Key West, FL, USA

Dangling off of Florida, the Florida Keys, a string of islands bound together by U.S. Highway 1, mark the southernmost point of the continental United States. The Keys’ semi-detachment is not just geographic; it’s a lifestyle. Life’s definitely slower here. Kick back. Eat some Key Lime Pie. Watch the sunset. Most visitors head for Key West, at the Keys’ southern tip. In July every year, the city crowns the best Ernest Hemingway look-alike, in honor of its former resident. Visit Hemingway’s home and six-toed cats, descendants of the author’s own cat. About six miles off Key West, America’s only living coral reef and the third largest reef in the world, offers world-class snorkeling.

  • Beach, Boating, Family-friendly, Fishing, Florida, Island, Nationalpark, Night-life, Ocean, Over55, Relaxing, Romantic, Rustic, Sailing, Scubadiving, Surfing, Wedding, Worldclassrestaurants, Yachting
  • 88%

 
 
link24.561046-81.778948Key West, FL, USA
 
 
 

   

 Directions 

Distance from closest metropolitan area: 160 miles (from Miami, FL to Key West, FL)  
 
Estimated travel time: 3 hour, 15 minutes (from Miami, FL to Key West, FL)  
 
I-95 South becomes U.S. Highway 1/South Dixie Highway. Follow the highway south, across 42 bridges, to Key West.

 

   

 Weather 

  • Current conditions

    Cond070

    Mostly clear...breezy...and cool. Lows near 60. North to northeast winds 15 to 20 mph.
    Low: 61° F.

  • Tomorrow's forecast

    Cond026
    Mostly sunny...breezy...and cool. Highs near 70. North to northeast winds 15 to 20 mph.
    Hi: 72° F, Low: 61° F.


  • Weatherbug's weather page.
 

   

 Reviews(Average Rating: 88% for 18 reviews) 

  • Sunflower
    SunflowerReviews: 1
    Posts: 0

    If you like Pina Coladas...

    10/10/2008

    80%

    Key West, FL, USA

    The delicious food, the friendly people and the beauty of Fort Zachary beach made my trip to the Florida Keys, a trip to remember!

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  • Davecamaro1994
    Davecamaro1994Reviews: 2
    Posts: 0

    Too short a time

    08/26/2008

    87%

    Key West, FL, USA

    Came in on a cruise ship and found out why I hate cruises. They don't let you spend enough time at the good spots. We got off and did a tour of the historical park and after that I ran to Margarittaville to get myself a rita. Then had to leave by nightfall. The place was awesome by day and I wish I could of spent several nights here. I shall return.....

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  • A2travelguy
    A2travelguy
    • Top member
    Reviews: 14
    Posts: 17

    Don't miss the sunset

    08/25/2008

    90%

    Key West, FL, USA

    Driving down to Key West from Miami? Don’t be in such a hurry. That is, unless you are racing to get to westernmost point in Florida before night falls. Sunset in Key West is definitely a can’t-miss experience. Not only can you watch the sun drop like a golden dollar over the Gulf of Mexico. But you get to see all the other color that defines Key West. Almost as entertaining as watching the sun’s nightly show is wandering through Mallory Square, the spot where locals and tourists gather every evening. There are street performers. arts and crafts booths and vendors everywhere putting on their own show. And if you’re lucky, you might even find a psychic to predict your future. I’m not a psychic, but I can predict one thing: You won’t experience a more memorable experience at sundown than the nightly show at Mallory Square.

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  • neworleans
    neworleansReviews: 1
    Posts: 0

    Paradise Found

    08/21/2008

    100%

    Key West, FL, USA

    Whoever gave such a mundane name to this paradise isle should have been key-hauled under a pirate's ship. What a lovely visit I had years ago as a second honeymoon..... etc. (revise later)

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  • The best way to navigate  Key West
    MeghanDempsterReviews: 1
    Posts: 0

    Key West on a Time Crunch

    08/20/2008

    99%

    Key West, FL, USA

    Slowest-paced location in the United States is the most accurate description for this intimate getaway. Here, all you need is flip flops, a bathing suit, and I highly recommend a bike. If your time is limited and you must move against the natural force of the slow-paced lifestyle as I did, there are a couple of experiences worth tackling. Duval Street houses some of the best bars that lend credit to the infamous Duval Crawl. Stop at Sloppy Joe’s for Rum Runners and then hit the Blond Giraffe for the best Key Lime Pie offered on the island. Your taste buds will wonder why you’ve neglected them for so long after that gourmet decadence. Visit the Hemmingway House where one of America’s most renowned and troubled authors slaved over the pen, and the bottle. Then unwind and bask in that tropical sun at Smather’s Beach before catching the sun set.

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  • ThinkPink
    ThinkPinkReviews: 1
    Posts: 0

    I know the reason I stayed here all season...

