But this island town is renowned for more than for its idyllic climate; this gateway to the Caribbean is home to a conglomeration of interesting cultures. This mix of different immigrant cultures has created an atmosphere of tolerance and openness that adds to the welcoming spirit of the island. The town is pleased to show off its cultural diversity to vacationers by celebrating its varied influences through annual carnivals and ethnic festivities. Key West, Florida, has also become a world-wide destination for creative types, like musicians, painters, writers, and various performers. Ernest Hemingway, perhaps Key West's most well-known former resident, was inspired by the atmosphere of this beautiful island hamlet.

There are so many great things to do and sights to see in and around this island paradise that it can be difficult to select from the fantastic assortment of land-based and water-centric activities. If you love to participate in water sports, Key West offers visitors ample activities like scuba diving, snorkeling, deep sea fishing, flats fishing, reef angling, sailing, sea kayaking, parasailing, jet skiing, eco excursions, and so much more. The charming town of Key West also offers ample attractions on the island like historic landmarks, museums, the Key West Aquarium, and plentiful dining and shopping options.

This island getaway also offers visitors a selection of fine accommodations that can fit a range of vacation budgets, from opulent hotels and lavish resorts to humble seaside bungalows. Key West boasts a distinctive combination of flavors in the preparation of its locally-caught seafood. There are ample spots to enjoy a refreshing beer or cocktail throughout the isle. No need to worry about putting on airs while visiting this casual vacationland; our dining establishments only require that their clients dress comfortably and enjoy their meals.

Whether you are seeking a vacation spot to enjoy some vibrant nightlife, pristine beaches and crystalline waters, or some unique cultural and historical flavor, Key West is the destination for you. Everyone who visits this coastal paradise has a great time; a visit to our island oasis is the perfect remedy for the typical work week blues. After enjoying a day of sightseeing or snorkeling at a beautiful coral reef, you can toast the end of the day by watching the panoramic sunset from Mallory Square or from the deck of one of our splendid catamarans: a perfect close to a perfect day.

There are many ways that travelers can get to Key West. For those coming from places other than Florida, the best way is to fly. You can fly either directly into Key West via the Key West International Airport, or you can fly into nearby Miami or Ft Lauderdale International airports. If you fly into Miami or Ft. Lauderdale, you will have to either rent a car or book a ticket on one of the South Florida to Key West buses. Driving to Key West is a popular option, particularly because the drive is one of the most beautiful in the country and takes you through some 40 different islands and some 30 different bridges, including the famous Seven Mile Bridge. Another excellent way of getting to Key West is via the Key West Express ferry, that departs from Fort Myers Beach. This option allows guests to sit back and relax as they travel to Key West and it drops guests off right among all the action of downtown Key West.

Internet Access:

There are a few internet cafes and wi-fi hot spots scattered throughout Downtown Key West. The best and most convenient place to find internet access is your hotel. When making your hotel reservations, ask whether or not the property offers their guests wi-fi or some form of internet access. Most places have wi-fi in, at least, their common areas or outdoor courtyard and pool areas.

Currency:

Key West is part of the United States and thus the American dollaris accepted anywhere, as well as all major credit cards. You do not need a passport to come to Key West Florida.

Getting to and from the Airport:

Key West is a small island that is only 4 miles from east to west. The airport is at the far west side of the island. Many travelers in Key West stay in the Downtown area, which is about three miles from the airport. Taxi services can easily take you from the airport to Downtown. If you are planning on renting a scooter or electric car, you will likely be offered complimentary pick-up at the airport.

Getting Around in Key West:

If you are staying anywhere in Downtown / Old Town Key West, you will be just fine getting around on foot or, when your feet are tired, jumping into a taxi and getting an inexpensive ride. Also within downtown you will find rickshaws that offer rides to other areas of downtown. Many people who come to Key West like to rent scooters to make transportation within the island much easier. Renting scooters is also a great option because it makes finding parking so simple. And, finally, some people like to rent the open-air electric cars, which is a great way to feel the constant tropical breeze as you ride through the island.

In the Sixteen-hundreds, the Spanish took control of Key West (then known as Cayo Hueso or Bone Key). The island gained this moniker because of the scattered remains of fallen Native American warriors found along the seashore by the Spanish when they first arrived. Eventually, the Calusa departed from the Keys to settle in what is now Cuba.

