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Key West   Travel Guide

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17 Best Things to Do in Key West, Florida

Like other vacation locales in Florida, Key West offers plenty of ways for nature lovers to enjoy its coastal seat, including several clean beaches, sailing and kayaking tours, fishing charters, and eco-tours like snorkeling excursions with tropical

• All Things To Do

Duval Street Duval Street free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Fuel your day of sightseeing with strong, sweet espresso from Cuban Coffee Queen. There are multiple locations near or along Duval Street, including the original truck by the waterfront. If it's a hot day (which it always is), get an iced cafe con leche with coffee ice cubes. - Lyssa Goldberg

A visit to Key West isn't complete without taking a stroll down Duval Street. Lined with restaurants, bars, art galleries and souvenir shops, this popular thoroughfare stretches a little more than a mile and is near many of the city's most well-known attractions. Grab a slice of Key lime pie from Kermit's Key West Key Lime Shoppe a few blocks over, sign up for a ghost tour or catch some live music at the legendary Sloppy Joe's bar. Best of all, you can people-watch here free of charge.

Mallory Square Mallory Square free

U.S. News Insider Tip: A Mallory Square sunset is a must during your trip, but don't miss out on sunset views at dinner, too. Plan ahead and book a table at a waterfront restaurant like nearby Hot Tin Roof or Latitudes . These reservations can fill up months in advance. - Lyssa Goldberg

For a great view of the Key West sunset, head to Mallory Square at the northwest tip of the island. During the 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 revel in the end of the day. But because it's one of the best vantage points for watching a sunset, it's also extremely crowded, especially with cruise passengers when ships are in port.

Southernmost Point Southernmost Point free

U.S. News Insider Tip: While you're here, laugh to yourself about the self-proclaimed southernmost everything, from the historic Southernmost House mansion and Southernmost Beach Cafe to the Southernmost Grocery Store & Deli and Southernmost Trolley Stop gift shop. - Lyssa Goldberg

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. Sitting at the intersection of Whitehead and South streets, the striped buoy is just 90 miles north of Cuba. Next to it, you'll find a plaque dedicated to Cubans who have lost their lives trying to reach America, and a plaque detailing the history of the Black community on the Southernmost Point.

Popular Tours

Key West Sunset Sail with Full Bar, Live Music and Hors D'oeuvres

(2611 reviews)

from $ 79.95

Key West Sunset Cruise: Dinner and Drinks Included

(1160 reviews)

from $ 92.95

Half-Day Cruise from Key West with Kayaking and Snorkeling

(1400 reviews)

from $ 122.07

Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum

U.S. News Insider Tip: Combine this stop with the Key West Lighthouse across the street. Then, visit nearby Blue Heaven in the quirky, colorful Bahama Village neighborhood for the best backyard vibes (and Key lime pie) in town. - Lyssa Goldberg

Literary icon and journalist Ernest Hemingway is one of Key West's best-known and well-loved "freshwater Conchs" (a resident who was not born on the island). His former home – which he lived in for less than 10 years, but owned until his death in 1961 – is located in Old Town and is now a U.S. National Historic Landmark. Literature buffs take note: Hemingway penned parts of some of his most famous works, including "A Farewell to Arms" and "For Whom the Bell Tolls," in this very residence. The grand house itself is 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.

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

For the cleanest beach and best waters in Key West, you should head for the westernmost point of the island to Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. There, you can sunbathe, hike, bike, fish and get a dose of history all in one place. Recent visitors noted the clear waters, making it an ideal snorkeling spot, but travelers also warn that the sand is not soft and that beach shoes are needed to traverse the rocky terrain safely. While the beach might not be as powdery soft as some other Florida beaches , it does offer some great snorkeling opportunities, according to recent visitors. You can either bring your own or rent equipment on-site. Along with your water gear, pack some food and charcoal: This beach has plenty of barbecue grills.

If you get tired of hanging out beachside, stop by the historic fort located within the park. The fort was built in the mid-1800s and was used during the Civil War and the Spanish-American War. Daily guided tours are available at 11 a.m. or you can follow the self-guided tour.

Take a Key West boat tour Take a Key West boat tour

When you're not admiring the waters that surround Key West 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 .  Danger Charters , Classic Harbor Line  and  Sebago Key West  all receive favorable reviews from recent travelers. There are also several tours designed exclusively for dolphin watching (the Florida Keys are home to bottlenose dolphins year-round, along with six other dolphin species that pass through the area) – Wild About Dolphins and Honest Eco  are among the most popular, according to recent travelers.

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. Located approximately 6 miles off the coast of Key West, the reef has shallow waters ideal for beginners. Travelers can also sign up for kayaking tours and paddle through the uninhabited mangrove islands in the Key West National Wildlife Refuge.

Smathers Beach Smathers Beach free

Key West isn't known for its beaches. However, the largest and most bustling one on this island is Smathers Beach, which is particularly popular during spring break. Recent travelers say the beach is clean with calm waters, plenty of shade under the palms and amenities, including bathrooms, food trucks, and chair and umbrella rentals. Visitors also say the views are great and praise the beach's soft white sand. In recent months, several visitors noted an abundance of sargassum (smelly seaweed).

You'll find Smathers Beach on the southern shore of the island, stretching half a mile along the Atlantic Ocean and State Road A1A. It's close to the airport, which can be a pro if you enjoy watching the planes take off and land, or a con if you're not a fan of the noise.

Harry S. Truman Little White House Harry S. Truman Little White House

Originally built by the U.S. Navy in 1890, the Little White House served as naval command headquarters during the Spanish-American War, and also played roles in both World Wars and the Cold War. From 1946 through 1952, President Harry Truman used this house as his winter vacation home and because he spent 175 days of his presidency here, it became known as the Little White House. The name is fitting: Since Truman's days, many other presidents have also vacationed here, including Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton. Today, the Little White House has been restored and turned into a museum. Exhibits document Key West's role in naval conflicts, as well as the house's history – the Marshall Plan and Truman Doctrine were both discussed here.

Recent travelers highly recommend a visit to the Little White House, especially for self-identified history buffs. The guides and exhibits both earn high marks from reviewers. The only gripe among recent visitors concerned the admission cost, which some felt was too high for a one-hour experience.

Shark and Wildlife Viewing Adventure in Key West

(1862 reviews)

from $ 89.00

Key West Afternoon Snorkel Sail with Live Music and Cocktails!

(1322 reviews)

from $ 59.95

Key West Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour

(1038 reviews)

from $ 55.60

Key West Lighthouse & Keeper's Quarters Museum Key West Lighthouse & Keeper's Quarters Museum

If you can fend off the claustrophobia and don't mind heights, the climb up the tiny and constricting 88 spiral steps to the top of the Key West Lighthouse is worth it for the views, say recent visitors. Once you're up there though, be patient: According to past travelers, the viewing balcony at the top is very narrow. After taking in the views, take a look around the keeper's quarters, which have been around since 1887. The cozy house is now a museum that surveys the history of lighthouses in the Keys, with photographs and various artifacts. The gift shop is also a great place to find regional art.

One ticket gets you access to both the lighthouse and the museum. Admission for adults costs $17; kids ages 7 to 18 get in for $9, while children younger than 7 can enter for free. Discounts are available when you purchase your tickets online. Visitors are divided on whether the admission price is worth the local history provided in the museum, but most agree that the panoramic views seen from the top of the lighthouse are unbeatable. The lighthouse and museum are open daily (except Christmas) from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Situated across the street from the  Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum , you can easily visit both sites in one day. Reviewers say there is some street parking, but most recommend walking in from town.

Conch Tour Train Conch Tour Train

Operating for more than 50 years, the Conch Tour Train is an ideal option for travelers interested in learning the history of Key West, but who don't have a lot of time to spend meandering through different attractions. This 75-minute narrated tour loops through Key West's famous Old Town, focusing on the city's rich history. The tour departs from Front Street and makes three stops along the way for visitors to grab refreshments and stretch their legs, and then wraps at Mallory Square . Passengers can also choose to hop off at a stop to visit nearby attractions and catch a later train.

Recent visitors praised the excellent tour guides, calling them knowledgeable and entertaining. They also said the train was a great way to see Old Town while giving your feet a break from walking. While some travelers thought the tickets were a bit overpriced, others appreciated the tour's convenient hop-on, hop-off structure.

Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory

If you love butterflies, this is the spot for you. The Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory is filled with 50 to 60 species of colorful winged creatures that seemingly float through the air in an enclosed, glass-domed aviary. Plant enthusiasts will also find much they'll love here, as the butterflies share their home with a wide variety of plants, along with more than 20 species of birds including two famed flamingos.

Past visitors highly recommend a stop here, describing the conservatory as a serene place to get away from the crowds or impending rain. Those traveling with kids said the kaleidoscopic butterflies and birds were a hit with the younger crowd, and the outing proved educational, too, thanks to a short film on butterfly metamorphosis.

Audubon House & Tropical Gardens Audubon House & Tropical Gardens

Whether you're interested in colonial furniture, period architecture, tropical greenery or artist and naturalist John James Audubon, you'll find a host of curiosities at the Audubon House & Tropical Gardens. Located in Old Town a block away from Duval Street , the Audubon House & Tropical Gardens dates back to the 1840s. The house was built by Captain John Huling Geiger, but it's named after well-known ornithologist John James Audubon, who visited the Keys in 1832. Twenty-eight of his works can be found in the house. While you're here, take a look at the house's decor and then head outside to the lush and colorful garden, which includes orchids, bromeliads and other tropical plants. For some, the garden was their favorite part of the house, noting that the vibrantly colored flowers make for prime photography subjects. Other reviewers remarked on the careful restoration of the house and its period-specific antiques.

When you walk into the house, you'll be greeted by a staff member who will offer a brief introduction. Many visitors remark on how friendly and knowledgeable the docents are. From there, you can embark on your own self-guided tour. The Audubon House is open every day from 9:30 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. Admission for adults costs $15; students (of any age) pay $10; tickets for kids ages 6 to 12 cost $5; children younger than 6 get in for free. You can purchase Audubon prints (and other souvenirs) in the on-site gift shop. For more information, visit the official website .

Key West Aquarium Key West Aquarium

The Key West Aquarium is proof that good things come in small packages. More small-scale than your typical aquarium, this indoor-outdoor attraction is a historic facility that first opened in 1935. Although it might be lacking in elaborate exhibits, this one-story aquarium still has a good range of creatures for the entire family to see. Take your kids to the touch pools to see if a sea cucumber is as slimy as it looks. The museum also hosts several tours and presentations throughout the day. If you're lucky, you may get to feed a gentle nurse shark if you attend the shark presentation.

The aquarium is home to several rescued sea turtles that are native to Florida waters.

Key West Mangrove Kayak Eco Tour

(1653 reviews)

from $ 60.00

Key West Small-Group Sunset Sail with Wine

(1026 reviews)

from $ 133.89

Key West Sunset Sail: Dolphin Watching, Wine, and Tapas

(483 reviews)

from $ 89.95

Higgs Beach Higgs Beach free

Located on the south side of the island along the Atlantic Ocean, Clarence S. Higgs Memorial Beach Park encompasses 16.5 acres of oceanfront, two piers (one on each end), a Civil War-era fort and the site of what's believed to be the only known African refugee cemetery in the U.S. Beachgoers can enjoy a day of swimming, snorkeling, kayaking or paddle boarding in the ocean, plus land activities ranging from sunbathing to beach volleyball, tennis and pickleball.

Higgs Beach is known for its fine, white sand and shallow water, making it an ideal beach for families with small children. However, when you first enter the water, the sand can be rocky, recent travelers warn, so bring water shoes. You can avoid the rocks entirely by walking down the Reynolds Street Pier past the rocky shore to a ladder, where you can step down into the water. Beach chairs and umbrella rentals are available, or you can set up shop at one of several tiki huts, permanent wooden umbrellas, or picnic tables with barbecues. The park also offers visitors a bike path, a children's playground, a dog park, plus public restrooms and showers.

Key West Cemetery Key West Cemetery free

U.S. News Insider Tip: For more of the macabre, take an evening Ghosts & Gravestones tour to learn about the spooky tales of other Key West sites, where you'll meet the legendary (but haunted) Robert the Doll. – Lyssa Goldberg

Located in Old Town, the Key West Cemetery has been around since 1847 and is well worth at least a walk-through. The quirkiness of the city's residents extends even to the grave. Tombstones in this 19-acre cemetery don't bear the typical inscriptions. Instead, you'll find epitaphs that reflect the island's casual lifestyle. Some of the more well-known inscriptions include "I told you I was sick" and "I'm just resting my eyes." One tombstone for a captain is actually topped with a ship's mast. Notable Conchs buried here include Ellen Mallory, whose name you'll recognize from Mallory Square ; William Curry, Florida's first millionaire; and "Sloppy" Joe Russell, who was Ernest Hemingway's fishing guide and a bartender at the famed Sloppy Joe's bar on Duval Street . 

Key West First Legal Rum Distillery Key West First Legal Rum Distillery free

Key West's First Legal Rum Distillery opened its doors in 2012 and is the first since the end of Prohibition. Here, visitors can tour a working rum distillery, learn how to make a killer mojito or try a free sample of the establishment's specialty white and dark rums, which are made with Florida cane sugar and infused with flavors of coconut, vanilla creme brulee and Key lime. The distillery also sells flasks, shot glasses and rum cake.

Past visitors praised the distillery's delicious drinks and informative staff members, but noted that the tour was limited to one room. Even so, many recommended visiting for the wide selection of rums and rum drinks alone (including piña coladas).

Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center free

With more than 6,000 square feet of interactive exhibits, the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery center seeks to inspire visitors to preserve the marine ecosystems of the Florida Keys and enjoy this natural resource responsibly. Here, guests can learn about the native plants and animals of the Florida Keys through exhibits highlighting the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, four national wildlife refuges and three national parks, including Dry Tortugas, which is on an island about 70 miles from Key West.

Visitors can watch a 20-minute movie about the Keys' fragile ecosystems and then explore the center on a self-paced tour. Staff and volunteers are also on-site to answer questions. Notable exhibits include a replica of NOAA's Aquarius, the only underwater ocean laboratory in the world, and a spotlight on the long maritime history of shipwrecks inside the sanctuary's waters. After completing renovations in late 2022, there are even more hands-on activities, such as a mangrove exhibit where guests can play animal noises and guess which animal made the sound, an area with microscopes so you can watch coral close-up, and a paddleboard photo-op that looks like you’re paddling through the mangroves. The center has been certified by KultureCity as a sensory inclusive facility for people with sensory sensitivities; it offers a separate room where people can take a break from the exhibits. Sensory kits are also available.

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18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Key West, FL

Written by Bryan Dearsley and Lana Law Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Bryan Dearsley visited Key West in 2023 while on assignment for PlanetWare.

The southernmost city in the continental United States, Key West features a unique mixture of cultural influences, some of which can be seen in the island's attractions.

The colorful architecture is mainly Caribbean, with many of the older homes built out of coral rock or salvaged shipboards. Others came directly from the Bahamas, dismantled and shipped then re-assembled here in the Keys. The cuisine is Afro-Caribbean and Spanish, and there is a certain tropical feel to the town.

Key West is known for its sunsets, and watching the sunset from Mallory Square is one of the top things to do on any visit. Several famous writers have called the island home, including Ernest Hemingway, Robert Frost, and Tennessee Williams. Key West continues to attract artists today with its Bohemian and tolerant atmosphere.

Find the island's hidden treasures with our list of the best places to visit and things to do in Key West.

See also: Where to Stay in Key West

1. Walk along Duval Street

2. visit the ernest hemingway home and museum, 3. explore key west butterfly and nature conservatory, 4. catch a sunset at mallory square, 5. take a selfie at america's southernmost point, 6. take a day trip to dry tortugas national park, 7. see the treasures at mel fisher maritime museum, 8. tour harry s. truman little white house, 9. martello towers: key west's defences, 10. audubon house and gallery, 11. step back in time at fort zachary taylor state park, 12. the oldest house museum, 13. see the sharks at key west aquarium, 14. shipwreck treasure museum, 15. key west cemetery, 16. key west lighthouse and keepers quarters, 17. laze on a key west beach, 18. key west museum of art & history at the custom house, where to stay in key west for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to key west, key west, fl - climate chart.

Highlights : Vibrant entertainment and shopping street with attractions and restaurants

Duval Street is Key West's main tourist strip, with restaurants and shops designed to entertain tourists and cruise ship passengers. This is the place to begin, or perhaps end, a busy day of sightseeing.

Historic homes and some of the city's most popular tourist attractions and places to visit can be found along Duval Street, which stretches from Mallory Square to the Southernmost Point marker.

This area is also host to several events and festivals throughout the year, the most famous of which is the Hemingway Days Festival , held each summer. Other highlights in the area include the mecca of everything key lime, Kermit's Key Lime Pie Shop.

An ideal way to get a good overview of the area and its history is on the Key West Conch Tour Train , which visits Duval Street, as well as Old Town , Hemingway's House , and the waterfront area. This 90-minute narrated tour offers perspective on the railroad days, the depression, and WWII, as they relate to Key West.

Highlights : Historic Hemingway home with lush gardens, artifacts, and famous six-toed cats

The legendary author Ernest Hemingway bought this 1851 Spanish Colonial house in 1931 and lived in it until 1940. It features a lush tropical garden and the salt-water pool that he claimed nearly wiped him out financially, and contains his "last penny" pressed into the concrete.

Inside the Ernest Hemingway House & Museum , you can see the restored interior as well, which displays the writer's own collection of 17th- and 18th-century Spanish furniture. More than 60 descendants of Hemingway's original brood of house cats still roam the property. He wrote a number of novels here including A Farewell to Arms , Death in the Afternoon , and For Whom the Bell Tolls .

Please note: This unique must-visit attraction only accepts cash (no debit or credit cards), so come prepared. And it can get busy, so arrive early.

Address: 907 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida

Highlights : Family-friendly attraction with live butterflies and free-flying birds

One of the top things to do in Key West for families is visit to the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory. Children of all ages will be captivated by the opportunity to walk among more than 50 species of butterflies in the natural garden habitat of a glass conservatory.

In addition to the colorful butterflies, more than 20 species of exotic birds reside here, making a visit to the conservatory a truly special experience.

The Learning Center also offers an educational film about the life cycle of butterflies, with exhibits that explain the stages in detail. A live caterpillar viewing area is worth checking out, where you can see real butterflies going through their transformations.

Address: 1316 Duval Street, Key West, Florida

Highlights : Fun sunset celebration with performers, buskers, shopping, and food vendors

Mallory Square, a former warehouse area, is now the location of a nightly sunset-watching ritual with live entertainment. This is one of the most popular free things to do in Key West and is a must-do activity when in town.

Make your way to the dock areas at the base of Duval Street and marvel at the stunning pinks and reds as the sun sets over the Gulf of Mexico. Jugglers, vendors, musicians, and other street performers create a carnival-like atmosphere, including some truly unique performances like dog unicycling, cats on a tightrope, and straightjacket escapes.

The area has become one of the top highlights of a visit to Key West, particularly in the late afternoon, when browsing the shops and other attractions located on and around Mallory Square is the thing to do. Great places to visit include the Shops at Mallory Square, home to a variety of local art, souvenirs, and refreshments (Cuban Coffee Queen does an amazing breakfast burrito).

Searching for the perfect souvenir? Check out the historical Key West Sponge Market . This treasure-hunting store is located in the nearby Mallory Square Market along with other interesting shops.

Address: 400 Wall Street, Key West, Florida

Highlights : Famous selfie spot and the most southerly point of continental USA

Key West's claim to fame as the southernmost point in the continental U.S. is marked by a red, black, and yellow concrete marker at the corner of South and Whitehead Streets.

It's a lively spot, as street vendors and performers congregate around the site to sell souvenirs and showcase their talents. The marker itself, dedicated by the Key West Public Works Department in 1983, is less than inspiring but nonetheless, it still works well as the perfect selfie background (be prepared, though, to line up for a few minutes for your turn).

A similar landmark and equally popular place for Key West photo-ops is the US1 mile-marker "0" sign which marks the beginning of the route which runs up almost the entirety of the east coast. Stretching for nearly 2,400 miles, the interstate ends in Maine, passing through several major cities.

Address: Whitehead Street & South Street, Key West, Florida

Highlights : Excellent day trip from Key West to remote islands with a fort, beaches, and diving

History coupled with soft-sand beaches and wonderful opportunities for snorkeling are the main allure of this isolated park. Catamaran Boat Excursions to the Dry Tortugas , which include snorkeling and snorkeling equipment, as well as lunch, leave from Key West and are the best way to access this site.

Dry Tortugas National Park is an archipelago of seven reef islands located around 65 miles southwest of Key West. They were so named by explorer Ponce de Leon due to the number of turtles ( tortuga meaning turtle in Spanish) found on the islands. The "dry" part was added later, referring to the lack of fresh water on the islands.

One of them, Garden Key, is home to the 19th-century Fort Jefferson , which was built by the U.S. government to protect and control the Gulf of Mexico shipping channel. The fort operated as a prison for Union deserters during the Civil War and also housed Dr. Samuel Mudd, who was arrested as a co-conspirator in Abraham Lincoln's assassination.

In 1992, George Bush changed the status of the site from the Fort Jefferson National Monument to the current park run by the National Park Service.

Address: 40001 SR-9336, Homestead, Florida

Highlights : Diving and shipwreck exhibits including treasures and rare recovered artifacts

The Mel Fisher Maritime Museum tells the story of diver Mel Fisher, who discovered several shipwrecks, including one that carried exceedingly valuable artifacts and another that holds a wealth of historical value.

First discovered in 1972, an English ship was found about 35 miles west of Key West. Later identified as the Henrietta Marie , this was a slave ship that had disappeared in 1700 shortly after selling 190 African Captives in Jamaica. Although the ship did not carry a wealth of gold and jewels, its remains hold invaluable artifacts, which provide a look at the history and conditions of the maritime slave trade, and is the oldest slave shipwreck to be discovered.

In 1980, Fisher's dive teams discovered the wreck of the Santa Margarita , a 17th-century Spanish ship. This wreck held an astounding assortment of valuable objects, from gold and silver bars and coins to elaborate jewelry.

The museum displays numerous artifacts from these wrecks and others, including a 77.76-carat emerald and several other rare items such as navigational instruments, tools, and other everyday items. The museum also has exhibits on underwater archaeology and diving, as well as films and hands-on demonstrations.

Address: 200 Greene Street, Key West, Florida

Highlights : Elegant historic winter quarters of US President Harry Truman, with tours

The restored Harry S. Truman Little White House was built in 1890 and served as the headquarters for the naval command through World War II. Truman first visited the house in 1946, and during his presidency used it several times as a vacation retreat.

The original furnishings and decor have remained intact from the Truman era, and it has been used by subsequent presidents and officials as it still is today. Items like Truman's piano and the desk he used during his "working vacations," are perfectly preserved for posterity. Helpful guides add insight into the building's history and the political significance it held during the Cold War.

Be sure to enjoy a self-guided tour of the home's spectacular botanical gardens after you are finished inside.

Address: 111 Front Street, Key West, Florida

Highlights : Historic red-brick fortresses with lovely gardens and art collections

The Martello Towers are two brick fortifications, built in 1858 to protect Fort Zachary Taylor from the east. The fort was never completed and never saw hostile action, although the eight-foot-thick granite walls would certainly have withstood artillery attacks. The central tower provides a spectacular panoramic view of the Atlantic coast of Key West.

The West Martello Tower and Garden Center was constructed in the 1860s by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The Key West Garden Club took possession of the fort in 1955 and began a cleanup and planting to beautify the dilapidated fort.

