recommend spending time in Keys along the way.

If you don’t have a rental car and want transportation from Miami to Key West, this private shuttle from Miami to Key West comes highly rated.

Where to Stay in Key West

Key West has no shortage of hotels, motels, inns and resorts for your stay. Accommodation here can get quite expensive, thanks to Key West being a small geographic area with a lot of tourism.

Here are the top-rated places to stay in Key West:

Top-Rated Luxury Hotel in Key West — Parrot Key Hotel & Villas is a gorgeous resort on Florida Bay featuring four pools, on-site dining, and activities like kayaking and massages. They also offer a complimentary shuttle to Old Town Key West. 

Top-Rated Mid-range Hotel in Key West — Simonton Court Historic Inn & Cottages is an adults-only inn with tons of character, just minutes from Key West’s top attractions. There are four on-site pools and all rooms have a balcony or patio.  

Top-Rated Budget Hotel in Key West — Blue Marlin Motel is a simple motel with clean rooms a short walk from the action on Duval Street, and offers a continental breakfast and heated outdoor pool for guests. 

Find deals on places to stay in Key West here.

Best Time to Visit Key West

In my opinion, the best time to visit Key West is the spring: think March, April and May. At this time you have warm, summery days without the overbearing humidity of the summer months, and the weather is perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Key West can be very busy in the winter months, and it can get chilly at night — don’t forget a light jacket! Summer can be incredibly hot and humid, and if I hadn’t been visiting for Hemingway Days in July, I would not have wanted to go at that time of year at all. But it depends on your personal tolerance for heat and humidity.

I strongly recommend being very careful about fall trips to Key West, as this coincides with hurricane season. While hurricane season technically runs from June to November, most hurricanes tend to hit Key West in September and early October. If you are in Key West during a severe storm, listen to the authorities and do what they say .

No matter what time of year you decide to visit Key West, book everything on the early side. This is not a destination where you want to rock up last minute with nowhere to stay.

You may also want to visit Key West during one of its famed festivals or special events. You can check out Key West Pride (June), Hemingway Days (July), ​​Fantasy Fest (October), or The Bight Before Christmas (December). Note that prices and crowds surge during any big festivals in Key West, so plan accordingly.

Read More: The Best Time to Visit Key West

Is Key West Worth It?

I mean, do you think Key West is worth it after reading all these words about how madly in love I am with this destination? Key West is the best! It’s so fun and so friendly and everyone seems to be in the best mood!

Whether you’re visiting on a Florida Keys road trip or just a quick getaway, I think you’ll really love your time in Key West.

I hope you have the best trip ever! Then come back and tell me all about it!

More on the Florida Keys:

• Ultimate Florida Keys Packing List
• Solo Female Travel in Key West and the Florida Keys: The Ultimate Guide
• 24 Fabulous Things to Do in Key Largo, Florida
• 22 Fun Things to Do in Islamorada, Florida Keys
• Best Time to Visit Key West and the Florida Keys
• 25 Best Florida Keys Beaches
• 11+ Best Beaches in Key Largo
• 13 Best Key Lime Pies in Key West
• A Sizzling Summer Trip to the Florida Keys
• Key West, You Are My New Favorite
• Welcome to the Florida Keys

More on Florida:

• 17 Tips For Your First Trip to Disney World as an Adult
• Seaside, Florida: The Town from The Truman Show is a Real Place
• Miami is Nice, so I’ll Say It Twice

Have you been to Key West? What do you love to do there? Share away!

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Your Key West travel guide for enjoying Florida’s more bohemian side

Key west travel guide: where to stay, what to do, and more.

A chain of islands surrounded by the waters of the Atlantic Ocean, Key West is a world apart from the mainland. The southernmost city in the continental United States, the sun-soaked outpost treats visitors to a seamless blend of nature, nightlife, and history. Of course, it’s easy to assume the place is little more than a three-mile-long bar — and that’s not entirely untrue. But, beyond the buzz of Duval Street and the side streets full of endless-happy-hour spots, there’s more to see in this island paradise than most visitors ever consider.  The town has famously been home to literary giants including Ernest Hemingway, Tennessee Williams, Robert Frost, and Elizabeth Bishop. Of course, the tropical outpost was also the longtime home of Jimmy Buffet, who has regularly paid musical homage to Key West in his songs.

When to visit the Florida Keys

Where to stay, what to eat and drink, how to save money on your trip to the keys.

Today, locals appreciate the eccentric, the artistic, the bohemian, and celebrate anyone or anything that’s just a little weird. It’s typically a bit more laid back than larger, busier Florida mainstays like Miami  and Orlando . Here’s a guide to traveling the United States’ southernmost outpost like a proudly off-kilter local.

Springtime (between March and May) is the ideal time to visit. Crowds begin to thin out from the winter rush, but the weather is still comfortable with a 70-to-80 degree sweet spot. Winter is the high season as those from the Northern U.S. hurry to escape the cold. Summer is a gamble, as it brings hurricane season (June to November) which is humid and often rainy, but hotels offer great rates and there are fewer tourists.

With a long list of events every month of the year, Key West is a festival lover’s dream. Here are the highlights:

• January : The five-day Key West Food & Wine Festival is a culmination of 30 events to celebrate the island’s unique Floridian-Caribbean cuisine.
• April : The Cow Key Channel Bridge Run isn’t a major event. But, as the “only zero K bridge run,” it perfectly embodies Key West’s eclectic, funny, and just plain weird culture. April also brings the annual Conch Republic Independence Celebration which showcases Key West’s historic and bizarre 1982 “secession” from the United States.
• June : Like a toned-down version of Fantasy Fest, Key West Pride is a multi-day event to promote the One Human Family philosophy so thoroughly engrained in the island’s way of life.
• October : Fantasy Fest is Key West’s 10-day carnival and the one can’t-miss annual event. It’s loud, wild, and very close to a bacchanal where (almost) anything goes. Make your travel plans early and be prepared to pay a hefty premium for hotels and just about everything else.
• November : For almost four decades, the Super Boat Annual Key West World Championship has been one of the world’s premier powerboat racing events. Spectators crowd at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park and Key West harbor to watch more the top contenders race at more than 100 mph. The following week sees the Key West Film Festival which features the best in independent cinema for offbeat foreign, LGBT, and documentary films, plus Florida-centric movie premieres as well. It’s a full-featured event with a  huge kick-off party, exclusive screenings, and an awards gala.

In terms of overnight accommodations, Key West has something for everyone. There are hotels , Airbnb’s, and mom-and-pop places such as you might see on the series Bloodline for rent in Key West. Thing is, there’s only so much real estate, as anyone who visits can tell you, it can be expensive. Book your lodging far in advance of your trip to get the best rate.

For locally flavored accommodations, it’s hard to beat Eden House. It was Key West’s first hotel and, even after several renovations, it retains the island’s charming, bohemian-meets-Colonial vibe. It’s ‘boutique’ in every sense of the word – the sort of place where check-in beers are complimentary and every guest is guaranteed a hammock.

• Nearest Airport: Key West International Airport
• Time: 14 minutes
• Distance: 4.9 miles

Southernmost Beach Resort

Beachfront lodging is scarce in Key West, but Southernmost Beach Resort is an exception. The Colonial-style cottages are chic, upscale, and offer plenty of island flare – all spread across six beachfront acres overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. What’s more: It’s within a short walk to the action on and off Duval Street, but far enough removed to assure plenty of quiet and seclusion.

• Distance: 4.8 miles

The Gardens Hotel

A Key West mainstay since the 1800s, the property that is now known as The Gardens Hotel was once slated to become a botanical garden. In 1930, masterful landscaper Peggy Mills purchased the estate, and transformed the property into an exquisitely lush garden, with exotic tropical plants and artfully-crafted brick walkways. And, the tranquil vibe remains, although these days, the property even has amenities for guests, including heated pools bicycle rentals, and the well-stocked Wine Gallery. Accommodation options include airy guest rooms, an artfully-appointed master suite, and five distinctive cottages, four of which include private pools.

• Nearest Airport : Key West International Airport
• Time : 10 minutes
• Distance : 3.6 miles

At just seven square miles, Key West is tiny. So, thankfully, its tourist district is condensed into a single road – Duval Street. It’s home to Starbucks, Denny’s, Jimmy Buffet’s Magaritaville, mass-produced tchotchke shops, and pop-up stands with buckets of booze always on ‘special.’ It’s worth the stop because you can’t fully appreciate modern-day Key West without it. But, the best parts of the island are found on the many side streets and alleys off Duval. Thankfully, Key West’s diminutive size hasn’t stopped the proliferation of amazing restaurants on almost every corner of the island.

• “$” = budget-friendly or cheap
• “$$”= average
• “$$$”= expensive

Santiago’s Bodega

Santiago’s Bodega may look a little too low-key, but once inside, it’s impossible not to appreciate the Spanish-meets-Keys charm of this tiny tapas bar. The décor is quaint and understated, especially given the out-of-this-world good small plates that are the best in Key West (and arguably the state). Virtually everything on the menu pairs well with a pitcher of their house-made sparking sangria. Reservations are highly recommended any time of day as it’s just we popular with locals as with tourists.

• Best for lunch, dinner

Browse the Menu

Garbo’s Grill

For something a little more ‘grab-and-go,’ check out Garbo’s Grill. This husband-and-wife owned food truck behind Grunts Bar serves up simple but creative takes on handheld foods like burgers, burritos, and tacos. The tiny, palm-lined patio is a chill, cozy place to dine alfresco.

Better Than Sex

If you can forgive the ham-handed, Valentine’s Day schtick theme of Better Than Sex, you’ll be in for some of the island’s best after-dinner treats. This dimly-lit dessert bar provides no illusions about its menu and every plate is almost unnecessarily decadent. Opt for the original Better Than Sex – dark chocolate-soaked pumpernickel bread pudding filled with rich sweet cherries.

