✈️ Travel
Key West Guide: The Ultimate Southernmost City Escape
Key West is quirky, colorful, and completely unlike anywhere else in the US. Here's how to experience the best of this island paradise.
Must-Do Experiences
- Southernmost Point Buoy: Photo op at the iconic buoy (line forms early)
- Mallory Square Sunset Celebration: Street performers, food vendors, stunning sunset
- Ernest Hemingway's House: Six-toed cats, tropical gardens, literary history
- Duval Street: 1.25 miles of bars, shops, restaurants
- Fort Zachary Taylor: Best beach on Key West, Civil War fort
Best Restaurants
| Restaurant | Cuisine | Price | Must-Order |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conch Republic | Seafood | $$ | Conch fritters |
| Blue Heaven | American | $$ | Key lime pie |
| El Siboney | Cuban | $ | Ropa vieja |
| Luke's Kitchen | Seafood | $$ | Fresh catch |
| Bob's | Seafood | $$ | Lobster bisque |
Water Activities
- Snorkeling at Fort Zachary: Best reef access on the island
- Jet ski tour: Circle the island (3 hours)
- Fishing charter: Deep sea or backcountry
- Paddleboard: Calm waters, manatee sightings
The sunset rule: Get to Mallory Square at least30 minutes before sunset for a good spot. The celebration starts 2 hours before sunset and peaks right as the sun hits the water. Tuesday nights have the best street performers.
⚠️ Key West Tips:
- Don't rent a car " — the island is3 miles long, bikes and scooters are better
- Don't visit during Fantasy Fest (October) unless you're prepared for massive crowds
- Don't skip theKey lime pie " — it's mandatory, not optional
- Don't forget sunscreen " — the Florida sun is intense even on cloudy days
The bottom line: Key West is walkable, bikeable, and completely unique. Budget 2-3 days minimum. Must-dos: Southernmost Point, Mallory Square sunset, Duval Street, Hemingway's House. Best time: November-April (dry season). Expect to spend$150-250/day.