Key West is located at the southernmost tip of Florida, the last major island among those that trail off the coast of Miami, between the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. It\u2019s long been a wintertime vacation hotspot, and it\u2019s easy to understand why. From the accommodations to the restaurants and activities, there\u2019s something for everyone, whether you\u2019re into watersports, food, history and culture, nature or shopping.<\/p>\n
There are a wide variety of hotels, inns, bed and breakfasts, and other kinds of accommodations in Key West. It can be hard to find a balance between being where the action is in the touristy areas while still finding a place to get away and relax. Here are a few places that successfully balance a central location with seclusion for those who seek it.<\/p>\n
The Saint Hotel Key West<\/a> on Eaton between Duval Street and Whitehead has a dramatic, high-end vibe that\u2019s colourful and sophisticated. Enjoy luxurious superior or vintage rooms, plus an Infinity pool, and sun lounges. There is an on-site bar and restaurant, and guests can also book spa services to really unwind on their vacation.<\/p>\n The art deco Pegasus International Hotel<\/a> on Duval Street at Southard Street in downtown Key West is walkable to many major attractions, museums, and landmarks. Rooms and suites are available. Guests enjoy a continental breakfast and happy hour served daily. Swim in the heated rooftop pool, relax in the jacuzzi, or watch the sunset from the hotel\u2019s poolside bar.<\/p>\n At the Seascape Tropical Inn<\/a> on Olivia Street, off Duval, enjoy rooms and suites in a quiet, private setting that\u2019s still accessible to all the energy of the main street. This bed and breakfast serves complimentary breakfasts with mimosas and locally made items from nearby cafes. Swim in the heated pool, rent a bike to explore the city or enjoy a book on the shady patio.<\/p>\n The premium guest room furnishings and seaside decor of the Orchid Key Inn<\/strong> feature marble, walnut, and glass tile, elevating this gem in Historic Old Town Key West into a modern and contemporary inn with classic charm. Enjoy complimentary breakfasts, daily happy hour, a lovely sun deck and heated pool.<\/p>\n Walking along Duval Street, pretty much the best-known street in Key West, offers visitors a plethora of activities, from museums to art galleries and shops. Take a leisurely, laid-back stroll, or check out the following popular attractions.<\/p>\n For an inside look at the rum distilling process, and how rum, the Hemingway family, and the history of Key West are intertwined, visit Papa\u2019s Pilar Rum Distillery<\/a>, Hemingway Rum Company. Samples are available for guests age 21 and older; if you like what you taste, visit the gift shop to take a little Key West rum home with you.<\/p>\n Take it easy and do some swimming and sunbathing at Smathers Beach<\/a>. With free parking, this sandy public beach on the south side of Key West is a popular attraction. Even though amenities are limited to restrooms only, beach-goers can rent chairs and watersports gear for the day from nearby vendors.<\/p>\n https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=xshkDTSLKPw<\/a><\/p>\n Dry Tortugas National Park<\/a> is a little out of the way but definitely worth the effort. There\u2019s regular ferry service from Key West to this island fort 70 miles out to sea, tucked among a series of keys that make up one of the most interesting U.S. national parks. Most of the parkland is actually underwater, and it\u2019s a great place for new and experienced snorkelers alike to go exploring along reefs, wrecks, and old naval pilings.<\/p>\n Fishing is one of the most popular activities in Key West, whether you\u2019re a resident or visitor. The area is well known for swordfish, tarpon, kingfish, marlin, sailfish, and tuna<\/a>. It\u2019s unique location and geography offer recreational and sport fishermen a dynamic and exciting experience, with a minimum of fuss because nearly all local fishing charter captains have already arranged for gear, permits, and licensing. All tourists need to do is book their charter. Half- and full-day trips are available and can be customized for folks who have a preference for reef, wreck, flats, or deep-sea fishing<\/a>.<\/p>\n Take in the Sunset Celebration nightly at Mallory Square, at the northern end of Duval Street. Music, food vendors, street performers, and more put on a party for all ages.<\/p>\n By virtue of its storied past, the cuisine of Key West is influenced heavily by Spanish, Latin, Caribbean, and French flavours, although foodies will find lots of Korean, Mediterranean, Chinese, and Japanese dishes here, too! There are restaurants that specialize in light fare, 4-course meals, pub food, seafood, and even dessert (Better Than Sex Dessert Restaurant is just one example!).<\/p>\nThings to Do<\/h2>\n
Where to Eat<\/h2>\n