"Wait you LIVE in Key West?! Tell me everything!"
"What should I do? Where should I eat? Where should I stay? What's your favorite spot?"
Friends... I present to you: A Local's Guide to Key West
You've come to the right spot! I've been living on this magical island for almost 2 years now and let's just say a) I never want to move and b) I have been allllmost everywhere now lol. At some point I will flush out each category in separate blog posts but I much prefer everything to be in one spot - don't you?
I'm answering how to get there, where to stay, where to eat, favorite happy hours, best coffee places, what to see and do, etc!! [side note: September is normally the quietest month here so keep that in mind - times and openings are always subject to change]
Working on my KW Bachelorette post still FYI!
HOW TO GET THERE //
If you have the option I would drive because it's a stunning trip along the water! Fair warning that traffic could be bad at times because US-1 is one lane north and one lane south. Be sure to schedule in time to make stops along the way [check out my last blog post that includes driving stops here].
A few spots to stop by if you're driving:
- Pilot House (Key Largo)
- Craig's (Plantation Key) [under new ownership since I've been]
- Robbie's (Islamorada)
- Morada Bay Beach Cafe (Islamorada)
- Sombrero Beach (Marathon)
- Sea Turtle Hospital (Marathon)
- National Key Deer Refuge (Big Pine)
- Square Grouper (Marathon & Islamorada)
- Baby's Coffee (Sugarloaf)
However, flying is still an option - the KW airport is tiny so if you're an anxious person just be aware of that. You'll deplane on the runway, walk down a ladder, and then head towards the airport building where there are 2 carousels to grab your luggage - there is also a cocktail bar inside :) It's easy to grab an uber/taxi from there.
WHERE TO STAY //
I always like to recommend AirBNB's in Old Town - this supports the local economy in a big way and is the best way to get a flavor of the island too! There are tons of historic houses and everything is very colorful - not just the flora but the houses. If you look at a map, staying "left" of White Street will keep you close to Duval St (the main "going out" strip) and within walking/biking distance of places to eat, visit, and drink.
There are also lots of amazing hotels that I've been lucky to visit and experience [this entire list has a pool on property as well]. Please note, that these are personal preferences and places I've had the chance to see/explore in person. These hotels range wiiiidely in price so there's something for every budget. For example, I stayed at the Blue Marlin in college on spring break and loved it (it has also recently been redone haha). In no particular order:
- Parrot Key*- Hyatt Centric
- The Paradise Inn
- The Reach*
- Marquesa Hotel*
- The Marker
- Southernmost House*
- Pier House*
- The Perry (on Stock Island - left picture)*
- Blue Marlin Motel
HOW TO GET AROUND //
Renting bikes is my preference because they're easy to lock up and find spots to park! Plus, you end up saving so much money not using ubers! Key West is very friendly to bikers in regards to sharing the road but still be careful and look both ways. Most bike places will recommend another if they're sold out which makes me super happy - they all look out for each other.
We have rented beach cruiser bikes for our guests from Island Bicycles because they have the cleanest bikes and best prices (around $10 a day or $60 for a weekly rate). Call ahead to reserve (seriously, reserve your bikes haha) and get 10% off too [305-292-9707]
Eaton Bikes is another local bikeshop around the corner from our house that we love. Kyle has taken his personal bike here a couple of times for adjustments and I personally used Eaton Bikes for my sister's bach here (top tier service - five stars!!). Prices vary but are on average $18 a day, $10 a day after that and $55 for a week. They also have tandem bikes and trailers for kids to sit in! Call ahead to reserve, they will also drop off your bikes for you if they're able. They have discounts for reserving online too [305-294-8188].
Scooters are another fun option!! I'm obviously a fan since that's how I get around :) We bought our 2-seater from Sunshine Scooters so that's the place I'd recommend. There are tons of other places but double check to see if your hotel has them to rent! Sunshine Scooters is $30-45 for the day and $99-179 for the week. I believe they will deliver and pick up from where you're staying too. Make sure to reserve them online at least 24 hours in advance. [305-414-2976]
WHERE TO GET COFFEE //
There are Starbucks on the island but take my word for it and do NOT go to one... enjoy the local spots!!