Eventually, after the English controlled the island, the word "Hueso" became Anglicized into the word "West" which also happened to be fitting considering Key West's location in the island chain. Cayo Hueso subsequently became known as Key West. Commercial fishing and salvaging became the predominant businesses on the island when the English chased the natives and Spanish to Cuba in the middle of the Eighteenth Century. Spain took advantage of England's colonial struggles in the New World, and retook the Keys in the wake of the American Revolution in 1815. Even after Florida became part of the U.S.A., Key West remained separate as private property divided into four parcels owned by businessmen. Key West's strategic location along the trade route into the Gulf of Mexico was too important to the United States government, who established a naval base on the island. A customs office was also set up to deal with commerce as well as the large influx of immigrants entering the nation through Key West. Captain David Porter was sent to the island to help to eliminate the rampant piracy in the region, but was also considered a ruthless ruler who declared martial law, ignoring the property rights of locals.

After Porter's command (some would call it a "reign"), Key West residents profited from the misfortunes of merchant ships that were unfortunate enough to break up on the extensive reef system offshore. Salvaging the cargo from these wrecked vessels became a booming industry, transforming Key West into one of the wealthiest towns in the United States. Commercial harvesting of the plentiful aquatic life offshore, including turtles, sponges, and fish, also flourished. Until large salt deposits were discovered on the mainland in the late Nineteenth Century, Key West was the main source of salt for the United States. After alcohol prohibition was enacted in the Nineteen Twenties, the smuggling of liquor from Cuba began America's love affair with rum.

In modern times, the nefarious past of bloody battles, piracy, shipwrecking, and smuggling has given way to tourism. The vibrant culture, welcoming locals, and breathtaking natural setting have made Key West a popular tourist destination.

Top 3 Family Things to Do in Key West: Key West Parasailing

If you're after something out of the ordinary, take the kids on a fantastic parasailing adventure. Key West is beautiful from the ground, but from 600 feet in the air, it's absolutely spectacular. The unique architecture of Key West is breathtaking, but pales in comparison to the myriad azure blues and turquoises of the sea below. View the reef and spot bottlenose dolphins splashing about on the not so distant horizon. Take off from the warm sea, or, if you prefer, take off from the beach, either way, you'll be up in the air in no time. And because on a family vacation memories are meant to be special, take someone up with you to share the thrills.

Key West Back Country Tours

Every kid loves the idea of sailing away like Captain Hook on the high seas, so step aboard a beautiful sailing ship like the Danger Prize, and prepare for a truly unique and exciting sailing adventure. Boats like the Danger Prize were originally designed to harvest oysters, and with a shallow hull, they make perfect craft to zip around the back country of Key West. A billowing sail picks up Caribbean breezes, and experienced guides on board will educate you on the unique biodiversity of the region. Drop anchor for a spell, and explore the splendour of one of North America's most vibrant coral reefs. When you're finished, kayaks are lowered into the water, giving you the opportunity to explore the beautiful back country of Key West. All equipment is included as well as lunch and snacks, so you don't have to worry about fueling up the family in the middle of your excursion.

Key West Jet Ski Tours

If you've have family members with the need for speed, one of the most popular and most thrilling things to do in Key West is to hop on a jet ski and hit the high seas. Climb onto a top of the line jet ski, throw on a lifejacket and keep your eye on the experienced in front of you because you may miss something fabulous. You can follow as closely, or as far away as you want, allowing you more freedom than most tours. Knowledgeable guides will teach you all about the flora and fauna in the area, and every tour is catered towards the specific interests of the guests. With several stops made along the way, it's impossible for anyone to be bored, so if you're looking for something that will help everyone blow off some steam, this is definitely the right activity.

There are hundreds of things to do in Key West, and for families, the options are not only abundant but they're unique, with the opportunity to provide memories you can't create anywhere else. Key West is one of the best destinations for family, anywhere in the United States so pack your bags, and tell the kids, because a great family vacay awaits.

The Do It All and Ultimate Adventure Tour Packages

There is no other tour in Key West quite like the Do-It-All and the Ultimate Adventure! These tours take Key West activities to the extreme and allow you to experience up to ten different activities in the waters off the coast of Key West Florida. It is truly the ultimate Key West experience for people of all ages as you can try Key West snorkeling, parasailing, kayaking, jet skiing, kneeboarding, windsurfing and more! The trips depart from one of the Downtown Key West docks at 10AM and first make a stop at either the coral reef system or a shallow shipwreck for the snorkeling portion of the trip. Then the boat will ride a few miles out to deeper waters where it will anchor and then it is time for a watersports free-for-all. Jump aboard one of the jet skis and give it a spin in the water. Get on one of our kayaks and paddle out to sea, taking a peak at the clear-blue waters of Key West. Get on our parasailing boat and fly some 500-600 feet in the air, seeing some stunning vistas of Key West.