Today, you can stroll the grounds, through lovely courtyards and gardens. Romantic pathways, arches, a waterfall, and water lily pond are some of the highlights.

The East Martello Tower was originally built as a complement to Fort Zachary Taylor to protect the region. It now houses the Martello Gallery -Key West Art and Historical Museum , with a diverse collection of local art and sculpture and other exhibits related to the development of Key West.

Address: 1100 Atlantic Blvd, Key West, Florida

Highlights : Historic heritage home featuring beautiful interiors and gardens with guided tours

This 1840s home was built by ship carpenters for Captain John Greiger, a noted harbor pilot and wrecker. Colonel Mitchell Wolfson restored it in the 1960s, initiating the subsequent preservation movement in the rest of Key West.

Today, Audobon House and Gallery is noteworthy both for the historic home and the beautiful gardens and grounds it preserves. The home contains many 18th- and 19th-century period furnishings, much of it from Europe, and a substantial collection of engravings by John James Audubon, who stayed here in 1832.

The gardens in the back contain a variety of tropical plants, including birds of paradise, hibiscus, and different palms. Guided tours showcase the highlights of the Audubon House, and following the tour, you are welcome to explore on the lush grounds around the home.

Address: 205 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida

Highlights : Civil War fortifications, festivals and events, nature trails, swimming beach

Built between 1845 and 1866, Fort Zachary Taylor protected this part of Florida's coast during the Civil War. Today, it is a State Park and National Historic Landmark, renowned for its historical attractions, especially the extensive collection of Civil War-era armaments, which are still being excavated.

The park also hosts a variety of annual events, including concerts, boat races, sculpture contests, and even a pirate festival. In addition to all of these fun things to do, tourists will enjoy the park's beautiful swimming beach; dedicated snorkeling areas; and nature trails, which are open to both foot and bike traffic.

This is also one of the best places to see Key West's famous sunsets, and the beach is a perfect spot for a romantic picnic.

Address: 601 Howard England Way, Key West, Florida

Highlights : Charming historic home with original furniture and ship models, plus a nice garden

The Oldest House in South Florida, built in 1829, was the former home of Francis B. Watlington. It was originally built by Richard Cussans in a different location and later moved to Duval Street.

Today, The Oldest House Museum offers a chance to see and learn a little about the history of Key West. It is not as extravagant or as lovely as some of the city's other historical houses that are open to the public, but it has its own unique charm.

Within the house are some original furnishings, family portraits, and displays on the history of Key West. Ship models and information on the history of the industry in the area are on display. At the rear of the house is a garden and a cookhouse, which was typical of the period. There is also an exhibit pavilion containing additional documents of interest.

Address: 322 Duval Street, Key West, Florida

Highlights : Fun aquarium with trophy fish, interactive "touch" tanks...and real sharks!

The Key West Aquarium first opened its doors in 1934, making it one of the first open-air aquariums in the U.S. For practical purposes of algae control, a roof was later added, and the facility was upgraded.

Exhibits include the "Atlantic Shores" and the large outdoor holding pens. A number of tanks house local marine life, including puffer fish, snappers, and angelfish. There are also tanks with barracuda and sharks, and a "touch tank," always a favorite with kids, as they can get up close and personal with conch, starfish, and other invertebrates.

The sharks are fed at regular intervals throughout the day, and if you are brave enough, attendants will let you touch a juvenile nurse shark.

Address: 1 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida

Highlights : Family-friendly museum with treasure and shipwreck exhibits, costumed guides

The Shipwreck Treasure Museum is housed in the replica of a 19th-century wrecker's warehouse with exhibits exploring the fascinating history of the salvage industry in the area.

Wrecking, the practice of salvaging cargo from the various ships that perished along the Florida reefs, was once a major part of Key West's economy and an extremely lucrative — but dangerous — industry. From atop observation towers like the 65-foot example here at the museum, wreckers would watch day and night for ships in trouble and race to the site. The first to arrive could claim the rights to the largest share of the salvage profits, a process overseen by special "wrecking courts."

Here, at the museum, actors in period costume recount the story of the Isaac Allerton , which sank in 1856, as well as show what life was like for the daring wreckers who risked their lives to not only recover treasure but also save the lives of the reefs' victims.

Artifacts from the shipwreck are displayed, and films and videos on the subject run on a continuous basis. The observation tower provides excellent views and photo opportunities of the surrounding land and seascape.

Highlights : Historic burial grounds with ornate tombs and grave stones

Founded in 1847 after the island's original cemetery was destroyed by a hurricane, the headstones in Key West's cemetery mark the graves of more than 35,000 people.

This historic cemetery has several religious and memorial sections, including dedicated Jewish and Roman Catholic areas, the Los Martires de Cuba memorial commemorating the Cuban martyrs who were killed during the 1870s independence movement, and a plot dedicated to the sailors who died when the USS Maine sank in 1898.

Highlights to watch for are the intricate ironwork and carved monuments that adorn family plots and tombs.

Address: 701 Passover Lane, Key West, Florida

Highlights : Well-preserved lighthouse and buildings with superb views over Key West

The Key West Lighthouse was built in 1847 and opened in 1848 with a female keeper, a rarity in that time. Over the years, its keeper's quarters and lenses were upgraded until technology rendered both obsolete, and it was decommissioned in 1969.

The Key West Art and Historical Society adopted the property, initially turning it into a military museum and then later restoring the lighthouse and quarters to reflect life here at the beginning of the 20th century.

Today, the Key West Lighthouse and Keepers Quarters houses original furniture, household items, and photos of the many keepers who kept the light burning through even the worst of storms.

The lighthouse stands at 86 feet high, so be sure to climb up its 88 steps for great views from the observation deck near the top. A short video presentation also provides an interesting look at the history of the Key West Lighthouse.

Address: 938 Whitehead Street, Key West, Florida

Highlights : Beautiful beaches with shallow water perfect for kids, swimmers, and snorkelers

Many first-time visitors are blown away to find out that Key West is actually home to a number of great little beaches (plus one or two larger ones). Which one you gravitate to will depend largely on your travel habits.

For example, those traveling with kids will want to include a visit to Higgs Beach on their list of Key West beaches to visit. One of a string of great little beaches tucked away on Key West's southern Atlantic coast that includes Rest Beach, South Beach, and County Beach — all within an easy walk of one another — Higgs Beach was built (yes, it's manmade) with families very much in mind.

Amenities include water sport rental shops, a restaurant, restrooms with changing and shower facilities, bike racks, as well as beach chairs. A children's playground is located here, along with volleyball nets. Ample free parking is available. Be sure to check out the neighboring West Martello Tower and Gardens.

Other beaches to check out include Smathers Beach (for sunbathing and swimming); Simonton Beach (for sunsets); Fort Zachary Taylor Beach (for history and wildlife); Dry Tortugas Beach (for romance and day trips, as it's on an island); and Dog Beach (for, you guessed it: dogs!).

Highlights : Historic customs house with art exhibits, sculpture garden, and historic artifacts

Handily located between Mallory Square and the Harry S. Truman Little White House attractions stands the Key West Museum of Art & History . Set in the city's historic Custom House building, a large and handsome red brick structure built in 1891, it's well worth a visit.

Highlights include informative exhibits and displays, including a sizable Hemingway collection, relating to famous personalities who at one time or another called Key West home or visited here. There are also exhibits relating to local social and maritime history. The museum also houses a sizable collection dedicated to artworks and sculptures from local, national, and international artists.

Be sure to also explore the rear of the museum for a chance to pose with some of the fascinating garden sculptures, which show scenes that look as if they're straight out of a painting.

Address: 281 Front Street, Naval Air Station Key West, Florida

Key West is compact and easily walkable, but the best place to stay is near Duval Street, in the heart of downtown. Budget-minded travelers will have to search farther afield to find reasonable prices.

Luxury Hotels:

• At the end of Duval Street near Mallory Square, the Ocean Key Resort & Spa features waterfront rooms with balconies and an oceanside pool.
• Nearby is the lovely Pier House Resort & Spa with a private white-sand beach and a pool overlooking the water.
• Located just a block off Duval Street, The Gardens Hotel is a beautifully appointed property, with lush gardens surrounding a pool.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Hotels in this price range tend to be a little farther back from the action but still on the island of Key West. Kimpton Winslow's Bungalows is a charming boutique hotel housed in two buildings from 1905 and 1891 respectively.
• The Best Western Hibiscus Motel is in the quieter southern section of Key West. It features a very large pool, by Key West's standards, and is just a short walk to the southernmost point in the United States.
• A bit farther out, but with a shuttle bus that runs every 20 minutes to Duval Street, is the DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Hotel Grand Key – Key West. This hotel is set on large, lush grounds and features renowned tropical gardens.

Budget Hotels:

• The budget options tend to be a bit older and farther out from downtown. The Ibis Bay Beach Resort has a shuttle to downtown and is close to restaurants and grocery stores.
• Another option, three miles from downtown and featuring beautiful views out over the water, is The Laureate Key West . You'll need a car to stay here as there is no shuttle, and no restaurants are nearby.

Crystal clear waters and coral reefs surround Key West, and a boat tour is a great way to explore these habitats and the abundant marine life. Taking an organized tour also means you don't have to worry about renting a boat and navigating your way through unfamiliar waters. Below are some fun tours that guarantee the lowest price and offer a great option for getting around town hassle-free:

• Sightseeing Trolley: A convenient way to get to and from the top tourist attractions in Key West is the Key West Hop-on/Hop-off Trolley, which makes stops at all of the island's most popular spots, like Mallory Square and Duval Street museums and shops, as well as several museums and landmarks. In addition to making your Key West vacation itinerary a breeze, an expert guide narrates the ride, providing interesting facts and telling fascinating stories about the island's history and lore.
• Dolphins and Snorkeling Boat Tour: The three-hour Key West Dolphin Watch and Snorkel Cruise whisks you away from the coast on a catamaran to see wild dolphins swimming and playing in the water a few feet from the boat. After watching these gentle mammals, you have a chance to snorkel over a shallow coral reef, which is home to more than 600 different species of marine life. The tour includes snorkel equipment, unlimited sodas, and a professional guide.
• Islands Boat Tour: If you'd like to explore the islands off the coast of Key West, the Dry Tortugas National Park Day Trip by Catamaran is an excellent option. This full-day adventure on a luxury high-speed catamaran visits Dry Tortugas National Park, where you can explore the military fort, relax on the beautiful beaches, and snorkel along some of Key West's best coral reefs. Included in the tour is an expert naturalist, entrance fees and national park service fees, a narrated tour of Fort Jefferson, breakfast and lunch, and snorkeling equipment.
• Snorkeling and Kayak Tour: A fantastic way to see the Gulf of Mexico and get up-close to its unique natural habitats is the Key West Full-Day Island T'ing Eco-Tour: Sail, Kayak, and Snorkel , a six-hour excursion that is sure to please everyone in your group. The tour embarks in the morning on a spacious catamaran, and tourists are provided with breakfast as the boat makes its way to a mangrove island, where you can hop in one of the provided kayaks and explore the truly unique surroundings. The next stop is at a coral reef, where passengers can don snorkeling equipment and be led on a guided tour of the living underwater landscape. Those who prefer to stay dry are welcome to remain in the catamaran and enjoy the sun and beautiful views, and a buffet lunch with beverages is served as well.
• Sailing & Watersport Adventures: The vast expanses of water around Key West were just made to be explored. One of the best ways to do it is to book the Key West Full-Day Power Adventure: Sailing & Watersports Package . The highlights of these well-organized tour packages include a cruise aboard a modern catamaran sailing vessel into the Gulf of Mexico for some sightseeing, as well as your choice of activities, including kayaking, reef snorkeling, Jet Skiing, or even parasailing. A hearty breakfast and lunch are included, as is all equipment needed to indulge in your adventure of choice.

The best time to visit Key West is during the winter months of December, January, and February. With daytime temperatures averaging in the low 70s, as well as the fact there'll be plenty of sunshine, it'll be warm enough for you to enjoy a wide array of outdoor and water-based activities or simply hang out at your resort.

While the autumn months of September and October can still be hot and humid, by November temperatures will have cooled enough to make a fall visit to Key West quite pleasant. And, by the end of fall, you'll also be clear of the rainy hurricane season.

Early spring can be a great time to visit Key West. Temperatures in March and April will gradually increase from the low to high 70s, reaching into the 80s by the end of May. Things are usually pretty dry during this spring month, too.

Summer is the least appealing time to visit Key West. Also known as hurricane season, summer here stretches through June, July, and August; it also includes the late spring month of May, as well as September and even October. These months are also the hottest, most humid, and wettest months in Key West.

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The Florida Keys: The Florida Keys are by far one of the top places to visit in Florida , best known for their fascinating history and amazing sunsets. Learn about historic forts and tales of pirates, and experience limitless opportunities to encounter wildlife and watch the sun set over the Gulf of Mexico.

Sun and Sand: The keys are also naturally home to some of the best beaches in Florida , making the region a very popular resort destination. Key West is home to several excellent resorts, and the popular diving town of Key Largo has a wide variety of resorts as well, ranging from luxury accommodations to private cottages.

Mainland Excitement: Approximately 3.5 hours' drive from Key West, the vibrant city of Miami is one of Florida's most exciting tourist destinations, full of attractions and things to do . Tourists can easily add a night or two in the city to their Florida vacation itinerary on the way to or from Key West, or may want to stay a little longer at one of Miami's popular resorts.

More on Florida

30+ Best Things to Do in Key West, Florida

Adventurous Kate contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks!

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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The best things to do in Key West

Grab your camera and your snorkeling gear to partake in the best things to do in Key West right now

Key West is a small but mighty island that is not to be underestimated. Tourists know it for its beautiful Florida-esque beaches, water sports and more, but there’s tons more to be discovered in Key West than meets the eye. The best part? Most of the island’s best attractions are super close by, so you don’t need to rent a car to roam.

First, there’s most definitely the best key lime pie you’ll ever eat. Then there’s the many, many beautiful beaches, and fantastic national parks – one that is literally found in the middle of the ocean. There’s the dive bars, obviously, which are better than you think, and many ways to see Key West in all its beauty (including by bike). 

RECOMMENDED: 🍽️ The best restaurants in Key West 🍷 The best bars in Key West 🏖️ The best beaches in Key West 🏨 The best hotels in Key West 🏘️ The best Airbnbs in Key West

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Best things to do in Key West

1.  Conch Tour Train

If this is your first time in Key West, consider soaking up local sights and knowledge aboard the Conch Tour Train. The trolly tours take you past some of the most iconic sights in Key West like The Hemingway Home, the Southernmost Point and the Harry S. Truman Little White House. The best part? You can hop on and off as many times as you like – so feel free to spend hours marveling at the six-toed cats at the Hemingway Home before getting back on the train.

2.  The Hemingway Home and Museum

Open daily, step into the chaotic life of Ernest Hemingway at this historic home and museum. A  tour of the house and grounds takes about 30 minutes (cash only), and includes a peek into the gardens, rooms and pool that Hemingway called home in Key West. You'll also notice some interesting cats prowling the location – these are the  descendants of the famed, original six-toed cat that Hemingway lovingly took care of while residing here. 

3.  Dry Tortugas National Park

Seventy miles west of Key West is Dry Tortugas National Park – a great spot for exploring, learning and soaking in the crystal clear waters of Key West. The national park is known for its top-notch bird watching with over 300 species of bird known to circle the area. Snorkeling is also a favorite activity and waters rarely get deeper than 15 feet. When it’s time to dry off, take a walk around Fort Jefferson and have a scenic lunch at one of the picnic tables. 

4.  The Southernmost Point

Located at 24 degrees 33 minutes north latitude and 81 degrees 45 minutes,  The Southernmost Point is exactly what it seems – the southernmost point of the United States (though there is some debate). Easily o ne of the most photographed places in Key West, the line for a selfie can get long, but it moves quickly, especially as high tide rolls in and water starts to flood the street near the landmark. For the best photos possible, check what time low tide will be or go early in the morning when the air is clear.

5.  Key West Boat Trips

The biggest draw in Key West is the ocean, of course. Book a boat tour to get out on the water. Tours can take place during the day or at night and offer activities like snorkeling, sandbar hopping and private dinners on board. Tours with Key West Boat Trips start at $350 for six people, but splitting that between friends makes this excursion a cheap and fun day trip. 

6.  Harry S. Truman Little White House

Florida’s only presidential museum is the Harry S. Truman Little White House in Key West. The home was built in 1890 as housing for naval officers and was most famously used by former President Truman as a vacation stop – he spent 175 days of his presidency there – thought other notable figures that have stayed here include Thomas Jefferson and John Kennedy. The home is open daily for tours, which run every 20 minutes until 4pm. 

7.  Key West Lighthouse and Keepers Quarters

The Key West Lighthouse has been a focal point of the island since 1848, when its first keeper was a woman (nearly unheard of in the 19th century). It underwent numerous upgrades since its construction – including being made taller and the introduction of electricity – until it was decomissioned in 1969. Today, visitors can climb the 88 steps to the top for breathtaking views of Key West. Don't forget to peek into the keeper's quarters, too, for a glimpse of maritime life in the late 1800s. 

8.  Duval Street

Duval Street is easily the most popular street in Key West, and for good reason. The bustling thoroughfare is known for its plethora of bars, restaurants and nightlife establishments. While most locals tend to stay away from the tourist- and cruise-ship-passenger–flooded part of town, no trip to Key West is complete without visiting and walking down the iconic street.

9.  The Overseas Highway

The Overseas Highway connects Key West and other parts of the Florida Keys to mainland Florida. Stretching 113 miles across the Atlantic,  the expanse takes about four hours to travel across (one way), but the scenery makes it worth it if you're considering driving to Keys. Along the way you'll hit Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon and more before stopping in Key West. For a mini road-trip, drive the  Seven Mile Bridge between  Marathon and Key West – it's nothing but blue skies and bluer water the whole way. 

10.  Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

Got a history buff in your party? Fort Zachary Taylor is home to the largest collection of Civil War cannons in the United States, and the fort itself dates back to 1845. Alongside its historic collection,  Fort Zachary Taylor also offers excellent fishing and snorkeling at the nearby beach and a network of trails with good bird- and people-watching. 

11.  Key West Aquarium

Located in historic Mallory Square, in the middle of the tourist district of Key West, the aquarium hosts an array of ocean creatures to observe including jellyfish, sharks, reef fish, conch and sea cucumbers. Kids can get up-close-and-personal with sea stars, sea urchin, and horseshoe crabs at the touch tanks and the entire family will love learning about the resident sea turtles on the Sea Turtle Conservation Tour too see what the aquarium is doing to protect the species in the wild.

12.  Smather's Beach

It wouldn’t be a trip to Key West without some time in the sand, and Smather’s is the largest public beach on the island. The beach begins at mile marker zero and stretches on for about half a mile, so you don't have to worry about it getting too crowded. Along the shore, there are cute shops and restaurants to pop into while you wait for sunset – believe us, it will be glorious. 

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Key West, the southernmost point in the United States, is famous for watersports, lively nightlife, beaches, historic sites and its pastel, conch-style architecture.

Duval Street , one of the most energetic strips of shops, bars and cafes anywhere, offers Sloppy Joe’s bar, a favorite Key West hangout of novelist Ernest Hemingway. And, for the more sober-minded, there’s Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum . (Look for the celebrated six-toed cats).

Walking tours of Key Wes t are the best way to see the island’s intriguing homes, courtyards, and gardens. Start in the center of town at the Key West City Cemetery , which offers a glimpse of Key West’s past and its offbeat sense of humor, as exhibited by gravestones that read, “I told you I was sick,” and “At least I know where he’s sleeping tonight.”

Plan your trip at The Florida Keys & Key West .  

Swim, snorkel, and sunbathe at Key West’s beaches.

• Smathers Beach
• Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
• South Beach
• Clarence S. Higgs Memorial Beach Park
• Simonton Street Beach

Key West has much to offer families of all ages. 

• Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory
• Key West Aquarium
• More family-friendly attractions

MUSEUMS, ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Experience film, museums, galleries and visual arts, and literature.

• Arts, culture and history
• Fantasy Fest

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

Explore the great outdoors, island-style.

• Diving and snorkeling
• Boating & on the water
• Sightseeing

PET-FRIENDLY ADVENTURES

Dogs love Key West, from the beach to boats to bars.

• Pet-friendly travel and businesses

ACCESSIBILITY

Key West is full of accessible attractions for travelers with disabilities, from museums to state parks to beaches.

• Accessible travel

Florida Keys cuisine melds diverse, local, and delicious influences.

• Sloppy Joe’s Bar
• Seaside Cafe at Southernmost Mansion
• More restaurants and bars

Key West is a walkable town with plenty of shops and retail areas, including famed Mallory Square .

• Places to shop

INCLUSIVITY

With a vibrant LGBTQ+ community, Key West’s official philosophy is “One Human Family.”

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• LGBTQ+ destination guide

PLACES TO STAY

There are plenty of ways to stay in Florida's southernmost subtropical paradise.

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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.

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If so, we would love to keep in touch! We enjoy seeing photos and comments about your experiences in Florida! You can follow us on Instagram and we will repost your photos on our feed and comment too! Just tag us at @floridatrippers and hashtag #floridatrippers. We can’t wait to see your travels!

29 Best & Fun Things To Do In Key West (Florida)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: August 1, 2019  - Last updated: October 16, 2023

If you’re looking for some of the best vacation spots in the world , you simply cannot miss Key West, an island city located in the Florida Keys.

Famous for its gorgeous marine life, whimsical houses, and interesting history, the best of Key West offers fascinating must-see points of interest that will ensure you’re never at a loss for what to do.

We’ve compiled a list of the best attractions and fun activities in Key West for your convenience.

Table of Contents

1. Dry Tortugas National Park

Dry Tortugas National Park

The Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the most historically rich tourist attractions in Key West, Florida.

Encompassing seven little islands and large expanses of water, it is just 50 miles off the land, so it won’t take too long to get there.

The journey requires a boat, ferry, or seaplane, but the moment you see the brilliant blue waters that flow across the park, you’ll know that it was more than worth it.

Its most popular spot is likely Fort Jefferson, built in the 19th century and teeming with a fascinating past that you can uncover through a guided tour of the structure.

But it’s not just history that you’ll find here.

The surrounding coral reefs are packed with gorgeous plant and animal life.

Within certain areas, you can even go swimming and snorkeling.

Bird watching is also a great option, as large groups of exotic birds call this area their home.

2. Key West Historic Seaport and Harbor Walk

Key West Historic Seaport and Harbor Walk

The Key West Historic Seaport and Harbor Walk is one of the most popular things to see in this side of Florida.

Located on the famous Key West Bright Marina, it boasts plenty of eateries, shops, and attractions to enjoy for a short trip.

This seaport has a good amount of history to it, being one of the region’s main sources of economic and cultural life over the past 2 centuries.

Up until the 1990s, it was used as a stop for shipping and fishing boats.

Known also by the name Inner Harbor, it attracts countless tourists all year round who want to get a taste of the seaside life.

Delicious, fresh dishes of seafood are common fare among the many restaurants facing the waterfront.

Visitors can also enjoy a wide range of exciting activities like parasailing, snorkeling, dolphin watching, scuba diving, jet-skiing, kayaking, and more.

Address:  201 William St, Key West, FL 33040, USA

3. Key West Seaplane Adventures

Key West Seaplane Adventures

The Key West Seaplane Adventures is one of the most loved ways to get to Dry Tortugas National Park (and the only air service to go there in the first place!).

But it’s more than just a convenient mode of transportation.

You can find it sitting on the South Roosevelt Boulevard, within the international airport housed in this state.

Those who venture onboard will receive a seat by a window and a headset for a narrated sightseeing tour.

You’ll be able to view the incredible islands in this region of Florida from above.