• Best for dessert

Green Parrot Bar & Charlie Mac’s

The Green Parrot Bar claims to be the oldest bar on the island. Rumors abound in support of and against the claim. Either way, they’re been slinging stiff drinks since 1890 – and it feels as though the place has hardly seen a cleaning since. It’s a textbook example of what a dive bar should be: Plenty of live music, attitude, and no food on the menu (try the BBQ at Charlie Mac’s next door if you’re hungry). Don’t miss their Root Beer Barrel – the house boilermaker that combines root beer and schnapps with a chaser of their cheapest beer.

• Best for drinks, lunch, dinner

Captain Tony’s Saloon

A quintessential dive bar, the property housing Captain Tony’s Saloon as served a lot of functions – and featured prominently in local lore, even earning a mention in Jimmy Buffet’s song Last Mango in Paris . Originally constructed in 1851 as an icehouse that also operated as the local morgue, the property housing Captain Tony’s Saloon served a lot of functions before first being opened as a bar in 1933 – a spot known as Sloppy Joes, famed for hosting the likes of Ernest Hemingway on a regular basis. But, after a dispute with the landlord, Sloppy Joes moved to Duval Street in 1938 – and two decades later, local charter captain Tony Tarracino bought the joint, and the rest is history.

Salute! on the Beach

To escape the maddening crowds, Salute! on the Beach offers decidedly relaxed cocktails and dining far from Duval Street. Hop an Uber to this funky hangout situated directly on the sand at Higgs Beach where beachgoers have easy access to clear tropical cocktails and seafood-centric snacks.

Key West Legal Rum

Key West Legal Rum is an ideal end point for an afternoon pub crawl. The chef-owned distillery embraces the island’s long, sordid history with liquor and prohibition. The tasting room provides plenty of history along with free samples and bespoke rum-centric cocktails. While the menu changes often, ask about the Green Flash – a unique blend of lightly carbonated ginger, lime, demerara sugar, and vanilla brulée rum.

• Best for drinks

Blue Heaven

For such a tiny island, the breakfast options are surprisingly plentiful. But, even locals agree nothing touches Blue Heaven. The rustic sister restaurant of Salute! has an al fresco courtyard where roosters run wild beneath the tables. It’s a staple of the island’s breakfast scene and the wait can sometimes be more than an hour. But it’s well worth it because every last thing on the menu is creative and amazing. We recommend BLT Eggs Benedict with fresh Florida lobster, bacon, avocado, and lime hollandaise sauce. Follow it with a slice of scratch-made key lime pie (because pie with breakfast is acceptable here) – key lime juice and rich graham cracker crust, topped with six full inches of meringue.

• Best for Breakfast

Exploring the beaches and swimming in the turquoise water of the Keys should be at the top of every visitor’s list. Whether you do this by snorkeling, scuba diving, or riding a jet ski is up to you. Of course, the rich history of Key West is worth diving into as well. Additionally, Key West sunsets are not to be missed, as street performers offer lively entertainment while you stroll the streets, enjoying the breeze. The island definitely toes the line between ‘Jimmy Buffet-inspired touristy’ and ‘chic island bohemian.’ When you’ve had your fill of the bustle of Duval and half-drunk-by-morning tourists, escape to Key West’s best off-island experiences. What you may not know is that the island’s modern history is inextricably linked to the life of Ernest Hemingway. To understand and fully appreciate Key West, you must start at the beginning.

Hemingway House

Home to the storied author from 1931 to 1940, Hemingway House is a requisite first stop for new visitors as it provides the perfect primer. After moving into the Spanish colonial house with his second wife, journalist Pauline Pfeifer), Hemingway penned works including Green Hills of Africa (1935) and The Short Happy Life of Frances Macomber (1936) at the property. A tour of the museum takes little more than an hour or two. Guides provide a light, educational glimpse into the life of not just Hemingway the man, but the history of Key West as a whole. Much of his original memorabilia (including a tiny writer’s loft which appears frozen in time) and plenty of six-toed cats still remain.

Visit the House

Barefoot Billy’s (Water Adventures)

Not surprisingly, Key West’s best adventurous diversions are on the ocean. Barefoot Billy’s offer a host of guided water-based activities including snorkeling, dolphin watching, and harbor cruises. But, their big get is a two-hour jet ski tour that circumnavigates the entire island (no previous skill required). While there are a handful of stops along the way, the tour is fast so be prepared to keep up .

View Tours and Rentals

Dry Tortugas National Park

Seventy miles west, you’ll find one of the most unique national parks in the United States. Dry Tortugas National Park is a stunning, remote outpost that few Americans have ever heard of, let alone visited. It’s comprised of seven islands, protected coral reefs, and Fort Jefferson – a sprawling, 19 th- century military installation that saw little use in its day and still remains very well-preserved. The real win for travelers is just off-shore as the island is home to some of the clearest, warmest tropical waters in the country. Chartered floatplanes are the fastest (and most expensive) means of transportation to/from Key West, while the ferry is far slower but allows you to take in the scenery. For an ‘all-in’ experience, the park service offers limited overnight camping for no more than a dozen visitors. But be prepared: there are no services (water, cell service, or electricity) of any kind. You are, quite literally, on your own.

Explore the Park

Even with the miles of stunning coastline, The Florida Keys are not known for their Caribbean-style, soft sand beaches. For a rare beach experience in Key West, book a day pass to Sunset Key , just a seven-minute boat ride across from Mallory Square. The tiny island is home to one of Florida’s most exclusive hotels and a limited number of non-guests are allowed to relax on its private, flour-soft beach each day. After sunset, head to Latitudes – the hotel’s beachfront restaurant, routinely ranked about the best and most romantic in Key West.

Visit Sunset Key

Key West Cemetery

Nestled into Old Town, the Key West Cemetery is a microcosm of local history. Established in 1847, the 19-acre cemetery is the final resting place for locals from all walks of life, from mariners to cigar makers to millionaires. Maps of the cemetery are available from the Sexton’s Office for self-guided tours, and the Historic Florida Keys Foundation also offers walking tours twice a week. Of course, with a reputation as one of the most haunted places in town, the storied cemetery is also one of the stops showcased on the Ghosts & Gravestones Tour of Key West.

Visit the Cemetery

Experiences 

Look for Groupon deals, discounts through your hotel, and savings for those shopping online. And, don’t forget about Key West’s budget-friendly experiences, from free, self-guided walking tours to historic sites to public beaches.

Hotels 

While the weather can be unpredictable during the hurricane season in late summer and early fall (typically in September and October), there are ‘off-season’ accommodation rates available. And, if possible, book in advance to snap up the best deals.

Vehicle Rentals 

Book in Advance and be open to whatever is available. Rental cars  can be expensive right now and having some flexibility will help you save money.

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There are almost endless places to visit, view, and eat under the Medellín sun. Colorful homes line up next to colonial hotels, modern museums, and swanky hotels. Music adds spice to the air, as do grilling meats and the lights that splash across the evening. After you’re done with consumption, the city offers an abundance of urban retreats. Swim, hike, fly across the sky via this Manual guide.

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To discover what the rest of South Florida has to offer, all you need to do is travel one hour north to Fort Lauderdale and the surrounding areas of Deerfield Beach and Boca Raton to indulge in gorgeous nature, an outstanding bar and restaurant scene, and some of the most breathtaking beaches in the country. Check out our guide for the best places to shop, eat and stay the next time you find yourself on this fun-filled stretch of the Atlantic coast.

Spread in the shadow of Vermont’s highest peak, 4,395-foot Mount Mansfield, Stowe has a well-deserved reputation as a winter sports destination. Founded in 1794, the historic hamlet cradled by the Green Mountains emerged as a hub for downhill and cross-country skiers beginning in the 1930s -- and is home to the Vermont Ski and Snowboard Museum. But, there’s much more than just skiing. The town is an alluring year-round destination, a portal to the Green Mountains with a bustling après adventure scene, and a wide array of accommodation options.

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Is Key West Worth Visiting? 7 Reasons To Visit This Summer!

Down at the southernmost tip of the continental United States lie the Florida Keys, a collection of islands off the coast of Florida, each unique with its own personality and something special to attract visitors. The furthest south is perhaps the most well-known of the Keys, Key West.

Only 90 miles away from Cuba, this beautiful island is not only filled with historical, fun, and whimsical spots to attract tourists, but it is also one of the few places in America you can drive to if you want a truly tropical vacation. Planning a vacation is part of the fun of going on one, and if you’re trying to decide on a great vacation this summer, Key West is worth considering.

A tour we think you'll love

Despite its relatively small size, Key West has something to offer nearly every visitor, from families with children to couples on a romantic getaway, as well as solo travelers. People come from all over the world to experience Key West’s beautiful beaches, its historical locations, its marine life, and even its one-of-a-kind festivals, like Fantasy Fest and the Hemingway Days. Summer is the best time to travel to Key West, as there is a lot to do. Anyone who has ever visited Key West will tell you about its many joys and wonders.

So is Key West worth visiting? Let the expert guides at Key West Sandbar Tours show you around! These professionally guided tours are perfect for anyone hoping to see Key West up close. If you’re thinking about visiting Key West Florida this summer, here are nine reasons why it’s worth the trip.

7 Reasons To Visit Key West This Summer

1) the food.

Key West is Florida’s claim to fame when it comes to culinary delights. Those with a sweet tooth will appreciate the island’s signature dessert, the Key Lime Pie. This iconic treat is made with local Key limes grown on the island, which give it a unique flavor you won’t find anywhere else.

