✦ Quick answer
Key West is a compact island town at the southern tip of the Florida Keys, best explored on foot or by bike around Old Town and Duval Street. It is famous for sunset celebrations at Mallory Square, fresh seafood and key lime pie, reef snorkeling, and literary history at the Hemingway House. Base yourself in Old Town for walkability; two to three days covers the highlights, with an optional day trip to Dry Tortugas National Park.
Key West sits at the literal end of the road, 90 miles from Cuba and closer in spirit to the Caribbean than to mainland Florida. This two-by-four-mile island is the southernmost point in the continental United States, a place where six-toed cats roam Hemingway's old house, roosters strut down side streets, and the whole town stops to watch the sun drop into the Gulf.
The island has worn many hats: a wrecking-and-salvage boomtown that was once the richest city per capita in America, a cigar-rolling Cuban enclave, a Navy outpost, and a refuge for writers, artists, and free spirits. That layered past shows up in the gingerbread conch houses of Old Town, the Cuban coffee windows, and the cheerful 'Conch Republic' independence streak locals still celebrate.
Come for the sunsets and the key lime pie, stay for the coral reef snorkeling, the seafood, and the easygoing pace. Everything worth seeing is walkable or a short bike ride away, which makes Key West one of the most relaxing small cities in the country to explore.
Best time to visit
The sweet spot is December through April, when humidity drops, skies stay clear, and daytime highs hover in the high 70s to low 80s Fahrenheit; this is also peak season, so book hotels and Dry Tortugas tickets well ahead. Spring (March to May) and late fall offer good weather with slightly thinner crowds. Summer is hot, humid, and prone to afternoon storms but brings the calmest, clearest water for snorkeling and the lowest room rates. Hurricane season runs June through November, peaking August to October. Time your trip for Fantasy Fest in late October if you want the island's wildest costume party, or aim for quieter weeks if you don't.
Getting around
Most visitors fly into Key West International Airport (EYW), a short cab or rideshare from Old Town, or into Miami (MIA) or Fort Lauderdale (FLL) and drive the roughly 3.5- to 4-hour Overseas Highway down US-1. Once you arrive, ditch the car: Old Town is flat, compact, and made for walking or cycling, and parking is scarce and pricey. Rent a bike or scooter, use the Duval Loop free bus, or grab a pedicab or rideshare for longer hops. A car is only really useful for day trips up the Keys.
✦ Where to stay
Neighborhoods & hotels
Old TownThe historic heart of the island, walkable to Duval Street, Mallory Square, restaurants, and galleries. Best for first-timers who want everything at their doorstep, though the area near lower Duval can be noisy at night.
Truman Annex / SouthernmostA quieter, leafy pocket on the western and southern edges of Old Town near Fort Zachary Taylor and the Southernmost Point. Suits couples and travelers who want charm and beach access within an easy walk of the action.
The Historic Seaport (Bahama Village edge)Around the harbor and Caroline Street, packed with boat charters, raw bars, and live music. Great for people who plan to be on the water a lot and want a more local, working-waterfront feel.
Southernmost Beach Resortmidrange Google
A well-reviewed resort at the quiet end of Duval with its own stretch of beach, two pools, and an easy walk to the Southernmost Point and Old Town. A reliable mid-range pick that still feels like a vacation.
The Southernmost Innboutique Google
An intimate, adults-friendly inn near the southern end of the island with a tropical pool courtyard and a short walk to the beach. Good value for travelers who want personality over big-resort scale.
NYAH Key West - Adults Onlybudget Google
A stylish adults-only guesthouse with multiple pools and hot tubs just off Duval, popular with younger travelers and groups. One of the better-value stays in Old Town.
Margaritaville Beach House Key Westfamily friendly Google
A laid-back, Jimmy Buffett-themed property with a pool and easygoing vibe, set a bit away from the Duval bustle. Works well for families and travelers who want a calmer base.
