Key West: Island Paradise at the End of the Road

Escape to the southernmost point of the continental United States, where turquoise waters meet vibrant culture. Key West, Florida, offers a unique blend of laid-back island vibes, historical charm, and unforgettable sunsets. Discover hidden beaches, lively bars, and captivating stories in this tropical haven. Plan your Key West vacation today!

• Address: Key West, FL, USA

Planning Your Key West Trip

Key West Essentials

• Country and State: United States, Florida
• Timezone: GMT -5 (Eastern Standard Time)
• Languages Spoken: English (primary), some Spanish
• Currency: US Dollar (USD)

Key West Weather & Climate

Get a sense of Key West weather by month. Perfect for planning your trip!

• January-February: Mild and dry, average highs in the low 70s (°F).
• March-May: Warm and sunny, with increasing humidity. Highs in the mid-70s to low 80s (°F).
• June-August: Hot and humid, with frequent afternoon showers. Highs in the upper 80s (°F).
• September-November: Warm and humid, with hurricane season possible. Highs in the mid-80s to low 80s (°F).
• December: Mild and dry, average highs in the low 70s (°F).

Discovering Key West: A City Overview

Key West, the final island in the Florida Keys archipelago, is a vibrant tapestry woven from history, natural beauty, and a “Conch Republic” attitude. Stroll down Duval Street, a lively thoroughfare bursting with colorful shops, bars, and restaurants. Explore the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, where six-toed cats roam the grounds, or witness the breathtaking sunset celebration at Mallory Square. Beyond the bustling streets, discover secluded beaches, mangrove forests, and crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling, diving, and fishing. Key West offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure, inviting visitors to embrace its carefree spirit and create lasting memories. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo exploration, Key West promises an unforgettable experience.

Best Time to Visit Key West

When should you visit Key West? Consider the seasonal pros and cons:

• Seasonal pros and cons:
  • Winter (December-February):
    • Pros: Mild weather, less humidity, fewer crowds (except around holidays). Ideal for snowbirds!
    • Cons: Higher prices, potential for cool evenings. Book accommodations in advance.
  • Spring (March-May):
    • Pros: Warm and sunny weather, pleasant temperatures, good for outdoor activities. Great for watersports!
    • Cons: Increasing humidity, spring break crowds in March.
  • Summer (June-August):
    • Pros: Warmest waters for swimming, fewer crowds (excluding July 4th).
    • Cons: Hot and humid weather, frequent afternoon showers, hurricane season. Consider travel insurance.
  • Fall (September-November):
    • Pros: Lower prices, fewer crowds, good fishing. Book fishing charters!
    • Cons: Hurricane season, potential for rain and storms. Monitor weather forecasts.

Getting to Key West & Visa Information

Plan your arrival! Here’s how to get to Key West:

• Flights: Key West International Airport (EYW) offers direct flights from several major US cities. Book your flight now!
• Trains: No train service directly to Key West.
• Visa Details: Standard US visa requirements apply. Check the US Department of State website for details.
• Airport Transfers: Taxis, ride-sharing services (Uber/Lyft), and shuttle buses are available for airport transfers. Pre-book your airport transfer!

Key West Highlights

Fun Fact: The Conch Republic

The Conch Republic: In 1982, Key West jokingly seceded from the United States, forming the “Conch Republic” to protest a US Border Patrol roadblock. The “nation” declared war on the US (symbolically breaking a loaf of Cuban bread over a naval officer’s head) and then immediately surrendered, requesting foreign aid for their “struggling” nation. The stunt gained national attention and successfully ended the roadblock.

Famous Key West Personalities

• Ernest Hemingway: Renowned author, lived and wrote in Key West for many years.
• Tennessee Williams: Playwright, spent many years in Key West.
• Jimmy Buffett: Singer-songwriter, often associated with the Key West lifestyle.