Narrators will show you famed Key West shipwrecks that you can spot from your vantage point, such as the Patricia and the Arbutus.

If you’re lucky, you may even see a variety of animals outside, including sharks, dolphins, turtles, rays, and porpoises.

The sheer novelty of the experience makes this flying experience one of the best things to do in Key West.

Address:  3471 S Roosevelt Blvd, Key West, FL 33040, USA

4. Mallory Square

Mallory Square

Mallory Square is one of the most popular areas in Florida.

Located in the Old Town area, right on Wall Street, this plaza is situated on a waterfront and is a mix of modern delights and historic richness.

The square faces the Gulf of Mexico, allowing for some truly astonishing views and lending itself to the Sunset Celebration, one of Key West’s most iconic recreational things to do.

This celebration begins on a daily basis, two hours prior to the setting of the sun.

The tradition began back in the 1960s and is still going strong!

Visitors flock to the area during that time to watch street performances from magicians, clowns, and more.

They buy food from street carts and vendors, check out local arts and crafts exhibits, and finally, gather to watch the sun go down.

Address:  400 Wall St, Key West, FL 33040, USA

Planning to travel to other parts of Florida soon? Be sure to check out our lists detailing the things to do in Pensacola  and things to do in Fort Lauderdale !

5. Higgs Beach

Higgs Beach

Not many people think of Key West, Florida as a location full of good beaches, but some of the best that Key West has to offer still make decent places to visit over a weekend!

One of the most popular of these beaches is the Clarence Higgs Beach Park , known simply as Higgs Beach.

This beach boasts an incredible underwater marina park, deemed the only one of its shore-accessible kind in the entire country.

This makes it among the best Key West attractions for snorkelers who want to get a glimpse of some of the most beautiful flora and fauna underwater.

There is also a somber location on Higgs Beach – an African Burial Ground that serves as a sobering reminder of the lost lives and cruelty of the transatlantic slave trade.

You can visit it to pay your respects.

Address:  1000 Atlantic Blvd, Key West, FL 33040, USA

6. Key West Aquarium

Key West Aquarium

Approximately 7 hours from Orlando , Florida, the Key West Aquarium is very close to Mallory Square, making the general area one of the greatest places to take a trip to in order to enjoy must-see points of interest.

Sitting on Whitehead Street, this aquarium was first built somewhere in the early 1930s.

In the beginning, it was an open-air aquarium, and it is now among the oldest aquariums in the state of Florida.

Today, the Key West Aquarium houses countless interesting exhibits and animals.

There’s everyone’s favorite Touch Tank and Aquarium, which is perfect for kids and grown-ups alike.

There’s the Atlantic Shores Exhibit, a Sea Turtles Conservation Tour, and even an American Alligator Exhibit.

In addition, visitors can even take part in interactive feedings with stingrays and sharks or join in on different kinds of tours.

If you’re going to the state for a special occasion, you can even rent parts of the aquarium for events!

Address:  1 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040, USA

7. The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum

The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum

Visiting the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum is easily one of the top 10 things to do in Key West, Florida.

Built with stunning Spanish Colonial architecture and design, this mansion was first completed in 1851, carved out of native rock.

The house became well-known when Ernest Hemingway moved into the home with his wife in the year 1931.

Even today, decades and decades later, many of the personal effects of the famed author remain behind, including a wide range of antiques from across Europe, each one purchased during holidays and trips.

Today, you can wander around the home and have fun taking a look at the various animal skins and trophies displayed across the mansion, left behind from Hemingway’s many hunting trips.

You can even take a look around his studio – the same one where he wrote ‘To Have and Have Not’, a tale of the Great Depression’s effect on the Key West.

It also still houses a cat that is directly descended from Hemingway’s own!

Address:  907 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040, USA

8. Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory

Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory

The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is one of the best places to visit in Florida if you love nature and, of course, the beautiful titular insect in question.

It spans 5000 square feet and takes the shape of a gigantic dome.

Between 50 and 60 different butterfly species live in this glass enclosure, so if you love these flying creatures, visiting this is one of the must-do activities in Florida.

But it’s not just butterflies that you can see here!

About 3,500 plants live here, and over 20 bird species also share the environment with the insects.

This is a great place to go if you’re looking for a break from the crowds outside.

It’s a calm and relaxing spot that offers educational material on the animals that live within.

Address:  1316 Duval St, Key West, FL 33040, USA

Planning to visit other parts of Florida? Be sure to check out our list of things to do in Destin, FL  & things to do in Sarasota !

9. Audubon House & Tropical Gardens

Audubon House & Tropical Gardens

The Audubon House & Tropical Gardens was first built in the 1840s, and it sits in the Old Town part of Key West, Florida – just a short distance away from the famous Duval Street.

It originally served as a home to Captain John Huling Geiger, a Key West ship captain, but was named after John James Audubon, an ornithologist.

Within the home, you can find Audubon’s numerous curiosities, including twenty-eight of his works and a mix of colonial furniture and knick-knacks that are beyond fascinating.

The house is also surrounded by a lush garden full of flowers that shine in different bright colors.

Every inch of the home has been cautiously restored to bring it to its full glory for visitors.

You will have to pay to enter the home itself, but children and students are entitled to a discount from the standard price for adults.

If you can spare the time, drop by the gift shop afterward, too, and purchase a lovely Audubon print.

It’s one of the best things to do in Key West!

Address:  205 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040, USA

10. Southernmost Point

Southernmost Point

If you’re in Key West for a weekend, the Southernmost Point is one of the many great things to see.

It is located just 90 miles away from Cuba and is named because it was once the lowest point in all of America due to Florida’s location, though Hawaii has since changed that fact.

A gigantic buoy made from concrete marks the exact location.

Built in 1983 to honor this Key West landmark, it is one of the most photographed spots in the whole region.

There’s a charming novelty about taking a selfie at such a cool spot, so get your phone or camera ready for action if you’re heading here!

Address:  Whitehead St & South Street, Key West, FL 33040, United States

11. Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center

Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center / Haydn Blackey from Cardiff, Wales [ CC BY-SA 2.0 ], via Wikimedia Commons

It sits on East Quay Road, where it spans across 6,000 square feet.

It is a marine sanctuary and houses numerous flora and fauna native to the Key West area.

Within its walls, there are plenty of activities for visitors.

You can view the contents of a massive gallon reef tank containing 2,500 gallons of water or enjoy numerous interactive exhibits that aim to educate visitors on marine ecology and other issues.

You can also find a full-scale model of Aquarius, which is the only ocean laboratory underwater in the entire world.

While you’re walking around, enjoy the sights of some habitats on display, like pine lands, beach dunes, grass flats, shorelines, and more!

Address:  35 E Quay Rd, Key West, FL 33040, USA

12. Nancy Forrester’s Secret Garden

Nancy Forrester’s Secret Garden

Nancy Forrester’s Secret Garden is a more quiet location in Key West, and it’s lesser-known than most of the other activities you may enjoy while in Florida.

But who, exactly, is Nancy Forrester?

She’s an environmental artist and is pretty well-known among the community in the region.

This secret garden is just as whimsical and mystical as it sounds.

In a special backyard, she hosts macaws and parrots, all rescued and all who love to talk and chirp and chat with those they meet!

These very smart and lovely animals live happily in this yard, and visiting them is easily among the top things to do in Key West.

If you go at the right time, you’ll be able to listen to Nancy’s special Parrot 101 talk, which she gives at 10 am every single day.

It’s a wonderful place for kids, and also for musicians – if you bring your instruments, you can play music for the birds, who love it!

Address:  518 Elizabeth St, Key West, FL 33040, USA

13. Key West Garden Club

Key West Garden Club

The Key West Garden Club actually sits on Higgs Beach, within Atlantic Boulevard.

It is also often called the West Martello Tower.

It’s a free garden that anyone can go into as they desire, and its upkeep is entirely performed by volunteers.

It sounds relatively tame, but it’s among the points of interest in Key West, Florida.

The purpose of this garden club is to educate visitors regarding tropical gardening.

Stroll through the lovely brick pathways that seem to have jumped right out of a fantasy book.

Gasp in awe at the lush greenery and wide range of fauna – orchids, lilies in a lily pond, bromeliads, and even a waterfall!

Plus, the West Martello Tower itself has some interesting history. It was once a citadel in the Civil War.

This means this location is actually on the National Register of Historic Places.

So if you’re looking for where to go that is relaxing but interesting, this is a great spot to visit!

Address:  1100 Atlantic Blvd, Key West, FL 33040, USA

Going on a road trip around Florida? Check out our list of things to do in Miami !

14. Duval Street

Duval Street

Duval Street is one of the coolest Key West attractions to visit.

It is as famous as it is infamous in Florida, and no trip to Key West would be complete without it.

It wouldn’t take longer than a weekend for you to get your fill of all that this street has to offer.

Plenty of quaint cafes line this street, and interesting art galleries, one-of-a-kind boutiques, and plenty of other lovely shops that you can walk into and scrutinize.

There’s a reason this place is home to so many Key West artists – you may just get inspired!

Meanwhile, adults can enjoy numerous drinking establishments and party at the many nightlife hotspots that are perfect for having an incredible time.

It can get quite rowdy, so take heed!

15. Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

The Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park is one of the more popular places to go in Key West.

You can find it along the southern side of Key West in the Truman Annex, and it is actually an official Florida State Park and a National Historic Landmark.

This park’s must-see popular features are its beach and its titular fort, which dates back to the times of the Civil War.

There are many different events that you can enjoy, including reenactments of the war era that span across the entire weeks.

Explore the fort area and take in all that rich history!

If you’re not much of a history buff, you can still head down to the beach, which is often hailed as the greatest that Key West has to offer.

It has plenty of equipment for water sports like snorkeling, and there are beach chairs to lounge on.

You can also stroll through the park and try out the different eating spots!

Address:  601 Howard England Way, Key West, FL 33040, USA

16. Harry S. Truman Little White House

Harry S. Truman Little White House

The Harry S. Truman Little White House is one of the best Key West attractions to visit if you’re a fan of history and politics.

It was first built in the year 1890, during the Spanish-American War and became host to the naval station’s command headquarters.

It continued to serve this purpose throughout both of the World Wars.

Then, in 1946, this building earned its name because none other than President Harry S. Truman used it as a White House during the winter months.

From then, this spot became an unofficial resting place for presidents to take a break from the stressful rush of running a country during test times.

Today, this house is still used by many national leaders, who often come down to this quaint Florida location for business or as short vacation homes.

But it’s also now open to tourists as a museum with some brilliant adventures and activities to do.

You can check out the official logs of the house and find out exactly what President Truman did when he visited this home 11 times!

Address:  8311, 111 Front St, Key West, FL 33040, United States

17. Sebago Boat Tours

Sebago Boat Tours

If you want to see the top tourist attractions in Key West just to view them, the Sebago Boat Tours are a great option.

You’ll hop onto one of the six available boats, which are all brilliant and equally lovely, to be brought along a little tour of the most loved parts of the waters.

If you’re just in Florida for a weekend and want to spot some fascinating places to consider taking a trip to later, these boat tours can help you make that decision.

More importantly, they give you the chance to take a sunset cruise and sip a delicious drink while you luxuriously lounge.

You also have the option of going for a Power Adventure package, where you’re able to play a variety of water sports.

Whichever one you go for, all tours come with gourmet fare to eat and drink, so you’ll live in the lap of luxury for the length of the tour!

Address:  205 Elizabeth St i, Key West, FL 33040, USA

18. Key West Lighthouse & Keeper’s Quarters

Key West Lighthouse & Keeper’s Quarters

The Key West Lighthouse & Keeper’s Quarters is a neat place to drop by in Florida if you’re okay with heights and don’t mind clambering up 88 steps!

It is a unique structure with a very narrow viewing balcony that you can look out from to state longingly out over the waves above.

But it’s not just the lighthouse that makes this among the top things to do in Key West.

It’s also the keeper’s quarters, which was completed all the way back in 1848 and, today has been turned into a museum where you can find out more about the history of the lighthouse.

You can also see some cool artifacts and photos that you won’t find elsewhere in Florida!

There’s also a gift shop in the museum that sells beautiful and intricate pieces of art made locally.

There is a fee to enter the lighthouse or its museum, but many consider it worth it thanks to the breathtaking view and the rich historical value!

Address:  938 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040, USA

19. Key West First Legal Rum Distillery

Key West First Legal Rum Distillery

The Key West First Legal Rum Distillery is one of the best places in Florida if you love your alcohol!

You can tour the whole are for free and even enjoy special rum tastings and snacks made from rum.

There’s also an exciting class that is offered on how to make mojitos if you’re interested!

Think this is a trip just for adults? Think again!

Kids are welcomed on the property and there are non-boozy snacks that they can sample while you kick back and relax on this quiet and strangely beautiful Florida location, with lots of things to see!

Address:  105 Simonton St, Key West, FL 33040, USA

20. Ghosts & Gravestones Tour

Ghosts & Gravestones Tour

The Ghosts & Gravestones Tour is rather interesting and unusual compared to many other points of interest in Key West.

It’s not quite the same as the other Key West attractions you may be interested in while you’re in Florida, but if you’re into horror, ghosts, and the supernatural, this is the tour for you!

According to Haunted American Tours, Key West is the 4th most haunted location in the whole country.

That’s what makes these mini-adventures so exciting!

Tours will take you through Old Town, bringing you into rustic wooden houses built back in the 19th century.

And even allow you into the East Martello Civil War Fort, which is believed to be haunted by the dozens of soldiers who passed away in its walls from yellow fever.

Address:  501 Front St, Key West, FL 33040, USA

21. Smathers Beach

Smathers Beach

If you’re in Key West, Florida, over a weekend, chances are you aren’t focusing much on beaches.

But Smathers Beach is easily one of the most beautiful places in the United States as well as the most popular one in all of Key West, becoming extremely crowded during the spring break period.

With the right timing, you’ll be able to head over there during the less crowded periods and enjoy the clean, white sand and the peaceful lapping of waves against the shores.

It’s also packed with food trucks, shady spots to lie down under, and great, high-quality amenities that make the entire experience adorable.

Located next to Highway A1A, Smathers Beach is easily accessible.

You can rent jet skis, catamarans, or paddleboards, and even umbrellas and chairs are available for you to lease for a given period of time.

The waters are calm and great to swim in, too!

So if you’re looking for what to do in Key West, consider adding Smathers Beach to your schedule.

Address:  2601 S Roosevelt Blvd, Key West, FL 33040, USA

22. Sunset Pier

Sunset Pier

Key West is famous for its gorgeous sunsets, and that’s why visiting Sunset Pier , even if you reside in Jacksonville , is one of the top best things to do in Key West.

It is located very near to Mallory Square, and it’s one of the most loved locations in this region of Florida due to the sheer beauty of the sunset that is to come.

A large bar awaits on the pier, as well as plenty of seats to sit on, and there are some food-related activities to enjoy.

Fresh oysters (and other seafood options) are available to purchase with the delicious, bold taste of Caribbean inspired Key West cuisine.

Alcoholic drinks in vibrant colors are also ready to down, and live music is usually playing within the Sunset Pier restaurant!

Address:  0 Duval St, Key West, FL 33040, USA

23. Basilica of Saint Mary Star of the Sea

Basilica of Saint Mary Star of the Sea

The Basilica of Saint Mary Star of the Sea is among the places to visit in Key West, whether you’re religious or not.

It is a Catholic cathedral with a stunning interior that shows some stunning and incandescent architecture with a maritime influence.

Once you’re done looking around the Key West, Florida cathedral, you can step outside of the building and into its grounds.

These grounds are lush and well-kept, and they are, of course, totally free to roam around.

You may even spot a chicken or two, or even a cat!

Address:  1010 Windsor Ln, Key West, FL 33040, USA

24. Key West Cemetery

Key West Cemetery

Not everyone would consider a cemetery a good place to go to avail of a holiday in Florida, but for those who are interested in some spookiness mixed with melancholy history, the Key West Cemetery is the place to go.

This cemetery first began being used in 1847 and covers 19 acres.

One of the most interesting facts about the Key West Cemetery, which can be found in Old Town, is that its tombstones do not all have somber, eerie, or inspirational messages etched onto them.

Instead, quite a few of them are tongue in cheek, with famous ironic and humorous inscriptions like “I told you I was sick”.

There’s also a ship’s mast tombstone in the Key West Cemetery that you can spot if you’re eagle-eyed enough.

As you wander through the large grounds, think about the fact that some of these plots actually have more than one person in them, stacked over each other.

It’s a good representation of the funny and eclectic people who call this area their home.

Address:  701 Pauline St, Key West, FL 33040, USA

25. Shipwreck Treasures Museum

Shipwreck Treasures Museum

If you’re trying to figure out what to see in Key West when you have kids in tow, look no further than the Key West Shipwreck Treasures Museum .

But adults can enjoy it too – who doesn’t love a mix of history and fun things that you can do!

A lot of educational history can be discovered as you walk through the structure.

Kids can enjoy going on a scavenger hunt, and they can try their best to hold up a gigantic, heavy silver bar.

If you’d like, you can join a guided tour that gives you a good introduction to the museum.

There’s also a movie that you can head downstairs to the basement beneath sea level to watch, and there’s the best part of this Key West museum – the tower!

When you climb to the top of the tower, you’ll be able to see an incredible view of this Florida region at its finest.

26. Wild About Dolphins

Wild About Dolphins

Wild About Dolphins is definitely among the top activities you can take a trip to while you’re in Key West, Florida.

Located on the Key West Harbour Marina, and about 8 hours from St. Augustine , it’s the perfect place to go if you love dolphins and want to learn more about them.

Head on a boat tour on the Amazing Grace ship and find out about bottle-nosed dolphins that are local to the region.

Stare in awe at the dolphins swimming by and enjoy snorkeling or swimming to interact with marine life up close.

You can also stop by the mangrove islands and habitats which are part of Key West attractions to spot exotic bird species.

Address: 6000 Peninsular Ave, Key West, Florida, USA

27. Henry Flagler’s Overseas Railroad

Henry Flagler’s Overseas Railroad

The Henry Flagler’s Overseas Railroad isn’t the kind of place you’ll typically stop at and make a day trip out of.

Still, stopping briefly to observe it is among the best unique things to do in Key West.

If you happen to be passing through the Overseas Highway one weekend, on your way to Key West from the rest of Florida, you’ll be able to spot the ruined railroads.

This railroad was finished in the 1910s by Henry Flagler, who was a rich railroad magnate back in the day.

But just around two decades later, a hurricane ripped through it and ruined it irreparably.

It was then abandoned, and now you can see it from the highway in Key West.

28. Lloyd’s Tropical Bike Tour

Lloyd’s Tropical Bike Tour

Lloyd’s Tropical Bike Tour is one of the must-do ways to go sightseeing through Key West, Florida.

At 9:45, the tours begin, starting from Truman Avenue’s Moped Hospital and lasting for around two hours.

None other than Lloyd himself leads these tours, and he makes them truly enjoyable!

It is a relatively easy biking trip, so anyone can take part in it, and you’ll go on an entertaining and exciting tour of Key West and its most interesting locations packed with information.

You’ll see a botanical garden, the Key West Wildlife Center, old houses of Florida celebrities, and, most unexpectedly, private gardens of Lloyd’s own acquaintances!

Address:  601 Truman Ave, Key West, FL 33040, USA

29. The Vandenberg Wreck

The Vandenberg Wreck

The Vandenberg wreck is one of the fun places to see in Key West.

It is actually a Navy ship belonging to the United States, and you may wonder what terrifying fate befell this shipwreck – but the truth is much happier!

The Vandenberg was purposefully set to sink back in 2009 in order to prompt the growth of a coral reef.

Back in its serving days, the Vandenberg worked to track missiles and transported troops.

Today, it sits in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, which is seven miles off the Key West coast.

This artificial reef was made to create marine animal habitats and boost scuba diving tourism, and it certainly succeeded!

Start Planning Your Trip To Key West

Whether you’re here for a day trip, a weekend, or longer, there’s no shortage of fun places to visit across this little island city.

There’s so much to do and see, and there’s a type of attraction for everyone due to the rich history, nature, and even beaches.

Hopefully, this list of the top things to do in Key West will lead you to the most fun Key West attractions while you’re in Florida!

Don’t forget to check out some of the fun things to do in Gainesville , Tallahassee , and Tampa !

50 Unique & Fun Things to Do in Key West, Florida (Plus Planning Guide)

Located 165 miles south of Miami and 90 miles north of Cuba, Key West, Florida is the southernmost city in the continental United States. As such, it’s also one of the most popular places to visit in the county.

There is no shortage of things to do in Key West and the island promises visitors one of the most fascinating sunsets in the country, a laid-back atmosphere, and a unique mixture of cultural influences. Not to mention an explosive nightlife, and a wide variety of water adventures.

It’s no secret that Key West and the greater Florida Keys are one of our favorite destinations in the world and we’re excited to share this quirky place with you.

This guide is extensive and dives deep into all the best Key West attractions, activities, and restaurants, offering the ultimate itinerary for anyone that wants to see the best of this awesome island destination.

We’ve spent hours putting this together so that you can go, have fun, and relish in all the best that Key West has to offer.

Don’t leave home without:  Lonely Planet Miami & the Keys (Travel Guide)

Key West, Florida Highlight Map

Table of Contents

HOW TO USE THIS MAP:  Above you’ll find a map of our highlights in Key West, Florida. Click on the top left of the map to find separate layers marking the route and points of interest. You can hide and show different layers, or click icons on the map to see the names of places we mention in this travel guide. “Star” the map to save it to your own Google Maps, or open the map in a new window for a larger version.

50 Unique & Fun Things to do in Key West, Florida

1. take the conch train tour.

Now that you’ve arrived in Key West, the first you’ll want to do is hop on a Conch Train Tour and get yourself acquainted with the island. This tour operates in a hop on hop off style that takes you to the top spots.

Your ticket, once purchased, is good for the entire day until the last train time as indicated by your conductor. We’d recommend that you get on one of the very first trains and ride the whole loop without getting off.

This will help you get your bearings and give you time to figure out where you want to explore more in-depth on the second pass around.

2. Visit the Hemingway House & Meet the Cats

Located in the charming Old Town, The Hemingway Home & Museum is a must-see landmark, especially for literature aficionados.

Ernest Hemingway was not born in Key West; the literary icon lived here for a few years and became one of the most famous and well-loved residents of the island.

His former home is now a U.S. National Historic Landmark and it is open to travelers who are eager to learn more about his life and work. You’ll also have the chance to meet several of his famed 6-toed cats, that wander freely around the house and grounds.

Looking to fit the Hemingway Home & Museum into your day of sightseeing? Check out this amazing tour that begins in old Key West where pirates first discovered the island.

You’ll stroll along with the houses of ship captains and wreckers on Whitehead St. learning their history and will pause for a photo at Mile 0.

Then you’ll pass the historic Courthouse, a centuries-old church, and enter Bahama Village and explore a few blocks of this culturally rich African-Caribbean neighborhood.

You’ll wind our way over to the home where Hemingway wrote many of his novels, stroll past the city’s lighthouse, step over to Duval St. to learn about Key West’s Cuban influences and cigar history, and end our tour at the Southernmost Point landmark.

3. Tour Truman’s Little White House

History lovers have the chance to explore Truman’s Little Whitehouse that was used as the headquarters for the naval station’s command during the Spanish-American War, and two World Wars, as well as President Harry S. Truman’s winter White House.

The charming museum is beautifully preserved and open for guided tours. Though the tours are highly recommended, if you are not interested or you don’t have enough time, you can just visit the small-sized gallery located on the ground floor.

Expect to be transported back to the past through interesting photographs and historical displays. Don’t forget to get a photo of yourself at the presidential podium on your way out!