The Reach Key West, Curio Collection by Hiltonmidrange Google
A beachfront Hilton Curio in the Truman Annex area with one of the few natural-sand beaches in town and a quiet, upscale feel. Strong for couples wanting resort comforts near Old Town.
Ocean Key Resort & Spaluxury Google
A waterfront splurge right at Mallory Square and the foot of Duval, with sunset views, a spa, and the lively Sunset Pier. The most central iconic luxury address on the island.
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✦ Eat & drink
Best Coffee Shops & Cuban Coffee Windows
Key West runs on strong Cuban coffee. Order a con leche or a tiny, sweet bullet of cafe cubano to start the day.
Cuban Coffee Queen Google
Opening hours
- Monday: 6:30 AM - 7:00 PM
- Tuesday: 6:30 AM - 7:00 PM
- Wednesday: 6:30 AM - 7:00 PM
- Thursday: 6:30 AM - 7:00 PM
- Friday: 6:30 AM - 7:00 PM
- Saturday: 6:30 AM - 7:00 PM
- Sunday: 6:30 AM - 7:00 PM
A beloved walk-up window slinging cafe con leche, cortaditos, and Cuban breakfast sandwiches near the Historic Seaport. The con leche runs around $4 to $5 and pairs perfectly with a Cuban mix sandwich. Expect a line; it moves fast.
Cafe Cubano (5 Brothers Grocery) Google
Closed Sundays
Opening hours
- Monday: 6:30 AM - 3:00 PM
- Tuesday: 6:30 AM - 3:00 PM
- Wednesday: 6:30 AM - 3:00 PM
- Thursday: 6:30 AM - 3:00 PM
- Friday: 6:30 AM - 3:00 PM
- Saturday: 6:30 AM - 3:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
An old-school corner bodega where locals have grabbed cafe con leche and bollos for decades. It is cash-friendly, no-frills, and deeply authentic. Stop in early for the most local scene in town.
Date & Thyme Google
Closed Sundays
Opening hours
- Monday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Thursday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Sunday: Closed
An organic cafe and juice bar for those wanting espresso drinks, smoothies, and healthier breakfast options. A calm, leafy spot to escape the Duval crowds. Acai bowls and avocado toast run about $12 to $16.
The Cafe Marquesa Google
Opening hours
- Monday: 8:00 - 11:00 AM, 5:30 - 9:00 PM
- Tuesday: 8:00 - 11:00 AM, 5:30 - 9:00 PM
- Wednesday: 8:00 - 11:00 AM, 5:30 - 9:00 PM
- Thursday: 8:00 - 11:00 AM, 5:30 - 9:00 PM
- Friday: 8:00 - 11:00 AM, 5:30 - 9:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 - 11:00 AM, 5:30 - 9:00 PM
- Sunday: 8:00 - 11:00 AM, 5:30 - 9:00 PM
Inside the refined Marquesa Hotel, a quieter place for a proper morning coffee and pastry away from the bustle. Good for a slower start before walking the historic streets.
✦ Eat & drink
Where to Eat Breakfast & Brunch
Blue Heaven Google
Opening hours
- Monday: 8:00 AM - 2:30 PM, 5:00 - 10:00 PM
- Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 2:30 PM, 5:00 - 10:00 PM
- Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 2:30 PM, 5:00 - 10:00 PM
- Thursday: 8:00 AM - 2:30 PM, 5:00 - 10:00 PM
- Friday: 8:00 AM - 2:30 PM, 5:00 - 10:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM - 2:30 PM, 5:00 - 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 8:00 AM - 2:30 PM, 5:00 - 10:00 PM
The most famous breakfast on the island, served in a tropical Bahama Village courtyard where roosters wander between tables. Order the lobster Benedict or banana pancakes topped with a towering meringue. Expect a wait; arrive before 9am or after the early rush, mains run about $16 to $28.