    08/19/2008

    96%

    Key West, FL, USA

    What do Jimmy Buffet, Ernest Hemingway, and Tennessee Williams all have in common? They chose the Continental United States' southern-most point, or Key West, the place to hang their flip-flops. Just about a 4 hour drive from Miami, you'll find this island paradise of Key West, a place where the locals, or "conchs" believe that when life hands you limes, you make key lime pie or margaritas. You don't need a car to get around here. In fact, you don't need much of anything. The Southern hospitality is alive and well on Duvall Street, the town's central gathering spot. Here, you'll find quaint bed-and-breakfasts (a favorite is the Curry Mansion Inn, visit CurryMansion.com), the famous Sloppy Joe's restaurant, and live music bars where stilettos and collared shirts are outlawed. Smathers beach is just a pink cab ride away where you can bake away all day with fellow beach-goers with the same outlook as you: no shirt, no shoes, no problem.

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  • Civita
    CivitaReviews: 1
    Posts: 0

    Beautiful and Fun

    08/19/2008

    89%

    Key West, FL, USA

    Just say the name Key West, and it evokes images of crystal blue ocean and soft warm winds. The ultimate vacation spot for anyone. Key West has nightlife and white sand beaches. Anyone can find the trip of their dreams here. Key West isn't just for the beach goers either, there is a great cultural happenings here too. There is theatre and art galleries and cultural events galore.

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  • Me and my girl
    getawaygirlReviews: 1
    Posts: 0

    Florida's Funky Chickens

    08/10/2008

    50%

    Key West, FL, USA

    Key West Florida. Many go to escape their mainland burdens, and some never leave. It’s easy to see why. Traveling via the Overseas Highway from Miami, you traverse 100 miles and 42 bridges over aquamarine water. When you arrive, it’s hard to believe you haven’t driven all the way to Cuba. While the island certainly lives up to its reputation as a hedonistic pleasure zone, I found the island’s real charms lay off the beaten path: biking up and down the streets of Old Town at night, very slowly, to admire the pastel-hued houses with their gingerbread trim; walking through Key West Cemetery and exploring graves dating back to the mid 1800’s while the infamous Key West chickens clucked and crowed nearby. One afternoon we rented a boat, packed a picnic with wonderful sandwiches from the deli at Waterfront Market and cruised the aquamarine waters to Boca Grande Key, a spit of white sand between the Keys and the Marquesas. It made for a blissful afternoon. There are many fabulous restaurants in Old Town and most feature intimate courtyards where you can soak up the tropical breezes and kick off your sandals with an exotic cocktail. A must is Louie’s Backyard which features a series of decks descending to the ocean, and the After Deck, a waterside bar. Their menu features a variety of seafood infused with tropical flavors. Michael’s has wonderful steaks and chops, a bar menu featuring fondue and the deliciously sinful Chocolate Volcano for dessert. Key West is a totally unique experience at the end of the American coastline which offers something for everyone—the partier, the sportsman, the nature lover, the artist, the foodie. For me, what makes Key West an essential vacation destination is its funky tropical vibe, fabulous food, and independent spirit.

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  • superchic
    superchic
    • Top member
    Reviews: 11
    Posts: 20

    Turn 40 Like You're A Pirate...(maybe not)

    08/05/2008

    94%

    Key West, FL, USA

    For nearly 7 years my husband and I did not get a single night away together without our children. We had traveled separately at times, but one of us was always with our kids because they were so young. When his 40th birthday approached, he decided instead of a big party – he wanted to beg our parents to take the kids for a few days. So thankfully, they agreed and we said, "Here we come Key West!" For four days we walked along Duval Street, drank margaritas in the middle of the afternoon and realized we had a hard time remembering what we did with ourselves back in the childless days. The best part was the naps – every afternoon we went back to our hotel and slept off those margaritas until it was time for dinner…oh, how you don’t appreciate that kind of free time before you have children! One night we walked into a bar and sat up near a stage where a man was singing songs and playing the guitar. Little did we know it was a comedian who proceeded to use my husband as part of his comedy act for the night! I don’t think my husband saw the humor in it the way I did. The act was raunchy and rude and I loved every second of it. After that, in what became our nightly ritual, we celebrated with a little shot of liquor and went to bed by 11pm – realizing that we just can’t hang anymore – even in Key West.