4. Shipwreck Museum & Lookout Tower

One of our favorite museums in Key West is the Shipwreck Museum . The island was home to people that made a living as wreckers, who rescued both bounty and crew from ships that wrecked on the reef off Key West.

Today, many of those artifacts can be viewed in the museum, including some famous treasures. You can even touch a massive silver bar that was recovered from a Spanish galleon.

When you’re done reading pirate lore and admiring treasure, head up to the lookout tour for sweeping panoramic views of the downtown and Mallory Square.

5. Mel Fisher Maritime Museum

Mel Fisher is the most widely known treasure hunter in The Florida Keys, so visiting Key West and not stopping at the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum would be a crime!

It is in this museum that you can learn the story of Mel, his projects, his failures, his conquests and his incredible finds in the pursuit of history and treasure.

The museum features artifacts revered from the sunken Spanish galleons Nuestra Senora de Atocha, Santa Margarita and the slave ship Henrietta Marie.  

6. Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square

The only place to be in Key West when the sun starts to set is at Mallory Square for the nightly sunset celebration.

Watch the sun going down surrounded by a great number of excited people, local artists and musicians, magicians, jugglers, and many other surprises. The festival begins about two hours before sunset and is a must on your Key West itinerary.

Be sure to arrive early to stake out a good spot along the water. If you’re traveling with friends, have one save your spot while the other makes the drink runs! Lines can get long, especially as sunset approaches.

Grab some conch fritters at a food stand, a cocktail, and enjoy one of the largest sunset celebrations to be found.

7. Visit the Mile Marker 0 Sign

The Mile Marker 0 sign marks the official beginning of Highway 1 north and the Florida Keys Scenic Byway. This road runs the entire length of the Keys, including the Overseas Highway, and up the entire east coast of Florida.

If you’ve road-tripped to Key West, arriving at Mile Marker 0 and taking the obligatory photo is an absolute must.

8. Take A Photo with the Southernmost Point Buoy

Technically the southernmost point of the United States is in Hawaii , but the colorful buoy that marks the southernmost point of the continental United States is right in Key West, so don’t miss snapping a photo.

This is one of the most popular Key West activities and the buoy is one of the most photographed places on the island. Definitely a must-see and, of course, a must-capture moment. But get there early! The line is always long, sometimes queuing for over a mile.

9. Shop & Party on Duval Street

Like every other respectful city, Key West has its own famous road, Duval Street, that is filled with art galleries, outdoor cafes, inviting bars, and large numbers of curious travelers.

The strip stretches from Mallory Square to the Southernmost Point and it offers a great spectacle to travelers from all over the world. Sure, it can be crazy, especially if you choose to explore it by night when everybody is ready to party.

But it is a must-see for those who want to have some fun and completely understand the city. Just keep in mind that this is not one of the places favored by the locals, who seem to be having a love-hate relationship with it.

10. Key West First Legal Rum Distillery

Are you even in the tropics if you aren’t considering at least a tasting of rum? So why not add Key West’s First Legal Rum Distillery to your itinerary!

The location of this distillery at 105 Simonton Street is the original location of Jack’s Saloon from 1900. In 1903, it also became the location of Key West’s Original Coca-Cola bottling company.

It wasn’t until 2012, 90 years after the end of Prohibition, that the distillery would open its doors as the first legal rum distillery on the island.

Today they specialize in tours, tastings, and perfecting the art of making mojitos. Even if you’re not a consumer of alcohol, stop in and look around. The building is super cool and they have some historical stuff on display.

11. Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory

If you’re looking for a place to just relax and revive after the intensity of Duval Street, then you’ll want to head for the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory.

Here you’ll find an oasis within the historic district that offers a lush botanical garden, several species of butterflies to observe, and the famed flamingos pair of Rhett and Scarlett.

12. Key West Lighthouse

In 1823 the U.S. Navy established a base in Key West that led to the construction of the Lighthouse & Keeper’s Quarters that exist today.

With the reef-filled waters surrounding Key West, this lighthouse was essential if providing safe arrival for the military and commercial ships that arrived at the island.

Constructed in 1848, the lighthouse stands out in history as its first keeper was a woman. That fact alone makes a visit to learn the history of this woman worth the visit.

The lighthouse was decommissioned in 1969 and today visitors to Key West can climb the 88 steps to the top of the lighthouse for a panoramic view of the historical downtown.

13. Key West Aquarium

While it doesn’t look like anything special from the outside, the Key West Aquarium is actually a very cool place to visit. Offering an insightful and up-close look at the aquatic species that call The Florida Keys marine eco-systems home, you won’t be disappointed if you spend a couple of hours here.

We loved the layout and ambiance of the displays, which led us to spend way more time than we had planned. All of the tanks are at eye level, so you can really get a good look at the species that are on display.

If you’re looking for a place to escape the heat of the midday sun, don’t even hesitate to visit this place on your next visit.

14. Book A Key West Ghost Tour

Key West is a place that is so rich in history, pirates, and marine lore that the tales of hauntings and ghosts are virtually endless. If you like to hunt ghosts and hear scary tales, then we recommend you book yourself onto a Ghosts and Gravestones Tour .

This 2-hour tour takes you to some of the most haunted places in Key West, complete with all of the tales to go with the stops. The tour is fully narrated and interactive.

You’ll learn about Robert the Doll, the African Slave Cemetery, various haunted establishments in the city, and then end with a night visit to the Shipwreck Museum.

15. Do A Key West Pub Crawl

Key West is famous for its party scene and one of the best ways to experience it is by booking a pub crawl . These tours will take you on a narrated tour of the most famous bars and pubs in Key West.

You’ll get to enjoy drinks, hear stories, learn some history, and make some new friends, all while tearing it up on Duval Street.

16. Rent the Floating Tiki Bar with Friends

If a pub crawl isn’t your thing and you just want to party with your friends, then why not rent out a Floating Tiki Bar !

Offering a fully stocked bar, you’ll get to cruise the waters around Key West with your own personal bartender and no strangers.

17. Book A Key West Bike Tour

A great way to get acquainted with Key West and get a little exercise is to join a guided bike tour. Key Lime Bike Tours is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for our specific recommendation.

Ride through the streets of Old Town Key West during a leisurely bicycle tour —a perfect introduction for first-time visitors.

Learn about the island’s history and see highlights such as Mallory Square, Mile Marker Zero, and the Hemingway House. Pedal out to the Southernmost Point Buoy and enjoy panoramic ocean views.

18. Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Gardens

Established in 1936, The Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Gardens is the only frost-free, sub-tropical natural conservation habitat and native plant botanical garden in the continental United States.

I don’t know about you, but that intro alone is enough to perk my interest and have me planning a stop. Besides the history and titles, this place is absolutely zen and a perfect place to escape the afternoon heat to enjoy some quiet time before sunset down at Mallory Square.

Bucket List Key West Activities

19. seaplane to dry tortugas national park.

Taking the seaplane to the Dry Tortugas National Park is the ultimate Key West bucket list adventure. Not only will you witness a spectacular view of the Great Florida Barrie Reef from above, but you’ll see the aerial view of Garden Key and Fort Jefferson when you arrive at the park.

Once on the island, you’ll get to tour Fort Jefferson, the largest brick-made structure in the United States, learn the history, walk to moat, snorkel, and enjoy secluded beach time. It’s pure paradise and one of the most amazing things to do in Key West.

If you’re not able to book the seaplane, there is also a daily ferry service that runs from Key West. If this is your only option for being able to go, it’s still worth it. Don’t hesitate.

20. Dolphin Watching with Honest Eco

If you want to go dolphin watching in Key West, we highly recommend you go out with Honest Eco . The trips combine dolphin watching with a snorkeling trip in the Marine Reserve, the perfect combination to get out on the water.

We loved the sustainability of Honest Eco, their eco-friendly boat, knowledgeable guides, and contributions to dolphin research in the waters off of Key West. The trip also included healthy snacks, like veggies, hummus, and fresh fruit during the trip.

In addition, they offered wetsuits that were both clean and in good condition along with good-fitting snorkel equipment. You really cannot beat that.

21. Snorkeling on the Great Florida Barrier Reef

If you want to catch a glimpse of the Great Florida Barrier Reef , the third-largest barrier reef in the world, you’ll need to book a snorkeling or diving trip out of Key West.

All of the snorkel trips leave from the main harbor and there are numerous companies to choose from depending on the schedule and experience you are looking for.

We’ve actually done this twice, both times with Sebago Watersports , and enjoyed our experience. The catamarans are spacious and stable, making it a pleasant trip to and from the reef in open water.

The water is incredibly clear and the reef is healthy with high numbers of fish to observe. Pack your suit, sunscreen and prepare for an epic day on the high seas.

There are also a number of dive shops on the island that will take you out to the best sites on offer. While we are Advanced Open Water certified Scuba divers, we opted for a snorkel trip and it didn’t disappoint.

22. Parasailing in Key West

It’s almost a rite of passage to go parasailing in the Florida Keys during your visit. With stable weather and unreal views, it’s one of the best places in the world to do it. Of course, we couldn’t resist and it was literally the last thing we did before we left.

The operators are professional and good at their jobs, they make you feel comfortable with thorough briefings and even take photos for you.

We’ve been parasailing before but this was hands down the best experience we’ve ever had. We had a gorgeous day and our sail took us high above the water, giving us a great perspective of the area around us.

We saw 3 sea turtles during our fight and even got a good dunk at the end by the boat driver, which makes it memorable. We’d definitely recommend this as you’ll fail to find a more beautiful place to try it.

23. LED Night Kayaking on IBIS Bay

If you’re looking for something super unique, then we’d recommend that you take a look at an LED Night Kayaking Tour on IBIS Bay.

The tour departs from the pier in front of the Stoned Crab restaurant next to the Ibis Bay Resort after sunset and spends the better part of 3 hours paddling around the Ibis Bay in search of marine life.

It is an eco-conscious tour, and we found the guide to be both funny and informative. He pointed out a wide variety of marine life and we learned a lot about the ecosystem of the waters that surround Key West.

The glass bottom kayaks with light illumination provided an interesting element and allowed us to see everything on the ocean floor as we passed by. If you’re looking for something unique and different, definitely give the night kayaking tour a try.

24. Backcountry Helicopter Tour

One of the absolute best things you can do in Key West is to hop in a helicopter and see it from above.

The scenery is nothing short of amazing as you see the layout of the city, island and then venture beyond the shore into the backcountry.

This was the highlight of our trip to Key West and you cannot really get a perspective of the area until you’ve seen it from above.

Our extended helicopter tour into the back-country area showed us wild islands, sandbars and massive sharks as we flew around.

Yes, I said sharks. It is really incredible what you can see from above in the crystal clear water below. Do not miss this when you visit Key West!

25. Sunset Sailing Trip

As mentioned before, Key West is famous for its breathtaking sunsets. And since it is such a big thing on the island, there are many ways you can spend this time of the day.

Whether you are on a romantic trip or traveling with friends, joining a Sunset Cruise in Key West  is a great option.

Couples can relax and celebrate their love while sipping champagne while the rest of you have the chance to join a lively rum and reggae cruise party.

There’s nothing quite like relaxing on a sunset cruise after a long day soaking up the Florida sun. 

26. Mangrove Kayaking Eco Tour

One of the reasons to visit Key West is to be on the water, so you shouldn’t hesitate to book an eco-tour that includes kayaking through the mangroves that make up the natural ecosystem around parts of the island.

These trips typically take you on calm waters in protected areas to get up close and personal with the mangrove forests. It is here that you’ll experience the quietness and wildlife without the fast pace of downtown.

The tours are great for all ages and skill levels, feature easy-to-navigate kayaks, knowledgeable guides and generally last around 2 -3 hours.

27. Charter Fishing Trip with Two Conchs Charters

Fishing in the Florida Keys is world-famous. So, if you have the desire to cast a line and reel in some sport fish, you’ll want to book a fishing charter with Two Conchs Charters while in Key West.

Based on Marathon, the fishing capital of the Keys, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular fishing opportunities only a short drive from downtown.

We booked a half-day charter of reef fishing and cannot believe the variety and quantity of fish we were pulling out of the ocean. It was the highlight of our most recent trip to the Florida Keys and highly recommend both the experience and the company.

Historical Key West Attractions

28. the oldest house in south florida.

One of the most charming aspects of downtown Key West is its historical buildings. This is why you should stop in at The Oldest House in South Florida during your visit.

Built in 1829, the house is located at 322 Duval Street and features portraits, original furnishings, ship models, period pieces, and documents that tell the history of Key West. Guided tours shed some light on the history of the house, the occupants, and 1800’s island life in Key West.

The museum is open from 10 am to 4 pm Thursday through Monday, so be sure to plan ahead so you don’t miss it.

29. Audubon House Museum & Tropical Gardens

Established in 1960 by Colonel Mitchell Wolfson and his wife, the Audubon House Museum is a beautifully restored three-level Captain’s home that was built in the American Classic Revival style of the mid 1800s.

Today the house offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy the galleries and gardens, all while contemplating the rich history of the house and its presence in Key West.

30. Key West Historic Seaport

No matter your fancy, you’ll find something interesting or fun to do at the Key West Historic Seaport and it just happens to be one of our favorite places to hang out in Key West, too!

Spanning over 20 acres, this seaport features a marina, shops, bars, restaurants, boat tours, and a wooden boardwalk that follows the water. It’s also a great place to spot wildlife, including manatees when the water is warm.

We like to grab drinks here and just watch the daily activities. It also makes for some great people-watching too, if you’re into that. There’s also a really great food tasting and cultural walking tour of the Historic Seaport that is worth doing, too.

31. Fort Zachary Taylor State Park

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park predated the Civil War and is a National Historic Monument that houses the largest cache of Civil War armament in the world. It is also the southernmost state park in the continental United States.

The park offers history, nature, and spectacular beaches. You could honestly spend an entire day here touring the fort and then enjoying the miles of hiking trails and beaches it has to offer.

The beach area offers public bathrooms, changing stalls, a beach café with food and drinks, chair rentals, and umbrella rentals. There are also plenty of hammock hanging trees available, but you need to bring your own.

Additional Details:

• Address: 601 Howard England Way, Key West FL 33040
• Park Hours: 8 am until sundown, 365 days a year
• Fort Hours: 8 am to 5 pm, daily
• Cost: $4 per vehicle

32. West Martello Tower Fort

The West Martello Tower Fort is one of three Civil War era structures that exist in Key West. It was built in 1862 and was once used for target practice by the U.S. Navy. Much of the beautiful brickwork and design is still visible today.

While it doesn’t operate as a historic site, it is now home to the Key West Garden Club, who have created a stunning oasis that weaves and integrates beautifully with the brick fort. If you find yourself in Higgs Beach and need a break from the sun, it’s worth a visit.

• Address: Located at Higgs Beach by White Street Pier
• Hours: 9:30 am to 5 pm, daily
• Cost: Free, donations accepted

33. Africa Refugee Cemetery

If you’re visiting Higgs Beach, you’ll be hard-pressed to miss the Africa Refugee Cemetery and memorial that has been constructed near the parking area. The memorial tells the story of the slave trade in Key West, including the lives of several African slaves that were caught up in the transition period.

The site was added to the National Register of Historical Places in 2012 and is recognized as a nationally significant archeological site.

Take some time to read the displays and look at the map. Contemplate the reality of these people and what they went through. When you’re done, look for the outlines in the concrete. These are the actual resting spots of some of the remains that were recovered.

34. Fort East Martello Museum

The Fort East Martello Museum is the last of the Civil War era forts to be found in Key West. Constructed in 1862, like the West Martello Fort, this fort was constructed to provide extra protection of the beach from any confederate sea assaults.

In 1950, the Key West Art & Historical Society opened this site as a museum.

Today you can tour the fort, see its preserved battlements collection of relics from the Civil War, learn about the history of wrecking and cigar making in the Florida Keys, and have your own East Martello Ghost Experience. It’s also the home of the possessed Robert the Doll .

 Additional Information:

• Address: 3501 S. Roosevelt Boulevard, Key West, Florida, 33040
• Hours: 10 am to 4 pm Monday to Sunday
• Cost: $16 Adult

If You’re Looking for Beaches

If you’re in Key West to be a beach bum, then you’re in luck! The island has several fabulous beaches and we encourage you to check out our more detailed Key West beaches guide for more information.

Below you’ll find four that are worth checking out if you’re shorter on time or just want to spend one day soaking up some sun.

35. Smathers Beach

If it is an idyllic white sand beach lined up against turquoise waters that you seek on your visit to Key West, then you’ll want to save some time for Smathers Beach. Stretching two miles, this beach offers plenty of free parking, restrooms, lounge chair rentals, and is frequented by food carts throughout the day.

It is the perfect place to truly live the laid-back island life of lounging, unwinding, and sunbathing while escaping the hustle of the downtown.

36. Fort Zachary Taylor Beach

Located within Fort Zachary Taylor State Park is our favorite beach in Key West. Affectionately known as Fort Zach beach, this stretch of sand is quiet, off the beaten path, and the best place to truly relax in the island life.

You do have to pay admission to enter the park, $4 per vehicle, but you’ll be rewarded with fewer people, parking, hiking trails, restrooms, a café, and plenty of oceanfront beaches to enjoy.

37. Higgs Beach

Higgs Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Key West due to its accessibility and its stretches of white sand. It is possible to rent loungers here, but people like to visit because it is a fantastic walking beach.

It offers a pier, grassy park, the West Martello Fort, a botanical garden, and the African Refugee Cemetery to also enjoy during your visit. You can also find the beachfront café, Salute on the Beach here, which offers beachside dining to enjoy.

38. Sunset Key

If you seek an exclusive experience, then you’ll want to head for the beaches on Sunset Key.

While not open to the public, it is possible to visit Sunset Key by booking accommodation on the island’s exclusive resort, Sunset Key Cottages , securing a spa appointment, or getting a reservation at the famed Latitudes Restaurant.

Once on the island, you can enjoy the amenities on offer including private beach access, pools, and related amenities.

For the Foodie – Best Restaurants in Key West

Key West is a great destination for travelers who love history, art, and architecture, as well as spending precious time on the beach.

But it is also a spectacular place for foodies who are always eager to indulge in dishes that make their taste buds go wild.

Whether you want caviar, oysters, ceviche, clams, tuna, or other seafood, you can have them all at this stylish restaurant.

39. Try Key Lime Pie at Kermit’s Key Lime Shoppe

Key Lime Pie is an institution on the Florida Keys, and no visit to Key West would be official without a visit to Kermit’s Key Lime Shoppe to enjoy their famous chocolate-dipped Key Lime Pie on a Stick!

Of course, you can enjoy other takes on the pie here, as well as Key Lime salsa, chutney, taffy, jellybeans, tea, olive oil, and a variety of other takes on the famed citrus fruit. They also offer food, so stopping in for lunch and pie is a totally acceptable way to treat yourself.

40. Brunch at Blue Heaven

The hot seat in town for brunch, on any given day, is at Blue Heaven and it doesn’t come without a long wait. That said, it is worth it. This place not only serves up delicious island takes on eggs benedict and gigantic pancakes, but all done within a laid-back bohemian setting.

You’ll get a full belly, bottomless coffee, and full entertainment from the resident chickens. Not to mention that the restaurant offers a garden setting that offers shade and relaxation to complete the whole experience.

Hot Tip: Get there early, as they do not offer reservations and the waits can exceed 2 hours.

41. Eat Stone Crab

The Florida Keys is Florida’s top supplier of stone crab claws and not something you want to miss tasting when you are in Key West.

The harvest season starts October 15 and lasts through May 1, and during this time people flock to the restaurants to enjoy the sweet tender meat that is featured on the menu.

The crab is cooked by boiling the claws and then served chilled with a side of traditional stone crab dip that is made up of mustard, mayonnaise, Worcestershire, or A1 sauce.

You can find stone crab in pretty much any restaurant that serves seafood in Key West but a couple of our favorite spots to have it for the atmosphere are The Stoned Crab and the Eaton Street Seafood Market .

42. Try Conch in the Conch Republic

Key West once thought to declare itself the Conch Republic, so it’s only suiting that you try conch during your visit. As for how, well that is really up to you.

The most famed way is as conch fritters, where the conch is thinly sliced, deep fried, and served with key lime aioli. It is also enjoyed as conch ceviche in a marinade of onions, peppers, and lime. People also enjoy the conch chowder too.

The best conch fritters in Key West can be had at the Conch Republic Seafood Company . Other good places to try conch are BO’s Fish Wagon , and The Conch Shack .

43. Authentic Cuban at El Meson de Pepe

With Key West being located closer to Cuba than it is to Miami, it should be no surprise that the island embraces a Cuban influence.

This ranges from culture to food and it doesn’t get any more authentic than at El Meson de Pepe . (Trust us, we know, we’ve been to Cuba twice !)

Serving up classic Cuban dishes, we’d recommend you settle in for the live Cuban music, order a mojito and soak up the atmosphere before ordering. When you’re ready to order, you cannot go wrong with the Ropa Vieja.

44. Half Shell Raw Bar for Clams & Oysters

Located on the Historic Seaport, the Half Shell Raw Bar serves up some of the freshest catches in all of Key West and is the best place, in our opinion, to get oysters, and clams.

Offered regular or steamed, the presentation is sure to have your mouth watering when the order arrives at your table.

If raw isn’t your thing, no worries! They also offer a full menu of other seafood delights including stone crab, shrimp, scallops, fresh fish, and conch.

They have a great bar that reminds us of an old maritime establishment and we 100% recommend asking for waterside seating so you can enjoy the seaport while you dine.

45. Matt’s Stock Island Kitchen & Bar for Drinks & Dinner

Located at The Perry Hotel on Stock Island, just north of Key West, is Matt’s Stock Island Kitchen & Bar . If you’re looking for something a little more upscale with a fantastic menu then you’ll want to make a reservation here.

Set on the marina, they offer live music and beautiful ambiance when the sun goes down. We loved the variety of cocktails on the menu, and recommend you order the tuna tacos as an appetizer.

46. Start Your Morning at the Cuban Coffee Queen

The Cuban Coffee Queen now offers a couple of locations in Key West, but we always frequent the location at the Historic Seaport, which is the original location.

It’s also right next to one of the best-located public parking lots in the downtown area, so get there early to park and then head straight here.

Operating out of a street shack-type building, you’ll get some of the best coffee in Key West here, along with a menu that offers quick takeaway options for both breakfast and lunch.

47. Fisherman’s Café Key West for Lunch or Breakfast

Our other favorite go-to for quick eats is the Fisherman’s Café, also located near the historic Seaport. We always eat here in Key West, sometimes more than once! Operating in a maritime-themed street stall, they offer a super fresh menu for breakfast and lunch options.

My go-to is always the Shrimp Island Bowl and it never disappoints. We’ve also tried the Cracked Conch Salad, the fish tacos, the Lazy Way Burger (David’s favorite!), and the El Cubano Breakfast sandwich. We’ve never had a bad meal here. Ever.

48. Salute! on the Beach

Open for lunch and dinner, Salute! is set directly on Higgs Beach, and during the heat of the day, this place is a shaded oasis with tasty eats and great views. It’s also owned by the same people that offer Blue Heaven.

We stopped in here for lunch on our last visit and ordered the Peel and Eat Shrimp, Fish sandwich special, and the yellow snapper. Everything was tasty and we enjoyed our table that was set on the sand with a nice big umbrella.

49. Latitudes Restaurant for a Sunset Dinner

Located on Sunset Key, a reservation at Latitudes Restaurant is one of the hottest dining tickets in Key West. They offer award-winning fine dining with stand-out offerings like lobster bisque, shrimp carbonara, and a multitude of fresh fish options.