Pepe's Cafe Google
Opening hours
- Monday: 7:30 AM - 9:30 PM
- Tuesday: 7:30 AM - 9:30 PM
- Wednesday: 7:30 AM - 9:30 PM
- Thursday: 7:30 AM - 9:30 PM
- Friday: 7:30 AM - 9:30 PM
- Saturday: 7:30 AM - 9:30 PM
- Sunday: 7:30 AM - 9:30 PM
Open since 1909, Key West's oldest eatery serves hearty breakfasts and famous oysters under shady trees near the seaport. A true local institution with a no-pretense feel. Breakfast plates run roughly $12 to $20.
Sarabeth's Key West Google
Opening hours
- Monday: 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
- Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
- Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
- Thursday: 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
- Friday: 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
- Sunday: 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
A reliable brunch favorite known for fluffy pancakes, lemon ricotta, and a pretty conch-house setting. Good for a sit-down weekend brunch. Plan on $15 to $25 per person.
Frenchie's Cafe Google
Opening hours
- Monday: 7:00 AM - 2:00 PM
- Tuesday: 7:00 AM - 2:00 PM
- Wednesday: 7:00 AM - 2:00 PM
- Thursday: 7:00 AM - 2:00 PM
- Friday: 7:00 AM - 2:00 PM
- Saturday: 7:00 AM - 2:00 PM
- Sunday: 7:00 AM - 2:00 PM
A small, charming cafe doing crepes, quiche, and strong coffee with a French-Caribbean lean. A lower-key alternative when the big-name spots have lines. Around $12 to $18 for a plate.
✦ Eat & drink
Best Restaurants for Lunch & Dinner
Seafood rules here: stone crab in season, pink shrimp, hogfish, and of course key lime pie for dessert.
Latitudes (Sunset Key) Google
Opening hours
- Monday: 7:00 AM - 2:15 PM, 5:00 - 10:00 PM
- Tuesday: 7:00 AM - 2:15 PM, 5:00 - 10:00 PM
- Wednesday: 7:00 AM - 2:15 PM, 5:00 - 10:00 PM
- Thursday: 7:00 AM - 2:15 PM, 5:00 - 10:00 PM
- Friday: 7:00 AM - 2:15 PM, 5:00 - 11:00 PM
- Saturday: 7:00 AM - 2:15 PM, 5:00 - 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 7:00 AM - 2:15 PM, 5:00 - 10:00 PM
A special-occasion dinner reached by a short complimentary boat ride to Sunset Key island. Toes-in-the-sand tables, polished seafood, and unbeatable sunset views. Reserve well ahead and budget $50 to $80 per main.
Blue Heaven Google
Opening hours
- Monday: 8:00 AM - 2:30 PM, 5:00 - 10:00 PM
- Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 2:30 PM, 5:00 - 10:00 PM
- Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 2:30 PM, 5:00 - 10:00 PM
- Thursday: 8:00 AM - 2:30 PM, 5:00 - 10:00 PM
- Friday: 8:00 AM - 2:30 PM, 5:00 - 10:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM - 2:30 PM, 5:00 - 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 8:00 AM - 2:30 PM, 5:00 - 10:00 PM
Beyond breakfast, the dinner menu shines with fresh catch, jerk-spiced dishes, and a legendary key lime pie. The open-air courtyard with live music makes for a memorable evening. Mains around $28 to $40.
Eaton Street Seafood Market & Restaurant Google
Opening hours
- Monday: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
A no-frills market and counter spot for some of the freshest seafood in town: lobster rolls, stone crab, and seafood baskets. Casual and excellent value for the quality. Most dishes run $15 to $30.
Santiago's Bodega Google
Opening hours
- Monday: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
A tapas spot beloved by locals for shared plates, sangria, and a candlelit, off-Duval vibe in Bahama Village. Great for groups grazing through small plates. Tapas run roughly $9 to $18 each.