Key West also claims a strong Cuban heritage, with its island neighbor only a short boat ride away. Several restaurants on the island feature authentic Cuban cuisine worth trying. And what’s a visit to a tropical island without seafood? Key West Florida has a bustling seafood restaurant industry that is not to be missed. Some eateries highlighting these specialties include:

Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe

Blue Heaven

The Lobster Shack

Cuban Coffee Queen

Santiago’s Bodega

El Siboney Restaurant

Off the Hook Grill

Conch Republic Seafood Company

El Meson de Pepe’s Restaurant

2) The History

Key West Florida is home to several points of interest for history lovers who come to the Florida Keys. Many interesting historical events took place in Key West in the past, and several visitor spots commemorate these events. From the island’s most famous resident, Ernest Hemmingway, to US presidents, Key West has several must-see spots visitors should plan to see.

The Key West lighthouse, dating back to 1825, houses a museum where visitors can learn about the first female lightkeeper in the US, stroll the gardens of the John Audubon house, or see the six-toed cats descended from Ernest Hemmingway’s pet cat who roam the gardens at the author’s former home, now a museum. Some of these interesting historical locations include:

Ernest Hemmingway’s Home and Gardens

John Audubon House and Gardens

Key West Lighthouse

Truman Little White House

Key West Cemetery

3) Gardens, Museums, And Aquarium

If you love beautiful gardens, then don’t miss the Key West Garden Club. This group maintains several beautiful gardens around the island, including the West Martello Tower Garden, which is located in a historic fort.

Visit the Key West Aquarium to see some amazing displays of aquatic life. The Key West Aquarium is an excellent resource for learning about the local marine ecosystem. Sharks, sea turtles, and a plethora of fish species are all on display for guests to observe. Some of the animals can even be handled in “touch tanks” or “interactive exhibits.”

The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is a one-of-a-kind destination where guests may interact with hundreds of butterflies in a controlled setting. There are many different kinds of butterflies, other insects, and birds on the site. Nature enthusiasts and families with young children will enjoy their time here.

The island is also home to several unique museums. There is the Key West Museum of Art and History, the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum, the Shipwreck Museum, and the Fort East Martello Museum.

4) Duval Street

One of the main thoroughfares on the island is Duval Street, which is famous for its shops, restaurants, and bars. The visitor who is looking for souvenirs, seafood, drinks, and fun will find it on Duval Street.

It is also here that you’ll find some of the island’s more historic buildings, including Sloppy Joes, the bar made famous by Ernest Hemmingway, who frequented the establishment while writing some of his famous works.

The street is also famous for the number of bars that line it. Duval Street has more bars per square mile than anywhere else in Florida.

5) Mallory Square And Sunset Celebration

Mallory Square is the place to go if you’re looking for some unusual fun. The area is frequented by street performers, artists, food vendors, live music, and whimsical locals. Every day, island residents and tourists gather at this west-facing sport to watch the sunset at the Sunset Celebration, which is not only a beautiful sight and great photo op but also a chance to see stilt walkers and fire jugglers! Mallory Square is also home to several museums, shops, the Aquarium, and several sculptures made by local artists.

6) The Beaches

What would a trip to a tropical island be without a day at the beach? Key West and the other Florida Keys have some of the most beautiful beaches in Florida. With their clear, calm waters facing the Atlantic Ocean and warm waters bordering the Gulf of Mexico, Key West beaches are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, skiing, parasailing, jet skiing, and a variety of other activities.

Families with young children will appreciate the public facilities and most of the beaches, as all the beaches in Key West are public and not privately owned. Many beaches allow picnics, have beach chairs and umbrellas available for rent, water equipment for rent, and snack bars. Some of the best beaches in Key West include:

Fort Zachary Taylor Beach

Higgs Beach

Smathers Beach

South Beach (don’t miss the Southernmost Point photo spot!)

7) Old Town And Trolley Tours

The Key West Historic District is home to most of the interesting places on the island. It is a designated US historic district and has over a hundred points of interest located in only a 4,000-acre area.

It is also here that visitors will find the Old Town Trolley tour system, a hop-on, hop-off tour bus system that stops at nearly every point of interest on the island. Visitors can travel at their own pace and visit many of the island’s famous locations. Almost every location already mentioned here is in this district, but some other locations in this district include:

Oldest House Museum and Gardens

Basilica of St. Mary Star of the Sea

Captain Tony’s Saloon

Key West Heritage House and Robert Frost Cottage

Birthplace of Pan-Am

Fogarty Mansion

Come This Summer!

So is Key West a good vacation spot? It sure is! If you’re looking for a great destination for your summer vacation, pack your bags, drive out over the Overseas Highway, and head to the Florida Keys for an exciting trip to Key West. 

If you’re looking to explore some of the natural beauty of Key West, the island has much to offer during the summer months, even during hurricane season when the weather can be a little unpredictable. Grab a slice of key lime pie, take a picture at the Southernmost Point buoy, book a boat tour , and plan your activities around the Key West Area.

Tourists who visit Key West always have great stories to tell when they return home. Is Key West worth visiting? Hopefully, these suggestions have you saying “yes!” Summer is the best time to travel to Key West, so if you plan to come, click here and book your Key West excursions today!

Sandbar Tour For Large Groups

If your group is larger than 6 and you have a hard time finding a boat ride to the sandbars because of the 6 passengers limit, we are here to help. You can book our 2 identical Hurricane 27 foot deck boats and our captains will drive them side by side so you can take cool photos and they will raft up the boats on the sandbars so you can enjoy and share this amazing time together.

Hopping Sandbars In Key West

What a perfect day to take a boat ride! You will see not one but several different sandbars on this tour! It will only take 25 minutes to get there on our epic adventure, and we can stop as long as you want at those sandbars that interest you the most. This is something you cannot miss!

Experience the mangrove trails of Mud Keys and hang out with locals at Snipe Point after. You won't want the day to end.

Key West Sunset Cruise

Ocean, meet our captain! One of the best things about the backcountry waters is how it’s never too crowded. So jump in and enjoy the peacefulness and remoteness as you stand in the "middle of the ocean" with nothing but water around you. Optionally, bring some champagne to enjoy with the sunset as a backdrop. Then, just sit back and relax as you cruise on out into the middle of nowhere, leaving behind any stress or worries.

Mud Key Mangrove Safari

It's time for some adventure and excitement with a boat trip through the backcountry. After only a short ride, we'll take you on a leisurely cruise down to Mud Key Sanctuary, where you can enjoy the countryside and take in all the wonders of nature that surround you. Stop by the sandbar for a refreshing dip or just stroll around and soak up the sun. Capture your memories and cherish them forever.

Pack your bags

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What Does A Key West Trip Cost? Here’s What We Actually Spent

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Key West is a popular getaway for Americans to blow off steam in a tropical setting without leaving the United States. If Key West is calling you, whether in the US or abroad, you may be wondering how much you’ll spend frolicking around this island city. Today, I am taking the guesswork out of it by sharing the cost of a 5-day Key West trip I took with my husband, Aaron.

Although Key West is known for having a laidback and care-free atmosphere, this vacationland will not necessarily be gentle on your wallet. Tourist premiums aside, parking and housing on this 7.2 square-mile-island are already limited, which drives up costs. However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t ways to manage your expenses and avoid paying more than is necessary.

Truthfully, it’s easy to overspend in Key West. In fact, it was our first trip here in 2016 that prompted us to start creating detailed budgets before trips.

To help you have a realistic expectation of what a Key West trip would cost, below I am breaking down everything Aaron and I spent on our 5-day trip. I will also note which splurges were totally worth it, as well as recommend opportunities to save money. After all, the more you can save in one area is more you have to spend in another!

Here is my actual Key West Trip Cost (in USD):

The above shows our actual expenses paid for five days in Key West while traveling as a couple. Although I would not overall call our trip luxurious by any means, we did make an unusually high splurge on an epic day trip to Dry Tortugas National Park .

Without that, our Key West trip would have cost more like $3,750. I take back nothing though!

Travel Savvy Tip

Don’t look at this budget as a lump sum! That’s the quickest way to get intimidated and assume Key West is unattainable. The truth is, you won’t pay the full amount at once. For example, we bought our flights and Dry Tortugas tickets up front, but basically didn’t pay anything else until the month of our trip.

As the date gets closer, you’ll start looking at tours you may want to do, as well as make restaurant reservations. When you get back home from your trip, you’ll pay off any remaining vacay expenses you’ve incurred.

Breaking it into chunks like this is a much more approachable way to afford the cost of a trip to Key West!

Key West Trip Cost Breakdown

Let’s start with the fact that Aaron and I spent next to nothing on our round trip flights between Cleveland and Miami, FL. Our flights were technically free, as we were able to cover the entire cost using credit card points after finding $200 tickets. We paid an extra $35.28 to move our seats after the airline sat us away from one another.

You may be wondering why we flew into Miami and not Key West. Basically, you can either fly direct to Key West or fly to Miami first and then drive the Overseas Highway through the Florida Keys. Often times, the latter can be less expensive and it’s also incredibly scenic and bucket list worthy.

While it is simpler to fly direct into Key West, it can also be more pricey and potentially require a layover depending on your origin city. However, the benefit is that you likely wouldn’t need a car for the rest of your stay.

Solo travelers  should budget around $250 for airfare ($500 for couple) if not using points;  everyone  should read the below tips to avoid overpaying for flights:

• Be flexible with your travel days, as weekend flights can be more expensive. Play around with searching different departure and arrival days, and you’ll be amazed what a difference that can make.
• Travel during low or shoulder season (May through November), when there is an overall drop in prices.
• Last but not least, the tip that has helped me the most:  Sign up for a credit card with travel rewards points. We’ve gotten countless free flights thanks to our cards, simply due to points earned on every day purchases. We’ve had great experiences using both the  Capital One Venture  and the  Chase Sapphire Reserve .