Keep in mind that while breakfast and lunch are casual, they do require country club casual attire for dinner. Be sure to plan well in advance to secure a reservation and if you can, try to get one around sunset time for incredible views over the ocean.

50. Sloppy Joe’s for a Hemingway Mojito

Last but certainly not least, is the famed Sloppy Joe’s for food, fun, and tropical drinks. Steeped in history, you’ll also get a pretty fantastic story and insight into some Key West history when you visit, too. Not to mention, this was one of Hemingway’s favorite hangouts.

To have the true Sloppy Joe’s experience, be sure to order a Hemingway Mojito and The Original Sloppy Joe Sandwich.

Plan Your Key West Vacation

How to get to key west.

First of all, getting to Key West is easy. Depending on how long your vacation is going to be, you can choose between driving or flying.

If you have a week, you should go by car. The journey will be an amazing experience, with great landmarks and fascinating landscapes.

But if you plan a shorter vacation, consider flying directly into the Key West airport. In addition, there is also a bus that will take you from Miami to Key West in 4 hours, for about $40.

We’ve now done two epic road trips through the Florida Keys from Miami to Key West stopping off to explore Key Largo , Islamorada , Marathon, and The Lower Keys along the way. It is hands down one of the best road trips in the USA and one of our favorites to date.

If you have time, we recommend you do it too. If you’re looking for our best advice, be sure to check out our Florida Keys Road Trip Guide that highlights all the best stops from Miami to Key West.

Need to book a car for your road trip adventure? We use  Discover Car Hire  for comparing car prices to find the best deal. They search both local & international rental companies.

How to Get Around in Key West

Once you arrive in Key West, you’ll need to figure out the best way for you to get around. This will likely be a combination of many things due to logistics and your interests.

We’ve done it all and want to highlight some of the best options for seeing the best sights.

• Walking: Exploring Key West, Florida by foot gives visitors the chance to catch a glimpse of its charming Caribbean architecture and the downtown area is very walkable. Check out this  Key West Florida Walking Guide Card to help you navigate around easier.
• Biking: If you want to explore more than the city, renting a bike is a fantastic idea. There are many hotels and shops that offer bike rentals so you don’t need to bring your own. Not to mention that a bike will save you the stress of finding parking. The island is quite small so if you are ready for a long ride, you can see it in one day.
• Driving: Parking is not easy to find in the downtown area and is limited to a few strategically placed public lots that are all paid. Street parking is scarce and tickets are frequently issued for illegal parking. We don’t recommend trying to drive around in Key West.
• Scooters & Golf Carts: We have seen so many scooters and golf carts being used for transportation around Key West, so it’s an option if walking or biking isn’t your thing.
• Tours: Lastly, we really think the Conch Train Tour or the Key West Trolley Tour are really great options to combine transportation and sightseeing.

Location is Everything: Key West Hotels

For accommodation, this charming island offers visitors a variety of choices. For people who want to keep things economical, finding a comfortable B&B is the best option.

Angelina Guesthouse is a cozy place where travelers can relax and rest before and after exploring the surroundings. In addition, they serve a delicious breakfast and the prices are very affordable.

For visitors who don’t mind paying extra for their comfort, Key West has many luxurious surprises and Sunset Key Cottages is just one of them.

The Marker (shown above, where we stayed on our first visit to Key West) is located just a few steps from the city’s historic seaport and three blocks from the lively Duval Street.

Lastly, staying outside of the downtown area on nearby Stock Island is also a great option. On our last visit, we stayed at The Perry Hotel and really liked the quiet resort atmosphere versus staying downtown.

Our visit to Key West was made possible in partnership with The Florida Keys & Key West . All opinions, recommendations, and insane love for this quirky island are 100% mine, as always.

You might also like:

• Ultimate Florida Packing List
• Ultimate 3 Day Weekend in Miami Itinerary
• The Best Stops Along the Gulf Coast of Florida
• Swimming with Manatees in Crystal River, Florida
• 7 Exotic Places to Travel Without a Passport

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Travel planning resources, about lina stock.

Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

2 thoughts on “50 Unique & Fun Things to Do in Key West, Florida (Plus Planning Guide)”

I loved reading about your experience in visiting Key West. Your descriptions really made it come alive for me. Happy travels!

*I wish you had mentioned that when visiting the reef, all swimmers should use only eco-friendly sunscreen to help diminish damage to the coral. Or better yet, don’t use sunscreen and invest in a rash guard. *My husband and I love the turtle races at Turtle Kraals. Free tickets numbered 1,2,3 or 4 are given at the bar before the races. They race 4 box turtles that live the good life at the Key West Aquarium. This is hilarious listening to the talented announcer call this race as if it were a horse race, when actually these turtles are barely moving. Everyone with a winning number picks one key from approximately 100 and tries the lock for a chance of winning the accumulated money prize. Check with the restaurant for turtle racing nights as it changes by season. *While strolling Old Town streets, notice the many “Gingerbread” designs which is the intricately carved wood that adorns these old homes. *Notice the huge tropical plants as they never have a freeze that far south.

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Destination Daydreamer

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

Key West is a destination you’ve got to experience. And these are all the things you need to know before visiting Key West, Florida! Before we get started, let me introduce you to Key West:

Key West is a small 2-mile by 4-mile island (yes, it’s really that small) at the very tip of Florida. And it’s connected by the Overseas Highway to the other Florida Keys and the Florida mainland.

Key West makes for an awesome, long, and relaxing stay or you can experience Key West in one day ! It’s even a perfect stop on a Florida road trip . And if you are wondering, kids will also love Key West!

I spent an entire summer living and working in Key West. So I tend to think I know some great tips and tricks 😉. Plus I have since returned with my husband!

With my husband, we started a Florida roadtrip staying near Disneyworld and ended our Florida roadtrip in Key West. Now I can’t wait to return with our little tot and let her cross some things off of our ultimate Key West bucket list .

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

1. Conch is pronounced con-k.

Alright, let’s get this out of the way. You might not think you need to know this before heading to Key West, however, it’s important! Key West is also known as the Conch Republic. You know conchs, the giant sea snails that live in the shells that you can hear the ocean in?

You’re going to want to say con-ch. However, it’s pronounced CON-K. You’ll for sure sound like a local if you pronounce it the correct way 😉.

2. Lodging and food in Key West can be pricey (but it’s still worth it)

A super good thing to know before going to Key West is how to budget. It’s no surprise that Key West’s crystal blue waters, amazing reefs, fun restaurants, and sunsets bring with it a bit of a price tag.

I recommend budgeting *at least* $175 per night for lodging (and that’s on the low end). A lot of places are going to be in the $200s-$300s per night. You can help save $$ on lodging by visiting in the shoulder season (April-June).

And for meals, I recommend budgeting around $15-$18 per person, per meal. Make the most of your meals out, by eating where I recommend on my Key West food guide . Or you can also book an awesome Key West Food Tour to make sure you get a little taste of everything.

Another great way to help save $$ is to rent a vacation home on Airbnb. You may be able to find a place cheaper than a hotel room, but with a kitchen! This way you can cook 1-2 meals a day at your Airbnb and budget money for other fun and exciting things! If you’ve never used Airbnb before, use this link to save up to $65 on your first booking.

3. Shoulder season is the best season to visit Key West, Florida

Hurricane season in Key West runs from June 1- November 30 (a good thing to know before visiting). However, the heaviest storms are likely to occur in August- October. Obviously, devastating hurricanes don’t happen every year, but hurricane season is definitely something to keep in mind.

The winter season (November-March) is actually the busiest and most expensive time to visit the island.

In April-June, Key West has beautiful weather with perfect temps in the 70s and 80s (Fahrenheit), slightly fewer crowds, and a *little bit* more affordable lodging options.

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

4. parking near duval street can be hard to find and expensive.

It’s a little hard to know whether to rent a car while you are vacationing in Key West or not. It definitely depends on what activities you plan to enjoy and where your hotel will be located.

One good thing to know before visiting Key West is that parking can be hard to find and parking lots can be expensive. If your hotel is near Duval Street, you may not need to worry about renting a car. Even if you are staying on the opposite side of the island from Duval, many of the hotels have shuttles that will transport you back and forth.

If you don’t plan on renting a car, you may want to consider renting scooters or bikes for a day to see areas of the island that are a little harder to get to on foot (like Fort Zachary Taylor State Park ). You can book one-day bike rentals here for a great price or even book a guided bicycle tour of Old Town Key West.

Scooter parking is much easier to find and free. When I worked in Key West for a summer, my main transportation was a scooter and I loved it! It was a blast to drive and I didn’t pay for parking once.

If you have little kids, you may consider renting a golf cart or small vehicle for a similar, fun experience.

5. The drive to Key West will be one of the best parts of your trip

I highly recommend driving the Overseas Highway while you are in Key West. The Overseas Highway is a 113-mile highway, with 42 bridges (one bridge is 7 miles long!) connecting the Florida mainland to all of the Florida Keys. It really is one of the most beautiful drives in the US.

I recommend buying flights into Miami or Ft. Lauderdale as they are usually much less expensive than flying directly into Key West. Then, rent a car and cruise through the Florida Keys. Or of course, make Key West a stop on Florida roadtrip .

A third option is to fly directly into Key West and take a day trip up the keys to get the same amazing experience. Whatever you do, you can’t miss the Overseas Highway while visiting Key West, this is something you need to know before visiting!

6.  Key West is home to the only living barrier reef in the continental United States

Before you visit, a top thing to know is that Key West, Florida is home to the only living barrier reef in the continental United States! How cool is that? The Florida Reef is found about 6-7 miles offshore of Key West. That’s only a short boat ride away!

You can find tons of great snorkeling tours in Key West that will take you out to experience the reef and nearby areas. Or if you want to stay on the land, Fort Zachary Taylor Beach definitely has the best snorkeling (you can even rent snorkel gear on the beach). Be sure to check out my guide to Fort Zachary Taylor here .

7. You may want to steer clear of Fantasy Fest

Fantasy Fest is a 10-day festival held every October on Duval Street. The festival is full of costumes, body painting, music, parades, and activities. However, it is a pretty adult-rated event and known for a raucous crowd and some nudity.

I suggest if you aren’t into partying and prefer a bit of a more family-friendly vibe on the island, steer clear of Fantasy Fest.

No worries if this isn’t your thing though! Because tons of fun festivals and events occur in Key West that you can still enjoy like Hemingway Days and the Speedboat Races!

you’ll love this post: Florida Roadtrip with Kids: 10 Amazing Stops (plus a map!)

8. the best beach in key west is not actually on key west.

One of the best things to know before heading to Key West is that the best beach to visit is actually NOT on the island of Key West. Yes, there are some great beaches there (Smathers Beach, Fort Zachary Taylor Beach). However, you need to visit the beach on Sunset Key.

Sunset Key is a private island that anyone can visit if they have a reservation at either the Sunset Key Spa or dining reservations at Latitudes on Sunset Key. I recommend taking a trip over to have breakfast or lunch at Latitudes (for a little bit of a less expensive meal option compared to dinner) to enjoy a great view of Key West which you can’t find many places and to see their private beach.

When I have had lunch at Latitudes on Sunset Key, we were able to walk over to the beach afterwards and relax on the beach for a little bit. It is a gorgeous white, sandy beach with palm trees, hammocks, palm frond umbrellas, and lounge chairs. However, I cannot be sure that it is 100% allowed for people to use the beach that are not guests at the cottages on Sunset Key. But in my experience, we didn’t have any problems.

9. Get on the water to see some of the most beautiful areas of Key West, Florida

I highly recommend any tour that will let you see some of Key West’s backcountry and the sandbars around Key West. There are tons of amazing water tours/experiences in Key West to choose from. For example, this Island Adventure Snorkel and Kayak Tour or my personal favorite of jetskiing around the island .

You need to make sure you have time in your itinerary and money in your budget to book at least one water excursion in Key West. The places you see and the experiences you have on the water will be memories that last a lifetime. Check out my post 8 Key West Excursions Definitely Worth the Money for more awesome excursion/tour ideas that I’ve personally taken!

10. Visit Duval Street during the day for a more family-friendly scene

Duval Street is full of fun shops and restaurants but also a ton of bars (43 bars to be exact). So if you want to walk the length of Duval (which I recommend!) but you want to steer clear of bachelor/bachelorette parties, and loud groups then you’ll want to take a stroll down Duval during the day 😁. However, if you love yourself a good pub crawl, be sure to book one here .

Check out this post: 13 Perfect Airbnbs Near Disney World for Big Families

11. try key lime pie (even if you don’t think you’ll like it).

If you try only ONE thing while you’re in Key West, it’s got to be the Key Lime Pie. Even if you think you won’t like it. And this is coming from someone who almost always picks chocolatey-flavors over fruity-flavors.

In Key West you can find Key Lime Pie in so many different forms that you are bound to find one you like! For example, you’ll find Key Lime Pie on a stick, Key Lime Pie dipped in chocolate, fried Key Lime Pie, and even a vegan Key Lime Pie! Be sure to check out my Key West Key Lime Pie Guide to learn all the best places to try the local treat!

12. Conch fritters are a unique local food

Remember the word we talked about earlier (pronounced con-k, not con-ch). Conch fritters are fried balls of conch meat (sea snail) mixed with cornmeal batter, jalapeños, and other spices. This is definitely something you need to know before visiting Key West, Florida.

You’ll find places all over the island selling them. Conch fritters are most commonly found in the Bahamas (which are super near to Key West) and they are definitely a unique food to try while visiting the island!

I’m no conch-connoisseur, however, Key West Original Conch Fritters is a really cute stand located right near all the action by Mallory Square. Or join a local food tour to learn more about conch fritters and get a taste of them along with other Key West favorites.

You’ll love this post: The Ultimate Key West, Florida Bucket List | 98 Things to Do

13. you need to try the island’s cuban food.

Key West is only 90 miles from Cuba, meaning you can find some great Cuban food to eat! There’s a place right near Duval and Mallory Square, however, the locals love to head to El Siboney . Make sure to try the fried plantain!A Key West Food Tour is another great way to try the Cuban food and learn its history along the way.

14. You might find a lot of seaweed on the beaches in the summer

Key West beaches are good… and they’re not. One not-so-good thing is, in the summer, they can receive a good amount of Sargassum Seaweed (some summers are better-off than others). This is the same seaweed that hits a lot of Mexico’s beaches.

The worst part about the seaweed is that when it starts to rot on the beach, it gives off a pretty foul odor. The good news is, you’re nose will probably get used to it pretty quick 😅.

However, if you’re headed to Key West in the summer months you may want to plan some days that don’t revolve around hanging out at the beach😉.

15. It’s illegal to feed the wild chickens

Key West is known for it’s free-range chickens that roam the island. They’re fun to see and make great Key West-photo ops. You can even have ‘breakfast with the roosters’ at Key West’s favorite Blue Heaven Restaurant .

However, it’s actually against the law to feed them and it’s punishable by a $250-$500 fine. So keep the bread crumbs in your bag and enjoy the chickens from a distance.

16. Key West is a big cruise ship port

The last good thing to know before visiting Key West, Florida is that Key West is a big cruise ship port. December-April are the busiest months for cruise ships which just means that there will be more crowds once the ships dock and the passengers are exploring for the day.

This also means, if you only want to enjoy Key West for one day and you’re looking to also explore Jamaica or the Bahamas, a cruise through Key West might be a good option for you!

17. You can watch the sunset at other places besides Mallory Square

First off, you DO need to experience the Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square. You’ll see street performers, local artists, and live music (along with a gorgeous sunset). However, once you’ve done that once or twice, head somewhere else to enjoy the sunset!

You can head over to the local’s favorite beach spot at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park to soak in the last sunrays of the night. Another option is to enjoy drinks or appetizers from Southernmost Beach Cafe with gorgeous sunset views. Or hang out on either Higgs Beach Pier or Edward B. Knight Pier to catch the sunset with fewer crowds.

Or for a unique experience, book a sunset sail to watch the sunset with drinks on the water. There are many different sunset sails to choose from so one is sure to fit your needs.

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

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

The ultimate itinerary for a day trip to key west.

• 10 Best Things to do at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park in Key West Florida
• Ultimate Key West Food Guide | 19 Places You Must Try
• The 7 Most Beautiful Places You Need Watch the Sunset in Key West
• 8 Best Places to Try Key Lime Pie in Key West
• 8 Key West Excursions Definitely Worth the Money
• 5 Reasons You Need to Rent Jet Skis in Key West + How to Rent

And those are the 17 things you need to know before visiting Key West, Florida!

Let me know if you have any questions about things you need to know before visiting Key West, Florida! I’m a real person who loves to talk travel :).

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Robert Smiler

The Overseas Highway is awsome. Iliked the giant Conch shell. Robert Smiler has a new song to be released on August 6, 2023 called, Summer Drive. Check out the Summer Drive song and video at Robert Smiler Fun Melodies! Warm Summer Regards!

Sherrye Willis

What is the customary tip for the Seaplane Adventures pilot for a 1/2 day trip to Dry Tortugas?

I’m not actually sure what an appropriate tip is- sorry about that. I hope you enjoy your trip to Dry Tortugas!

Amanda Hayes

So excited about my upcoming trip. First timer and will be staying for one week May9_16. I would like love to know what live events are going on that week

Hey Amanda, I’m not aware of any events, but you can check out this calendar of events in Key West to see what is going on. I hope you have a great trip!

Georgie Chapman

Hello! My husband and I have done a road trip from New Orleans down to Florida City. We have one spare day before flying back to the UK ! Is it worth driving to The Keys ?

Hey Georgie! This may be too late- but I think a drive down the Florida Keys is one of the most beautiful and unique drives you can take. I hope you enjoyed your time in the US 🙂

Bonnie Edgington

Were planning a 4 day trip to Key West in March 23′. We have a small dog and I’m gluten free. On Airbnb can we find a dog friendly place to stay? Are there any gluten free offerings at restaurants that you’ve heard of? Mine is a serious allergy, not a chosen lifestyle. Thanks for any knowledge you can share. Bonnie

Heu Bonnie! You can most likely find a dog-friendly Airbnb in Key West. Just be sure to indicate that in the search filters before you start your search. I have a Key West Food Guide that indicates which of those restaurants have gluten-free options. I don’t think any of them are gluten-free kitchens, but there are definitely places with gluten-free options if that works for you. Have a great time!

Loved all your Key West articles! I will be visiting there in a few weeks, and it looks like I have a lot to look forward to!

I have reservations to got to Key West at the end of Jan ’23. I have never been, so I really enjoyed reading all the recommendations! Should be awesome!

Great to hear, Rick! I hope you have a great time!

Loved this guide! My best friend and I are looking into staying at The Perry for our first Key West trip ever. It offers a free shuttle into the historic/touristy part of Key West, which we really want to explore. Do you think it will be a hassle to shuttle back and forth? Not sure what the traffic/distance is like between Stock Island where The Perry is, and the touristy parts of Key West.

my husband and I are planning a trip for Jan ’23, any suggestions for a nice place to stay with a great view (water)? thank you

Hey Peggy 🙂 Sounds like a great time! I don’t have any recommendations of places I have personally stayed (where I have stayed has since changed to a different hotel). But some that I have looked into for the future are The Perry Hotel and Marina , Southernmost Beach Resort or for a really awesome beach and pool experience ( I have visited the beach and pool here) Casa Marina Resort .

I love your post, I followed you on Pinterest and am looking forward to exploring all your ideas.

Hey Lynn 🙂 Thank you so much! I hope I can help just a little bit in your travels!

Maryann & Glenn Helmick

I read many of your travel guides for key west. Me and my husband are traveling from Ocean view Delaware to Flagerly Beach Florida this march 2022 for bike week. Then we’re going find somewhere park our truck & trailer and just take are motorcycle down to the keys after bike week. Thanks for all the tips and ideas and information. Very much appreciate it. Maryann & Glenn Helmick Ocean view Delaware. ❤️

Hi Maryann and Glenn! This is so great to hear. Thank you for sharing 🙂 I hope that you have an awesome time riding your motorcycle down the Keys!

Jeannie kiekhafer

Now widowed am traveling with family to key west since husband always paid for drinks and such I have no clue what is proper bar tipping here, any suggestions. Thank you

Hey Jeannie 🙂 Unfortunately, I am not familiar with bar tipping as I don’t drink. But if you do a quick Google of ‘Bar Tipping in Key West’ it looks like you might be able to find some answers. Best of luck!

Mandi Wilson

If you are just getting drinks, tip a few dollars a drink. If your server is excellent, tip more. Being a server, essentially during the pandemic, has been a real struggle so always keep that in mind. If you are having food with your drinks and service is great, I tip at least 30%. I think the “standard” is 15% to 20%.

judith Rita hughes

Is there any all inclusive resorts in the Keys, and any that are pet friendly?

Hey Judith 🙂 From my knowledge, there are not any all-inclusive resorts on Key West specifically (there could be and I’m just not aware). I think this is because the restaurant and bar scene in Key West is so huge that most people prefer to eat out instead of at their hotel. However, there may be a couple in the Florida Keys in general. A quick google search for the Florida Keys brings up a few options- one place to look at might be Little Palm Island Resort & Spa. I hope this helps!

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Florida Keys Road Trip: 29 Amazing Places To Visit [Map Included]

A n awesome tropical vacation destination right here in the United States is the Florida Keys. It has such a Caribbean feel with the conveniences of being in the US.  Below is our recommend Florida Keys Road Trip that you can do on its own or as part of a Florida Road Trip or an East Coast Road Trip !

The first thing to realize is that once you enter the Keys you have over a hundred miles from the very upper Keys down to Key West . That’s a lot of ground to cover. It’s amazing to think that you will be driving to each of these islands via 42 bridges!

The other thing to know is that directions in the Keys are given by saying what Mile Marker, or MM, they are at. Key Largo, which is the first island, starts at Mile Marker 107 and Key West is at Mile Marker 0.

• Top Experience: Do It All Water Sports Adventure Package
• Top Attraction: Aquarium Encounters
• Don’t Miss: A sunset cruise on a Schooner
• Do This In Key West : Conch Train

If you are looking for a longer trip you may want to consider doing a Miami to Florida Keys road trip. There are a lot of awesome things to do in Miami too!

Map of the Florida Keys Road Trip:

Alright, on with the show. We will start with the Upper Keys then go to the Middle Keys and then the Lower Keys.

Map of the Upper Keys area:

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park

The first stop on the trip isJohn Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park located at Mile Marker 102.5 in Key Largo. This is one of the best snorkel and diving locations in the country. The state park is pretty much all on the coral reef, so you don’t have to go far from shore to see some cool colors and marine life.

There is plenty to do at Pennekamp. Enough to spend an entire day there. There is a nice beach to relax at and they have kayaks and stand-up paddle-boards for rent. You can take them through mangrove trails which are neat.

They offer boat tours, one of which is the glass bottom boat. This tour will take you out to the coral reef where you can see tons of fish.

They also have a small cafe, gift shop, and aquarium.

Snorkeling Tours

If you want to give snorkeling a try this area is a great place! There are a couple of different snorkeling trips you can do:

Half Day Snorkel Trip – Visit the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park and the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary and explore the 3rd largest living reef system in the world!

Snorkel 2 Coral Reefs – Visit Christ of the Abyss, Grecian Rocks, John Pennekamp Coral Reef Park and the Elbow Reef and more on this tour!

Getting out on the water in the Keys is a must! In the Upper Keys area here are a few great options:

Glass Bottom Boat Tour – Take a glass bottom boat tour where you can see fish and you don’t have to get wet.

Sunset Eco Cruise – Small group cruise to see the amazing sunset on the water.

If you have scuba gear you may want to look into a scuba trip as John Pennekamp is listed as one of the top sites in the Keys. There are also places you can rent gear. If you want to buy your own before coming heck out this great post on high quality scuba gear.

