Key West will forever hold a special place in my heart as it was the first place I called home after moving out of my hometown in New Jersey. Throughout my (almost) 2 years of living in Key West, I’ve gathered a true local’s tips and tricks on how to get the most out of your vacation to this special little island. Let’s get started!
About Key West, Florida
Located approximately 160 miles south of Miami and only 90 miles north of Cuba lies the southernmost city in the continental United States. Loaded with quirky charm, Key West is a place where people go barefoot and chicken roam the streets. (Yes, you read that correctly – wild chicken!)
Though it may be best known for Hemingway and Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville, you’ll find the real essence of the island in its very particular style of Victorian architecture and its eccentric residents (a.k.a. “Conchs“).
When To Visit
The subtropical climate makes the weather in Key West pretty consistent year round. That said, the height of the Key West travel season is winter and spring, when the weather tends to be the driest.
The best time to visit Key West is between the months of March and May. The winter crowds will taper off, the hotel rates become reasonable, and the weather is remarkably similar to winter’s blissful 70s and 80s.
The rainy and humid summer months see the fewest tourists but the best hotel rates. The trade-off might be worth it, but you’re still gambling against hurricane season (June to November).
Also, beware that hotel rates will surge during special events like Key West Pride and Fantasy Fest.
Best Things To Do In Key West
1. Duval Street
Perhaps one of the most popular destinations on the island of Key West, Duval Street is the main drag of downtown, running north and south from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean.
Although it is not much more than a mile in length – this is where the heartbeat of the city comes to life with a diverse array of restaurants, shops, world famous pubs and attractions!
2. Mallory Square
Mallory Square is famously known for its Sunset Celebration – a free, nightly arts festival that starts about two hours before sunset. This is one of the best spots on the island to catch the sun’s last moments and a fun experience to see street performers, local artists, and live music!
3. Southernmost Point
One of the most popular things to do in Key West is to snap a photo with the colorful buoy marking the southernmost point of the United States.
PRO TIP: The crowds can make it difficult to snap a quality photo so if the buoy is on your to-do list, get up early to beat your fellow tourists.
4. Water Activities: Snorkeling, Boats, Jet-skis, and MORE!
When you’re not admiring the waters from the beach, enjoy them from the deck of a boat. Several companies offer sailing, snorkeling and kayaking tours, not to mention sunset cruises and fishing charters! There are also several tours designed exclusively for dolphin watching (the Florida Keys are a refuge for hundreds of dolphins every year). The list goes on – you’ll be sure to find something that fits your liking!
If you sign up for a snorkeling tour, you’ll likely sail to the Florida Keys Reef – the only living coral barrier reef in North America! Travelers can also sign up for kayaking tours and paddle through the uninhabited mangrove islands in the Key West National Wildlife Refuge.
5. Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park and Beach
Fort Zachary is a local’s favorite for a reason. Here, you can sunbathe, hike, bike, fish and get a dose of history all in one place! Most people favor this beach over Smathers Beach, however, let me warn you that the terrain at Fort Zachary is very rocky. While the beach might not be as powdery soft as some other Florida beaches, it does offer some great snorkeling opportunities, so be sure to bring some gear! Along with that, pack some grilling food and charcoal: This beach has plenty of barbecue grills and rental equipment.
If you get tired of hanging out beachside, stop by the historic fort located within the park. The fort was built in mid-1800s and was used during the Civil War and the Spanish-American War. Guided and self-guided tours are available.
6. Smather’s Beach
Key West isn’t particularly known for its beaches, however, the most bustling one on this island is Smathers Beach. The beach is clean and peaceful, with plenty of shade and amenities, including bathrooms, food trucks, and chair and umbrella rentals.
7. Ernest Hemmingway’s Home
Literary icon and journalist Ernest Hemingway is one of Key West’s best-known and well-loved residents. His former home is located in Old Town and is now a U.S. National Historic Landmark. This grand house is beautiful and interesting, as it was one of the first in Key West to have indoor plumbing and a pool! Inside, the rooms contain memorabilia about Hemingway’s life and work.
And the best part – the Hemmingway museum is also home to approximately 60 polydactyl (six-toed) cats! Ernest Hemingway was given a white six-toed cat by a ship’s captain and some of the cats who live on the museum grounds are descendants of that original cat! Here are a few of my favorite shots I took of the adorable kitties, you’re welcome.
8. Dry Tortuga’s National Park
Located 70 miles off the coast of Key West, Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the most unique destinations in the entire U.S. It combines history and a pristine marine ecosystem into one unforgettable experience.
Due to its location off the coast, the Dry Tortugas National Park is only accessible by boat or seaplane. Both modes of transportation depart from Key West and usually fill up quickly. If this is on your list of things to do, I encourage you to book well in advance of your trip.
9. Key West Lighthouse
If you don’t mind heights, the 88 step climb of the Key West Lighthouse is worth it for the views. But be careful! The viewing balcony is very narrow. One ticket gets you access to both the lighthouse and the Keeper’s Quarters Museum.
10. Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory
The Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory is filled with about 50 to 60 species of the colorful winged creatures that float through the air in an enclosed, glass-dome. The butterflies also share their home with 3,500 plants and more than 20 species of exotic birds – including their famous flamingos named Rhett and Scarlet!
The conservatory is very serene and a great place to get away from the crowds. It is also a perfect experience for those travelling with children!