Transportation

Unless you are driving the Overseas Highway from Miami to Key West, I do not recommend renting a car. Key West is really small and parking is scarce and expensive, so it’s best to avoid having a vehicle with you if you don’t need one. It’ll be more of a pain and inconvenience than anything else.

The good news is that Key West is small and many places are walkable. Consider renting a bike or scooter as an alternative way to get around the island.

There are several bike rental companies in Key West, and you can usually find options for less than $20/day. Here are a couple popular companies:

• A&M Rentals (we used them on our first trip to Key West)
• Pirate Scooter Rentals

Here’s a breakdown of our transportation costs of $549.17 above:

• Rental car from Miami airport: $479.42
• Gas: $33.20
• Parking: $36.55

Solo travelers  would spend about the same as the above, assuming they were driving to Key West from Miami.

Lodging is the category that I find most difficult to do on a budget in Key West. If you are traveling in the high season months spanning December through March, be prepared to spend $300+ a night for even the simplest rooms. Upon scanning prices on both hotels and Airbnb’s, I found no overall price difference between the two.

To save money, plan you Key West trip in late April through May for an overall price drop before the sweltering summer temperatures set in.

Since Key West is so small, it is not necessary to stay right on or even near Duval Street, which is situated in Old Town within the Key West Historic District. Although, if this is your first visit to Key West, you might not mind paying extra to stay in the center of everything.

Otherwise, the farther you get from Duval, the more reasonable prices get. Hotels located close to Stock Island, like Coconut Mallory Resort and Marina or DoubleTree by Hilton Grand Key Resort , tend to be more reasonable. Simply rent bikes to get to Key West’s main drag.

If you’d like to stay in our overpriced, yet well-located Airbnb pictured above, here is the link . Were were able to walk to everything and it’s even been recently renovated!

Solo travelers  can expect to spend about the same amount for similar lodging in late spring. However, travelers sharing a hotel room or Airbnb with friends may spend even less.

Eating and drinking out in Key West adds up fast. Therefore, if you rent an Airbnb and have access to a kitchen, it’s a good idea to eat in for a few of your meals.

Aaron and I opted to have a couple breakfasts and lunches at our Airbnb near Duval Street. We generally kept things pretty simple, opting for cereal and lunchmeat for sandwiches. The $69 we spent also includes some practicalities, like sunscreen (in Key West only reef-safe sunscreen is allowed).

Solo travelers  should budget around $30 for groceries and incidental items like water and sunscreen.

Food & Drink

Even with eating in a few times, we couldn’t help but to explore the Key West food scene as much as possible. It’s to resist being a part of the city’s celebratory atmosphere, with lively bars and restaurants galore. Plus, this tiny island happens to have great access to seafood like conch and shrimp, so you have to take advantage when possible.

As far as our expenses, I’m not gonna beat around the bush; we didn’t show much restraint in this category. Here are two standouts that contributed to our total of $973.91:

• $144 sipping painkillers at The Rum Bar just about every day.
• $220 for an upscale dinner at Latitudes

Here are the more budget-friendly meals we enjoyed the most:

• $68 for dinner and drinks at Hogfish Grill
• $31 for lunch at the Garbo’s Grill food truck
• $25.69 for a fresh, healthy lunch at Date & Thyme
• $11 for donuts from Glazed Donuts
• $44 for breakfast at Moondog Cafe

Solo travelers  should budget around $300 for food and drinks. I personally do not drink much (if at all) when traveling alone, which really keeps costs down.

It might come as no surprise that activities can really drive up your Key West trip cost. At the same time, they can also make your experience that much more memorable.

There are so many fun things to do in Key West , both free and paid. I’ve listed some free things to take advantage of below. However, certain paid experiences, like visiting the Hemingway House , spending time at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park , and taking are walking tour , are completely worth it.

My best advice would be to take do a good mix of free and paid activities (like watching the sunset and sunrise – the views from Key West are spectacular). This will help you save room in your budget for a pub crawl or sunset sail .

As mentioned previously our activities expense is super high due to booking a full day excursion to Dry Tortugas National Park on the seaplane. If seeing magnificent shades of blue water and shipwrecks from the air is an experience you seek, the hefty price of $634 per person is completely worth it.

The remainding $139 we spent is from visiting the Key West Lighthouse , as well as admissions and miscellaneous expenses at various Florida State Parks.

Top 6 Free Things to Do in Key West:

• Take a selfie at the “Southernmost Point”
• Stroll down Duval Street to witness the party atmosphere
• Attend the Mallory Square Sunset Celebration
• Stroll down Smathers Beach
• Watch the sunrise from Higgs Beach
• Check out US 1 Mile Marker 0

Solo travelers should budget anywhere from $100 to $700 for activities.

Key West Trip Cost: Miscellaneous Expenses

• Shopping: $0 Since we super-splurged on the seaplane to Dry Tortugas, we restricted ourselves from buying souvenirs while in Key West.
• Pet Boarding: $200 For a long weekend trip, you may be able to find a friend or family member to watch any pets you have for free. Since that was not possible for us, Aaron and I paid to board our dog in a “luxury suite” at his vet office.

Now that you have an idea of what a Key West trip would cost, hopefully you feel better prepared to budget for your own trip to the Conch Republic. It’s possible you’ll get a little sticker shock at first, but don’t worry. It’ll subside and then you can focus on soaking up the sun as you blow off some steam in this quirky American party city.

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Miami to Key West Road Trip Itinerary | All the Best Stops!

By: Author Adam

Posted on Last updated: 30 April, 2024

This thin strand of pavement skipping along bridges through the Florida Keys is one of the best road trips in the country. If you are thinking about making the drive from Miami to Key West, this Key West drive guide is for you.

The distance from Miami to Key West is a 165 Mile drive and should take you just 3 hours and 20 minutes if you drive to Key West straight without any stops – but then you’d miss one of the greatest American road trips.

We suggest a 2-3 day road trip driving through the Florida Keys to hit most of the best road trip stops, with a few nights to end your Key West drive.

We love this drive and have personally done it eight times, and we’re heading back again this year! We always start our drive to Key West in Miami, but you can easily reverse the guide below if you drive northbound from Key West to Miami.

In this Key West road trip guide, we will share some of our favorite things to do in the Florida Keys and the best stops in the Florida Keys along the Overseas Highway!

• Best Stops on a Miami to Key West Drive
• Our Favorite Places to Stay in the Florida Keys
• Where to Eat on a Key West Road Trip
• Things to do in Key West & Where to Eat
• Miami to Key West FAQ

Using the Mile Markers on the Overseas Highway

The first thing to understand is that most of the attractions on a Miami to Key West road trip are referenced by what Mile Marker they are located near.

At Mile Marker 118, you are officially in the Florida Keys! From here, you are just over 100 miles from Key West, with lots of fun adventures ahead of you.

At the southwestern end of Key West lies the end of the road at Mile Marker 0. Between those mile markers, there are plenty of amazing stop-offs with lots of fun and adventures.

On your drive to Key West, you’ll pass through hundreds of small islands, which are called Keys, that make up the Florida Keys. The Keys are all connected by Highway 1 or “The Overseas Highway.”

Top 20 Best Places to Stop on the Drive from Miami to Key West

Every good road trip needs a destination, but many times, the things to see along the way are what really make the trip, and the drive from Miami to Key West is no different.

The Overseas Highway is full of fun and sometimes quirky stops to break up the drive on the way down to Key West. This great American road trip is full of gorgeous beaches, Florida State Parks, tasty restaurants & breweries, and more.

Here’s a collection of some of our favorite stops that are organized from north to south, as you’d find them on the drive down to Key West, labeled by the nearest mile marker on HWY 1.

If you are driving from Key West to Miami, you’ll start at the bottom and work your way up to Miami.

Many people choose to start their Miami to Key West drive by flying into this vibrant city and renting a car in Miami – but don’t just land and leave Miami.

There are a lot of great sights, beaches, and, of course, amazing restaurants in Miami. If you are starting your Florida Keys drive in Miami, do yourself a favor and spend at least a night one night in Miami.

If you do spend a day or two in Miami, here are some of our favorite things to do in Miami to help plan your ultimate Miami itinerary. If you get a rainy day, check out some of the click here for a list of Miami museums.

We really like to stay at this Miami hotel, the Iberostar Berkeley Shore Hotel . It is in a great location right on Miami Beach, with a nice pool, a beach area with chairs & umbrellas (a big selling point for us), parking, and more.

Another good place to stay in Miami, and where we recently stayed, is this hotel Uma House by Yurbban South Beach . It is located in South Beach, but not right on the beach.

The hotel is new, has a great location, and is an easy walk to South Beach and restaurants. It is a super cute smaller hotel that has room options with separate bedrooms, which are great for families traveling with kids in Miami.

2. Everglades National Park

On your way down to the Florida Keys on Highway 1, a turn-off just south of Florida City will take you into a portion of the Everglades National Park.

In this guide, we will focus more on the Florida Keys portion of the road trip, but if you have more time, Everglades National Park is definitely worth a stop.

Most of the Florida Everglades airboat tour companies don’t leave from Key Largo. Click here for more information on Florida Everglades tours .

Click here for the best Everglades National Park tour – Small group boat, kayak, and walking guided Eco Tour. 

3. John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park – (Mile Marker 102.5)

This Florida State Park was the first underwater park in the United States and covers about 70 square nautical miles. At John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, there are mangrove swamps to kayak and hammocks to lounge in, but the main draw to the park is what lies beneath the surface.