Blonde Giraffe Key Lime Pie Factory

A bit down the road at the Blonde Giraffe Key Lime Pie Factory at Mile Marker 92 in Tavernier. The Keys may not be known for its beaches, but it is known for a few other things, Key Lime Pie is one of them.

It says it right in the title! Stop here for a slice or a whole pie. It’s delicious!

After you had dessert, how about some real food? The next stop on the trip is Marker 88 located at, you guessed it, Mile Marker 88 in Islamorada. We liked this restaurant for its outside set up. Don’t get me wrong, pretty much every restaurant in the Keys has outdoor seating due to its beautiful views and relatively nice temperature, but Marker 88’s setup was nice.

Theatre Of The Sea

At Theatre Of The Sea, we were able to watch a parrot show – the birds were beautiful! They also have a place where you can go in the water and feed the fish, gigantic tortoises, and opportunities to have a bird sit on your shoulder.

When we were here we were also able to swim with the dolphins. This was an unbelievable experience!

Midway Cafe

If you’re looking for a cup of coffee or a baked good rather than a hearty meal, check out Midway Cafe. You’ll find Midway Cafe at Mile Marker 80.5 still in Islamorada. This quirky little cafe has some great coffee and coffee drinks. The different flavors and drinks rival that of your local Starbucks.

Robbie’s of Islamorada

The next stop on the trip is one of the cooler, and more frightening, experiences we’ve done. There is a one-stop-shop for fishing, boat rentals, snorkeling, and more at Robbie’s of Islamorada located at Mile Marker 77.5. There is a restaurant/bar at Robbie’s as well as several outdoor shops to browse through.

The can’t-miss experience, however, is feeding the tarpons. You purchase a bucket of fish for $3 to feed to these giant tarpon fish (which seem to be upwards of 4 feet long) by hand. It’s an adrenaline rush to see these monsters lurch out of the water right at your hand, but it’s an experience you must try! Just watch out for the pelicans as they are just as aggressive and hungry as the tarpons.

Long Key State Park

The Keys are home to several great state parks (one of which we already talked about) and they are all stop-worthy on this epic road trip. Most of them offer camping, so if you’re looking to stay overnight in the Keys, this may be your most economical way to do so. The caveat being it’s very difficult to find a campsite available, especially in the winter months.

On Long Key, be sure to stop at Long Key State Park. Here you can bike, hike, and splash around in a shallow beach area. This would also be a good pit stop for a picnic on your road trip.

Long Key State Park is located at Mile Marker 67.5.

Dolphin Research Center

The Dolphin Research Center does a great job providing a place where you can come and learn all about these amazing creatures. The workers know all of the dolphins by name and the story behind how they came to be there. You can watch the shows they do with the Dolphins and if you would like you can do some things in the water with them too.

Curry Hammock State Park

A bit up the road from Long Key State Park is another great park called Curry Hammock State Park. We camped here for a few nights and we enjoyed it. The campsite is clean and friendly, even to big RV’s.

There is a small playground and several covered picnic areas right on the beach at Curry Hammock. They also have a nice sandy beach area if you’re looking to kick back and relax.

Curry Hammock is at Mile Marker 54 in Marathon.

Where To Stay

Fun in the Sun – check out this house with access to a private beach!

Baker’s Cay Resort By Hilton

Playa Largo Resort and Spa

Fiesta Key RV resort – a good campground with full hookups, sites on the water (if you can get one), a large pool, and an onsite restaurant overlooking the ocean!

Riptide RV Resort & Marina – located in Key Largo, smaller campground with only about 35 full hookup sites.

If you don’t have one you can Rent An RV . Check out our post for tips on Planning Your RV Trip .

Check out more Florida Keys campgrounds here.

Campground:

John Pennekamp State Park has full hookup sites but they are tight and the noseeums can be really bad.

Curry Hammock State Park is the one we would recommend. Large sites and a very peaceful vibe.

Middle Keys

Map of the Middle Keys:

Now that you are in Marathon, which is considered the Middle Keys, you’re at about the half-way point in the island chain down to Key West.

Marathon is more like your typical small-town since you’ll find a couple of grocery stores, fast food, and quite a few stores.

Aquarium Encounters

Aquarium Encounters is a great stop to make with curious and hands-on kids (or parents)! While we were here we were able to feed and pet stingrays, turtles, and even sharks!! It was an awesome way to get up close and personal with all of these local animals.

Sombrero Beach

Marathon is also home to probably our favorite beach in all the Keys. Sombrero Beach is a few miles east of US Hwy 1 on Sombrero Beach Rd. This beach has soft golden sand and plenty of ocean to swim or paddle-board in. It is on our list of the top Florida Keys Beaches !

Turtle Hospital

Also in Marathon is the Turtle Hospital at Mile Marker 48.5. Stop in for a tour to learn how this hospital takes in injured or sick sea turtles and how they nurse them back to health. You can even watch them perform surgeries on the turtles during the week.

Sunset Grille and Raw Bar

One of the last stops in Marathon that is very unique is Sunset Grille and Raw Bar at Mile Marker 47. Here you have access to a great restaurant and 2 full services bars, one of which is outside next to their huge heated swimming pool. So grab a table, order some drinks and take a dip while you wait.

7 Mile Bridge

Right next to Sunset Grille is the 7 Mile Bridge. This has to be some sort of engineering feat to span a bridge that long. You can walk right from Sunset Grille under the bridge to the other side of the road to get on the walking portion of the bridge.

You cannot beat the ocean views this bridge provides. The colors of the water are what made the Keys special to me. This is a great spot to get out and stretch your legs or to walk off some of the calories from Sunset Grille.

Bahia Honda State Park

Just past the 7 Mile Bridge is another great state park called Bahia Honda. There is an old railroad bridge next to Bahia Honda that offers great photo opportunities. You can rent kayaks or stand-up paddle-boards at Bahia Honda or make it a beach day and sit in the sand.

Bahia Honda is located at Mile Marker 37.

National Key Deer Refuge

Big Pine Key is one of the larger islands in the Keys. It is a special place because it is home to the National Key Deer Refuge. Key Deer are an endangered species of deer only found in the Keys. They are much smaller in size compared to regular deer and if you stop at a few places in the refuge, you’re almost guaranteed to see some.

No Name Pub

While you’re on Big Pine Key, another great stop is the No Name Pub. Heading into this restaurant/bar, you’ll see thousands of single dollar bills taped to the walls. Feel free to sign your name on a single and stick it up somewhere, if you can find space.

The thing we enjoyed at the No Name Pub was their pizza. As legend has it, 2 cooks from Italy came to work at the restaurant and they brought with them a great pizza recipe. When the cooks left the restaurant, they wrote the recipe on the kitchen wall so the great tasting pizza would stay long after they were gone.

Waterfront house with Heated Pool, Waterfall, and more!

Oceanfront Villa with Rooftop Terrace

If you want to stay at one of the best hotel pools for kids you will want to stay at: Hawks Cay Resort

Courtyard by Marriott 

Sunshine Key RV Resort – located just south of the 7-mile bridge. Nice full hookup sites with a pool.

Bahia Honda State Park – we have never been able to get in here but if we could we would love to. It is located right on the water.

Pelican RV Resort & Marina – definitely a fisherman’s paradise, full hookups with pool and tiki hut pavilion on the water

Now we head down into the Lower Keys which is mostly Key West. Key West can be a crazy and wild scene but it can also be family-friendly with lots of great things to do for kids and adults!

The last stop on the road trip is Key West . You made it! There are so many things to do in Key West , I don’t even know where to start. You have endless options for dinner, drinks, fishing, and entertainment.

A couple of things I would recommend is to park your car and just walk the city. If you stay on the west side of US 1, you can walk quite a bit of it and get a cool local feel for the island.

I know what you’re thinking, you’re not looking to party with the spring break crowd. We thought this the first time we visited Key West, but after a few visits, we quickly fell in love with the island. We brought our kids with us each time and felt comfortable doing so.

Be sure to check out Duval Street as it’s home to a few famous bars like Ernest Hemmingway’s favorite Sloppy Joe’s.

Ultimate Water Sport Combo – Our Top Pick!!

If you can only do one thing in Key West have this be it! Do It All Water Sports Adventure Package is the perfect way to get out on the water! The morning starts with breakfast as you head out to go snorkeling. You then stop and parasail, kayak, jet ski, and play on the water trampoline, mat and you can take a turn on the banana boat (which I fell off of :))!

Check out our post on The 4 Best Water Activities in Key West With Kids .

If you have a need for speed Jet Skiing is the way to go! Go for 28 miles of speeds 40MPH and higher and see the Southern Most Point, Florida Bay,  Key West harbor, and more. We did this with kids and I had a kid in front of me and behind me.

It definitely adds a challenge when trying to keep up but the kids loved it! Note – don’t do this with kids if they don’t like things like this – or it will be miserable for everyone.

Schooner Sunset Sail

Head out for a sunset cruise on a Schooner ! Another great way to see the Keys and awesome to be on a boat to take in the sunset. We did this with kids and it was a little scary making sure they didn’t go by the edge-but it is doable.

The aquarium in Key West is small but well worth a stop! You can feed the sharks – which is a highlight so be sure you ask when that is happening and get there in time to do it. They also have a lot of different fish from the area and they do programs throughout the day.

Fort Zachary Taylor

This is an awesome place to visit and spend the day. There is an entrance fee since it is a State Park but once in you can enjoy the beach along with walking around at the fort.

There is also a snack bar with alcoholic beverages if you are interested.

Pirate Museum

You can’t go to Key West and not go to a Pirate Museum . Pirates are a big part of the history of Key West and when you visit the Pirate museum you can learn all about it. They also have a lookout you can walk up to where you get an amazing view of Key West.

Conch Train

I enjoy things like this when visiting a city for the first time. You can hop on and stay on the Conch Train the whole time or you can get off at a stop and go out and explore and then hop back on to be taken to the next stop.

The train drivers are super knowledgeable and funny so it is a great way to learn about Key West!

Old Town Trolley

Another option is the Old Town Trolley . We have not done this one in Key West but have in other cities and enjoyed learning about the city we were visiting this way. This is also a hop on hop off option.

Southern Most Point

If you get here really early in the morning you won’t have to wait in line. This is considered the Southern Most Point in the continental United States. If you go later in the day be prepared to wait. This is the go-to place for a picture when you are in Key West!

Sunset Celebration

Also, be sure to check out the Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square. This is done at sunset every night down by the water at Mallory Square. Leading up to sunset there are some really fun street performers along with food vendors. The kids were able to try a fresh coconut here.

Then at sunset, everything stops so everyone can watch the sunset and cheer when it goes down.

Dry Tortugas

If you want to turn your road trip into a sailing adventure, I recommend checking out the Dry Tortugas . You’ll hop aboard a catamaran to sail 70 miles west to the Dry Tortuga island. There’s an old Army fort on the island to explore as well as some of the most beautiful beaches I’ve ever seen.

This is one of our top National Parks to visit. It is gorgeous!

Island Dogs

Island Dogs is a fun restaurant in Key West since you can sit on the porch and people watch while you are eating.

Lagerheads Beach bar

Lagerheads Beach Bar is a great place to go with kids since the tables are on the sand so the kids can play in the sand while they are waiting for their food. Plus there is a beach area you can play at.

Florida Keys Brewing Company check this place out if you like the brewery scene!

Big house with Pool!

Stay on a boat!

More options:

Casa Marina – right on the water with a beach area and pool.

Southern Most Beach Resort – close to everything yet off on its own.

Campgrounds

Boyd’s Campground – a good location for exploring Key West.

You can also stay at the campground in the middle of the Keys and drive down to Key West for the day. We have done this every time we have visited. It is a bit of a hassle but can be done.

Well, that’s it. Now it’s time to head back north to the mainland. Hurricane Irma did do damage to the Keys and you may still see some remnants of it and/or things may be closed so be sure to check. We will be back to the Keys soon!

More Posts To Check Out:

The Ultimate Guide to Universal’s Halloween Horror Nights Orlando

Things To Do In Miami (including Everglades National Park)

Florida Road Trip: 31 Amazing Places You Won’t Want To Miss

24 Amazing Tips for Universal Volcano Bay [Must Read!]

16 Tips For A Magical Visit To Universal Orlando Resort!

29 Best Things To Do In Gulf Shores, Alabama

25 Best Things To Do In Destin, Florida [Plus Where To Stay]

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The Best Hotels in Key West of 2024

Stay at these editor-loved hotels and T+L award winning properties.

Katherine Alex Beaven is a Los Angeles-based travel, food and drink, and culture writer.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

The Marquesa

The Florida Keys are a chain of over 1,700 islands off the southern tip of Florida known for their gorgeous water, rich marine life, and quirky, fun-loving attitude. They’re broken up into five regions (or “Keys”) — Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, the Lower Keys, and Key West. Of all the Keys, Key West is the most well known. It’s also the farthest south and home to the southernmost point in the United States. In fact, Key West is so far south that it’s actually much closer to Cuba than it is to Miami.

It’s no secret that most Floridians don’t consider themselves to be part of the South — but growing up in Florida, I found it amusing that folks in the Florida Keys usually consider themselves separate from mainland Florida, too. However, once I started visiting and learning more about the Keys, particularly Key West, it was obvious that the Florida Keys have a culture all their own.

Don’t make the mistake of judging this tiny four-mile island by its size — Key West is a full-fledged destination packed with history, art, food, drink, wildlife, water sports, and culture. Key West is home to the weird and wonderful. This is where you come to sample real key lime pie and conch fritters, where the weather report calls for falling frozen iguanas, and where cats with six toes, life-changing sunsets, and pastel mansions over 150 years old are all in a day’s work.

But where to stay while you’re there? The options in Key West can be daunting, but luckily, I, along with Travel + Leisure editors, have been there many times and have scouted some of the best places to stay on the island. We’ve selected a good mix of hotels for every type of traveler, based on our personal experience, recent World’s Best Awards winners, and editor favorites. Read on to find our top picks.

Sunset Key Cottages

Also available to book at Tripadvisor.com

The private island location adds an extra dose of privacy and solitude that’s still close to the action of Old Town.

The resort fee is one of the heftiest we’ve seen.

If you’re looking for an island getaway from your island getaway, Sunset Key Cottages offers 40 upscale beachy cottages with up to four bedrooms, superior service, and a relaxing residential island location just a 7-minute boat journey from Old Town. This hotel earned a spot on our World’s Best Awards list in 2021, 2022, and 2023.

While the setting can be quite romantic, Sunset Key Cottages is a family-friendly and dog-friendly property. Cottages range between 700 to 2,500 square feet, so there’s room to spread out, and available activities run the gamut from sports courts and spa treatments to pool time and parasailing. Travelers who take advantage of all the property freebies like daily spirits tastings, fishing off the pier, use of the sports courts, poolside popsicles, and daily room-delivered breakfast (just to name a few) will get the most value out of the hefty daily resort fee.

The Details:

• Neighborhood: Sunset Key
• Distance From Airport: 4 miles
• Rates: From $850
• Resort Fee: $250 per day
• Parking: Yes; $30 per day self-parking, $40 per day valet
• Pet Policy: $100 per night for up to two dogs weighing 30 pounds or less.

The Perry Hotel & Marina Key West

Also available to book at Expedia.com

This hotel features direct waterfront views, outdoor showers, and pet-friendly rooms.

The marina location is about five miles from the main drag of Duval Street.

The Perry Hotel & Marina Key West made our World’s Best Awards list in 2021. We love its Stock Island Marina location, particularly for travelers arriving by boat or looking for a more relaxed Key West experience not centered around the usual Duval Street haunts. This 100-room boutique hotel is somewhat of a Key West outlier, swapping out the island’s common Old Florida colors and aesthetic for an unexpected and sleek modern-industrial look featuring dark wood, grays, and iron accents throughout. Six room types offer options for a glittering marina and pool or lush mangrove view, open-air showers, and ADA accessibility. Flatscreen TVs, coffeemakers, unstocked mini-fridges, and private balconies come standard.

The daily resort fee covers expected on-site amenities like the pool, a great concierge service, and use of the fitness room, as well as convenient and fun extras like a very punctual hourly shuttle service to and from Old Town (travel time is about 20 minutes each way), welcome tipple of champagne, a daily drink, an EV charging station, and Saturday group yoga classes. Traveling with your pup? The dog-friendly pet policy has no weight restrictions, and there are two dog parks nearby.

• Neighborhood: Stock Island
• Distance From Airport: 3 miles from EYW
• Nearby Attractions: Stock Island Marina, Key West Golf Course, Robbie's of Key West, Hogfish Bar & Grill
• Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible parking, braille signage, assisted listening devices, wheelchair-accessible pathways, accessible rooms
• Rates: From $152
• Resort Fee: $50
• Parking: Yes; self-parking $27 per night
• Pet Policy: $75 per night for one dog, $25 for an additional dog with a maximum of 2 dogs.

Santa Maria Suites

Santa Maria Suites Resort

Also available to book at Hotels.com

While it doesn’t have all the typical hotel amenities, there are several thoughtful details included in your stay.

The apartment-hotel style of this property may not be for everyone.

Santa Maria Suites is an all-suite boutique property with large two-bedroom suites clocking in at over 900 square feet. The contemporary apartment-style units have gourmet kitchens with high-end appliances and luxe granite countertops, separate bedrooms, and a furnished patio or balcony with pool or garden views.

Tropical garden grounds give guests a relaxing place to get away and decompress after a day out sightseeing. We love the attention to detail this small hotel brings to the table. For example, relaxing by the two heated pools is accompanied by ABV-free frozen drinks, chilled towels, cold bottled water, and fresh fruit. There’s also a free nightly happy hour, all-day muffins and ice cream, and access to beach facilities at the Southernmost Beach. This isn’t a typical hotel with multiple public spaces, but there is a restaurant serving Latin cuisine and a workout area with a few machines available for use.

• Neighborhood: Upper Duval
• Distance From Airport: 3.2 miles from EYW
• Nearby Attractions: Duval Street, Mallory Square, Southernmost Point, Hemingway House and Museum, Key West Lighthouse, Higgs Beach, Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, South Beach
• Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible parking, pathways, and suites; ramps and pool entrance; visual and auditory alarms
• Rates: From $315
• Resort Fee: $40 per day
• Parking: Yes; self-parking $20 per night
• Pet Policy: Not allowed

Gardens Hotel

The hotel has several eco-friendly practices and awards, and there’s no resort fee.

The colonial-style decor can feel dated and there’s no on-site restaurant.

You can’t name your hotel after your gardens and not deliver. The Gardens Hotel may be located smack in the middle of Old Town, but this small, ultra-boutique hotel manages to deliver a beautiful sanctuary space filled with plants, birds, water features, and tranquility. Plus, they go the extra mile with eco-friendly practices from recycling to heating water with solar panels.

The atmosphere here is social in public spaces, and guests often chat over drinks at the pool or between songs at the Sunday night jazz performances. Rooms are spacious, but feature colonial-style furniture and decor which can feel dated, especially when compared to nearby competitors. But do those hotels have a self-serve wine gallery featuring over 30 wines from around the world? Probably not. Despite having two pools, free Wi-Fi, a stellar hot breakfast, prime location, and concierge services, Gardens Hotel remains resort fee-free.

• Neighborhood: Old Town Historic District
• Distance From Airport: 3.8 miles from EYW
• Nearby Attractions: Duval Street, Mallory Square, Hemingway House and Museum, Key West Lighthouse, Key West Dog Beach, Green Parrot Bar
• Accessibility: One ADA-accessible room with a ramp, wheelchair-accessible parking, pool lift, audio and visual alarms
• Rates: From $384
• Parking: Yes; $30 per night
• Pet Policy: $100 per night for one dog up to 20 pounds

Ocean Key Resort & Spa

This is the ultimate spot for sunsets and anyone who wants to be at the center of the action on Key West.

There is no direct beach access.

This 2022 World’s Best Award-winning resort has an enviable location right on the water at the tippy-top of Duval Street, giving guests incredible views of the Gulf of Mexico and easy-as-pie access to the vibrancy of Key West’s main action. Ocean Key Resort & Spa has 100 rooms starting out at 300 square feet and features bright and boisterous contemporary decor, tiled floors, teak wood accents, private balconies, minibars, and stone bathrooms.

Upgrades to suites will double, triple, and quadruple your room size, but most in-room amenities stay the same. Whether you’re scoping out the sunset from your room, the pool, or the legendary Sunset Pier, you’ll have one of the best views on the island. However, these memorable waterfront views don’t have a beach, only seawall. Instead, guests soak up the sun at the pool. Food, drinks, and entertainment are available at the poolside bar, rooftop restaurant, and the Sunset Pier.

• Distance From Airport: 4 miles from EYW
• Nearby Attractions: Key West Aquarium, Hemingway House and Museum, Duval Street, Mallory Square
• Accessibility: ADA-accessible rooms, pool lift, meeting spaces, public spaces, pathways, and elevators; braille signage in elevators, audio and visual alarms, TTY
• Rates: From $210
• Resort Fee: $56 per day (plus tax)
• Parking: Yes; valet parking $45 per night

It’s a historic property with excellent service, a prime location, and a variety of room and suite options.

There aren’t a lot of on-property amenities.

The Marquesa has lived many lives since it was built in 1884 and is currently listed as an Old Town historic landmark. As a hotel, the 414-room Marquesa now includes one newly-built house and two historic neighboring buildings, a Gothic carpenter-style cottage built in 1878, and a mansion-turned-guesthouse.

As you can imagine, the rooms across these buildings range widely in style, size, and design, including open-plan suites, gorgeous slanted ceilings, and hidden alcoves. That said, all rooms and suites have been meticulously renovated and feature contemporary comforts like big beds and Nespresso machines, with options for balconies, kitchenettes, and luxurious bathrooms with soaking tubs. Service here is personal and the staff really goes that extra mile, though the daily resort fee can seem a tad steep considering the on-site amenities are limited to the three lovely pools, Wi-Fi, a daily continental breakfast, and a 24-hour concierge.

• Distance From Airport: 3.6 miles from EYW
• Nearby Attractions: Key West Lighthouse, Hemingway House and Museum, Duval Street, Mallory Square, Green Parrot Bar, Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
• Accessibility: ADA-accessible rooms, braille room numbers, TTY, accessible restaurant and parking, audio and visual alarms
• Rates: From $292
• Parking: Yes; self-parking $25 (plus tax) per day

Oceans Edge Key West Resort & Marina

Oceans Edge Resort & Marina Key West

The resort plays up its seaside location with charming nautical-themed decor.

Some travelers may prefer to be closer (think: walking distance) to Key West’s main drag.

Ocean’s Edge Key West Resort & Spa is a dockside resort on Stock Island. The full-service 165-slip marina makes it easy for you to tie-up and check in. The 175 rooms have a subtle and playful upscale nautical theme featuring bright white paneling, natural wood and navy-colored accents, and views overlooking the marina. While a lot of resorts focus on Key West’s history and main drag, this one encourages visitors to experience the resort’s natural side with activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, outdoor yoga classes, and bike rentals.

Boat charters are available through the hotel for private fishing excursions and scenic cruises, all departing straight from their docks. However, our favorite activity is the free one-hour eco-immersion experience where guests learn about the marine ecosystem from a local marine scientist. Guests can also expect their choice of six saltwater pools (with full service), a dock-to-dinner plate restaurant, daily happy hours and live music, and a free hourly shuttle service to Old Town. It’s no wonder this celebrated Key West resort made our World’s Best Awards list in 2022.

• Distance From Airport: 3.5 miles from EYW
• Accessibility: ADA-accessible pathways, rooms, restaurants, and parking; visual and audio alarms, entrance lift, braille signage throughout, TTY
• Rates: From $184
• Resort Fee: $50 per day
• Parking: Yes; $27 (plus tax) per night
• Pet Policy: $70 for each dog up to 60 pounds with 2 maximum.