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  • KevinMims
    KevinMims
    • Top member
    Reviews: 10
    Posts: 25

    Exploring the Conch Republic

    07/31/2008

    95%

    Key West, FL, USA

    A little quirky, a little upscale - Key West has something to offer all types. It is truly like being in another country, and is closer to Havana, Cuba than Miami! You want excitement and tons of activities? Key West is a full-fledged vacation destination that caters to both budget travelers and jet setters alike. Pick your poison on legendary Duval Street, an area that is famous (or infamous) for its nightlife and restaurants. A must-see on any trip to Duval Street is Sloppy Joe's, the historic bar patronized by Ernest Hemingway, and today hosts the annual Hemingway look-alike contest. For visitors who like their vacations a little more relaxed, Key West is ideal for leisurely touring and taking in the sights. Usual stops around the island include the Southernmost Point Marker, the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum (check out the six-toed cats!), the Tennessee Williams Theatre, and the Harry S. Truman Little White House, just to name a few. Take the Old Town Trolley or the Conch Tour Train for a guided tour of Key West. Nature and outdoor lovers will find themselves enjoying the island lifestyle, soaking up the rays out at Smathers Beach. Want something wilder? Take the Yankee Freedom Ferry out to Fort Zachary Taylor State Park, or scuba dive part of the world's third largest reef system. Personality and adventure awaits you in Key West, it is a destination that will have you coming back for more!

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  • jambalayaval
    jambalayavalReviews: 4
    Posts: 0

    Kickin' in the Keys

    07/23/2008

    50%

    Key West, FL, USA

    For a tropical experience that doesn't require a passport, the Florida Keys has something for everyone. Sure, there's the beach. But there are museums, galleries, historic sights, performing arts and the glorious sunset ritual that shouldn't be missed. While Key West has become a great deal more commercial in the past decade, it is still a haven for musicians, writers, artists, beach bums, the curious, the castaway and the conch lover. Too many great places to eat to name them all, but Land's End Marina's Half Shell Raw Bar lets you sit over the water while you dine. Fast Buck Freddy's is divine decadence in souvenirs and home accessories. Many shops have "local" jewelry; Whitfield Jack's is the best, by far. Take the Conch Train and the Old Towne Trolley to find out the facts about this great bohemian paradise. I can never get enough of the Keys!

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  • Bolinas 2008
    crowe
    • Top member
    Reviews: 7
    Posts: 25

    Last Mango in Paris

    07/15/2008

    86%

    Key West, FL, USA

    Sometimes I just need to escape, cut loose and toss back a few strong ones. And that usually means it's time for a visit to Key West. The last time there, we started with brunch at Blue Heaven, an absolute one-of-a-kind outdoor restaurant. There, we downed their (in)famous Bloody Marys under the breeze-bolstered sway of the palms while listening to some funky guitar local strum bad Bob Marley covers. What I've learned about Key West is that one should never be hesitant about heading straight to the bar from brunch. Key West has a somewhat sketchy side to it, where longtime locals with questionable origins sit barside with us tourists. It's part of Key West's character. In the end, my favorite establishment is Captain Tony's Saloon off Duval Street. It has bras and underwear stapled to the ceiling. (I have yet to get my wife to contribute.) It was there my favorite Jimmy Buffett ballad was born -- The Last Mango in Paris. Here are some Key West must dos: Rent a motor scooter. I found this to be the best way to get around. Snorkel. See the Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square. And my secret favorite ... mango coladas at Mangoes on Duval. So good, they're worth losing "guy points."

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  • DPYoung
    DPYoung
    • Top member
    Reviews: 2
    Posts: 13

    Ft. Jefferson aka “Dry Tortugas”

    07/15/2008

    93%

    Key West, FL, USA

    Located 70 miles west off Key West, lay a group of small islands named the Dry Tortugas -- accessible by boat or seaplane. I ventured there via seaplane during the Keys “season.” It was my favorite part of my trip. The islands were discovered by Ponce de Leon in 1513 and named “Dry Tortugas” due too the area’s abundance of sea turtles and absence of fresh water. The Dry Tortugas were eventually annexed into the United States, and today, are a national park. As we approached the islands from the air, I could see Ft. Jefferson off in the distance, appearing tiny at first. As we drew closer, I marveled at the magnificence of the structure’s masonry, built over 150 years ago (in 1861). It actually complemented the environment of the tropical-Caribbean colored sea. While snorkeling, I could see the variety of sea life – hundreds of fish – a kaleidoscope of beautiful colors. I was so dazzled by the beauty that I didn’t worry about drowning or getting devoured by a shark. I even saw a rather menacing looking Barracuda. He was just swimming stationary is the water, eyes bulging at me, the only part of his elongated body moving was the tip of his tail. Now I’m hooked. Well no, not like a fish kinda hooked. But the experience made romanticize about staying.