Under the waves, you’ll find beautiful coral reefs, plenty of sea life, and even an underwater sculpture. In addition to the natural wonders, the visitor center also has a 30,000-gallon saltwater aquarium filled with some of the same sea life you’ll find in the state park.

If you have time, this is our favorite snorkel trip in the Florida Keys at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park.  A glass bottom boat tour is a must, book this really good, and super cheap boat tour .

Before or after visiting the state park, stop at Alabama Jacks, our favorite tiki bar in Key Largo. If you are looking for another nearby state park, just a few minutes’ drive away is Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock Botanical State Park, which is at mile marker 106.

Snorkeling in Key Largo – Best Places to Go

Where to Stay Between Miami and Key West

Most people rush their drive down to Key West, which is deserving of your time, but there are lots of things to see in the Northern and Middle Keys, too.

We suggest staying at least a night or two in the Northern or Middle Keys and, if you have time on your road trip, both.

• Iberostar Berkeley Shore Hotel – Miami
• Kona Kai Resort – Key Largo
• Cheeca Lodge – Isla Morada
• Southernmost Beach Resort – Key West

4. Spiegel Grove Ship Wreck (about 6 miles offshore from Mile Marker 102)

This massive Navy ship sits about 6 miles from the shore of Key Largo and is one of the top dive sites in the Florida Keys.

In 2002, it was intentionally sunk to create an artificial reef and home for marine life. At the time of the sinking, the 512 ft ship was the largest ship ever to be intentionally sunk for use as an artificial reef for scuba diving. It is a must for divers visiting the Florida Keys.

5. Cruise on the Africa Queen (Mile Marker 100)

Movie buffs will surely want to pull over to take a scenic ride through the canals of Key Largo aboard the ship from the movie The African Queen .

This boat, built in 1912 and featured in the 1951 movie starring Humphrey Bogart and Katharine Hepburn, was built in East Africa and worked there building railroads before it became a star.

6. Mile 88 Beach & MM88 Tiki Bar (Mile Marker 88)

Soak in the tiki vibes at Plantation Key’s Mile Marker 88 Beach and Bar. With an unobstructed view to the west, this is also a great spot for sunset and a few sundowners.

If you want to hit some of the best Florida Keys bars , make sure to pull off at Mile Marker 88!

7. Rain Barrel Artisan’s Village & Lobster Statue (Mile Marker 86)

This road trip stop in the Florida Keys is easy to spot, with a statue of a giant lobster named Betsy sitting out front.

Many people stop for a selfie with the lobster and then realize there is a fun artist village here as well.

8. Islamorada Sandbar Island Party (Near Mile Marker 84)

The sandbar located right offshore from Islamorada is the perfect place to spend an afternoon in the Florida Keys!

You’ll find boats parked here just about every day, but on Sundays – this is the place to be.

On the weekends’ hundreds of boats gather for an informal party in the crystal clear waist-deep water! You can charter a boat of the day and enjoy this unique local party.

Join this Waverunner tour, which visits the famous Islamorada Sandbar, mangrove tunnels, go under Whale Harbor Bridge, and more!

Another great option if you are traveling with a group and looking to go on a fun tiki boat. You can rent this Tiki boat for a private 3 hours Islamorada Sandbar Tour .

9. History of Diving Museum (Mile Marker 83)

Whether you are a diving enthusiast or not, the history of Diving Museum should be a part of anyone’s Key West road trip itinerary.

Inside, there is a fascinating collection of diving equipment dating back hundreds of years – and YES, you can even put on an old-school diving helmet!

10. Islamorada Beer Company (Mile Marker 82)

You can’t miss the bright yellow building that make up Islamorada Beer Company and their adjoining distillery. Pull up a seat at the bar and grab a flight of tasty beers from the long list of brews.

Their IPAs were pretty solid, and it was fun to try some of the beers that included regional ingredients and local flare.

Best Bars in Islamorada

11. cheeca lodge & spa (near mile marker 82).

After a long day of driving, nothing works out the kinks like a good massage. Here at Cheeca Lodge , they have one of the best spas in the Florida Keys.

On your way to Key West, indulge in a massage and make time for lunch at the Atlantic Edge restaurant on the property, which offers great views of the sea. If you are looking for a waterfront restaurant in Islamorada , this is a great pick.

12. Florida Keys Brewing Company (Mile Marker 81.5)

You don’t have to go very far between stops on a road trip from Miami to Key West to find fun places to grab a drink.

Also, one in Islamorada is the Florida Keys Brewing Company, which is one of the top breweries in the area. Their bottle cap tiled beer garden and taproom are surely worth pulling over for in your voyage down the Keys.

13. Feed the Tarpon at Robbie’s Restaurant (Mile Marker 77) – One of the Best Stops

One of our favorite stops on our Florida Keys road trip was Robbie’s Restaurant. Where else in the world can you have a 5-foot-long fish jump out of the water to grab a fish from your hand?

Robbie’s is famous for its terrapin feeding, which started after trying to nurse an injured fish back to health. You can buy a bucket of “fish food” to feed the terrapin, but just be careful. These fish are always hungry!

They also make some great food. It is one of our favorite places to eat in Islamorada . They are open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. We have eaten all three meals here. This is a must-visit stop for us every time we drive to Key West. The food is really good value for the price.

14. Dolphin Research Center (Mile Marker 59)

The Dolphin Research Center provides a forever home for animals that have been recused and rehabilitated but can’t be released back into the wild.

The research center was established in 1984 by Jayne & Armando Rodriguez as a non-profit to provide a habitat for dolphins and educational experiences for visitors.

15. Turtle Hospital (Mile Marker 48.5)

The Turtle Hospital started helping everyone’s favorite sea creatures back in 1986. Since then, they have rehabbed and released more than 1,500 turtles back into the water surrounding the Florida Keys.

On your road trip in the Keys, you can stop in and see the turtles that are currently being treated on one of their 90-minute tours that start on the hour from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. daily.

16. Seven Mile Bridge (Mile Marker 47-40)

One of the most impressive bridges you’ll ever drive across is located on the west end of Marathon in the Middle Keys.

As the name implies, this bridge spans seven miles across the sea, and in some spots, it’s so long and straight you can’t see the end of it.

Here, you’ll also find a walking bridge that was once a railway – it spans this stretch, too. However, in 2019, it’s under construction and not open the entire length.

For some really good views of the Seven Mile Bridge, head to Sunset Grille & Raw Bar in Marathon. This is one of the best restaurants in Marathon and our favorite place to watch the sunset in Marathon.

17. Bahia Honda State Park (Mile Marker 37)

When putting together your Key West drive map, make sure to save an hour or part of the day to explore Bahia Honda State Park. This state park is one of the best state parks in the Florida Keys.

Bahia Honda State Park has some of the best beaches in the Florida Keys. The entire state park is over 500 acres and offers great snorkeling opportunities.

Head to the concession stand for snacks, kayak rentals, and information on their snorkeling tour to Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary. Bahia Honda State Park is less than half an hour’s drive from Marathon.

If you’re driving from Miami to Key West in an RV or campervan, there are three campgrounds at Bahia Honda State Park with a total of 80 campsites.

There are even three cabin rentals at Bahia Honda State Park, but your car must be able to go under the Bahia Honda Bridge with a max height of 6 feet 8 inches.

Reservations for camping at Bahia Honda State Park and cabins are in high demand. Reservations can be made 11 months in advance.

18. No Name Pub (Near Mile Marker 30)

This pub with no name is worth the short detour off of the Overseas Highway near the key that shares the “No Name” name. This place is full of kitsch, with the walls and ceilings covered in dollar bills.

It’s one of those old-time places that they just don’t make anymore. If this sounds like your kind of place, be sure to build it into your road trip itinerary for a drink or a bite to eat.

Renting a Car in Florida

Some people drive their own car from their hometown all the way to Key Wet. Some people rent a car in Miami and drive from Miami to Key West. Some people rent a car in Key West and drive to Miami.

We have taken several Florida road trips, driving from Wisconsin down to Key West. We also rented a car in Miami and then started our Key West drive from there, and then flew home from Key West. There is no right or wrong way.

We use this car rental company when renting a car in Florida. They have the best prices, free cancellation, and no hidden costs.

We have found that it is best to fly into Miami, rent a car in Miami , drive from Miami to Key West, and fly home from Key West.

If time is not a problem, it is cheaper to return the rental car to Miami, and flights from Miami are almost always cheaper than flying out of Key West airport.

Where to Eat in the Upper & Middle Keys

Sol by the sea.

Fine dining with unobstructed sunset views in Key Largo at the Playa Largo Resort & Spa. It’s an excellent place for a special dinner or to celebrate being in the Keys! Many of the dishes here take hints of Caribbean Influences.

Mrs. Mac’s

An upper keys icon serving up classic dishes with an easy-going flare that made the Keys what they are. This place is a must for breakfast or brunch before continuing your Key West Road Trip.

It is one of the best restaurants in Key Largo for sure.

Atlantic’s Edge

Located at the Cheeca Lodge, Atlantic’s Edge is the perfect place for lunch or dinner with fantastic ocean views. We highly suggest the fresh fish tacos and salad if you are looking for a lighter lunch.

Chef Michaels

Chef Michaels is one of the best upscale restaurants in the Upper Keys and Islamorada’s top restaurants . If you can get a reservation, we highly recommend it. They are known for their fresh seafood and steaks at Chef Michales.

Hungry Tarpon Restaurant

The Hungry Tarpon Restaurant is located at the famous Robbies of Islamorada for feeding the tarpon. It’s a great place to grab a bite to eat or drink before or after feeding the tarpon.

We stopped in for breakfast in Islamorada . Portions are large, the food is tasty, and it’s a great value.

The Lower Keys

As you make your way further south, the Keys become less populated and more natural until you get to the final few islands, like Key West.

