Things To Do
in Key West
Key West is a vibrant island city located at the southernmost tip of Florida. It is famous for its laid-back atmosphere, eclectic arts scene, and stunning sunsets. The historic Old Town features charming pastel-colored buildings, lively bars, and unique shops.
Visitors can relax on pristine beaches, explore the underwater world through snorkeling or scuba diving, and enjoy delicious seafood in waterfront restaurants.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $150 - $500
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $6
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. Enjoy a stroll through the lush gardens and learn about the author's life.
Head to the southernmost point buoy for a classic photo opportunity. Afterward, relax on the beautiful beaches of Fort Zachary Taylor State Park.
Wrap up the day at Mallory Square for the famous sunset celebration. Enjoy local street performances and grab a bite from food vendors.
Go on a snorkeling excursion to the coral reefs off the coast of Key West. Witness the vibrant marine life in their natural habitat.
Have lunch at a local seafood restaurant and savor the fresh catch of the day. Then, visit the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory.
Dine at a waterfront restaurant and enjoy the sunset views. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along Duval Street's lively shops and bars.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and clear waters perfect for swimming and water sports.
- A vibrant nightlife with bars, restaurants, and live music.
- A rich history with many historical sites and museums to explore.
- Warm tropical climate year-round, making it an attractive vacation spot.
- Unique cultural blend with influences from Latin America and the Caribbean.
- High cost of living and expensive accommodations.
- Tourist crowds can make popular spots very busy, especially during peak seasons.
- Limited access to medical facilities compared to larger cities.
- Hurricane risk during certain months of the year.
- Transportation options are limited, requiring a car or bike for easy travel around the island.
Best Activities in Key West
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful coral reefs and marine life in the crystal-clear waters of Dry Tortugas National Park.
Enjoy a day of sailing or boating in the pristine waters of Key West, taking in the scenic views and beautiful sunsets.
Embark on an exhilarating jet ski tour, navigating through the turquoise waters and exploring the coastline of Key West.
Tours
Uncover the best of Key West with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Key West
Visit one of these nice places.
Famous for its sunset celebrations and picturesque views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Iconic landmark with breathtaking ocean views that symbolizes the southernmost point in the continental United States.
Scenic park with a historic fort, beautiful beaches, and hiking trails offering panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Food in Key West
Key West Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A tangy and smooth dessert made with the distinctive Key limes, often served with a graham cracker crust and whipped cream. Must-try at Kermit's Key West Key Lime Shoppe.
Must-Try!
Deep-fried fritters made with tender and flavorful conch meat, often served with a tangy dipping sauce. Highly recommended at Half Shell Raw Bar.
A delicious sandwich filled with roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard pressed in Cuban bread. Best found at Sandy's Café.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Key West better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market offering a variety of fresh produce, local seafood, and artisanal goods. Don't miss the food stalls offering authentic Cuban and Caribbean street food.
A popular spot for fresh catches and a variety of seafood prepared in true Key West style, offering a casual outdoor dining experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Key West is known for its diverse and inclusive culture, so showing respect for the LGBTQ+ community is essential. Use inclusive language and be mindful of individual pronoun preferences.
Key West has a relaxed atmosphere, and casual attire is widely accepted. However, dress codes may still apply in certain establishments, so it's important to be aware of specific guidelines for each venue.
The locals in Key West appreciate a laid-back and friendly demeanor. It's important to be polite, respect personal space, and embrace the easygoing nature of the community.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Key West with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Key West
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is a common practice in Key West, United States. It is customary to tip service workers such as waitstaff, bartenders, taxi drivers, and hotel staff. The typical tip amount is 15-20% of the total bill.
Payment in Key West, United States is commonly done using credit or debit cards, although cash is also widely accepted. Most businesses, including restaurants, shops, and hotels, accept major credit cards. Contactless payment methods are also gaining popularity.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Key West.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Key West with warm weather, blooming flowers, and various festivals such as the Conch Republic Independence Celebration.
Great for water activities with clear, calm waters, perfect for snorkeling and diving. However, it can be hot and crowded due to the peak tourist season.
Quieter and less crowded than summer, with warm temperatures and the chance to witness the annual migration of butterflies through the Florida Keys.
Milder temperatures and a popular time for bird-watching and enjoying outdoor activities. It's also the peak season for holiday events and festivals.
Key West at Night
Hiking in Key West
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful park offering hiking trails with a mix of coastal scenery, historic sites, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Requires a ferry ride, this remote park features trails on Garden Key with stunning views, historic ruins, and excellent snorkeling.
A bit north of Key West, this park has hiking trails through mangroves and tropical landscapes, alongside pristine beaches.
A nature preserve with trails that provide a peaceful escape into the mangroves and habitats for local wildlife.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Key West through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Key West by plane.
The primary airport serving the Miami metropolitan area and a major hub for international flights.
An international airport situated in Fort Lauderdale, serving as a secondary hub for travel to and from South Florida.
Located in Tampa, this airport serves the greater Tampa Bay area and offers many international destinations.
A major airport in Florida, serving the Orlando area and a large number of international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Approximately 76% of the population identifies as White, reflecting the largest demographic group in Key West.
Around 16% of residents identify as Hispanic or Latino, contributing significantly to the cultural diversity of the area.
About 10% of the population identifies as Black or African American, representing an important community within Key West.
Less than 1% of the population identifies as Asian, indicating a smaller demographic presence in the area.
Individuals identifying with two or more races make up about 3% of the population, reflecting a growing diversity.
The Soul of Key West
Discover the essence of Key West through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Key West is known for its beautiful coral reefs and clear waters, making it a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling.
Sport fishing is a major activity in Key West, with opportunities for deep sea fishing, reef fishing, and flats fishing.
The waters around Key West are ideal for sailing, with numerous charters available for both beginners and experienced sailors.
Activities such as jet skiing, paddleboarding, and windsurfing are popular among both tourists and locals.
Key West has a bike-friendly atmosphere, and many enjoy exploring the island on bicycles.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Key West.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many local eateries offer a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, with creative salads, grilled vegetables, and plant-based creations readily available.
Several restaurants and cafes in Key West cater to gluten-free diners, offering gluten-free breads, pastas, and dedicated menus to accommodate dietary needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Key West with these cultural adventures.