The Differences Between the Two Trips

Many people call asking what the difference is between the Do It All tour and the Ultimate Adventure. There are not too many differences but here are the more significant ones. The Ultimate Adventure does snorkeling in the coral reef while the Do it All goes snorkeling in a shipwreck that is located in shallow water. Another difference is the type of complimentary lunch served on board. The Ultimate Adventure serves a picnic-style lunch with deli meats, cheeses, bread, chips, etc. The Do It All has a barbecue-style lunch with burgers, hot dogs, veggie burgers, chips, etc. Also, the Do It All has more activities while the Ultimate Adventure lets you have more time on the four main activities (snorkeling, kayaking, jet ski, parasailing).

How to Reserve your Spots on the Boats

These trips are some of the most popular among Key West visitors. Even cruise ship passengers who are in Key West between 10AM and 4PM can enjoy the Do It All adventures. Many times throughout the year, Best On Key West is able to offer special deals on these tour packages, including complimentary sunset sails with advanced reservations and 30$ off the Do It All if you do it without parasailing. Make sure to ask about specials and deals on the Do It All and Ultimate Adventure when you call to reserve your spots. If you are thinking of going on one of these trips while you are in Key West, we suggest making your reservations at least a week or two in advance to make sure spots on the boats do not sell out.

Self Guided Old Town Tour

Sometimes, some of the best key west tours are the ones you create on your own. Take a day to yourselves to explore the jewels of Old Town Key West, one of the most historic and beautiful little districts in the nation. There is plenty to do here like visiting the world renown Shipwreck Historeum, or the Butterfly Conservatory where 50 remarkable species of butterflies will flutter about as you wander through. Share a romantic kiss amidst the gentle fury of wings, and don’t forget to make a wish!

Cruising in a Crystal Kayak

With all the hubbub coming and going out of Key West, sometimes, you just want to find a little peace and quiet with your sweetheart. This is easily found on any number of eco-friendly key west tours like this self-guided crystal kayak adventure through Key West’s pristine backcountry. The 33-foot Beach Cat catamaran will whisk guests from the fury of activity in downtown Key West to the outer reaches of the shoreline. With only 16 guests along for the journey, and your own two-seated crystal kayak to explore with, at times, you’ll feel like it’s just the two of you. Watch as colorful marine life passes beneath you, and enjoy the intimacy of being so close to what mother nature has to offer this part of the world on one of the most unique key west tours.

Wind and Wine Sunset Cruise

There is no better way to end a perfect day in Key West than to do it while sailing out to meet the sun as she slips away for the evening. The Wind and Wine Sunset Cruise isn’t your average sunset party, so if you’re after exclusivity, an impressive selection of handcrafted brews and impeccable service, this is one of those key west tours that will surely impress the one you love. As you float across calm seas on the Dangers Prize with twenty-one of your new friends and acquaintances, sample some of the world’s best beer and wines. This beautiful sunset cruise will surely get in the mood for a sultry dinner somewhere on shore, followed by a romantic stroll along the beach and a hot night of dancing ‘til you drop in any number of the fabulous night clubs and Key West cabarets.

Wild Dolphin Sail & Snorkel Adventure

This excursion combines two of the most beloved activities in the Florida Keys, sailing the high seas and swimming with dolphins. This elaborate swim with dolphins key west excursion sweeps guests away on the the Echo 2, the only catamaran in Key West that caters specifically to dolphin experiences. If you’re not a fan of huge crowds, this is the excursion for you. Though the Echo 2 is certified to carry twenty-eight souls, you get to enjoy it at half the capacity, which means there’s plenty of room to lay out and enjoy the journey as much as the destination. Sail around jewel like tropical islands, through the National Wildlife Refuge and up the coast of beautiful Key West where a local pod of playful dolphins call the region home. Enjoy an intimate view of dolphins caring for their young, hunting, feeding and playing with one another. This organic dolphin experience is not your average swim with dolphins key west experience. The emphasis is viewing them from afar, and once you stop to snorkel along the reef, you may be visited by a playful stranger. Enjoy some of the best snorkeling anywhere in the world, sumptuous snacks and refreshments, and a wonderful day out on the water.