It’s an all-suite boutique property with a rooftop pool and nearby beach access.

The minimum age is 25.

H20 Suites is an all-suite hotel located two blocks from the Southernmost Point, just one block from Duval Street, offering an intimate and tranquil respite from the heavy traffic of Old Town. With just 22 suites, the service here feels extremely personal and guests can look forward to private outdoor space, stocked in-room wet bars, and Italian marble bathrooms.

Half of the suites feature private pools, and all have cosmopolitan-modern decor that feels a bit more Miami than Florida Keys. The snazzy rooftop pool and bar is a standout with great views and a happy hour to boot, and we appreciate the 24-hour front desk and concierge service. There’s also a small gym on property. The daily resort fee covers amenities like access to Southernmost Beach (plus beach set-up), a welcome drink, a nightly treat and turndown service, and bottled water. This is an adults-only hotel with a minimum age of 25.

• Neighborhood: Historic Old Town
• Distance From Airport: 3.3 miles from EYW
• Nearby Attractions: Duval Street, Southernmost Point, Hemingway House and Museum, Mallory Square, Truman Little White House
• Accessibility: Two ADA-accessible rooms; pathways, public spaces, pool lift, audio and visual alarms, communication kits for hearing-impaired
• Rates: From $348
• Resort Fee: $40 per night (plus tax)
• Parking: $20 per night with a limit of one car per room

The Capitana Key West

It’s one of the few hotels in Key West with direct beach access.

You can’t swim at the beach and it’s in a slightly industrial part of town that isn’t walkable to Old Town.

This waterfront beach boutique hotel has one huge advantage over most of the hotels in Key West — it has its own direct private beach access. The catch? It’s got a rough and rugged coral floor, which means no swimming, just lounging on the sand or in one of the hotel’s comfy cabanas. If you feel like a dip, the next best thing is the hotel’s saltwater pool, complete with ocean views and full service from the poolside tiki bar and restaurant.

Rooms are spacious and contemporary with soft, neutral beachy color palettes, comfy beds, and balconies with views of the Gulf of Mexico. Two-bedroom family suites can sleep up to seven, and springing for a cottage will get you over twice the amount of space and add a full kitchen and separate living room lounge area. Although this boutique hotel is family-friendly, it’s a popular spot for couples. Keep in mind that the New Town location is slightly out of the way — ideal if you’re trying to avoid crowds but not if you want to hit all the popular spots.

• Neighborhood: New Town
• Distance From Airport: 2.8 miles from EYW
• Nearby Attractions: Smathers Beach, Key West Nature Preserve, Dredgers Key, Garrison Bight
• Accessibility: ADA-accessible rooms, chair lifts, pool lift, public spaces, and parking; visual alarms and TTY available
• Rates: From $293
• Resort Fee: $35 per day
• Parking: Yes; resort fee includes self-parking
• Pet Policy: $100 per dog per night, maximum of two dogs and 30 pounds

Simonton Court Historic Inn & Cottages

Simonton Court

There are some thoughtful freebies and no resort fee.

This is a garden-set historic property with very limited accessibility.

Simonton Court Historic Inn & Cottages offers up a taste of Key West in the island’s Old Florida style. If you’re looking for a cute and quaint bed and breakfast, this is your frontrunner. Here, 30 rooms are spread out across 10 buildings on five properties, including a set of historic cottages built in 1880, giving guests an intimate and secluded feel right in the center of bustling Old Town.

A word to the wise: fully investigate all the available rooms before booking — the five different properties have distinct characteristics and room types are very specific when it comes to location, floor level, and amenities. Some of our favorite details are the red brick pathways, painted wood decking, and the abundant tropical gardens that surround the property. Keep in mind that Simonton Court is an adults-only property and because of its historic nature is not very suitable for travelers requiring ramps or other accessible features. A wander through the leafy palms will bring you to the hotel’s four pools with poolside service, bike rental area, and, on Friday and Saturday afternoons, a social happy hour with discounted drinks and free snacks. There’s also a free (albeit light) continental breakfast available, but best of all there’s no resort fee!

• Accessibility: Very limited
• Rates: From $309
• Parking: Yes; reserved self-parking $30 per day (very limited)

Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa

Every room has a balcony.

It’s on the water, but on a seawall without a beach area.

The Hyatt Centric Key West has a bullseye location when it comes to being at the heart of the action. Guests at this 120-room hotel can expect the typical Hyatt Centric experience and style that aims to mix the familiarity of a big brand with the feeling of a local boutique hotel. Rooms are comfy with the standard features, and we love that every single one has a balcony that comes with a shade cover so guests can take advantage of sunny days (note that not all have ocean views).

Menus at the restaurant and bar add in local flavor and ingredients, the ocean-view pool is heated in chillier months, and there’s a nice on-site spa with tropical-leaning treatments. The daily resort fee includes fun extras like a two-hour bike rental for each guest, pool inflatables and treats, 24-hour gym access (including Peloton bikes), and off-site beach access — but doesn’t include parking.

• Neighborhood: Historic Seaport
• Distance From Airport: 4.1 miles from EYW
• Nearby Attractions: Duval Street, Mallory Square, Hemingway House and Museum, Key West Lighthouse, Mel Fisher Maritime Museum, Truman Little White House
• Accessibility: ADA-accessible rooms, parking, pool, public areas, pathways, and fitness center; TTY
• Rates: From $270
• Resort Fee: $55 per day (per room)
• Parking: Yes; $35 self-parking and $40 premium self-parking per night
• Pet Policy: $150 per stay for up to 6 nights/$300 per stay for 7 or more nights; two dogs maximum with one dog maximum weight of 50 pounds or two dogs maximum combined weight of 75 pounds.

Southernmost Beach Resort Key West

Southernmost Beach Resort 

You’ll get front-row ocean views, three pools, and free beach chairs and umbrellas at South Beach.

The unpredictable Wi-Fi and early-rising resident roosters aren’t for everyone.

The Southernmost Beach Resort Key West has a notable location at the end of Duval Street, just a three-minute walk to South Beach and the Southernmost Point buoy. It’s a great family-friendly option for travelers looking for a quieter Key West experience without having to sacrifice walkability. Built in 1948, this 261-room resort underwent a $15-million-dollar update to nearly all of its rooms, the exterior, lobby, and one of its pools and pool bars which was unveiled in 2022.

While there are 11 different room types to choose from, they’re on the smaller side, ranging between 220 to 470 square feet. Robes, coffeemakers, welcome waters, and mini-fridges come standard with upgrades snagging extras like balconies, upgraded views, or an oceanfront location. Guests can enjoy three pools with ocean views, full service menus, live music, and adults-only tranquility, and a full-service beach club serving up food, drinks, and free beach set-ups. A note to those who like to sleep in: there are several resident roosters on the property that never take an early morning off from crowing.

• Distance From Airport: 3.4 miles from EYW
• Nearby Attractions: Duval Street, Mallory Square, Southernmost Point, Hemingway House and Museum, Key West Lighthouse, Higgs Beach, Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, South Beach, Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory
• Accessibility: ADA-accessible public spaces, pathways, elevator, parking, and rooms; TTY available, visual alarms, pool lift, braille signage in accessible rooms
• Rates: From $199
• Parking: Yes; self-parking for one vehicle per room at $42 (plus tax) per night

Alexander’s Guest House

You’ll get free breakfast, an excellent location, and a 24-hour pool with no resort fee.

There are two clothing-optional upper sundecks on the property which may not appeal to everyone.

Alexander’s Guest House is a 17-room guesthouse and one of Key West’s proudly gay-owned and -operated hotels. Originally built in 1902, this three-story conch-style house is now listed on the National List of Historic Places, but don’t let her age fool you — this gorgeous girl has immaculate style and a flawless beauty routine. Natural wood ceilings, bright white trim and paneling, matte black shutters, and loads of large windows bringing in natural light showcase architectural highlights, while stark white furniture, well-placed animal print rugs, and black and white awnings keep things looking contemporary and sophisticated.

The lush tropical grounds, a 24-hour pool and spa, included breakfast, and a convenient yet quiet Old Town location make Alexander’s a popular spot, but the fact that there’s no resort fee makes it a downright gem. Another feature worth mentioning about this adults-only hotel? There’s an upper-level sun deck — and it’s clothing-optional.

• Nearby Attractions: Duval Street, Mallory Square, Historic Seaport, Key West Aquarium
• Accessibility: Parking spot, public spaces, guest room; visual and audio accessible features available for all rooms
• Rates: From $295
• Parking: No

Know Before You Go

Be wary of booking during hurricane season.

Key West experiences a hurricane season every year from June through November, and it’s no idle threat. The capital of the Conch Republic is one of the top five most impacted U.S. cities when it comes to hurricanes, often bearing the brunt of the season’s rains, winds, and flooding. As a former Floridian who has experienced their fair share of hurricanes, I can’t directly recommend booking a stay on this small island during hurricane season, but I can say that if you’re willing to take the gamble, room rates can be almost half-price from peak season. Keep in mind that even if there are no hurricanes, you’ll likely still experience short but heavy downpours.

You don’t necessarily need a car

Chances are, if you’ve got a car, you’ll park it at your hotel and that’s where it’ll stay until you’re ready to head home. Key West is so small that you can walk the main Duval strip from end-to-end in about 30 minutes if you don’t stop. For those who prefer wheels to walking , there’s also a free shuttle that travels the Duval Loop, making 16 stops along the way in about as many minutes. For anything farther off of Duval, rideshare services are affordable and readily available. The only time you’ll need to travel by car is getting to and from the airport.

Key West has its own (small) airport

One thing I love about Key West is that this tiny island with an area of just over four miles has its own international airport. Six airlines fly in and out of Key West — United, Delta, American, JetBlue, Allegiant, and Silver — with both year-round and seasonal routes. What I don’t love is how expensive these flights can be. It’s often more economical for many tourists to fly into Miami International Airport, rent a car, and drive the scenic 160 miles down to Key West. But time is money, so for some, it’s worth the extra price and shorter travel times.

The Keys are also known as the Conch Republic

While you’re there, you may see flags for the Conch Republic hung up around town, or hear people talking about “Conchs.” Long story short, in 1982, Key West staged a faux-protest against the U.S. government for causing a debilitating traffic jam along the only road out of the Keys. They declared their secession from the United States and the formation of the Conch Republic. The joke took on a life of its own with the creation of flags, passports, and fake currency, and is still talked about today.

Key West is a proud LGBTQIA-friendly destination

Key West is an international LGBTQIA haven, and throws one of the largest pride celebrations in the country. But, even bigger and perhaps more legendary than that is the island’s annual Fantasy Fest, a 10-day adults-only party that encourages its 75,000 attendees to let loose. It’s a quirky, creative, and queer-heavy party and everyone is invited. Even without an official event, Key West is known for being an open and accepting place, attracting over 250,000 LGBTQIA-identifying travelers every year.

How We Chose These Hotels

For this article, Katherine Alex Beaven sifted through the island’s best hotel offerings, keeping in mind T+L editor-loved properties and her own experience with Key West hotels during her travels to the island. She is also an experienced professional hotel reviewer who has reviewed over 500 hotels around the world. Ultimately, to make the cut, these Key West hotels had to stand out in categories including location, service, amenities, value, and overall guest experience. Hotels that earned a spot on T+L’s World’s Best Awards list were also considered and prioritized during evaluation (see the 2023 winners here).

For all of our hotel roundups, editors ensure our hotel recommendations align with our core T+L Hotel Values .

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14 Best Hotels in the Florida Keys, From Private Islands to Beachy Bungalows

By Paul Rubio and Nancy DePalma

Drive south from Miami and you’ll discover an intriguing collection of islands strung together like a shell necklace. Each Florida Key has its own personality, so whether you lean more rugged, refined, or raucous, there is one to match your mood.

First up, Key Largo: Sure, it’s littered with kitsch, but don’t let that dissuade you. Turn off the main highway and you’ll find some terrific spots for relaxing by, in, and under the water. Or cruise down to more sophisticated Islamorada, where fine dining and purple-hued sunsets compete for your attention, along with a host of resorts. Then, keep heading all the way south to Key West to discover legendary characters, a fierce independent streak, and festive fun. Just like the islands themselves, you’ll discover a variety of unique hotels and resorts along the way, from sprawling and intimate to laidback and luxurious; it’s all here in America’s Caribbean . Here are the best places to stay in the Florida Keys.

Read our Key West travel guide here .

Every hotel review on this list has been written by a Condé Nast Traveler journalist who knows the destination and has visited that property. When choosing hotels, our editors consider properties across price points that offer an authentic and insider experience of a destination, keeping design, location, service, and sustainability credentials top of mind. This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Baker’s Cay Resort Key Largo, Curio Collection by Hilton Arrow

Open since February 2019 in Key Largo, Baker’s Cay Resort has been a hit with Traveler readers from the jump . It spans 15 tropical acres that were once a pineapple plantation tucked away off the busy Overseas Highway. The resort has 200 rooms but manages to maintain a boutique and intimate feel with winding nature trails throughout leading to quiet beaches. Rooms—including lavish suites with views of Florida Bay—have handcrafted wood furnishings, custom tile work in the bathrooms, and hardwood floors. On-site dining includes waterfront taqueria Dry Rocks, and Caribbean-Creole cuisine with bay views at the more upscale (but still Florida Keys casual) Calusa restaurant. Other amenities include a kids’ camp, two swimming pools with a waterfall grotto, and hammocks everywhere. The resort is super pet-friendly, too: dogs can swim in the water, walk on the beach, escape the sun in dedicated dog tikis, and even enjoy “yappy hour” specials.

Little Palm Island Resort & Spa Arrow

This adults-only private island is a study in tropical chic, redefining the castaway fantasy right on American soil. There are a total of 30 thatched-roof bungalow suites (some freestanding, some within larger bungalows) across the four-acre island, many with four-poster beds and outdoor copper bathtubs. Thanks to a smart layout and smarter landscaping, you’ll encounter other people less often than you’d expect (a strict cap of 60 guests helps). All suites have water views, outdoor showers, and furnished decks; most also overlook private slivers of white-sand beach and are kitted out with hammocks, loungers, and fire pits. The Dining Room has sweeping sea views, and the spectacular SpaTerre complex is underscored by a breezy, two-story atrium. Paddleboard or kayak through mangrove mazes as eagle rays swim by, laze the day away on a beachfront hammock, or simply enjoy the day resting on a poolside lounger.

Tranquility Bay Beachfront Resort Arrow

Take the conveniences of a hotel and blend them with the privacy and space of an Airbnb, and you’ll get a taste of Tranquility Bay. Guest rooms are nestled within houses, making it feel like you’re staying in your own beach home rather than a hotel. Even the interiors scream “beach house,” from the curvy white wooden headboards and wicker furnishings to the bright Adirondack chairs on the porches. When you are ready to share space with other guests, head to one of the three pools or TJ’s Tiki Bar, the go-to spot for lunch and sunset cocktails.

The Moorings Village Arrow

While some travelers live for the joy of meeting fellow jet-setters when they go anywhere, others prefer to exist in seclusion. Guests of The Moorings Village fall into that latter category. Though it’s located on an 18-acre stretch of waterfront land, the resort only has eight private stand-alone villas, which truly makes it feel like you’ve got the place to yourself. (Not to mention the added privacy provided by more than 800 coconut palms, which works out to about 42.1 trees per villa.) With in-room perks like ocean views, porches with hammocks, king-size beds covered in pillows, and galley kitchens, we wouldn’t blame you if you never wanted to leave. Throw in a private beach, complimentary bicycles, and on-site kayaks, and The Moorings Village really is the next-best option to owning your own oceanfront Keys villa.

Jessica Puckett

Anna Borges

Karthika Gupta

Isla Bella Beach Resort Arrow

The whitewashed, Greek-inspired architecture and blue and white interiors set the tone at this family-friendly resort, opened in 2019. It's the first—and only—full-service luxury hotel in Marathon and holds claim to the largest private waterfront of any property in the entire Florida Keys. It is the total package with a large private beach, five pools, a marina, waterfront restaurants, and an outward-facing design for all 199 guest rooms and suites, such that each has its own fabulous Atlantic Ocean view.

Cheeca Lodge & Spa Arrow

With a fascinating history dating to 1946, Islamorada’s Cheeca Lodge has hosted the who’s who of politics, Hollywood, and fishing royalty over the decades, most notably President George Bush Sr. in the 1980s and 1990s (who, in fact, for ten years hosted “The George Bush Cheeca Lodge Bonefish Tournament.” ) Accommodations are spread across a massive campus and vary greatly by enclave. The most coveted units include the Premiere Oceanfront Suites of the 43-room Premier Tower, completed in fall 2022, as well as the Casitas, a collection of 11, two-bedroom stand-alone villas, which share their own beach, tennis court, and swimming pool. Thanks to a long stretch of sandy beach, three pools, a 9-hole golf course, and extensive programming, there’s never a shortage of things to do in the greater Cheeca resort. However, given that it houses the longest pier in the Florida Keys—and fishing rods and bait are complimentary—a preferred activity among repeat guests entails languid days at the ocean’s edge, beer in hand, trying to reel in a catch.

Playa Largo Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection Arrow

Opened in fall 2017, this family-friendly property is idyllic for those looking to enjoy the amenities and predictability of a trusted brand while collecting Marriott Bonvoy points along the way. The resort comprises four, three-story towers with the lion’s share of guest rooms, a collection of ten colorful two-story bungalows dubbed “The Hammocks,” and a three-bedroom “Beach House'' with its own pool and waterside lawn. The resort has skillfully engineered a long sandy beach above its seawall—and segued the two with actual steps from the beach into the Florida Bay. Here, you’ll find the likes of both water and beach cabanas, free-standing hammocks (propelled by metallic spheres), splashing pups (the property is very pet-friendly), and Caribbean-inspired waterfront restaurant, Sol by the Sea. On property, also look forward to a colossal zero-entry pool, a full-service spa with six treatment rooms, a kids club, and three additional restaurants.

Islander Resort Arrow

The circa 1950s Islander Resort is making waves in 2024 thanks to a comprehensive, retro-chic reimagination. While the original iconic sign above US1 Mile marker 82.1 remains, everything else at the 24-acre resort is changing. First up are the rooms, which are radically transforming from motel-like confines (dressed in a Tommy Bahama design of yore) to tropical chic, open-plan bungalows, beautifully embellished in modern wood and rattan furnishings with private outdoor terraces. (Note: At press time, half the accommodations have been completed, the rest are scheduled to finish by Dec 15, 2024—so be sure to book a renovated room.) Beyond the rooms, the resort is working on taking full advantage of its impressive 1,700 linear feet of beachfront—in fact, the largest privately owned beach in the Florida Keys—and adding a dining pavilion, a bocce ball court, a miniature golf course, and more. The resort’s two pools will also get upgrades as will restaurants Elements and Tides Beachside Bar & Grill. Though the resort proper remains in progress, Islander’s townhome-style Bayside Villas, located ¾ of a mile north and part of resort inventory, were the first phase completed in this comprehensive renovation and already showcase the final product.

The Islands of Islamorada Arrow

Though a no-frills mantra reigns supreme in Florida’s laid-back Middle Keys, the Islands of Islamorada resort presents a welcomed, luxe alternative within the island chain. Comprising 22, triple-story, stand-alone villas and eight ocean suites, this secluded, gleaming white enclave is idyllic for stylish, multi-generational vacations. Clever design allows for prolific outdoor space among each villa while light seaside chic interiors complement endless views of ocean blues and surrounding coconut forests. Two swimming pools, a private beach, marina, state-of-the-art fitness center, and pickleball courts further enhance this self-contained campus of leisure and luxury.

Casa Marina Key West Arrow

Opened on New Year’s Day in 1920 by Henry Flagler, Casa Marina has lived many lives over the last century, under multiple brands and even more attempts to revive its original grandeur. Finally, as part of Hilton’s Curio Collection and after an $89 million dollar renovation, the grande dame returns to peak form in 2024 with a fresh, locally inspired take on the historic property, located on the southern edge of Key West with its own private beach. All 311 rooms and suites have been completely redone, down to the patterned flooring and up to the wooden roof trusses, and feature tasteful assemblies of rattans, woven fabrics, wooden furnishings, and open cabinetry that scream new-meets-old Florida tropical chic. Outside, Casa Marina’s 1,100 feet of private beach, lined with loungers, an oceanfront lawn, a beachfront restaurant, sand sculptures, and framed by two piers, is the most prized swath on the island (and the very dreamy beach scene missing at other resorts in rocky Key West.) New lobby bar Canary Room is pure Instagram (and mixology) gold with floral, hand-painted walls by local artist, Kaitlin Spain, and artisan cocktails including ones made with a Papa’s Pilar Rum exclusive to the property.

The Perry Hotel & Marina Key West Arrow

Tucked away on Stock Island, a land bridge away from Key West, is the surprisingly modern, naval-inspired Perry Hotel, named for military figure Commodore Perry, who in 1822, planted the US flag in Key West and claimed the Florida Keys as United States territory. The open-plan lobby and 100 guest rooms feature nautical art from Stock Island artists, beginning with a full story of upcycled propellers framing the check-in area and maritime artifacts draped from the entrance ceilings. Rooms are artsy, bright, and beachy, with spacious balconies yielding marina, resort, or sunset views. On-site, there are 300 boat slips, two swimming pools, dockside benches, multiple fire pits, and three solid restaurants, the newest of which is the dockside Mexican restaurant, Bad Boy Taqueria and Tequila, opened in late 2023. This property tends to attract those keen on exploring the Keys’ vast water world—immediate, on-site access to top outfitters in fishing, snorkeling, sailing, and diving is a key consideration. It also appeals to those who want to be a quick, free shuttle away from the fun of Key West, but appreciate the resort’s 10 p.m. noise curfew. Finally, despite a hefty $75/night fee, it’s a favorite among dog lovers thanks to two on-site dog parks and prolific pet-friendly dining and lounging spaces.

Winslow's Bungalows Arrow

A campus of multiple, white-washed cottages and former homes cast predominantly in classic Key West architectural style, Winslow’s Bungalows is a history-steeped retreat two blocks from Duval Street. Formerly part of the Kimpton portfolio, the 85-unit property still oozes retro-chic decor and draws a cool (often pet-obsessed) crowd. Not much has changed since reintegrating into Key West Historic Inns Collection in January 2024: Winslow’s retains an intimate setting, where you’ll feel more like a guest in a private home than in a hotel. Several pools, including a large heated one, and lots of relaxation nooks (hello: hammocks) dot the beautifully landscaped enclave, and continental breakfast is a standard inclusion in all stays. Though Winslow’s remains pet-friendly in life after Kimpton, there is a nightly fee worth noting ($50 per pet, per night). Considering the campus houses one of Key West’s oldest homes and oldest lodging, dating to 1856, it’s worth asking the front desk for a quick primer in Winslow’s history.

Southernmost Beach Resort Arrow

This vast tropical temptation is a stone’s throw away from the southernmost point in the continental US, in a relatively quieter part of Key West. Cast over 6.5 acres and across multiple blocks, the grounds at Southernmost Beach Resort encompass a total of eight pastel-blue low-rises (housing a total of 244 units) and three guest houses (named Avalon, La Mer, and Dewey Houses, collectively accommodating 52 rooms), interspersed by palm trees, myriad swimming pools and, in some cases, ocean blues. Building rooms were renovated between 2021 and 2022 while guest house units were reimagined in late 2023, now boasting new-fashioned takes on Victorian-style interiors and thoughtful design-driven touches like hand-stenciled walls. Relaxation beckons at the resort’s oceanfront west lawn, strewn with hammocks and wooden lounge chairs. Meanwhile, fun in the sun awaits at Southernmost’s three lounger-lined swimming pools (don’t miss the live music daily at the Pineapple Pool) plus its two beach areas, where guests are guaranteed two chairs and an umbrella as part of the daily resort fee.

