Overview
America's southernmost city with a contagiously relaxed vibe, incredible snorkeling in the only living coral reef in the continental US, and unforgettable sunsets every night
Airport
EYW
From/day
$90
Best months
Nov, Dec, Jan
Local Tips
Safety
Key West is very safe. The biggest hazards are sunburn and dehydration — wear sunscreen and drink water. Watch for scooters and bikes on narrow streets.
Cultural Norms
Key West has a famously laid-back, 'island time' attitude. It's an inclusive and welcoming community. The sunset celebration at Mallory Square is a nightly ritual — don't miss it.
Language
English. Some Spanish spoken given the Bahamian and Cuban heritage.
Currency
USD. Cards widely accepted. Some street performers and food carts prefer cash.
Tipping
Standard US tipping: 18-20% at restaurants. Tip your sunset performers at Mallory Square.
Getting Around
Public Transit
Walkability
Neighborhoods
Old Town
The historic core of Key West with Victorian 'conch houses', Duval Street bars, and most major attractions.
Best for: History, nightlife, dining, Mallory Square sunset
Bahama Village
Historically Bahamian neighborhood with colorful houses, Blue Heaven restaurant, and a local community feel.
Best for: Local culture, Caribbean food, laid-back vibe
Duval Street Corridor
The famous main drag running from the Gulf to the Atlantic with bars, shops, and restaurants wall to wall.
Best for: Bar hopping, shopping, people-watching
New Town
More residential area east of Old Town with chain restaurants, Smathers Beach, and local neighborhoods.
Best for: Budget stays, long sandy beach, everyday errands
Activities & Interests
How Key West scores across 15 travel interests
Suggested Itineraries
3-Day Trip
Old Town & Sunset Celebration
- •Walk Old Town — visit the Hemingway Home and its six-toed cats, then Truman Little White House
- •Lunch at a Duval Street cafe and browse the boutiques
- •Sunset celebration at Mallory Square with street performers, food, and the famous sunset
Water Adventures
- •Morning snorkeling trip to the coral reef at the Key West Marine Park
- •Afternoon kayaking through the mangroves or stand-up paddleboarding
- •Evening Duval Street bar crawl — Sloppy Joe's, Captain Tony's, and the Green Parrot
Island Exploring
- •Rent a bike and ride to Fort Zachary Taylor State Park — the best beach in Key West
- •Visit the Southernmost Point marker and Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory
- •Farewell lunch at Blue Heaven in Bahama Village and departure along the Overseas Highway
7-Day Trip
Arrival & Old Town
- •Arrive and settle in, explore Old Town on foot
- •Visit the Hemingway Home and Museum
- •First sunset at Mallory Square
History & Culture
- •Tour the Truman Little White House
- •Explore the Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum and Custom House Museum
- •Lunch in Bahama Village at Blue Heaven, then walk the neighborhood
Snorkeling & Reef
- •Full-day snorkel trip to the reef — North America's only living coral barrier reef
- •Afternoon rest and pool or beach time
- •Dinner at a waterfront seafood restaurant
Dry Tortugas Day Trip
- •Ferry to Dry Tortugas National Park (2.5 hours each way) — Fort Jefferson, pristine snorkeling
- •Explore the massive Civil War-era fort and surrounding crystal-clear waters
- •Return to Key West for a late dinner
Water Sports & Fort Zach
- •Morning kayak or paddleboard through mangrove channels
- •Beach day at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park
- •Sunset sailing cruise with drinks
Bikes, Art & Nightlife
- •Rent a bike and ride the island — Smathers Beach, Salt Ponds, and back roads
- •Visit local galleries and the Studios of Key West
- •Big night out on Duval Street — live music, drag shows, and cocktails
Leisurely Departure
- •Lazy morning brunch at a local favorite
- •Last swim at your favorite beach
- •Drive back up the Overseas Highway with stops at Bahia Honda State Park and Robbie's in Islamorada
Flights
Estimated round-trip prices from major US hubs
MIA
Round-trip estimate
$80
Best priceATL
Round-trip estimate
$220
JFK
Round-trip estimate
$260
ORD
Round-trip estimate
$300
LAX
Round-trip estimate
$420
Prices are estimates based on historical data. Check airlines for current fares.
Daily Budget
Estimated daily cost per person including accommodation, food, transport, and activities
Budget
$90
per day
Moderate
$180
per day
Luxury
$400
per day
7-Night Trip Estimate (1 person)
Budget
$710
incl. flights from MIA
Moderate
$1,340
incl. flights from MIA
Luxury
$2,880
incl. flights from MIA
When to Go
Jan
✓
Feb
✓
Mar
✓
Apr
✓
May
✓
Jun
—
Jul
—
Aug
—
Sep
✗
Oct
✗
Nov
✓
Dec
✓
| Month | High | Low | Rain | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 25° | 19° | 5d | Warm and dry. Peak tourist season with ideal weather. |
| Feb | 25° | 19° | 4d | Dry and pleasant. Great for water activities. |
| Mar | 27° | 21° | 4d | Warming up with low humidity. Spring breakers arrive. |
| Apr | 28° | 22° | 4d | Warm and dry. One of the best months weather-wise. |
| May | 30° | 24° | 8d | Wet season begins. Warmer with increasing humidity. |
| Jun | 31° | 26° | 10d | Hot and humid with regular afternoon showers. Hurricane season. |
| Jul | 32° | 27° | 8d | Hottest month. Brief tropical showers. |
| Aug | 33° | 27° | 10d | Very hot and humid. Peak hurricane risk. |
| Sep | 32° | 27° | 12d | Wettest month. Hurricane season continues. |
| Oct | 30° | 25° | 9d | Still warm with rain tapering off. Fantasy Fest late October. |
| Nov | 28° | 23° | 6d | Cooling down slightly. Dry season returns. |
| Dec | 26° | 20° | 5d | Pleasant winter warmth. Holiday celebrations on the island. |
Temperatures in Celsius. Rain days = days with measurable precipitation.
Nearby Destinations
Miami, Florida
World-class dining, nightlife, art, and beaches — the jumping-off point for the Keys.
Nassau, Bahamas
Caribbean island escape with turquoise waters and Bahamian culture.
Havana, Cuba
Just 90 miles away — vintage cars, live music, and rich history. Check current travel regulations.
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