- Cuban Coffee Queen - three locations (best chai lattes)*- Keys Coffee (great matcha lattes)*
- La Grignote
- Old Town Bakery (Kyle's favorite - pictured on left above)*
- Red Buoy Coffee (inside Glazed Donuts)
- Sandy's Cafe
- Funky Rooster (middle photo)
- The Koffie House
- Banana Cafe (great brunch too)
- Frenchie's Cafe
WHERE TO EAT //
This list may seem long but there's some amazing food here! I personally prefer to eat outside because I work inside all day... Yes, I know it's hot :) but there's lots of shade and fans available - bring a hat too!! I would recommend making reservations for dinner right now because travelers are always flocking to the island. It's free to reserve/cancel and better safe than sorry! Note that I haven't included every single restaurant... that would be a lot!
Breakfast:
- Banana Cafe- Pepe's
- B.O.'s Fish Wagon (cash only)
- Latitude's (Sunset Key)*^
- LL's Test Kitchen (Stock Island)
- Moondog Cafe
- Roostica (Stock Island)
- Salute
- Four Marlin's*
- Firefly
- La Trattoria
- Lola's*^
- Martin's*
- Santiago's Bodega*
- Southernmost Fresh Co
- Conch Republic (they will cook your fresh caught fish for you!)
*great for date night
I always get this question so my top favorite spots are (in order):
- Louie's*^- Little Pearl*
- Lola's*^
- Hot Tin Roof (brunch)
- Thirsty Mermaid* (HH)
^these are also some of the most romantic spots on the island
WHERE TO DRINK //
- Old Town Tavern [4-7pm and 11-1am; 1/2 off wines and well drinks; 25% off beer; 1/2 off flatbreads and shared plates]
*favorite happy hours :)
+ live music
WHAT TO DO ON THE WATER //
If you ask me what ONE thing you have to do while you're in Key West... it would be to get out on the water. Get your cute self on a boat and feel the wind whip through your hair and then you can see what it's really like to be down here :)
- Danger Charters Wind & Wine Sunset Sail - I've said it a million times but this is my absolute favorite way to watch the sunset! On a sailboat, with a wine tasting, and little apps being passed around. It's mesmerizing to watch the sail and tasting 7+ wines ain't so bad either haha. (Boat pictured above) If you're here visiting on your honeymoon this is a must must do... trust me!!! (Locals - be sure to call to get 30% off. Must have a valid ID at check-in.)- Sunset Sail - There are multiple companies down here that offer sunset sails. Some with champagne, sangria, beer, open bar, etc. Some have live music and some are on a catamaran. It all depends on what you're looking for. Check out Sunset Sail, Sebago, Fury, & Danger Charters.
- Fury Ultimate Adventure - this is an all day adventure on a catamaran that includes snorkeling, jet skiing, water park, kayaking, parasailing, and a banana boat! Breakfast and lunch are provided along with drinks after you're tired of all the activities! (Locals - be sure to call to get discounted rate. Must have a valid ID at check-in.)
- Fishing Charter - Deep Sea or Flats Guides are available depending on the type of fish you want to catch. If you're interested in fishing please send me an email and I can put you in touch with one of my friends that are guides down here! southernanchors@gmail.com
- Hang out at a sandbar - Snipe's (where the rope swing is), Marvin, Mud Keys, Boca Grande, and Jewfish Basin are favorite local ones [see below for charter recommendations]
- Paddle boarding, kayaking, jet skiing, etc! There are tons of rental companies around the island (and lots are located at hotels). Barefoot Billy's and Lazy Dog are popular with my friends!
- Go snorkeling or diving at the reefs - we love Sand Key! [see below for charter recommendations]
- Charter a boat - Recommendations from friends and people that have visited before and chartered a boat for a day on the water: Aquaholics, Key West Charters, Boundless Charters, Fun in the Sun, Fish N Chicks, Sol Chaser Charters. If I had to pick JUST ONE... go with Aquaholics. I'm lucky to call the owners my friends and they're some of the best people on this island! (Locals - be sure to call to get discounted rate. Must have a valid ID at check-in.)
WHERE TO COOK YOUR CATCH //
WHAT TO SEE & DO //
Something to keep in mind: there may be lines or advanced ticket reservations necessary.
- Hemingway's House - so much history and SO many cats! I've been 5+ times and never get tired of learning more about Ernest Hemingway. He had such a fascinating life and the photos, posters, and articles all over the house detail it very well. Plus, the cats still roam free and are taken care of by veterinarians that volunteer. They're famous for their 6 toes!- Key West Lighthouse - Across the street from Hemingway's house and a great piece of history plus spectacular views.
