Key West – Florida

Home to the southern most point of the continental USA, Key West is a favorite holiday destination for American and international citizens alike. Key West is famous for its Conch Fritters and Key Lime pie and if visiting you would be mad not to hunt some down and give them a try. Key West is equally famous for its wild chickens and you will often find the roaming the streets, beaches and parks.

Although not the last key in the Florida keys, Key West is the last one which is accessible by road being at the end of the Overseas Highway and the starting point and home to mile marker zero of the US1.

Key West Climate:

With a tropical climate similar to that of the Caribbean, Key west enjoys fairly consistent temperatures throughout the year with a narrow temperature range only differing by around 8ºC. Winter averages hover around 20°C and summer average highs are around 28°C. Due to its location and its Tropical climate during the late summer months Key West as with most of the Caribbean and Florida is subject to a wet season with heavy down pours. Although rain storms are often heavy they do blow over quickly. Typically April is the driest of months and August the wettest. Again due to its location Key West is subject to the possibility of Hurricanes.

Popular Key West areas of interest:

Key West is jam packed with things to do, see and explore from the house of Ernst Hemingway though to the historic forts of Fort Zachary Taylor State Park.

Duval Street – Probably the most well know street and area everyone has heard of in Key West. Running from the south starting at the southern most Point and beach, Duval street runs north all the way to Mallory Square. The street is lined with everything from big name restaurants to small Conch fitter sellers, Historic Houses and churches, art galleries and shops. Walking the length of Duval St and exploring all it has to offer would take more than a day itself so below we list some highlights to help you make the most of your day.

  • Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory.
  • Island Cigar Factory.
  • The Salty Angler Restaurant.
  • Millionaire Gallery Key West.
  • Funky Chicken Store – Gallery.
  • Djs Clam Shack.
  • Willie Ts – Bar.
  • Key Wests Oldest House and Garden Museum.
  • Hard Rock Cafe Key West.
  • Gas Monkey Bar and Grill Key West.
  • Senor Frogs Restaurant and Bar.
  • Ripley Believe It or Not Key West.
  • Hydro Thunder of Key West – Water Sports and Rentals.

Duval Street is also at the center of the nightlife which can be found with the bars rocking on well into the night and a party atmosphere to the northern end of the road every night.

Fort Zachary State Park and Beach – The State park covers the whole south west corner of Key West and is a must see if your in the area. The Historic fort dating back from the mid 1800s is the stunning back drop to a relaxed tropical oasis with one of Key Wests best beaches. Keep your eyes peeled for the hundreds of Iguanas inhabiting the fort.

Ernst Hemingway House and Museum – Located on Whitehead St at corner of Olivia St the Ernst Hemingway Home is an extremely popular attraction. The Museum is open to visitors 9am-5pm 7 days a weeks.

Southernmost Point – Probably the most photographed location in the Florida Keys you too could have your opportunity to be pictured next to the famous Buoy. Be prepared to queue though as it is busy almost 24/7.

Mallory Square – This is a popular area to watch the sunset and stroll around the nightly entertainment that appears as the sun sets. Watch fire jugglers whilst eating some of that famous Conch Fritter and listening to some live music. Mallory square is very much the family friendly evening destination.

Front St and A & B Marina – Location of many decent restaurants serving up fresh local seafood dishes. The Marinas located at the eastern end of Front Street are also home to some of Key West best Sailing day trip and excursions, nightly sunset tours and water sports rentals.

Key Wests Beaches – Not famous for its beaches but there are still some nice areas to relax and catch some sun. See our Key West Beach Guide for ideas and inspiration.

Florida Keys Areas of Interest:
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