Key West: Island Dreams and Seaside Adventures

Key West: Island Dreams and Seaside Adventures

Key West is the southernmost city in the continental United States and is known for its rich history, unique culture, and stunning natural beauty. It's part of the Florida Keys, a chain of islands surrounded by clear turquoise waters. Key West offers a laid-back atmosphere, vibrant nightlife, and a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages.
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The best time to visit Key West is during the dry season, which typically runs from November to April. This period offers pleasant weather with cooler temperatures and less humidity. However, it's also the peak tourist season. May to October is the wet season, with higher chances of rain and occasional hurricanes, but it's less crowded and more budget-friendly.

Getting Here

By Air: Key West International Airport (EYW) is the primary airport serving the city, with flights from various U.S. cities. You can also fly into Miami (MIA) and drive to the island. 

By Car: Key West is accessible by the scenic Overseas Highway (US-1) from the mainland. The drive is picturesque and includes the iconic Seven Mile Bridge.

Accommodation 

Casa Marina Key West, Curio Collection by Hilton
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Combine the intimacy of private beach and onsite amenities with the vibrancy of Old Town. Timely touches elevate moments, letting guests unwind and create unforgettable memories.
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Sunset Key Cottages
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On a private 27-acre island, this refined oceanfront resort is a 7-minute boat ride from Key West and 4 miles from Key West International Airport.
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Crowne Plaza Key West-La Concha, an IHG Hotel
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Near the center of Key West, this upmarket hotel is less than a mile from the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, and from Mallory Square, a waterfront district with restaurants and shops.
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Margaritaville Beach House Key West
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Great location across the street from the beach. Easy access to parking and a shuttle into town.
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Things to Do

The Hemingway Home and Museum
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Visit the former home of the famous writer and meet the resident six-toed cats.
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Duval Street
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Stroll along this famous street known for its vibrant bars, restaurants, and shops.
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Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
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Explore the historic fort and enjoy a beautiful beach for swimming and sunbathing.
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Mallory Square
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Experience the nightly Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square, where street performers and vendors gather to celebrate the sunset.
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Fish 'N Chicks Charters
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Key West Jet Ski Tours
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The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory
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Admire a variety of butterfly species in a tropical garden setting.
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Key West Historic Seaport
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Explore the historic seaport area, known for its seafood restaurants, water excursions, and beautiful sunsets.
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Dry Tortugas National Park
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Take a ferry or seaplane to this remote national park known for its pristine beaches and the historic Fort Jefferson.
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Key West Lighthouse
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Climb to the top of the lighthouse for panoramic views of Key West.
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Key West Cemetery
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The Key West cemetery is a lot like the city itself: quirky, crowded, colorful and full of history.
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Dining 

Key West is famous for its seafood, Cuban cuisine, and tropical flavors. Be sure to try conch fritters, key lime pie, and fresh seafood dishes.

Louie's Backyard
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Dine on incredible cuisine served by a professional staff on either the fabulous multilevel deck or in the elegant dining room;
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Santiago's Bodega
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Charming tapas bar pairing global small plates with house-specialty sangria in a warm room.
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A&B Lobster House
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Diners can watch the sun set over the harbor at this local fixture for surf 'n' turf.
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Latitudes
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Upscale restaurant with sea views, outdoor dining & a menu of contemporary cuisine.
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Glazed Donuts
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Casual shop serving creative donuts & coffee in a relaxed space with robot decor.
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Blue Heaven
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Iconic landmark for Floridian-Caribbean cuisine & key lime pie, with a funky setting.
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Cuban Coffee Queen Downtown (Southard and Duval)
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Nightlife

Duval Street is the epicenter of Key West's nightlife. You can find numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues.

Sloppy Joe's
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Open since 1933, this bar offers live music & dancing plus a separate tap room for sports-watching.
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Green Parrot Bar
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An institution since 1890, this watering hole features a jukebox & frequent live music.
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Hog's Breath Saloon
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Popular pub providing bar food on a covered outdoor patio plus live music & dancing.
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Aqua Bar and Nightclub
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Show bar with drag shows nightly
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Sidebar Key West
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Live DJ's nightly, theme party's weekly. Open for happy hour daily 4pm-7pm. Free pool, lounge with outdoor restaurant and dance floor.
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Durty Harrys
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Great place for live music and DJs. Multi-story with bars on each level make getting a drink easy.
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Festivals

Fantasy Fest

Fantasy Fest is Key West's most famous and colorful event. It's a lively and imaginative 10-day street party with elaborate costumes, parades, live music, and themed events. The highlight is the Fantasy Fest Parade, featuring intricate floats and vibrant characters.

Key West Food & Wine Festival

This festival celebrates the culinary delights of Key West and the Florida Keys. Attendees can savor wine tastings, food pairings, cooking demonstrations, and gourmet dinners prepared by local and visiting chefs.

Key West Songwriters Festival

This annual event showcases some of the world's top songwriters who gather to perform their songs and share the stories behind them. It's a fantastic celebration of music and songwriting talent.

Key West Pride

Key West Pride is a week-long celebration of diversity and equality. The festival features pool parties, a street fair, drag shows, and a lively pride parade down Duval Street.

Lobsterfest

Celebrate the opening of the Florida Keys lobster season with this festival. Events include a lobster boil, street fair, live music, and a lively Duval Crawl.

Hemingway Days

Hemingway Days honors the legacy of the famous author Ernest Hemingway, who lived in Key West. The festival includes literary readings, a "Papa" Hemingway Look-Alike Contest, and the Running of the Bulls.

Key West offers a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and lively culture, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a memorable island getaway. Enjoy your visit to this tropical paradise!

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
I have worked in the travel and hospitality industry my entire career. I have been blessed to have had the opportunity to travel all over the world. My expertise is the Caribbean, Hawaii, National Parks of the United States/Canada, and the Mediterranean. I specialize in high-touch luxury service. I treat your vacation as if it’s my own and personalize your itinerary to fit your interests, budget, and vision for your vacation. I look forward to working with you!
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