- Southernmost Point - there is almost always a line at this famous picture spot!
- Truman Waterfront - checkout out the USCGC Ingham, a splash water park perfect for kids, large grassy lawn, sunset views, and a Farmer's Market every Thursday evening until sunset!
- Key West Garden Club - located near Higg's Beach this incredible garden is kept alive by a group of volunteers with serious green thumbs
- Rum Distillery - this was the first legal rum distillery in Key West! They have daily free private tours and tastings. I can't wait for everything to open back up because they used to have a mojito making class and I'm dying to go!
- Nature and Butterfly Conservatory - is there anything more magical than thousands of butterflies and hoping one will land on you? Plus, the flamingos are pretty cool!
- Conch Train - I've personally never gone on the Conch Train but it's very well known around the island! This is the best way to take in all of the sights and learn a lot about the history of the island. I've actually biked behind it so many times that I know some history facts from over hearing things haha.
- Ghost Tour - Another tour train I've never gone on but knowing how Key West does theatrics and costumes (RIP Fantasy Fest 2020) I can only imaaaagine how much fun this ghost tour is haha. Plus, there are so many stories and fables from this island... the cigar houses... mafia... bank robberies... if this is your thing I bet it's a hoot.
- Art Shack and Soul House - if you tire of the water and sun these two spots on Stock Island are hidden gems of incredible local artists. Easiest to get to by car or scooter. (If you go I recommend stopping by Hogfish, Roostica, or Matt's at The Perry Hotel to round out your Stock Island trip).
- Bahama Village - home to the famous Blue Heaven but also some cute little shops and great artists. It's worth a quick walk down Petronia St. Plus, the new arch on the corner of Duval was just reinstalled... look for the rainbow sidewalks :)
- Shops at Mallory Square - Home to local artists like Cocky Key West, Key West Soaps, & Ocean Blues Studio. The building itself is full of history but the art inside is perfect for when you just need to shop! Located at 291 Front Street. (If you want to get a Key West shirt you've got to get one from Cocky... that's how you truly get a souvenir... from a local!!!)
BEACHES //
- Higgs Beach - a personal favorite spot to watch the sunrise. Complete with pier to walk out on and volleyball courts. There’s a park nearby too. Salutè is the restaurant overlooking everything!
- Smathers Beach - (left photo) aka the party beach during spring break. If you arrive via the airport you’ll drive by this! Farthest away from Duval St but kayak rentals available here. I love watching the sunrise here because it's nice and quiet with people walking their dogs or enjoying a workout
- South Beach - (middle picture) small and next to the Southernmost Hotel. There’s a Starbucks and cafe (plus bar) right on the sand with chairs you can rent. Warning - this spot can be crowded since it’s at the end of Duval St!
- Simonton Beach - personal favorite since it's tiiiiny and right next to Lagerheads Bar where you can grab a drink and some fish tacos! Worth renting a $10 chair for the day - make sure to try the fish tacos. Located at north end of Simonton St.
- Dog Beach - exactly what you think it is haha small and at the south end of Vernon Ave right next to Louie's Backyard
COMMON QUESTIONS //
Q: What's the safest place to run while I'm there?
A: The easiest place to run is along the water by Smathers Beach. If you're an early riser then I love going down to the city marina and running along the dock.. starting at the ferry, past schooners, past conch republic, and to A&B Marina. Then I will continue through Truman Annex, to the Ingham Museum, and eventually home :) you can make any run 2 miles or 5 miles with weaving in and out streets!
Q: Do you think KW is a good honeymoon destination?
A: I think it's a great location to honeymoon!!! Pick a wonderful place with a pool, book a sunset cruise, grab happy hour, and make nice dinner reservations and you're set!
Q: How warm will it be in December/January?
A: On average it's been 75-67 during the "colder months". I think that time of year is the best to visit an island because everywhere else is actually cold haha. I carry a light jacket, jean jacket or sweater when I go out and can get away with jeans (and sandals). You'll see lots of people still wearing sundresses, skirts, and shorts too - especially if the sun is out. The water will be colder as well so keep that in mind. I always encourage people to bring a wind breaker because you truly never know what the temps will actually be with wind chill (no joke it's been high 50s before).
Q: What is it like with COVID?
A: Please head to this post for most recent updates - and a guide that's tailored to outdoor restaurants, etc.
Love Always,
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