El Siboney Google
Opening hours
- Monday: 11:00 AM - 9:30 PM
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM - 9:30 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM - 9:30 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM - 9:30 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM - 9:30 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM - 9:30 PM
- Sunday: 11:00 AM - 9:30 PM
Classic, generous Cuban home cooking away from the tourist core: roast pork, ropa vieja, plantains, and flan. Cash-friendly and consistently packed with regulars. Full plates around $14 to $24.
Kermit's Key West Key Lime Shoppe Google
Opening hours
- Monday: 10:00 AM - 9:30 PM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 9:30 PM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 9:30 PM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM - 9:30 PM
- Friday: 10:00 AM - 9:30 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM - 9:30 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM - 9:30 PM
The go-to for key lime pie, including a famous chocolate-dipped pie on a stick. More dessert stop than restaurant, but essential. A slice runs about $6 to $8.
✦ Top experiences
Iconic Sights You Shouldn't Miss
Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum Google
Opening hours
- Monday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Thursday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Hemingway wrote some of his best work in this 1851 Spanish-colonial house, now home to dozens of six-toed cats descended from his own. Guided tours run frequently and admission is around $19 for adults. Open daily, roughly 9am to 5pm.
Southernmost Point Buoy Google
Opening hours
- Monday: 7:00 AM - 11:00 PM
- Tuesday: 7:00 AM - 11:00 PM
- Wednesday: 7:00 AM - 11:00 PM
- Thursday: 7:00 AM - 11:00 PM
- Friday: 7:00 AM - 11:00 PM
- Saturday: 7:00 AM - 11:00 PM
- Sunday: 7:00 AM - 11:00 PM
The giant painted concrete buoy marking the southernmost point in the continental US, and Key West's most photographed landmark. Go early morning to beat the line for photos. Free to visit at the corner of Whitehead and South streets.
Mallory Square Sunset Celebration Google
Opening hours
- Monday: 6:30 - 8:30 PM
- Tuesday: 6:30 - 8:30 PM
- Wednesday: 6:30 - 8:30 PM
- Thursday: 6:30 - 8:30 PM
- Friday: 6:30 - 8:30 PM
- Saturday: 6:30 - 8:30 PM
- Sunday: 6:30 AM - 8:30 PM
Every evening the waterfront fills with street performers, food carts, and crowds applauding the sunset. Arrive 30 to 45 minutes before dusk for a good spot. Free, nightly, and quintessentially Key West.
Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park Google
Opening hours
- Monday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Thursday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Friday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
A Civil War-era fort fronting the best swimming beach in town, with clear water and shade pines. Entry is about $7 per vehicle plus a small per-person fee. Bring water shoes; the beach is rocky.
Key West Lighthouse & Keeper's Quarters Google
Opening hours
- Monday: 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM
- Tuesday: 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM
- Wednesday: 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM
- Thursday: 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM
- Friday: 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM
- Saturday: 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM
- Sunday: 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Climb the 1848 lighthouse for a panoramic view over the island, directly across from the Hemingway House. Admission runs around $18. A quick, rewarding stop on a walking loop of Old Town.
✦ Beyond the city
Top Things to Do on the Water & Beyond
Key West is surrounded by the only living coral barrier reef in the continental US. Get out on the water at least once.
Key West Sunset Sail with Open Bar & Live Music
Sebago's premium sunset catamaran sail pairs the island's famous sunset with sparkling wine, an open bar, hors d'oeuvres, and live music. A festive, well-run way to toast the day on the water. Roughly two hours; book ahead in peak season.
Shark and Wildlife Viewing Adventure
An eco-friendly catamaran tour billed as the only shark-viewing tour in the US, with close-up looks at sharks, sea turtles, and other marine life (no getting in the water). Excellent for families and wildlife lovers, with top-tier reviews.
Mangrove Kayak Eco Tour
A guided paddle through the calm, blue-green backcountry creeks and mangrove tunnels behind the island. Relaxed pace, great for spotting birds and marine life, and suitable for beginners. About three hours including transport.
