Aug 30 – Sept 2, 2024
“A beautiful mix of sun, sand, music, culture, dancing and fun.” – ME
Key West is a wonderful destination spot for a short vacation, bachelor party or birthday celebration. It is the perfect mix of Nashville and New Orleans, a delight I was not expecting. Key west doesn’t shut down until the wee morning hours so bring your party pants. There is talented live music everywhere, which is such a treat and really the best part.
This small island is around 4 miles long and 1 mile wide. It has a total land area of 4.2 square miles. The city of Key West occupies the entire island along with portions of surrounding islands, totaling around 6 square miles of land area. Despite its small size, Key West packs a punch with its many activities and attractions. You really only need a long weekend there to enjoy and partake in everything there is to offer. Due to its compact size you can really stay anywhere and easily get around.
Key West has many attractions, including museums, parks, beaches, and watersports. Nature lovers can enjoy sailing, kayaking, fishing, and snorkeling tours. The Conch Tour Train is a great way to see Key West’s iconic landmarks. The best time to visit is in the spring, especially March and April, when there is nice weather and low rainfall. However, we went at the end of August and had fabulous weather! After Labor Day some places close down until the end of October for hurricane season so make sure you plan accordingly.
There are a few popular hotel spots. I would defiantly check out:
The Perry Hotel & Marina Key West – Overlooking Stock Island Marina, this chic hotel is 3 miles from Key West International Airport, and 5 miles from nightlife on lively Duval Street.
The Saint Hotel Key West – Very cool boutique hotel in the center of all the action. Walking distance to Duval Street and this upscale hotel is a 10-minute walk from the Ernest Hemingway House and 3 miles from lively Smathers Beach.
Parrot Key Hotel & Villas – This is where we stayed. Located on the Gulf of Mexico, this lushly landscaped waterfront resort is 2.5 miles from Historic Old Town. The laid-back accommodations are decorated in a modern tropical style and the resort has all the amenities.
With regards to getting around. There are a number of options. If you enjoy an adult beverage I would recommend parking the car at the hotel and leaving it there. It is much easier to walk, bike, scooter, golf cart or uber to your desired location. We paid for a golf cart and although it was fun and a nice easy way to drive all over the small island and see everything. Parking is very hard to find so my advise would be to do scooters so you have more parking options or just uber the rides are quick and inexpensive.
If you are going to spend a day on the water there are a number of fun activities to participate in. From sunset sailing, diving, snorkeling, kayaking, jet skis, and of course a booze cruise. I’m certain your hotel will have all the contact information you need and will help get you set up.
Another fun thing to do is to make your way down to Southernmost Point of the Continental USA. This simple monument located at the southernmost tip of the continental U.S. & 90 miles north of Cuba is a popular picture spot. Be aware there is usually a line. Once you are done with that, grab some lunch, then go over to Mallory Square at sunset. Every night there is a celebration with performers and music. It’s fun to walk around, take in the sights and the gorgeous sunset. Of course, after that you can find some delicious dinner (I will list some recommendations below) and then dance the night away on Duval Street. Lastly, if you have a sweet tooth, make a reservation and go experience the Better then Sex Dessert Restaurant!
Tips on getting to Key West…
Many people drive, however keep in mind it is a one lane road all the way down so it can take hours and although there are a few spots you may want to stop and check out and it is a scenic drive, there are other options.
There is a ferry called the Key West Express. It leaves from Fort Myers or Marco Island it is reasonably priced and saves you time. Plus there is a full bar. The only downside is times are limited so you need to plan accordingly.
Lastly a very cool option to get down there is by sea plane. This saves you a ton of time. However, will cost you a bit more and luggage may be limited.
Dining recommendations…
Flying Monkeys Saloon – A must stop by at least for a frozen drink. Lively bar in a house with a patio, known for frozen cocktails & a varied pub menu, open every day.
Salty Frog’s – Typical bar scene with live music, pub food and good drinks!
Pier House One Duval – This elegant resort hotel extends out over the water on wooden piles. The restaurant is on the deck with view of the water. The food was amazing!
Blue Heaven – Blue Heaven is al fresco dining, Key West style: canopies of tropical foliage, improvised art (a leopard-spotted mannequin, a rooster graveyard, jolly-colored coconuts and trap floats) and a sail strung between trees providing shade. But don’t let the whimsical décor mislead you: the food is taken seriously. Fabulous brunch spot!
Rams Head Southernmost – Vibrant open-air bar with patio seating, offering seafood, sandwiches, and cocktails, plus live music.
Salty’s Bar and Grill – Great little spot on the water to stop at for some really good grub on your way out of town. Located in Key Largo.
A&B Lobster House – Fine dining where patrons can watch the sun set over the harbor at this local fixture for surf ‘n’ turf. Food and service were fabulous!