Top 10 Key West Attractions

Don’t miss these incredible Key West attractions:

• Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
  • Description: Former residence of Ernest Hemingway, now a museum showcasing his life and work, and home to many six-toed cats. Book your tour now!
  • Address: 907 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040
• Southernmost Point Buoy
  • Description: A colorful buoy marking the southernmost point in the continental US, a popular photo opportunity.
  • Address: Whitehead St & South St, Key West, FL 33040
• Mallory Square
  • Description: A waterfront plaza known for its nightly sunset celebration, featuring street performers, food vendors, and craft stalls.
  • Address: 400 Wall St, Key West, FL 33040
• Dry Tortugas National Park
  • Description: A remote national park featuring Fort Jefferson, a massive 19th-century fort, and excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. Book your ferry or seaplane!
  • Address: Accessible by ferry or seaplane from Key West
• Duval Street
  • Description: The main thoroughfare in Key West, lined with shops, restaurants, bars, and art galleries.
  • Address: Duval Street, Key West, FL 33040
• Key West Aquarium
  • Description: An aquarium featuring local marine life, including sharks, sea turtles, and jellyfish. Get your tickets online!
  • Address: 1 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040
• Mel Fisher Maritime Museum
  • Description: A museum displaying artifacts recovered from the sunken Spanish galleons Atocha and Margarita.
  • Address: 200 Greene St, Key West, FL 33040
• The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory
  • Description: A tropical garden filled with hundreds of butterflies, exotic birds, and lush vegetation. Visit the Butterfly Conservatory!
  • Address: 1316 Duval St, Key West, FL 33040
• Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
  • Description: A Civil War-era fort with a beach, swimming, snorkeling, and picnicking areas.
  • Address: 601 Howard England Way, Key West, FL 33040
• Harry S. Truman Little White House
  • Description: The former winter White House of President Harry S. Truman, now a museum.
  • Address: 111 Front St, Key West, FL 33040

Key West Hidden Gems

Discover some off-the-beaten-path treasures:

• Key West Cemetery
  • Description: A historic cemetery with quirky and humorous epitaphs.
  • Address: 701 Passover Ln, Key West, FL 33040
• Higgs Beach African Burial Ground
  • Description: A solemn site commemorating an African burial ground uncovered during construction.
  • Address: Higgs Beach, Key West, FL 33040
• The Studios of Key West
  • Description: A hub for local artists, offering workshops, exhibitions, and performances.
  • Address: 533 Eaton St, Key West, FL 33040

Local Key West Festivals & Events

• Fantasy Fest (October): A 10-day costume festival featuring parades, parties, and elaborate costumes.
• Hemingway Days (July): A celebration of Ernest Hemingway’s life and work, featuring look-alike contests, fishing tournaments, and literary readings.
• Key West Pride (June): A celebration of LGBTQ+ pride, featuring parades, parties, and events.

Day Trips & Nearby Key West Attractions

Explore beyond Key West:

• Marathon (1 hour): A nearby island town with beaches, wildlife centers, and the Turtle Hospital.
• Big Pine Key (45 minutes): Home to the National Key Deer Refuge, where you can spot endangered Key deer.
• Islamorada (1 hour 30 minutes): Known as the “Sport Fishing Capital of the World,” offering excellent fishing and watersports opportunities. Book a fishing charter in Islamorada!

Picture-Perfect Key West: Photography Spots

• Southernmost Point Buoy: A classic Key West photo.
• Mallory Square Sunset Celebration: Capture the vibrant colors of the sunset with street performers in the foreground.
• Duval Street: The colorful buildings and lively atmosphere make for great street photography.
• Fort Zachary Taylor Beach: Capture the crystal-clear water and the historic fort.
• The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory: A beautiful setting for capturing butterflies and tropical foliage.