Afternoon Reef Snorkel Sail with Cocktails
A three-hour catamaran cruise out to the coral reef for easy snorkeling among tropical fish, with drinks included on the sail back. A relaxed, all-in-one way to see the reef. Gear provided; good for first-time snorkelers.
Island Jet Ski Tour
A guided 28-mile loop around the entire island by jet ski, the high-adrenaline counterpoint to a lazy beach day. Many operators let a partner ride free. About 90 minutes to two hours on the water.
Dolphin Watch and Snorkel Tour
A combo eco trip cruising the Gulf to spot wild dolphins, followed by snorkeling in calm, protected backcountry waters. A good-value half-day that mixes wildlife and reef time. Snorkel gear included.
✦ Eat & drink
Tours on Land: History, Food & Ghosts
Southernmost Food & Cultural Walking Tour
A three-hour guided walk through Old Town stopping at five local mom-and-pop spots for Cuban dishes, local seafood, and key lime pie. Equal parts eating and history, led by a knowledgeable guide. A great first-day orientation.
Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour
A narrated trolley loop covering the island's history and main sights, with stops you can hop off at to explore. The easiest way to get your bearings and rest your feet. Full-loop narration runs about 90 minutes.
Ghosts and Gravestones Trolley Tour
An after-dark trolley ride through Old Town's haunted history, with theatrical guides and stops at spooky sites. Fun and family-friendly, leaning campy rather than terrifying. Runs evenings; reserve ahead.
✦ After dark
Bars & Nightlife on and off Duval
Duval Street is the loud, neon heart of the action, but the best spots have real history and character.
Captain Tony's Saloon Google
Opening hours
- Monday: 10:00 AM - 2:00 AM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 2:00 AM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 2:00 AM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM - 2:00 AM
- Friday: 10:00 AM - 2:00 AM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM - 2:00 AM
- Sunday: 10:30 AM - 1:00 AM
The original Sloppy Joe's and a former Hemingway haunt, now a dive bar dripping with dollar bills, bras, and live music. More atmospheric and less polished than its famous neighbor. Cash often preferred.
Green Parrot Bar Google
Opening hours
- Monday: 10:00 AM - 2:00 AM
- Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 2:00 AM
- Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 2:00 AM
- Thursday: 10:00 AM - 2:00 AM
- Friday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 AM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 AM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM - 2:00 AM
A local favorite open since 1890, with no TVs, strong drinks, and genuinely good live music most nights. Off the main Duval drag, which keeps it real. A must for music lovers.
Sloppy Joe's Bar Google
Opening hours
- Monday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 AM
- Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 AM
- Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 AM
- Thursday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 AM
- Friday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 AM
- Saturday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 AM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 AM
The famous Duval Street institution tied to Hemingway lore, with live bands and a perpetual party. Touristy but iconic, and worth one drink for the history. Expect crowds at night.
The Garden of Eden (Bull & Whistle) Google
Opening hours
- Monday: 1:00 PM - 2:00 AM
- Tuesday: 1:00 PM - 2:00 AM
- Wednesday: 1:00 PM - 2:00 AM
- Thursday: 1:00 PM - 2:00 AM
- Friday: 1:00 PM - 2:00 AM
- Saturday: 1:00 PM - 2:00 AM
- Sunday: 1:00 PM - 2:00 AM
A rooftop, clothing-optional bar atop the Bull & Whistle, offering a uniquely Key West perch over Duval. Come for the breeze and the people-watching. A only-here experience.
✦ Beyond the city
Day Trips Worth Taking
Dry Tortugas National Park
About 70 miles west of Key West, this remote park centers on the massive 19th-century Fort Jefferson and surrounding reefs with superb snorkeling. Reach it by the Yankee Freedom ferry (roughly 2.5 hours each way, around $220 for adults including park fee, breakfast, lunch, and snorkel gear) or a seaplane. The ferry sells out days to weeks ahead in season, so book early.
Bahia Honda State Park
About an hour up US-1, Bahia Honda has some of the best natural beaches in the Keys, with calm turquoise water and a historic railroad bridge. Great for swimming, snorkeling off the beach, and picnicking. Entry is around $8 per vehicle.