Wild Dolphin Encounter and Snorkel

This popular swim with dolphins key west experience is a family favorite. Much like the Wild Dolphin Sail and Snorkel adventure, the The Wild Dolphin Encounter provides guests with the unique opportunity to experience dolphins in their natural habitat, rather than in an enclosure. An onboard guide will enlighten you about the life under beneath the ocean’s surface, and give you some insight into why these sentient beings are so beloved. After you’ve watched and interacted with these clowns of the sea, your tour drops anchor along coral reef gardens where you strap on the snorkeling gear provided, and enjoy the wonders of the reef. The tepid, shallow waters are the perfect environment for novice snorkelers and families with children. Enjoy intimate encounters with everything from dolphin to sea sponges on this magnificent four hour excursion.

Key West Ocean Vue Snorkel and Dolphin Encounter

Rated as one of the top excursions in all of Key West, the Ocean Vue Snorkel and Dolphin Encounter is perfect for guests of all ages. This swim with dolphins key west adventure not only provides guests with the opportunity to view and interact with dolphins in their natural habitat, but with the impressive 6 x 9 foot viewing glass bottom allows anyone and everyone to enjoy a window into the crystalline waters of the Gulf of Mexico without ever having to dangle a toe in the water! There is of course, snorkeling gear provided so you can experience the underwater world first hand. Enjoy your thrilling journey on this state-of-the-art Hydrofoil, have your camera ready, but you’re going to want to capture this once in a lifetime swim with dolphins key west adventure.

Saint Mary Star of the Sea Church

Built upon limestone rock, the church is comprised of a concoction of limestone and crushed coral, taken from the local beaches. Originally built in 1851, the church has endured a century and a half of savage tropical storms. The original furnishings have also seen better days, with multiple termite attacks, hurricanes and time eating away at it. It all adds to the structures charm and iconism. The church site suffered a devastating fire in 1901, but has since been rebuilt. The ruins of what once was are marked by a beautiful plaque, and the grounds and Basilica are beautiful. This historical site is what a real Key West vacation is made of.

Catch a Show at the Red Barn Theater

Iconic and culturally essential to the Key West community, the beloved Red Barn Theater is a unique stop for Key West vacation seekers. This neat little theater space has its fair share of theater celebrities grace its stage. Former U.S. Poet Laureate, Richard Wilbur, worked alongside the Red Barn when he produced his Moliere translations. Children’s author Shel Silverstein has given the Red Barn free reign to produce several of his adult-oriented plays. The Red Barn has also seen the likes of Philip Burton, Terrence McNally and Jimmy Buffet visit.

Stroll Along the Historic Seaport at Key West Bight

We hope you brought a lot of memory cards, because Key West is photographer’s dream. Everywhere you look is a scene of splendor. Spectacular sunsets dazzle at the day’s end, azure skies and crystalline seas spark the imagination, and the Caribbean inspired architecture that is distinctly Key West is awe inspiring. The Seaport at Key West Bight may just be one of the highlights of your Key West vacation. The port itself is nearly 200 years old, and has historically served as a base for fishing boats, shipping vessels and other merchant ships. Today, you’ll find myriad yachts, small pleasure crafts and even the odd tall ship in port. Meander in and out of quaint shops, grab a bite on the boardwalk and enjoy the best views in key West.

Any Key West vacation will be wonderful, but for those looking for a truly authentic experience, get off the beaten path, and check out some of the Key West’s most iconic treasures.

Keywest is a hub of activity all year long, with its myriad water activities, wonderful historic sites, great restaurants and more. But during the summer months, visitors are delighted to find a bevy of fun events that are unique to Keywest. So in between deep sea fishing charters, snorkeling tours along the coral reef and exhilarating parasailing trips, check out this fantastic list of events going on during the summer!

Key West Pride

Every June, Keywest comes to life with the annual Pride Parade. This tiny island becomes a fury of pool parties, dance parties, sunset sails, comedy performances, films, street vendors a great deal more. Keywest has long been known for its laissez faire attitude and refreshing culture of acceptance so if youve never experienced a Pride Parade before, Keywest is a wonderful place to experience it, in a setting that is second to none. Arrive early and snag yourself a front row seat, because you're not going to want to put your camera down!