While there may not be as many pull-offs with signposts, there are still many natural places to explore in this more rugged and wild stretch of the Florida Keys.

Keep your eye out for nice beaches like Bahia Honda and many places to put a kayak in the water.

Best Things To Do In Key West On A Road Trip

Once you reach Key West, you’ll have enough things to do to fill a few days and then some.

We compiled a Key West itinerary and a shortlist of our favorite things to do in Key West to help you make the most of your next road trip.

Sunset Sail in Key West

One of the best things to do after a journey down the Florida Keys is to sit back and let someone else do the driving or sailing rather aborad a sunset catamaran cruise.

We sailed on this sunset sail with a full bar and live music with Sebago Watersports , and we highly recommend them. Sit back, enjoy a nice cold beverage, and watch sun set over the Gulf of Mexico.

Explore Duval Street at Night (and Day)

Duval Street is to Key West, as Bourbon Street is to New Orleans. While only slightly tamer (certain festivals excluded), Duval Street has a reputation for great Key West nightlife .

Just about any night of the year, you can find great live music, fun, and entertainment. The weekends are when the real parties are, while regional visitors are also coming down to partake in the parties.

If it is your first time in Key West, we suggest joining this Key West Pub Crawl . It will give you the lay of the land and include five drinks, and you’ll probably make a few friends to join you out later that night.

However, this doesn’t mean there isn’t anything to see on Duval Street while the sun is out. This historic street is home to a number of great art galleries, shops, and attractions – plus, you’re on vacation, and the bars are open during the day too!

Related Article: Things to do in Key Largo

Kayaking with Lazy Dog

We went on this Key West Mangrove Kaying tour with Lazy Dog . In our opinion, it was one of our favorite tours in Key West.

Grab a paddle and head out into the mangroves kayaking. You can rent kayaks here or take a guided kayak tour, which will bring you to the beautiful backwaters of Key West.

On one of their tours, you’ll paddle through mangrove creeks with blueish-green water, at some points only a few inches deep.

You’ll have a chance to spot all sorts of wildlife above and below the surface. Nurse sharks, jellyfish, and sea birds are frequently seen while kayaking in the lower keys. As a bonus, on some tours, you can even bring your dog!

Hemingway House

The world-renowned author Ernest Hemingway called Key West home for most of the 1930s. During his time in the Keys, his most successful books were published.

While in Key West, you can visit the home he shared with his wife of the time, Pauline. The Hemingways no longer live here, but descendants of Hemmingway’s 6-toed cats can still be found in the house and garden.

You can join this Hemingway Food and Walking tour . It starts outside the Hemingway House (it does not go inside the house, so you’ll have to do that on your own).

The tour follows in Hemingway’s footsteps, giving you a glimpse of his life and the history of Key West.

Stop in for a Drink at Sloppy Joe’s

A Key West trip would not be complete without a stop at Sloppy Joe’s! It is always busy, but the service is good and efficient.

It was made famous by one of Key West’s most memorable residents, Ernest Hemmingway, who frequented the bar and allegedly had a hand in naming the place.

Today, you won’t find Hemmingway, but you will find a big, open, lively bar with live music and food.

However, if you visit in July, you might see Hemmingway or at least a really good doppelganger at the annual Hemmingway Lookalike contest held at Sloppy Joe’s.

If you join the Hemingway Food and Walking tour , you will visit Sloppy Joe’s, as it is an important stop.

They are also super child friendly. On our second Key West trip, our son was one, and on our last trip to Key West, we had a three-year-old and one-year-old!

Another Key West travel tip – Sloppy Joe’s serves really good virgin drinks! I was pregnant on our first Key West road trip, and it was a nice, tasty surprise to see on their menu.

Key Lime Pie at Kermit’s

While every storefront from Mile Marker 118 to the furthest piers in Key West all claim to have the best Key Lime Pie , Kermit’s is the real deal.

Don’t miss this Key West institution on your Key West road trip! For a mid-day snack, be sure to grab a chocolate-dipped frozen slice of Key Lime pie on a stick. YES – it’s as good as it sounds.

Smathers Beach

This deep sandy beach located on the southern shoreline of Key West is arguably the best beach on the island .

Despite its stunning white sand, it’s not bursting at the seams with visitors. During most times of the year, you’ll have no problem finding a spot to lay your beach towel.

Southernmost Point Marker

This painted concrete buoy is a popular photo spot marking the piece of land furthest south in the Continental United States. From here, it’s said to be a short 90 miles to Cuba.

Snapping a selfie at the Southernmost Point Marker is a must on a Florida Keys road trip. A little Key West travel tip – go early!

The line to get your photo gets super long. If you go before 9 a.m., there are very few tourists waiting. This way, you can take a few photos.

Dolphin Watch and Snorkel with Honest Eco on their Electric Boat

Set sail with Key West’s first electric catamaran for a truly memorable eco-friendly experience with local wildlife.

Dolphins are regularly spotted in the water just offshore of Key West, and the snorkeling is good with clear waters.

This is the exact boat trip we took with Honest Eco. Check rates here .

Mile Marker Zero

This spot here ceremoniously marks the end of your Miami to Key West drive. This is the end of the road – Mile Marker Zero.

There are two signs, one on each side of the road – one for the end of the road and one for the beginning.

We suggest joining this guided bicycle tour of Old Town Key West , as it visits several of the stops on this list and more, including Mile Marker Zero.

Romantic Dinner at Latitudes on Sunset Key

Finish off any good road trip in style with dinner at Latitudes, voted one of the most romantic dinner spots in the country.

If you want a table at Latitudes for sunset, you need to make reservations as soon as you start planning your road trip.

Dinner tables are booked months in advance. If you have less time, you can also dine here for lunch. You won’t get the full effect without the sunset, but there is still some great food.

Where to Eat in Key West

There’s no shortage of great food in Key West. We were really surprised at all the good food we had while visiting – we didn’t have a plate that we weren’t impressed with.

In a city full of top-notch restaurants, it can be hard to pick where to go. Make sure to indulge in some fresh fish too. Here are some of our favorite places with the best seafood in Key West.

Here’s a list of some of our favorite restaurants in Key West and standout meals from our recent trip to Key West. Make sure to check out our complete best restaurants in Key West article.

Cafe Marquesa

Our favorite meal in Key West was at Cafe Marquesa. We enjoyed everything we had. Their menu often changes as everything is fresh. We highly recommend the shrimp & grits appetizer and beignets as a dessert.

The restaurant is one of Zagat’s highest-rated restaurants in Key West. The chef, Graham Dailey, has been on Iron Chef and trained under Anthony Bourdain. If you are putting together a Key West map with foodie destinations, Cafe Marquesa should be on it.

Matt’s Stock Island

If you love brunch, you have to go to Matt’s Stock Island for their Sunday brunch. Every Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., the brunch includes three buffets (including a raw bar), unlimited small plates, and bottomless Bloody Marys and Mimosas.

We dined for dinner one evening as we weren’t in town on a Sunday morning. We started our meal with crab beignets, scallops, and bacon, and each got today’s catch blackened. Make sure to save room for dessert, too. The Tahitian Vanilla Ice Cream Sammich is where it’s at!

Kermit Key Lime Pie shop

In addition to the pies, Kermit’s is a local’s favorite lunch spot. On the menu are nice wraps and awesome fries for reasonable prices.

Of course, save room for pie—leaving without trying a slice of Key Lime Pie would be a sin!

Latitudes at Sunset Key

If you only have one splurge meal, it should probably be Latitudes out on Sunset Key, and it should be dinner at sunset. If you are looking for one of the best waterfront restaurants in Key West this is it!

As the name of the island suggests, the sunsets here are pretty amazing and make for a special night. Make your reservations well in advance.

Cuban Coffee Queen

Start your day off right with a cup of classic Cuban coffee. This tasty little shop has two locations, one downtown and another by the waterfront.

In addition to coffee, the Cuban Coffee Queen serves up smoothies, Cuban-inspired sandwiches, breakfast favorites, and even desserts. Don’t miss the giant Key West postcard painted on the side of their waterfront location.

If you are looking for a more filling meal, make sure to check out our best Cuban food in Key West article . There are tons of great Cuban restaurants in Key West.

Miami to Key West Road Trip FAQ

Q: what is the distance from miami, and how long does it take to drive from miami to key west, florida.

A: There are 165 miles between Miami and Key West, and if you drove it straight, the Key West drive time would take a little over 3 hours.

However, with all the coolest stops between Miami and Key West, you should really plan on 2-3 days for a proper Key West road trip.

This will give you enough time to stop and visit some state parks, Key Largo, Islamorada, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, the Everglades, Bahia State Park, and many more Key West drive highlights to experience the Florida Keys truly.

Q: How is the drive from Miami to Key West? Is it Worth it?

A: YES, it is one of the most scenic drives! Stop thinking about a Miami to Key West road trip and start planning. Keep reading to see all of the best stops between Miami and Key West along the route.

Q: Is it safe to drive from Miami to Key West?

A: Yes, the road from Miami to Key West is a popular drive with tourists and is very safe. You will mainly drive on the Overseas Highway (US Route 1), which goes from Key Largo to Key West.

Drive safely, take your time, and get ready for an epic road trip!

Depending on where in Miami you start your journey, it can take one hour to two hours to drive to Key Largo. Once in Key Largo, you will get on the Overseas Highway.

This part of the Key West drive is a straight shot. There is only one road to Key West. You literally can’t get lost.

Q:) How many bridges are the drive to Key West?

There are 42 bridges along the drive to Key West.

The most famous bridge in the Florida Keys is the Seven Mile Bridge, which is located just outside of Marathon. Seven Mile Bridge is seven miles long and connects Knight’s Key to Little Duck Key.

