Discover Key West Island in Florida

Index

Find out everything about this incredible island of Key West, belonging to the group of paradisiacal islands in the famous Florida Keys. It's one of the most beautiful places I've ever seen! The sunset is perfect and the water is that turquoise blue color that looks beautiful in all the photos! Check out our tips on what to see, where to stay, how to get there, where to eat and much more.

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What is Key West?

Key West is an island, belonging to the group of Paradise Islands in Florida Keys, located south of Florida (267km from Miami).

This island is the largest of the entire group, the size (more or less) of South Beach in Miami. To access the islands you have to cross giant and endless bridges that cross the sea, that alone is an incredible journey!

How to get to Key West?

Leaving Miami, the distance to Key West is 267km, around 3 hours by car. The route is considered one of the most beautiful in the world, crossing gigantic bridges that are connected between one island and another.

There is no mystery in arriving in Key West, as there is only one road, so just enjoy the route and admire the landscape!

What is the history of Key West?

With a story that includes Spanish exploration, piracy, annexation by the USA in 1821 and economic development, with emphasis on cigar production. During the American Civil War, the island supported the Union. In the 20th century, it attracted famous writers such as Ernest Hemingway. The Cuban Revolution brought Cuban exiles to the area.

Currently, Key West is an important tourist destination!

What to do in Key West?

Its beauty is already an attraction in itself, from the moment you enter the island, and if it's getting late in the afternoon, you'll be able to admire one of the best places in the world to watch the sunset.

Furthermore, the city has a very pleasant tropical climate, a beautiful cultural history and natural beauty everywhere.

Dry Tortugas National Park in Key West

Discover this natural park that is part of the group of islands. The place is surrounded by walls and was used as a war fort in 1935 in the Gulf of Mexico. Currently, it is a park that adds a lot to local culture and history.

It is right in the middle of the sea, where the waters are crystal clear and there is very white sand. When diving, you can admire the fish of various species passing by your side.

Important detail: The place is considered one of the best places to snorkel. So bring your diving equipment!

Another attraction of the park is the museum, the Dry Tortugas Museum, there you will learn about the history of the region.

Where is the park: It is near Key West, 110 kilometers west.

Key West Beach

I confess that one day is not enough to relax and enjoy the beauty of Key West's beaches.!

The most famous are: Fort Zachary Taylor (considered the most beautiful and allows diving), South Beach, Higg's or Smathers.

The city has a tourist attraction known as Four Keys, which is an archipelago of islands, 1,700 in total (and you can enjoy countless beaches).

Discover the neighborhoods and streets of Key West

Discovering and walking around the neighborhoods is a great option for what to do in the city. Different and charming! In the center there is a Bahama Market, full of handicrafts and a great option to buy some souvenirs to give as a gift.

The main street in Key West is duval street.

Another cool option to do in the center is to visit the shops and restaurants, this is where you will find most of them.

Mallory Square in Key West

At the end of the afternoon, the ritual is to dazzle the sunset, and there at Mallory Square. Known as Sunset Celebration, it's a romantic, fun and perfect moment! It is the point with countless people enjoying the spectacle in the sky, making it possible to follow the perfect changes in colors.

Remember if: This is where you will experience one of the most beautiful sunsets in the world!

While the sunset is taking place, there are also stalls selling food and crafts, and there are artists performing. 🙂

90 Mile Milestone to Cuba in Key West

This place is really cool for you to make that record 📸. This is because here is the monument that marks the approximate distance of 90 miles (about 145 kilometers) between Key West and Cuba.

It is a symbol of the geographic proximity between the two regions and is also a reminder of the tense historical and political relations between the United States and Cuba.

So register and enjoy the beautiful landscape surrounding the landmark.

Hemingway House and Key West Museums

Like all cities in the USA, Key West Island is no different! It has museums, which are extremely important for the cultural enrichment of residents and visitors.

The Hemingway House is open to the public and its story, the famous writer Ernest Hemingway, is shared there. He lived in this house from 1931 to 1940. Currently, it is open daily from 9am to 5pm.