The Annual Drambuie Key West Marlin Tournament

Anglers from around the world swarm to the shores of Keywest in June, all vying for $50,000 in cash prizes. Marlin was an old favorite of Hemmingway's and with only 75 boats able to register, the event sells out every year. Even if you don't come to compete for the cash, it's kind of fun to be a spectator just to see what amazing records could potentially be broken!

Papa Hemingway Look-Alike-Contest

Has anyone ever told you, you look like someone famous? Well, if that someone happens to be famous novelist Ernest Hemingway, you've got yourself a pretty decent shot at the title. Visitors from around the world congregate for Sloppy Joe's most beloved contest, and all vy for the title of best Look-a-Like. Even if you don't look like him, it's a great excuse to dress up and have a little fun without anyone batting an eye!

Hemingway 5K Sunset Run & Paddleboard Race

Who knows if Hemingway was ever into running 5K races, nonetheless, the annual 5K Sunset Run is part and parcel of the Annual Hemingway Days Festival that happens every July. The race course is flat, and scenic, snaking its way past Keywest's most prominent landmarks including Ernest Hemingway's beautiful home located in the Southernmost Point, an iconic location in its own right. This year's run featured the Lazy Dog Paddle Board Race, a new feature that took place before the 5K. The challenging 4 mile began at the Southernmost Beach Cafe and was a huge success!

Annual Key Lime Pie Festival

Key west is famous for many things like Hemingway, shipwrecks, piracy and most importantly, delicious key lime pie! What could possibly be better than an entire festival dedicated to one of the most iconic American desserts around. The events include any number of contests, a series of bake-off's and of course, a Guinness World Record attempt to create the world's largest pie, EVER! Come down around the Independence Day celebrations, and enjoy all the key lime pie you can handle.

Keywest is full of interesting activities to keep even the most ambitious traveler busy, and if you time it right, not only do you get to enjoy the usual options as well as have an excuse to celebrate something as fun as looking like Ernest Hemingway or eating a slice of keywest fresh, key lime pie!

Mel Fisher Maritime Museum

How many activities in your own hometown can you think of, cost less than $15? Probably not very many, especially if you come from a big city. Here, many of the Key West activities are wonderfully affordable because they want everyone to have the opportunity to enjoy them. The Mel Fisher Maritime Museum is a perfect escape for anyone with an inner pirate! With the largest and richest 17th century shipwreck and pirate artifact collection in the world world, this museum experience is a steal! With over $20 million in treasure, including authentic gold and silver bars and coins. Several exhibits also feature the Age of Discovery and includes information and exhibits on four of the most prominent ships of that time. The museum is open daily, year round.

Audubon House and Tropical Gardens

Take a step back in time to the excitement of the Nineteenth Century on a tour through a beautiful, fully restored mansion, teeming with furniture and artwork from the time period. History enthusiasts will love pouring over the artwork, and naturalists will love to take a stroll through the impressive tropical garden. Amazingly, the Audubon mansion was in line for demolition in the late 1950’s, and thankfully, the Mitchell Wolfson Family Foundation didn’t have the heart to see it ago. They rescued it, invested in it and today it stands as an important part of the Key West historical landscape.

Key West Aquarium

Not everyone who comes to Key West has designs on hopping a boat to the surrounding coral reefs, diving and snorkeling are not Key West activities for everyone. And if you are traveling with very small children, sometimes heading out on an ocean excursion simply isn’t feasible, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t have the opportunity to learn and enjoy the local marine life. The Key West Aquarium is home to a wonderful selection of localized fish species including morays, toothy barracuda, parrot fish, large tarpon, sharks and more! Time it right, and you will see the daily feedings of sea turtles, rays and most exciting, sharks!

Conch Train Tour

If you’ve just arrived in Key West and you want to orient yourself, just hop aboard one of the popular Conch Train Tours. The railroad arrived in 1912, introduced by Henry Flagler. Hailed as a ‘ride through time’, the experienced train conductor will tell you all about Key West in its glory days when the likes of Ernest Hemingway, President Harry S. Truman, Eisenhower and various celebrities came to Key West for sun, surf and sumptuous cocktails.

There are several affordable Key West activities, this is but a small sampling to whet your vacation appetite. Key West, while it is certainly home to impressive opulence, in spite of its incredible location, it is still a wonderfully affordable city that provides visitors with an abundance of fun, without them having to break the bank.