Looe Key Reef (Big Pine Key)
A standout section of the Florida Keys reef about 45 minutes up the highway, reached by snorkel and dive boats from Big Pine. Clear water and abundant coral and fish make it one of the region's top reef stops. Half-day trips run from local operators.
✦ Good to know
Before you visit
Getting aroundOld Town is flat and walkable, and a bike or scooter is the ideal way to get around. The free Duval Loop bus connects key spots, and rideshares and pedicabs handle longer hops. Avoid bringing a car into Old Town if you can; parking is limited and expensive.
MoneyKey West is one of the pricier US beach towns, especially in winter high season. Most places take cards, but a few old-school bars and Cuban spots prefer cash, so carry some.
TippingStandard US tipping applies: 18 to 20 percent at restaurants and bars, and a few dollars for tour guides, boat crews, and pedicab drivers. Some bills already add gratuity for larger parties, so check before doubling up.
Sun & water safetyThe sun here is intense year-round; use reef-safe sunscreen (required to protect the reef) and bring a hat and water. On snorkel trips, wear water shoes for rocky beaches and be mindful of currents and boat traffic.
Weather & hurricanesSummer brings heat, humidity, and brief afternoon storms, while hurricane season (June to November) can occasionally disrupt travel. Consider travel insurance if visiting in late summer or fall.
EtiquetteKey West is famously laid-back and welcoming, with a long-standing LGBTQ+ friendly culture. Dress is casual everywhere; flip-flops and shorts are fine even at most dinners.
✦ Before you go
Plan-ahead checklist
Book the Dry Tortugas ferry (Yankee Freedom) as early as possible; it sells out days to weeks ahead, especially in winter. book 2-4 weeks ahead in peak season
Reserve sunset sails and popular boat tours ahead, as the best ones fill in high season. book 1-2 weeks ahead
Make dinner reservations for special-occasion spots like Latitudes on Sunset Key well in advance. book 1-2 weeks ahead
Book accommodation early for December through April and for Fantasy Fest in late October, when rooms are scarce and rates peak. book 1-3 months ahead
Pack reef-safe sunscreen, which is required to protect the coral and not always easy to find on the island.
Key West rewards travelers who slow down: linger over a con leche, paddle a mangrove creek, and join the crowd applauding the sunset at Mallory Square. Whether you come for the reef, the history, or just the easygoing end-of-the-road feeling, the island delivers. Start planning, book that Dry Tortugas ferry, and go find your spot at the southernmost point.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do you need in Key West?
Two to three days is enough to see Old Town, watch a Mallory Square sunset, do a snorkel or sunset sail, and eat well. Add a fourth day if you want a full-day trip to Dry Tortugas National Park.
Where should I stay in Key West?
Old Town is the best base for first-timers, putting Duval Street, Mallory Square, and restaurants within walking distance. For a quieter feel, choose the Truman Annex or Southernmost area near Fort Zachary Taylor.
Is Key West expensive?
Yes, Key West is one of the pricier US beach destinations, particularly from December through April. Hotels, boat tours, and dining all cost more than mainland Florida, though summer brings lower rates.
How do you get around Key West?
Walking and biking are the easiest ways to get around the compact Old Town. There is also a free Duval Loop bus, plus rideshares and pedicabs; a car is mostly unnecessary and parking is difficult.
Is Key West worth visiting?
Absolutely, for its sunsets, coral reef snorkeling, fresh seafood, literary history, and easygoing island culture all in a walkable town at the end of the road. It packs a lot of distinct character into a small island.
What food is Key West known for?
Key West is known for key lime pie, fresh seafood like pink shrimp, stone crab, and hogfish, and Cuban dishes such as cafe con leche, Cuban sandwiches, and ropa vieja reflecting its Cuban heritage.
Top-Rated Places to Eat, See & Stay
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