Q:) How many Keys are in the Florida Keys?

A:) There are over 800 keys that make up the Florida Keys that stretch over 180 miles. The longest key is Key Largo.

Q:) Driving Miami to Key West – When is the Best Time?

A:) There honestly isn’t a bad time. Driving to Key on the weekdays will result in fewer cars on the road and traffic.

If you are starting in Miami, make sure to check the traffic in Miami. We have always found leaving Miami early in the morning was better.

Once you are out of Miami and by Homestead/Florida City, traffic isn’t an issue. If you leave Miami before 8 a.m., there is a Starbucks in Florida City that you will be driving right by if you need some caffeine. It is about an hour’s drive from Miami to Florida City.

Q:) When is Hurricane Season in Key West and the Florida Keys?

A:) Technically, the Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 and ends November 30 every year.

Typically, hurricanes in Key West and the Florida Keys are more common from mid-August until mid-October. Remember, Florida is the hurricane capital of the United States.

The Miami to Key West drive is one of the coolest Florida road trips. 

Key west drive overview.

We hope our ultimate driving guide to Key West Florida has inspired you to take a Florida road trip. A Florida trip is always a great idea. We always have a great time in Southern Florida!

The  beaches in Florida  are a good portion of why we keep coming back time and time again.

If you have any Key West questions for us leave a comment below! If you have any Key West travel tips to share with us let us know!

Top 17 Things To Do in Key Largo Florida

Driving from Miami to Key West? Make sure to stop in Key Largo! There are tons of things to do in Key Largo you won’t want to miss.

15 Reasons to Put Panama City Beach on YOUR Bucket list

Panama City Beach is the perfect beach vacation. With its gorgeous beaches, diving, state parks, and more things to do in Panama City Beach.

14 Fun Things To Do in Fort Myers

With an average of 271 sunny days a year there isn’t a bad time to visit Fort Myers. The white sandy beaches are gorgeous, ton of things to do in Fort Myers, tasty restaurants, and much more to offer.

Don’t Forget to Pin Me for later!

Best Florida Keys Kayaking: Beautiful Spots from Key Largo to Key West

K ayaking in the Florida Keys was one of our favorite parts of our road trip from Miami to Key West (mmm, key lime pie!). The best places to kayak in the Florida Keys are spread out between the many islands, and they aren’t all where you’d expect. This is our guide to kayaking with kids in the Florida Keys, and any of these spots are great as an adult too.

As we go through the many kayaking spots in the Keys, you’ll see that some of the launch sites are in state parks and others are public access via beaches or boat ramps. Wherever you’re putting in, and whether it’s a kayak, canoe, or standup paddleboard, always be aware of wildlife, underwater obstacles, and other boats. Remember, safety first in all things if you want to have an amazing Florida Keys vacation . If you have any questions about kayaking in the Florida Keys or need help planning a trip down, please leave a comment or send us a note !

Best Places to Kayak in the Florida Keys

Kayaking through the backcountry waters of the Florida Keys, and you’ll see one of the world’s most diverse marine life ecosystems. The quiet, shallow backwater region of flats and mangrove islands has inspired many naturalists and outdoor enthusiasts to combine environmental tourism with the sport of sea kayaking. The opportunity to explore such serene, untouched areas is very special.

The kayaking trail throughout the Keys runs some 115 miles from Key Largo to Key West. It is a part of the Florida Circumnavigational Saltwater Paddling Trail . Each area of the destination features specific spots for optimal paddling and close-up viewing of the Keys’ natural world. There are some wide stretches to paddle through, so keep safety in mind everywhere you go. Kayaking in the Florida Keys is a fun adventure, but it’s not all sand bars and manatees.

Kayaking in the Upper Keys

Key Largo offers launching locations at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park , Sunset Park, Dove Creek and Florida Bay Outfitters, among others. We’ve kayaked at Pennekamp many times (one of our favorite spots) and never had the same experience twice.

Monica Woll, owner and operator of Florida Bay Outfitters with her husband Frank, said they welcome kayakers to launch from their shop.  “Since we’re located in Key Largo, we use Pennekamp and occasionally go to Dusenberry Creek which is canopied over,” said Woll. “The water is so clear and there are so many things to see like stingrays, sharks and turtles,” Woll said. “Kayaks have no problem with the shallow dips of the water, so it’s really the perfect boat to explore nature.”

Highlights of kayaking at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park include crystal clear waters in most areas, several mangrove tunnels, a calm current, and plenty of wildlife. There are kayak rentals at the office within the state park, as well as tours you can book ranging from glass bottom boats to shuttles out to the coral reef for snorkeling excursions. Yes, snorkeling is a top activity here because Key Largo is home to the third largest coral reef in the world!

If you’re not kayaking, although you should because this is one of the best places to kayak in South Florida , daily tours out to the reef are limited, so if you’d like to dive or snorkel out on the reef you made need to pre-book the trip out with an outside vendor, such as Paradise Island Charters . Keys Divers is another option with multiple trips going out the the reef daily.

If you want to snorkel or dive to the famous Christ of the Abyss statue and reef, book it here! (more optioned here too)

Continuing south through the Upper Keys, kayak launch sites can be found at Islamorada’s Founders Park , Lorelei Restaurant , Florida Keys Kayak at Robbie’s Marina on the Gulf side, and then Whale Harbor Channel Bridge ( aka the Sand Bar Boat Ramp ) and Anne’s Beach on the Atlantic side. While you’ll find paddling spots on both the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico side of the Keys, the best places to kayak in the area around Islamorada are on the Gulf side. The more calm waters on the west and north sides of the islands make for more peaceful, and sometimes more clear, waters. Also, there are a fair number of mangrove passages to go through.

Note : Islamorada itself isn’t one of the Florida Keys, but is a community spread across several keys, including Plantation, Windley, and Lower Matecumbe Keys.

Great kayak launch sites besides those listed above range from the Indian Key boat ramp ( to kayak out to Indian Key State Historic Park ) or the canal at the Tavernier Creek Marina (just west of the marina itself ). These spots will give you access the the Atlantic side with small keys to paddle to and plenty of nearby mangrove areas to navigate through. As long as it’s a public launch, you’ll be able to kayak out and explore without worry. Always pay attention to posted signs though, including parking restrictions. Some of the best places to kayak in the Florida Keys come with limited parking areas.

Best Places to Kayak in the Middle Keys

In the heart of the Keys at Marathon, kayakers can launch from Tom’s Harbor Cut Bridge area on both sides of the channel, Curry Hammock State Park , Cocoa Plum Beach and Sombrero Beach (also a great playground for kids here!). Tom’s Harbor Cut is a great place to kayak since you can easily go to either side of the bridge to explore (be mindful of currents). Sombrero Beach and Cocoa Plum Beach are both nice for simple, off-shore paddling. Although there aren’t epic sights or mangrove tunnels, you’ll still find the views and perfect turquoise waters to be worth the paddle.

Kayaking at Curry Hammock State Park is really fun. What makes Curry Hammock SP one of the best places to kayak in the Florida Keys are the mangrove tunnels and iguanas. As we paddled, giant iguanas sat on the branches above us, watching us in our kayaks. Going through the mangrove tunnels, although a tight fit to paddle at times, there were crabs climbing on the roots and birds in the branches above us.

The paddling trail at Curry Hammock opens up to a small bay with Deer Key separating you from the open Atlantic Ocean. An easy paddle around Deer Key and you can return the way you came or paddle on the ocean-side of Little Crawl Key back to your launch site. Wildlife on this kayaking trip included iguanas, cormorants, horseshoe crabs, a spotted eagle ray and all sorts of other fish and birds. This is one of our favorite places for birdwatching in the Florida Keys !

Kayak Rentals and Delivery in the Middle Keys

Many people plan to spend their days laying on the beached of the Florida Keys… and then they realize that sandy stretches of beach are few and far between, but there are tons of great places to kayak in the Keys. During out time in the Middle Keys, we were staying on Duck Key, we wanted to add some unplanned kayaking since the area was so perfect. Curly’s Coffee & Marina was actually able to deliver kayaks to us without any crazy fees and made it very easy for us to enjoy impromptu paddling.

They offer single and double kayak rentals by the day or week. Curly’s Coffee & Marina will deliver and pick up from kayaks anywhere around Marathon, from Duck Key to Grassy Key. Curly’s was a life-saver for us!

There are also kayak rentals on Duck Key through the Hawks Cay Resort , and there are plenty of mangroves around there to paddle through as well.

Top Kayaking Spots in the Lower Florida Keys and Key West

As you continue down the Florida Keys Paddling Trail, after you cross Seven Mile Bridge, you’ll find the islands to be less and less developed until you get to Key West. Some of the best places to kayak in the Florida Keys are in this stretch of the archipelago. The Old Wooden Bridge Marina, Bahia Honda State Park , Looe Key Reef Resort (free kayak launch, paid motor boat launch), Dolphin Marina and then some sites on No Name Key are prime launching spots in the Lower Keys.

The Lower Keys have many more easily accessible launches near the Overseas Highway than the Middle and Upper Keys do. Even before the end of the Seven Mile Bridge are two launch sites on Little Duck Key. There are so many opportunities to put kayaks in!

Bahia Honda State Park is “Instafamous” for many reasons, including being able to paddle under a part of the Overseas Highways where it’s broken apart. Should you want to kayak here, there are several spots to launch, both on the beach and on the Gulf side where you can then paddle around through the channels, and at high tide explore a bit of the interior of the key. Starting in March, if you head up to the old railroad bridge, you can look down into the Bahia Honda channel and watch for hammerhead sharks swimming through.

Note :  kayaking through the channel is NOT a beginner kayaking route. The current can be very strong and dangerous. Launch on one side or the other, or paddle on the northeastern side through the Ohio Bahia Honda or Ohio Missouri channels.