Among the other museums, the following stand out: the Museum and Key West Lighthouse (Key West Lighthouse and Museum), which highlights the history of navigation and the headlights Of region. It is possible to climb to the lighthouse, taking 88 steps, at the top you have a panoramic view of the city and the sea. Key West Maritime Museum (Key West Maritime Museum), which explores the island's maritime history; O Key West Museum of Art and History (Key West Art and Historical Society), which showcases local art and history exhibits; and the Tennessee Williams Museum, dedicated to the life and work of the famous playwright.

Boat ride

A great option to get to know the ocean even more on a boat, taking advantage of the natural beauty, stunning the landscape from other angles.

What to do at night in Key West?

Key West is not a very lively city at night, but the city center always has a good vibe in the bars and restaurants. It's on the main street duval street that bars, shops and restaurants stay open until late.

A great option is to go to hard rock cafe, with good music, food and different types of drinks. Another cool and lively place is Sloopy Joe's bar.

What to do in one day in Key West?

In my opinion, one day is not enough to fully enjoy the island of Key West, but here is my tip on what you need to see and do in one day:

Explore the vibrant Duval Streett, where you can shop, see art galleries and enjoy the city's lively atmosphere.
Go to Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park to enjoy outdoor activities. Walk the trails and relax in the beach.
In the late afternoon go to the mallory square to dazzle the sunset. Walk along the promenade, enjoy the sea view and take some photos.📸
In the evening, enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant or try local cuisine at one of the restaurants in the area, such as the Sloppy Joe's Bar.

What to do in Key West in 2 days?

Two days is enough to enjoy the island and see the city's main tourist attractions, make the most of the beach, go diving and watch the sunset. My tip to enjoy it in 2 days:

Day 1:

City tram tour It is a great option to discover the city's main tourist attractions. You can choose a hop-on hop-off tour to explore specific areas in more detail.
Go to Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park to enjoy outdoor activities. Walk the trails and relax in the beach.
In the late afternoon go to the mallory square to dazzle the sunset. Walk along the promenade, enjoy the sea view and take some photos.📸
In the evening, enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant or try local cuisine at one of the restaurants in the area, such as the Sloppy Joe's Bar.

Day 2:

Explore the vibrant Duval Streett, where you can shop, see art galleries and enjoy the city's lively atmosphere.

Visit the Hemingway's house and the museum to learn more about the life and work of the famous writer, if you have more time, visit the other museums such as the Lighthouse (Key West Lighthouse and Museum).
Take advantage of the afternoon to participate in water activities, such as diving, snorkeling or kayaking, exploring the coral reefs and marine life.
In the evening, enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant or try local cuisine at one of the restaurants in the area, such as the hard rock cafe, take advantage of the open stores and bars to have fun.

Where to eat in Key West?

You best restaurants are in the city center in duval street. One of the best-known restaurants in the region is Nine One Five. Its menu consists of seafood dishes, salads and a huge wine list. It's a light and super tasty meal, plus, of course, a delicious touch of the Island!

Another very different option with delicious seafood dishes prepared with Latin and Spanish origins is the Santiago's Winery. What sets this place apart is the cozy space, making it possible to sit at tables on the street, have a good cold beer and enjoy the moment!

We have an article talking specifically about Best Key West Restaurants.

Where to stay in Key West?

Choosing good accommodation and staying in a nice place is the most important part of your trip! You need to choose a good location, whatever you intend to pay for a night's stay, check whether the hotel's distance from the main tourist attractions is viable.

I would like to share with you, in an easier way to understand and find your way around, that the island is divided into three regions: New Town, the region furthest from the attractions, Mid Town It is a more residential neighborhood and the Old Town which is where the main tourist attractions, the main hotels, the best restaurants, in other words the best region to stay! This is where most tourists stay 🙂

Pier House Resort & Spa is located in the heart of the city, 1 minute walk from the city's entertainment area Duval Street. Offers a full-service spa, instant beach access, and on-site dining.

The Capitana Key West It is a beautiful hotel facing the sea, with very spacious rooms, hot tubs, outdoor pool, restaurant and bar.

Oceans Edge Key West This resort offers 6 swimming pools, a beachfront bar and restaurant. You'll also find a paddle shop, water sports facilities, and a 165-slip marina on the property.