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  • Whale of a tail
    Maxfocus
    • Top member
    Reviews: 15
    Posts: 44

    Key West is the end of the road

    07/12/2008

    85%

    Key West, FL, USA

    Denver, Colorado to Key West is over 2,000 miles by road. Our only visit there started from Tennessee some years ago and gas was cheaper. Much cheaper. After an overnight stay in Florida City we drove the final 125 mile leg to the tip of the long island chain at Key West across the remarkable bridges and causeways of historic US Highway 1. This is the causeway that was blown up in that great Arnold movie “True Lies.” The town seemed crowded and parking wasn’t easy but we hung out for an hour or two at Fort Zachary Beach, soaking up the rays. Returning to the harbor (aka; Key West Bight), we parked and walked along the Historic Seaport Boardwalk. I am a sucker for yachts and old ships and there are plenty here to admire. At Subtropic Dive Center we booked a snorkeling excursion on the twin-hulled Reef Explorer. The 4 hour cruise left at 1:00 p.m. After an excellent juicy burger with fries (big mistake) at the nearby Schooner Wharf Bar we set sail. The snorkeling was excellent. We got among some sting rays and the coral was healthy and colorful and at an easy depth to reach. Unfortunately the ocean swells above the reef got up pretty high and pale-faced Jan had to toss her partially digested burger over the side, setting off a fish feeding frenzy. The return cruise was enjoyable with calmer more sheltered waters along the way. We watched a spectacular sunset from the verandah of the Half Shell Raw Bar while sipping ice tea and slurping raw oysters. Oysters don’t get much fresher than this. Hint: they’re not flown in here. I can only add that Key West is a unique place. Because it is accessible by road, it doesn’t really seem like an island. The history here is rich and there are so many things to do all year round. It’s the closest mainland US settlement to the Tropic of Cancer, so even mid-winter temperatures are comfortable. Ernest Hemingway seemed to like it here a lot.

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  • Maui Sunset - Upcountry Kula
    Anna M.
    • Top member
    Reviews: 4
    Posts: 8

    A Taste of Key West

    07/11/2008

    100%

    Key West, FL, USA

    As a native of Key West now living in the Carolinas, I miss the obvious … the bright blue sky, gorgeous warm water, charming architecture and quirky laid back attitude. But as soon as I hit the island my first concern is always my next meal! Key West has an amazing wealth of excellent restaurants. Too many to name. I highly recommend La Trattoria Venezia, or “The Trat” as it is known to locals, on the 500 block of Duval Street, where I eat at least twice every time I visit. The restaurant has loads of character, is reasonably priced and literally every item on the menu is a delicious winner. The adjacent bar, Virgilio’s, is a great spot to enjoy live music (usually Jazz). If you’ve never had good, authentic Cuban food, do as the locals do and head to the off the beaten path El Siboney on the corner of Catherine and Margaret Streets. It’s the real deal! If you’re looking to treat yourself especially well, it has to be Louie’s Backyard (with cocktails on the After Deck) for quintessential fine dining Key West-style or Lobster Tango Mango at Pisces on Simonton. Bon appetite!

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  • MCFrank12
    MCFrank12Reviews: 1
    Posts: 0

    Mallory Square and Hemingway's Cats!

    06/19/2008

    100%

    Key West, FL, USA

    Beautiful coastlines, island hopping by bridge! Don't miss sundown on Mallory Square and the cat show. Every night the entire population meets and watches the sun go down with a standing ovation. Then parties start at every bar in town.

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  • Brien
    BrienReviews: 1
    Posts: 0

    March 2008--Key West

    06/18/2008

    100%

    Key West, FL, USA

    I had never been to Key West before. I decided to take my family there for the entire month of March 2008. My favorite experience was a day trip 80 miles off the west coast to Ft. Jefferson, on this little island which comprised the entire fort. This was absolutely spectacular. The fort was built between 1840 and 1870. We rented a beautiful home two blocks off Duval Street with a sleeping pool and plasma screen TVs in all the bedrooms. I am a seasoned traveler and this place exceeded my expectations. It's an absolutely gorgeous island, the most southern point of the United States (90 miles from Cuba). What's so good about it is there is so much to do, for all ages--children, teenagers, young adults, parents, grandparents. It's robust with activities. There are a number of boating trips departing each day, doing a variety of activities. Each night they have the sunset festival--which is simply beautiful. If you haven't done it, you must.

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  • Cruisin'
    dmonson
    • Top member
    Reviews: 11
    Posts: 5

    The southern-southern-southern-most tip

    06/10/2008

    84%

    Key West, FL, USA

    This southern-most tip is excuse alone to relax and party. Key West is a small comfortable little paradise. It makes up for its size with huge character and history. The ‘Conch Republic’ was my nice escape last year during the 4th of July. Don’t pass up the Ernest Hemingway House. For a few bucks you get a great tour guide and a nice bit of history. Grab a slice of key lime pie and head over to the southern-most point of the United States. You will also see the ‘southern-most house’, as well as the ‘southern-southern-most house’. Competition is fierce. Duval Street brings the downtown party scene. Head over to the cemetery, you may be surprised. Take a tour on the Old Town Trolley, and end the afternoon with a perfect Key West sunset at Mallory Square.

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