Where to Kayak in Key West

At the end of the island chain in Key West, launch sites include Key West City Marina, Smathers, Higgs, Simonton Street and Dog beaches, and Lazy Dog Adventures . I could go on. Since it is a very large island, you’ll find many great places to kayak on Key West ( especially with kids! ). Before you launch though, always double check for parking laws or boating signs to be sure you’re being safe and not going to be ticketed for anything.  Complete map of places to launch kayaks in Key West (and tour departures) here.

Note : we’ve gotten a lot of questions about kayaking at Dry Tortugas National Park (70 west of Key West) . If you want to kayak at Dry Tortugas you actually need to bring your own kayak on the ferry and probably camp for a few nights. There are no kayak rentals at Fort Jefferson, but it is one of the coolest of Florida’s National Parks to kayak at .

Guided kayak excursions are available throughout the Keys, designed for paddlers of all skill levels. Kayak rentals are available for those who want to venture into the backcountry waters on their own. One of the best places for both tours and to launch yourself (if you’re experienced) is from the Hurricane Hole area into the mangroves. This is very near the Laureate Key West hotel and KW Marriott Beachside. If you’re doing a sandbar kayaking tour, many go out of the Historic Seaport by the Key West Marker Resort (public parking nearby) but this is NOT a good private kayak launch site.

Check out the MANY guided kayak tours around Key West here!

Top Pick for Kayak Tour in Key West: Night Kayaking

We do a lot of night kayaking in the summer at home in St Augustine Beach, FL . Our favorite is bioluminescent kayaking at Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge . It’s incredible, but what it’s missing is being able to clearly see animals being active at night. Night Kayak Key West was awesome and really provided an interesting look into the shallow waters of the Keys in the dark.

The kayaks have clear, plexiglass bottoms and are outfitted with LED lights so you can see underwater. Our guide was very knowledgeable as he led us through mangrove tunnels in the dark. He frequently jumped into the water to help us get a better look at wildlife and features of the shallows.

Going out of the marina at the Key West Marriott Beachside, the passages we paddled through were some of the most interesting places to kayak in the Florida Keys. Wildlife in the area included lobsters, sea hares, barracuda, iguanas, cowfish, and even a nurse shark. It was an exceptional experience and I would recommend it to kayakers of all ages and skill levels. It’s one of the best kayaking safaris I’ve ever been on.

Kayaking with Wildlife in the Keys

In part because Keys waters are protected within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, the tranquil region is an excellent locale for exploring nature and viewing wildlife by kayak. The best places to kayak in the Florida Keys will no doubt leave you wowed by the abundance of life, both underwater and above.

“Everything in the Keys has some layer of protection designated by the sanctuary,” said Bill Keogh, owner and operator of Big Pine Kayak Adventures in the Lower Keys. An expert kayak and nature guide, nature photographer and author, Keogh has explored the Lower Keys for decades and knows them intimately.  “The shallow, clear, protected waters contribute to the pristine condition of the Florida Keys,” Keogh said. “That’s what folks want to see and these conditions are ideal for wildlife viewing.”

Be sure you have your own set of Pocket Naturalist Guides when you’re kayaking in the Keys. 

Florida 3 Guide Set   –  Florida Seashore Life   –  Florida Birds

Florida Keys Bird Watching

Not easily accessible to motorized boat traffic, the backcountry area is largely untraveled, unspoiled and teeming with fascinating plant and animal life. Birding in the Florida Keys is worth its own trip. It’s a bird watcher’s paradise, and with kids is just as good as an open ocean safari. Avian inhabitants include roseate spoonbills, osprey, great white herons (also known as great egrets) and even some bald eagles.

If you pay close attention to the mangroves just above the water, you may spot kingfishers, green herons and limpkins. It’s very common to see the many types of egrets and herons, including the great egret, great blue heron, snowy egret and cattle egret, but if you’re lucky, you might also be able to see a tri-colored heron or roseate spoonbill too.

And keep your eyes peeled for pelicans and cormorants. Although they are both very common throughout the Florida Keys, they’re remarkable birds to observe. Watch for cormorants gathering in the shallows and then diving. And when it comes to pelicans, you’ll most commonly see the common brown pelican, but in the winter months if you’re lucky you may spot some American white pelicans. The white pelicans are WAAAYYY bigger and are really a treat to see!

Tip :  it’s not a kayaking destination, but if you really want to see something incredible, take a trip on the Yankee Freedom from Key West out to Dry Tortugas National Park to see the Magnificent Frigate Birds. They’re incredible and have a protected space out of the National Park.

Seeing Flamingos in the Florida Keys

“What about seeing flamingos in the Florida Keys?”  Unfortunately, flamingos were poached to all but extinction in the Florida Keys in the 1900s (for their feathers). On rare occasion they may show up in the Lower Keys, perhaps taking a Florida Keys vacation themselves, but it’s exceptionally rare. Destinations like Aruba or Isla Holbox in the Caribbean , or Ria Lagartos on the Yucatan still have native populations of flamingos, but not in the Florida Keys unfortunately. 

I know, this is disappointing, but if you want to see flamingos in the Florida Keys, you’re a hundred years too late. There are very random sightings, and in fact 2021 and 2023 have both had had flamingo visits!  The first week of January 2021 saw a flamingo on Sugarloaf Key , a very rare occurrence and a treat for all who were able to witness it. With Hurricane Idalia in 2023 a small flock of flamingos was displaced and have since been calling Big Pine Keys home, which I really hope they like it there and choose to stay. Hopefully the future will bring more flamingos in the Florida Keys, but don’t bank on it.

Underwater Wildlife in the Florida Keys

There is so much wildlife in the Florida Keys ! The roots of the tangled mangroves are a great place to spot young grouper, lobster and barracuda, while the sponge flats are home to bright-colored sponges and soft corals. If you choose to get out of your kayak to get a closer look at underwater life, either by walking in the shallows or snorkeling, always be careful to no be destructive. Many underwater creatures make the Florida Keys their home and some don’t move very quickly.

If you are planning to kayak to one of the smaller keys or out into the shallows for snorkeling, be sure you know how to safely get back into your kayak. Paddling to a snorkeling spot is a great idea, and in the Keys you’ll find beautiful coral and sponge gardens, but if you get out there and can’t successfully get back into your boat, that would suck.

Spotting Dolphins and Manatees in the Florida Keys

I wish I could just say “Go kayak here and you’ll see a pod of dolphins…” but it doesn’t work that way. The best places to see dolphins when you’re kayaking in the Keys are the channels between the islands. While dolphins do often hunt and play in the shallows, the Florida Keys are VERY shallow, so during low tides, there are very few places they can safely hang out. At high tide or in the deeper areas, you’ll likely see dolphins in small groups, one to two hundred yards offshore. If you go further out, watch the sky for circling birds, as typically they’ll congregate above bait balls of fish or migrating schools, which dolphins often follow. Kayaking in the Florida Keys, particularly out of Key West, can be a great way to see dolphins up close!

When it comes to seeing manatees in the Keys, they tend to hang out more often on the Gulf side of the islands. Manatees love warmer waters and are often seen munching at the mangrove roots and grassy edges. Unfortunately, one of the best places to see manatees is actually in marinas or man-made channels. People have been knows to feed them or spray them with hoses (which they love) so the manatees keep coming back to the docks. When you’re kayaking though, watch for the manatee footprint on the water (a smooth patch on the surface). Give them their space and just enjoy watching them surface.  

Guidelines for Interacting with Wildlife in the Keys

When you’re kayaking in the Florida Keys and you see a manatee nearby, you’ll want to say hello… but don’t. If a dolphin is playing in the shallows and you think it would be so easy to recreate a magical “swimming with the dolphins” moment, don’t.

The best guideline to follow when it comes to all sorts of wildlife, whether in the Keys or if you see wildlife in National Parks or anywhere, is to keep wildlife wild. Acclimating wild animals to human interaction may place them at risk as they become more trusting and start to spend more time closer to boat propellers and dangerous pollutants in marinas and the like. Feeding wildlife gives them the false impression that humans are a good source of food, and that leads to all sorts of other problems, including health issues because wildlife isn’t meant to eat human food.

Tip: we have lots of recommendations for wildlife tours in the Florida Key s. Our picks are great at respecting and just observing the wildlife, and our list includes great Florida Keys kayaking options too.

And for your own safety, keeping your distance is always a good idea. A startled manatee is actually very dangerous and can easily flip your kayak (called a manatee rodeo). Dolphins are very playful, but they don’t know your skill level when it comes to swimming or holding your breath. Sharks usually aren’t interested in humans, but treating them like house pets can lead to bites or fatalities. Also, sting rays or all sorts have the ability to injure people without notice, as it just takes a quick whip of their barbed tails.

• don’t feed wildlife
• don’t touch wildlife (except with certain exceptions and knowledge of handling, lobsters for example)
• take only photos
• put yourself into their fins for a moment and consider how you’d want to be treated.

Kayaking in the Florida Keys is as safe as you make it!

With their pristine conditions, abundant wildlife and numerous launch sites, the Keys can be a paradise for kayakers. Even a strong wind, the kayakers’ worst enemy, doesn’t have to scuttle a day of paddling in the island chain.  If high winds make conditions rough, just heed the words of expert kayak guide Bill Keogh: “You can always find an island somewhere in the Keys to hide behind and kayak.”

For more information about kayaking and other ecotourism activities in the Florida Keys, visit  www.fla-keys.com/ecotourism/.

If you have any questions or your own recommendations for the best places to kayak in the Florida Keys, please send us a note or leave a comment. We’ll be updating this post regularly as we visit the Keys more often.

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