Nearly everyone has that bucket list trip they’d take if they could. While Key West offers a dream come true in terms of weather and welcoming vibe, the island city also has all of the great attractions and restaurants you could want. Read on to learn how this destination stands out for solo travelers, couples, friends, and families.
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Fishing for All
On a charter fishing trip, everyone is welcome! Book yours with All In Fishing Charters for a great time, even if you’ve never held a fishing pole before. Fishing in the Florida Keys is known the world over, and your charter boat captain knows exactly where to go for the best chances of a great in-season catch. From flats to deep sea, reef, and wreck fishing, you can be assured that you’re in good hands. All of your permits and fishing gear are included for total convenience–just pack your sunscreen and snacks.
And because the fish are plentiful all year long in this part of Florida, there’s no bad time to book this excursion. Catch tarpon, grouper, snapper, mahi mahi, and more. And if you do happen to make the catch of the day, you’ll find that many local restaurants offer a cook-your-catch menu item; you’ll typically have your choice of getting your fish prepared broiled, blackened or grilled and then served family-style for everyone at your table to share. It’s a wonderful way to extend an amazing experience none of you will forget.
Spend the Day Snorkeling
At Dry Tortugas National Park, this small group of islands to the west of Key West offers the gentle and clear waters that make snorkeling so enjoyable, even for those who may be new to the sport. It offers multiple coral reefs and shipwrecks that have abundant undersea life you can explore. For those who’d rather stay above the surface of the water, the largest of these islands, Garden Key, has a historic fort and promenade on it, and you can take tours and see historical re-enactments. The park has a small beach for swimming. You can also go kayaking and birdwatching, too.
Dry Tortugas National Park is accessible by ferry only, and it books quickly, so as soon as you finalize your travel plans, it’s wise to make your reservations for the trip from Key West. It may seem too soon to get your seats on the ferry a few months out but you also don’t want to miss this great opportunity to experience nature in a brand new way.
Not far from where you board and exit the ferry is Eaton Street Seafood Market, which is an ideal spot to grab a quick meal since all of that swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking will likely make you really hungry. Among the most popular dishes are grilled lobster, fish tacos, and conch fritters. You can miss the charming Art Deco-style building with plenty of outdoor seating, so you can relax and enjoy your made-to-order meals on the spot.
Make Your Way Along Duval Street
This main street in Key West runs pretty much the length of the island, and it’s known for great shopping, dining, museums, and things to do. You’ll find the best local boutiques selling hand-made and one-of-a-kind pieces, plus traditional souvenirs. If you’re looking for something special, whether it’s clothing, jewelry, pottery, art, decor, vintage, glassware or food gifts, wine, and cigars, Duval Street is the place. Stop along one of the many cafes, restaurants, and bars for a light meal or a drink.
Because it’s so centrally located, you’ll find that Duval Street offers you a quick path to many of the area’s top museums, attractions, and even beaches within a few blocks’ walking distance. Visitors to Key West rave about the Key West Butterfly Garden and Nature Conservatory, the Hemingway Home and Museum, the Audubon House and Tropical Gardens, and the Key West Lighthouse and Keepers Quarters.
Stick around Duval and head up to Mallory Square as the sun goes down to join in the nightly Sunset Celebration, where street performers, live musicians, local food and drink vendors, and local arts and crafts vendors offer locals and tourists alike a good time. Whether this is your last stop of the day or just a pre-dinner party, you’ll love how warm and welcoming the casual vibe is here.
You’ll Find it All in Key West
It can be a challenge to find a single vacation destination that ticks all the boxes but Key West certainly does. It’s easy to get to and offers a wide range of activities for all ages, from parks to beaches, shopping, and dining, while the natural beauty of the Florida Keys is unsurpassed. You can’t go wrong making this a trip to remember forever.