Key West Accommodation & Transportation

How Long to Stay in Key West

Recommended number of days of stay: 3-5 days

Top Places to Stay in Key West (By Budget)

Budget-Friendly Key West Hotels

• The Avalon Bed and Breakfast
  • Address: 1317 Duval St, Key West, FL 33040
• Seashell Motel and Key West Hostel
  • Address: 718 South St, Key West, FL 33040
• Alexander Palms Court
  • Address: 218 Simonton St, Key West, FL 33040

Mid-Range Key West Hotels

• The Laureate Key West
  • Address: 3444 N Roosevelt Blvd, Key West, FL 33040
• H2O Suites Hotel
  • Address: 529 Simonton St, Key West, FL 33040
• Marrero’s Guest Mansion
  • Address: 410 Fleming St, Key West, FL 33040
• Simonton Court Historic Inn & Cottages
  • Address: 320 Simonton St, Key West, FL 33040

Luxury Key West Hotels

• Ocean Key Resort & Spa
  • Address: 0 Duval St, Key West, FL 33040
• Sunset Key Cottages
  • Address: 245 Front St, Key West, FL 33040
• The Gardens Hotel
  • Address: 526 Angela St, Key West, FL 33040
• Casa Marina Key West, Curio Collection by Hilton
  • Address: 1500 Reynolds St, Key West, FL 33040

Getting Around Key West

• Public Transport: The Duval Loop is a free bus service that runs along Duval Street.
• Taxis: Available throughout the island.
• Bikes: A popular and convenient way to get around. Many rental shops available. Rent a bike now!
• Walking: Key West is very walkable, especially the historic downtown area.

Key West Travel Tips

Key West Packing Essentials

• Lightweight clothing (shorts, t-shirts, sundresses)
• Swimsuit
• Sunscreen
• Hat
• Sunglasses
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Insect repellent
• Rain jacket (especially during hurricane season)

Useful Apps for Your Key West Trip

• Google Maps: Navigation.
• Yelp: Restaurant reviews and recommendations.
• Uber/Lyft: Ride-sharing services.

Key West: Local Customs, Safety, and Etiquette

• Do’s: Be respectful of the local culture, enjoy the laid-back atmosphere, try the local cuisine.
• Don’ts: Litter, be overly loud or disruptive, be disrespectful to the environment.
• Scams to avoid: Be wary of overly aggressive street vendors.
• Respectful behavior: Key West has a very open and accepting culture, but be mindful of others and their beliefs.

Key West Food, Fun & Finds

Top Key West Restaurants

• Louie’s Backyard
  • Description: Upscale restaurant with Caribbean-inspired cuisine and ocean views. Make a reservation at Louie’s Backyard!
  • Address: 700 Waddell Ave, Key West, FL 33040
• Blue Heaven
  • Description: Famous for its Caribbean and American cuisine, live music, and resident chickens.
  • Address: 729 Thomas St, Key West, FL 33040
• Hogfish Bar & Grill
  • Description: Waterfront restaurant serving fresh seafood and local favorites.
  • Address: 6810 Front St, Stock Island, FL 33040

Must-Try Dishes in Key West

• Key Lime Pie: A tart and creamy dessert made with Key limes.
• Conch Fritters: Deep-fried fritters made with conch meat.
• Cuban Sandwich: A pressed sandwich filled with roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard.
• Stone Crab Claws: A local delicacy, typically served chilled with mustard sauce.

Key West Nightlife & Entertainment

• Sloppy Joe’s Bar
  • Description: A legendary bar with live music and a lively atmosphere, once frequented by Ernest Hemingway.
  • Address: 201 Duval St, Key West, FL 33040
• Captain Tony’s Saloon
  • Description: A historic bar with a quirky atmosphere and a rich history.
  • Address: 428 Greene St, Key West, FL 33040
• The Green Parrot Bar
  • Description: A local favorite known for its live music and eclectic atmosphere.
  • Address: 601 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040

What to Buy in Key West (Souvenirs & Markets)

• Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe
  • Description: Selling Key Lime pies, candies, and other Key Lime-themed treats. Shop Key Lime treats online!
  • Address: 200 Elizabeth St, Key West, FL 33040
• Local Art Galleries: Duval Street is lined with galleries selling paintings, sculptures, and other artwork.
• Conch Shells: A classic Key West souvenir.