Key West Travel Guide
City Florida city at the southernmost point
Narrow streets and conch houses cluster at Key West’s tip; visitors seek the Hemingway House, sunset crowds at Mallory Square, conch fritters and reef diving a short boat ride offshore.
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Why Visit Key West? #
An island outpost with a laid-back, bohemian pulse, this town draws beach lovers, nightlife seekers and seafood fans to its colorful streets. Enjoy Duval Street’s lively bars, catch sunset rituals at Mallory Square, and sample conch fritters or Key lime pie at local cafés. The island’s maritime culture, historic homes and easygoing pace make it a distinct slice of the Florida Keys.
Best Things to Do in Key West
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Key West Bucket List
- Duval Street - Lively main street lined with bars, shops, restaurants, and nightly entertainment options.
- Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum - Tour Hemingway's residence and meet the famous six-toed cats roaming the gardens.
- Mallory Square - Sunset gathering featuring street performers, local crafts, and nightly community celebrations.
- Fort Zachary Taylor State Park - Historic fort with shady picnic areas, excellent snorkeling, and rocky beach access.
- Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory - Wander among tropical butterflies and lush indoor plantings in a tranquil conservatory setting.
- The Little White House - Visit Harry Truman's winter residence displaying presidential memorabilia and period furnishings.
- Dry Tortugas National Park - Ferry or seaplane to remote Fort Jefferson with excellent snorkeling and history.
- Marathon & Bahia Honda State Park - Drive to the Middle Keys for beaches, snorkeling, and the Old Seven Mile Bridge viewpoint.
Best Time to Visit Key West #
Key West is best in the dry season (November-April) for sunny, pleasant weather and outdoor activities. The wet and hurricane seasons bring heat, storms, and increased risk.
Best Time to Visit Key West #
Key West's climate is classified as Tropical Savanna - Tropical Savanna climate with hot summers (peaking in July) and warm winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 18°C to 32°C. Abundant rainfall (1016 mm/year), wettest in September.
January
January is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 18°C. Moderate rainfall (62 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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February
February is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 18°C. Moderate rainfall (42 mm).
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March
March is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 20°C. Moderate rainfall (49 mm) and mostly sunny skies.
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April
April is warm with highs of 28°C and lows of 22°C. Moderate rainfall (50 mm) and mostly sunny skies.
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May
May is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 22°C). Regular rainfall (89 mm).
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June
June is hot, feeling like 32°C due to high humidity. Significant rainfall (135 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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July
July is the hottest month, feeling like 33°C due to high humidity. Regular rainfall (93 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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August
August is the hottest month, feeling like 33°C due to high humidity. Significant rainfall (135 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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September
September is hot, feeling like 32°C due to high humidity. The wettest month with heavy rain (141 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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October
October is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 23°C). Significant rainfall (114 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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November
November is warm with highs of 27°C and lows of 21°C. Moderate rainfall (54 mm).
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December
December is mild with highs of 25°C and lows of 19°C. Moderate rainfall (52 mm).
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How to Get to Key West
Key West is served directly by Key West International Airport (EYW). For mainland arrivals use Miami (MIA) and continue by car, shuttle or bus down the Overseas Highway. On the island itself, walking and local buses work well for short trips.
Key West International Airport (EYW): The island’s airport is minutes from Old Town Key West (about 3-6 miles depending on destination). Taxis and rideshares run frequently from arrivals (typical fare to Duval Street area $10-$20, 5-15 minutes). Rental cars are available but parking downtown is limited and expensive.
Miami International Airport (MIA): If you fly into Miami, expect a drive of roughly 3.5-4.5 hours to Key West via US‑1 (the Overseas Highway). Shuttle services and private transfers operate (prices commonly $50-$100+ per person depending on operator and season); driving yourself gives maximum flexibility but can be slow in high season.
Train: There is no passenger rail service to Key West.
Bus: Greyhound and private shuttle operators run Miami-Key West services; travel times are ~4-5 hours and fares vary (often $35-$60). Local Key West Transit buses and the Duval Loop circulator operate within the island for short hops (fares are low; some routes free).
How to Get Around Key West #
Key West is highly walkable, especially downtown and the Old Town; many visitors explore on foot, by bike or via scooter. Bike and scooter rentals are widely available and convenient for short trips. Taxis and ride‑shares operate on the island, and there are also community shuttles and seasonal trolley tours. Rentals are affordable for a day of exploring; parking can be limited downtown so walking often saves time.
Where to Stay in Key West #
- Budget guesthouses & hostels - Several low-cost options in Old Town
- Small inns & guesthouses - Affordable seasonal deals sometimes available
- La Concha Hotel & Spa - Historic mid-range beachfront hotel
- Hyatt Centric Key West Resort - Comfortable resort close to attractions
- Ocean Key Resort & Spa - Upscale harborfront rooms and spa
- Southernmost Beach Resort - Luxury beachfront suites and amenities
Where to Eat in Key West #
- Blue Heaven - Lively courtyard with Caribbean-influenced dishes.
- Sloppy Joe's - Historic bar with casual island fare.
- Hogfish Bar & Grill - Island-style seafood on Stock Island.
- El Siboney - Homestyle Cuban plates-local favorite.
- Kermit's Key West Key Lime Shoppe - Key lime pies and citrus treats.
- Duval Street bars and eateries - Pub grub and late-night bites.
- Captain Tony's Saloon - Historic bar, island character preserved.
Breakdown of cuisine types found across Key West's restaurants and food venues, based on OpenStreetMap data.
Nightlife in Key West #
Key West has a famously lively nightlife focused on Duval Street: bars, live‑music venues and late‑night patios draw crowds year‑round. The scene is informal and friendly, with a mix of historic bars and modern music venues. If you prefer quieter evenings, head to smaller bars or waterfront restaurants away from the main strip.
- Sloppy Joe's - Historic bar on Duval Street with live music and lively crowds.
- Green Parrot Bar - Longstanding dive bar known for live music and casual atmosphere.
Shopping in Key West #
Key West’s shopping is centered on Duval Street and Mallory Square, where galleries, local craft stalls, clothing boutiques and souvenir shops cluster. Look for local art, nautical-themed items, rum and island specialty foods. For specialty bookstores, art galleries and handicrafts, wander the side streets off Duval to find independent vendors.
- Duval Street - Main street full of shops, galleries, bars and souvenir stores.
- Mallory Square - Nightly sunset celebration with local vendors and craft stalls.