Oceans Edge Resort & Marina Arrow

On Stock Island, an active commercial fishing hub east of Key West, lies this 175-key property, which fronts a sprawling marina. It comprises four identical coastal cottage-style buildings of three stories apiece, housing ocean-inspired rooms with balconies or terraces granting marina or mangrove views. The resort occupies a massive 20-acre swath, lush with mature tropical plants and active with bobbing boats at every turn. There's sparkling water everywhere—and that includes six pools on property, around which you’ll find loungers, cornhole, ping pong tables, giant chess, and live music on weekends. At the tiki hut area, discover a calm lagoon for non-motorized watersports and a pick-up/drop-off point for the resort’s complimentary shuttle bus to Duval Street in neighboring Key West (running 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily). It’s a popular choice for those visiting the lower Keys with their own boats—marina spaces can be booked separately via the dock master.

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Money latest: First time house buyers expected to benefit from new law

Building society reforms could help people trying to get on to the property ladder. The bill is backed by cross-party MPs, saying the changes will support "more working people to become homeowners". You can also listen to the latest Sky News Daily podcast about inflation as you scroll.

Friday 19 April 2024 19:28, UK

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Tesla has recalled more than 3,800 of its Cybertruck models following complaints that the accelerator pedal is at risk of getting stuck, US regulators have announced.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) had contacted the carmaker, founded and run by Elon Musk, about the issue earlier in the week.

That was after a video came to light, on the billionaire entrepreneur's X platform and TikTok, showing how a rubber cover attached to the accelerator could come loose, pinning the pedal down.

It has since been watched millions of times on both platforms.

Meta's AI has told a Facebook user it has a disabled child that was part of a New York gifted and talented programme.

An anonymous parent posted in a private parenting group, asking for advice on which New York education programme would suit their child.

They described the child as '2e' which stands for twice-exceptional and means they have exceptional ability and also a disability.

"Does anyone here have experience with a '2e' child in any of the NYC G&T [Gifted & Talented] programs?" the user asked.

"Would love to hear your experience, good or bad or anything in between."

Instead of getting a response from another parent, Meta's AI replied.

"I have a child who is also 2e and has been part of the NYC G&T program," it began.

Read more on this story here ...

People who are fit to work but do not accept job offers will have their benefits taken away after 12 months, the prime minister has pledged.

Outlining his plans to reform the welfare system if the Conservatives win the next general election, Rishi Sunak said "unemployment support should be a safety net, never a choice" as he promised to "make sure that hard work is always rewarded".

Mr Sunak said his government would be "more ambitious about helping people back to work and more honest about the risk of over-medicalising the everyday challenges and worries of life" by introducing a raft of measures in the next parliament.

You can read more about what they include here ...

Building society reforms - backed by MPs - could help people trying to get on to the property ladder.

The Building Societies Act 1986 (Amendment) Bill is closer to becoming law after its third reading was unopposed in the Commons.

The idea is to expand societies' lending capacity via modernisation.

Tory MP Peter Gibson the bill would help with "cutting red tape" and removing "outdated bureaucratic governance systems not faced by the big banks". 

It follows a government consultation which looked at how to allow building societies to "compete on a more level playing field with banks".

The bill is government-backed and Labour is behind it too, saying the changes will support "more working people to become homeowners".

Labour's Julie Elliott, the bill's sponsor, said: "It is important to acknowledge that whilst the housing sector has recovered significantly since the record low mortgage approvals during the COVID pandemic, approvals currently are still below that which we saw before the pandemic. 

"That is why I think a bill like this, which gives more choice to the building society sector to operate in the interests of its members, is a good thing."

Treasury minister Gareth Davies offered the government's support and said the bill would help ensure the "future growth and success" of the building society sector. 

Labour's shadow Treasury minister Darren Jones said building societies "direct a significant proportion of their lending to first-time buyers" and the bill "could unlock significant additional lending capacity".

The bill will undergo further scrutiny in the House of Lords.

By  James Sillars , business reporter

There was a worse than expected performance for retail sales last month, defying predictions of a consumer-led pick up from recession for the UK economy.

The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reported sales volumes were flat in March, following an upwardly revised figure of 0.1% for the previous month.

It said sales at non-food stores helped offset declines at supermarkets.

Sales of fuel rose by 3.2%.

ONS senior statistician Heather Bovill said of the overall picture: "Retail sales registered no growth in March.

"Hardware stores, furniture shops, petrol stations and clothing stores all reported a rise in sales.

"However, these gains were offset by falling food sales and in department stores where retailers say higher prices hit trading.

"Looking at the longer-term picture, across the latest three months retail sales increased after a poor Christmas."

While the performance will not damage the  expected exit from recession  during the first quarter of the year, it suggests that consumers are still carefully managing their spending.

While the  cost of living crisis  - exacerbated by the  Bank of England's interest rate rises  to push  inflation  down - has severely damaged budgets, wage growth has been rising at a faster pace than prices since last summer.

Separate ONS data this week has shown the annual rate of inflation at 3.2% - with wages growing at a rate of 6% when the effects of bonuses are stripped out.

Economists widely believe consumer spending power will win through as the year progresses, despite borrowing costs remaining at elevated levels.

"Misleading" labelling in some supermarkets means shoppers may not know where their food comes from, Which? has said.

Loose cauliflowers, red cabbage, courgettes and onions at Sainsbury's, peppers, melons and mangoes at Asda, and spring onions at Aldi had no visible origin labelling on the shelf or the products themselves, the consumer organisation found during research.

Only 51% of people find origin information on groceries helpful, a survey found.

Two thirds (64%) said they would be more likely to buy a product labelled "British" than one that was not. 

Almost three quarters (72%) said it was important to know where fresh meat comes from, while 51% said they wanted to know where processed and tinned meat comes from.

Under current rules, meat, fish, fresh fruit and vegetables, honey and wine should be labelled with the country or place of origin.

"Research has uncovered a surprising amount of inconsistent and misleading food labelling, suggesting that - even when the rules are properly adhered to - consumers aren't getting all the information they want about their food's origin," said Which? retail editor Ele Clark.

"Supermarkets should particularly focus on labelling loose fruit and vegetables more clearly."

An Aldi spokeswoman said: "We understand that our shoppers want to know where the food they buy comes from, and we work hard to ensure that all our labelling complies with the rules.

"When it comes to fresh fruit and veg, we are proud to support British farmers and aim to stock British produce whenever it's available. Customers understand that at this time of year that isn't always possible, but we remain firmly committed to supporting the British farming community."

Asda said: "We have stringent processes in place to ensure country of origin is clearly displayed at the shelf edge and on products themselves where applicable, at all our stores.

"We have reminded our colleagues at this particular store of these processes so that customers are able to clearly see the country of origin."

A spokesman for Iceland said: "At Iceland our products are great quality and value for customers and we follow UK government guidance on food labelling, including country of origin."

A Sainsbury's spokeswoman said: "We have processes in place to make sure country of origin information is clearly displayed on the product or shelf and we carry out regular checks working closely with our regulator, the Animal and Plant Health Agency."

By Jess Sharp , Money team 

Barclays has been criticised for making the "ludicrous" decision to limit how much cash its customers can deposit in a year. 

Ron Delnevo from the Payment Choice Alliance said the move was a "disgrace" and accused the bank of trying to force businesses to stop accepting cash. 

From July, the change will mean Barclays customers can only deposit up to £20,000 per calendar year into their personal accounts. 

The limit will reset every January. 

It comes after Natwest made a similar decision last year, capping deposits to £3,000 a day, or £24,000 in any 12-month period. 

"The decision by Barclays is ludicrous. This is plainly an anti-cash move," Mr Delnevo told Sky News. 

"It is trying to take free choice from people. It's like it is saying, 'if you are using cash, then we think you are a criminal'.

"It's a disgrace quite frankly and there is no excuse for it. It's just wrong." 

Asked if he was concerned other banks could follow suit, he said: "Definitely." 

He gave the example of someone selling a car for cash. "How would you deposit the money into your account?" he asked.

Barclays said the change was being made to help it identify "suspicious activity". 

"We take financial crime and our responsibility to prevent money laundering seriously," a spokesperson said. 

"We have contacted customers to let them know that from July we are making some changes to the amount of cash customers can deposit into their Barclays accounts.

"We have set the limit at an amount that will allow us to better identify suspicious activity, while still ensuring our customers have access to cash."

The UK's estimated 23 million pet owners are at risk of a new kind of scam, one that took nearly £240m in the first six months of last year. 

Scammers are now targeting the most vulnerable owners – those who’ve lost their pets. 

Fraudsters are turning to lost pet forums and websites to claim they've found missing pets, demanding a ransom payment for their return.

Figures from UK Finance reveal this type of fraud – known as Authorised Push Payment (APP), when a victim is tricked into sending money directly to a criminal’s account - cost British consumers £239.3m in the first six months of 2023.

James Jones, head of consumer affairs at Experian, has some tips on how to avoid the scam...

• Never pay the ransom – If someone is demanding a large sum of money in exchange for your pet's safe return, call the police immediately. Never pay the money upfront, as it will most likely be a scam. Be sure to take a step back and analyse the situation.
• Examine the photos - is it a fake? – In an era where the use of artificial intelligence to fabricate photos is becoming increasingly commonplace, spotting a fake is becoming more challenging. But if you do receive a suspicious photo, make sure to take a closer look to determine whether it is in fact your pet. To do this, check if the photo has been taken from your social media profile and reframed to pass as a recent photo. You should also check for any signs of photoshopping. This could be the way the image has been cut, or the lack of shadows. It is also always helpful to get a second opinion – what you might miss, another person could spot.
• Spotting fabricated stories – Scammers may share specific personality traits you recognise about your pet to convince you they legitimately have it in their possession. However, they may be getting this information from adverts you’ve shared on missing pet websites, or even details shared about your pet on your social media profiles. Be extra cautious and question their authenticity.
• Be careful not to overshare on social media – While sharing information of pets on social media channels is commonplace, this can make them a goldmine for fraudsters. Always be careful about posting personal details, such as your address, pet’s name, or your location in real time. This is all information a fraudster could use to their benefit. Even if you have a private account, you still need to be cautious, as fraudsters have sophisticated methods for obtaining personal information.
• Avoid using your pet’s name as your password – The easiest password to remember is your pet’s name, but unfortunately fraudsters know this too. Of course, you need to be able to remember your passwords, but it’s vital not to make them too simple. The ideal password should contain a minimum of 10 characters using a mix of letters, numbers and symbols. As a rule of thumb, it’s also best to ensure you are using muti-factor authentication, when possible.

The British public donated some £13.9bn to charity last year, but higher earners who give to their chosen causes could be missing out on a tax break. 

"Many may be missing out on the tax perks of giving to charity, which can help to reduce their tax bill and save them from tax traps," Charlene Young, pensions and savings expert at AJ Bell, said. 

There is some £500m of unclaimed Gift Aid rebates - which you could be eligible for - according to data seen by AJ Bell. 

In order to get to the bottom of this, we need an understanding of Gift Aid. 

"Gift Aid is a tax incentive that gives a top up on donations from UK taxpayers to a UK registered charity or community amateur sports clubs (CASC)," Charlene explains. 

Within the scheme, the government tops up the charity donation by 25% - turning a £100 donation into £125 for the charity or CASC. 

"But there’s a tax break on offer for higher and additional rate taxpayers too - they can claim up to 20% or 25% on their donations," Charlene adds. 

Not only does the scheme mean charities can access more money at no extra cost - higher band taxpayers can claim some cash back. 

This table shows how much you can claim back...

"Claims are usually made via a self-assessment tax return, but you can ask HMRC for a P810 form to fill in if you don’t normally file a return. You can also backdate claims for up to four years, so it is worth looking into this as soon as possible," Charlene says. 

Although 94% of higher earners donating to charity have heard about Gift Aid, only 52% are aware they could claim a tax rebate on their donations, according to HMRC data. 

That leaves expected unclaimed rebates at around £500m. 

Geoff, a higher rate UK taxpayer, pays £780 in charitable donations over the course of a year. 

Gift aid tops this up to £975.

Geoff is eligible to claim back £195 (20% of £975) in tax relief from HMRC via self-assessment, or by contacting HMRC directly. 

In total, this means the charity has received £975 - but it has only cost Geoff £585. 

Avoiding tax traps

"If you're caught by tax traps, gift aid could help you lower your tax bill and put money towards good causes," Charlene says. 

"You might be a parent who has gone over the £50,000 high income child benefit charge, meaning you'd start to lose child benefit [HICBC].

"Or if your earnings have breached £100,000 you start to lose your tax-free Personal Allowance at a rate of £1 for every £2, a whopping effective rate of tax of 60% on earnings between £100,000 and £125,140.

"Making a charity donation and claiming Gift Aid means the full value of the donation [what you pay plus the government top up] is deducted from the income that would otherwise count towards the £100,000 limit [or £50,000 for HICBC]."

The market reaction to Israel's attack on Iran is muted so far.

While Brent crude oil rose by 2% in response initially, it is currently just over 1% up on the day at $88 a barrel.

That is below where it started the week after Iran had launched its drone and missile strikes on Israel.

The future direction will probably depend on how Iran chooses to respond to events overnight.

Stock markets are also feeling some strain and, being Friday, we could see a rush to protect positions over the weekend later in the day.

Japan's Nikkei was 2.6% down though the Hang Seng was just 0.9% lower.

In Europe, the reaction was similar to that seen in Hong Kong.

The FTSE 100 fell 0.4% at the open - with small gains in energy stocks offsetting some of the wider hit to sentiment from events in the Middle East.

Travel-related stocks were seeing some of the worst pain due to the threat of disruption.

British Airways owner IAG shed 3.5% while easyJet was 2.3% off and Ryanair not far behind that figure.

By Ollie Cooper, Money team

It can be hard to balance getting nutritious foods that make you feel good without emptying your wallet.

In this series every Friday, we're trying to find the cheapest ways to identify the healthiest options in the supermarket.

We've asked  Sunna Van Kampen,  founder of  Tonic Health ,  who went viral on social media for reviewing supermarket products in the search of healthier choices, for his input. 

The series does not aim to identify the outright healthiest option, but to help you get better nutritional value for as little money as possible.

Today we're looking at ketchup - which contains a surprising amount of sugar. 

What's the worry with sugar?

"Reducing added sugars in your diet can lead to significant health benefits, including weight loss and decreased risk of heart disease," Sunna says. 

"But fear not, ketchup connoisseurs: there's a way to enjoy your sauce and look after your health too."

How much sugar? 

The average bottle of ketchup has around 4g of sugar per tablespoon. 

If you're having a generous dollop of ketchup three times a week, you're adding more than 600g of sugar to your diet each year from one condiment. 

"That's a whole lot of sweet for something that's supposed to be savoury," Sunna says. 

"Another way to look at it is that you're having a teaspoon of sugar drizzled over your French fries - it feels wrong, doesn't it?"

The good news is there's plenty of options.

Avoiding premium ketchups can save your wallet and your sugar intake - they tend to up sugar content by 35% to more than 30g per 100g.

A standard bottle of Heinz contains 22.8g of sugar per 100g.

"Without getting into the taste debate, Heinz's rival Hellman's comes up trumps for your health by lowering the sugar content to 18g per 100g," Sunna says. 

Heinz has created two lower-sugar versions: a 50% less sugar option (at 11g per 100g) and Heinz's No Added Sugar & Salt (4.4g of sugar per 100g).

"But watch out here," Sunna says, "as they do add artificial sweeteners in their place (sucralose)". 

In his view, there are two newer challenger brands that deserve a mention as they cut sugar without the artificial additives. 

"Dr Wills Ketchup using dates instead of sugar (15g per 100g) and Hunter & Gather keep the sweet stuff out entirely (6g per 100g). 

So, he says, there is "plenty to choose from to suite your taste buds and health needs".

What does that look like over time?

Making small changes for your health can build up to a big impact over the long term. 

"Going from standard Heinz to the brand's no sugar option will save you more than 500g of sugar a year in your diet," Sunna says. 

What's the cost? 

"Surprisingly, opting for a healthier ketchup doesn't mean squeezing your wallet dry," Sunna says. 

A bottle of Heinz No Added Sugar & Salt costs around £0.80 per 100g and is the most expensive.

The 50% less sugar version is cheaper at £0.54 per 100g. 

That's only 4% more than the standard, more sugary version, which costs £0.52 per 100g. 

"This way you'll save 32% on the price of your ketchup (compared with no sugar) and 50% of the sugar content for your health - that's a win-win," Sunna says. 

"In the grand scheme of dietary changes, switching ketchup varieties might seem small. But it's these little tweaks that can add up to a big difference in your health."

The nutritionist's view -  from  Dr Laura Brown , senior lecturer in nutrition, food and health sciences at Teesside University

"I would say that yes, they are correct in that the focus should be health over money and the reduced sugar version does not make too much of a difference. 

"Also, there is the option of making your own ketchup too, in which you could manipulate the ingredients to add more natural flavours that will reduce the need for the added sugar - provided it is consumed within a shorter space of time."

Read more from our series... 

By Bhvishya Patel, Money team

This week, we've been speaking to some of Britain's struggling unpaid carers, hearing at times heart-breaking accounts of their physical, emotional and financial struggles.

In our final instalment in the series, a woman who cares for her daughter, son and husband says it is a "lonely job" and you often feel "looked down on" as she urges the government to "look at the bigger picture" when it came to help.

"I care for three people but I'm allowed to get Carer's Allowance once. The allowance is deducted from my Universal Credit so in effect I do not get paid for caring at all." Suzanne Buckner, unpaid carer

Suzanne's daughter Charlotte, or Lottie as her mother and father Mark call her, was three when she was diagnosed with a neuroblastoma, a rare cancer that affects children and develops in early nerve cells, in 2010.

Her gruelling treatment left her with a number of healthcare problems, including the development of three benign tumours in her liver, non-autoimmune type 1, type 2 and type 3 diabetes and asplenia.

Charlotte, now 17, is also deaf and has severe back problems due to discs growing into her vertebrae.

"My daughter was told by her oncologist in December they didn't actually expect her to survive," Suzanne, 56, says.

Suzanne is also a carer for her son, 23, who has multiple complex conditions and her husband, 62, who has mental health conditions.

"It's an eclectic collection - one minute I'm a mental health nurse, then I'm dealing with behavioural problems and then it's just classic nurse," she says.

Suzanne receives universal credit of around £972 a month after her carer's allowance is deducted.

She says the carer's allowance earnings limit, set at £139 a week, means carers like her are "caught in this trap" where they can't earn above the limit for fear of losing their benefit money.

"I care for three people but I'm allowed to get carer's allowance once. The allowance is deducted from my universal credit so in effect I do not get paid for caring at all," she says.

"It's ridiculous because if I handed my family over to the state, can you imagine how much money it would cost?

"I sometimes think central government does not have the ability to calculate or look at the bigger picture."

Recently, Suzanne got "quite poorly" and was told to go to A&E after she was unable to get an appointment with her GP.

"I thought 'I can't go to A&E I've got to look after my family'. I think that's another area that's not looked at - the health and wellbeing of carers. It's a lonely job," she says.

"Even though I was sick, I was making sure Lottie was having her injections and medicines. You can't afford to feel.

"Emotionally it is hard because sometimes you can't fix the problem. There isn't a magic solution and you can't make a phone call.

"It doesn't matter to a degree how much money you've got, it  isn't going to go away. If someone is poorly, they are poorly."

Suzanne used to run several companies, including an advertising agency, before becoming a carer for her family and now does telecoms regulation consultancy work when she can.

Holding down a 9-5 job is "not possible for most carers".

"Lottie getting cancer taught me so much about life - do not plan," she says.

"If she had to go to hospital today that means I have to change all the tutors she's having and it can happen overnight.

"Having a child with cancer is even more of a lonely thing because it's quite a rare thing. If she gets sick, life just turns upside down."

After undergoing chemotherapy, Lottie was left with a low blood temperature and therefore keeping the house warm is important, Suzanne says, which increases heating costs.

The costs can go up further if Charlotte needs to go to hospital as this means trips "all over the country" to hospitals in Birmingham, the John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford and Great Ormond Street Hospital in London, increasing fuel and food costs.

'Less of a citizen'

Suzanne says there is "absolutely" a pressure on her finances and if it were not for the inheritance her mother left her, she "wouldn't be living".

"Both my husband's parents are dead and my parents are dead. I don't have siblings that live close by so I don't have any support," she says.

"I think the problem is, unless you've walked in somebody's shoes, you really don't understand."

Suzanne says there are some things central and local government could do to help, such as giving personal budgets through direct payments, which would allow carers to choose the support and help they needed.

"Personally I feel you get looked down on. People think you're only a carer, you get benefits, you're less of a citizen - that really annoys me," she says.

"I think the benefits system doesn't work. I'm not suggesting that all carers in the UK should be paid a certain amount, but they should be paid equitably so that people don't get to the point mentally where they say 'I can't do this anymore'. 

"There need to be some serious, high-level debates and they need to involve carers in those debates. 

"The government need to look at how much money they are wasting in the care system by doing the wrong things."

Speaking of her daughter's battles, Suzanne adds: " I don't know how she copes - I think she's an inspiration.

"She has to be pulled and tugged by doctors and have test after test, and she tolerates it all. Sometimes when I'm watching her have these tests I think to myself 'I don't know how she does it'". 

Charity calls for review

Helen Walker, chief executive at Carers UK, says it is in the state's interest to support unpaid carers because "if a carer goes down then the state has to look after two people".

If you have to give up work to care, she says, "you are going to find yourself spiralling into poverty".

"Carer's allowance hasn't had a fundamental review for years so we would like a review looking at who is eligible for it, how it works and an increase to the amount," she adds.

"And also there needs to be an increase to the amount of hours you can work while caring.

"Social care is underfunded so it needs some real investment in order for unpaid carers to be able to care safely and well.

"What many carers will say is they need a break. It's not that they don't want to care, it's that they are exhausted. They are at breaking point."

A government spokesperson said: "Unpaid carers play a vital role in the lives of their family and friends, which is why from April we're boosting carer's allowance meaning carers receive an extra £1,500 a year compared to 2010.

"Those in low income households may also be eligible for additional financial support such as universal credit."

You can read the previous parts of our series here:

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Is key west safe for a solo traveler (female)?

11 replies to this topic

Yes. Very safe. But just like any other touristy city, be aware of your surroundings and your belongings and don't get too drunk.

Fully agree with FL boy. With the standard precautions you would apply anywhere else I would have no specific concerns about visiting Key West solo.

My wife feels very safe in Old Town even at night.

Me - female - and I walk around alone. All hours. Have never felt unsafe there.

I’ll biked around town very late at night to see Christmas lights. Light traffic and it was safe relaxing ride.

Yes, very safe. I've done 2 solo trips to KW already, with another planned for November. Have you been to KW before or will this be your 1st time? I try to walk in populated areas at night and am usually back in my room by 10. I've never had any issues at all!

This will be my first time

As others said, this is a very safe town. Use normal precautions such as staying aware of your surroundings, don’t walk alone very late at night, and be careful in rowdy bars late at night. Most crime here is petty crime like stolen bikes, so if you rent a bike be sure you lock it even if you are just leaving it unattended for a few minutes.

Yes it is generally safe. Use common sense, be aware of what's going on around you. There are a few bad actors, who are generally easy to detect. best to just leave, or move when they appear. I have to disagree with the unnecessary use of side street in the late hours. People = safety.

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