Key West, Florida
A Three-Day Adventure in Key West, Florida
Welcome to the tropical paradise of Key West, Florida! Known for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and colorful sunsets, this charming island city offers a perfect getaway for you and your friends. Get ready to immerse yourself in the laid-back island vibes as we explore the must-see attractions, indulge in delectable cuisine, and soak up the beauty of this southernmost gem of the United States.
Day 1: Exploring Historic Landmarks and Relaxing on the Beach
Morning:
Start your Key West adventure by fueling up with a delicious breakfast at Blue Heaven. This iconic eatery is a local favorite, offering a delightful outdoor dining experience with a tropical garden ambiance. Don’t miss their famous banana pancakes or mouthwatering lobster benedict.
After breakfast, head to the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. This historic landmark was once the residence of the celebrated American writer, Ernest Hemingway. Take a guided tour of the beautifully preserved Spanish Colonial-style house, and admire the lush gardens where friendly six-toed cats roam freely. As you wander through the halls, you’ll get a glimpse into the life and works of this literary genius.
Afternoon:
For a taste of the local cuisine, grab lunch at Louie’s Backyard. This waterfront restaurant combines stunning ocean views with an innovative menu featuring fresh seafood and Caribbean-inspired dishes. Indulge in their famous yellowtail snapper or the succulent lobster mac and cheese.
After satisfying your taste buds, head to Mallory Square to experience the vibrant energy of Key West. This historic waterfront square is known for its nightly Sunset Celebration. Arrive early to secure a spot, grab a refreshing drink from the local vendors, and watch the sky paint a breathtaking masterpiece as the sun dips below the horizon.
Evening:
As the day winds down, treat yourself to a seafood feast at A&B Lobster House. This waterfront restaurant offers a refined dining experience with an extensive menu showcasing the best of Key West’s seafood. Savor their signature dish, the A&B Seafood Tower, a delightful assortment of fresh oysters, clams, shrimp, and lobster.
After dinner, take a stroll down Duval Street, the heart of Key West’s nightlife. Explore the vibrant bars, live music venues, and quirky shops along this lively strip. Don’t forget to grab a slice of Key lime pie from Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe to end your day on a sweet note.
Day 2: Water Adventures and Cultural Explorations
Morning:
Gear up for an exciting day of water adventures by starting your morning with a hearty breakfast at Sandy’s Café. This local gem is famous for its Cuban sandwiches and mouthwatering pastries, making it the perfect spot to fuel up before a day of exploration.
Embark on a snorkeling tour to the stunning coral reefs surrounding Key West. Fury Water Adventures offers a variety of snorkeling excursions, providing an opportunity to swim with colorful tropical fish and explore the breathtaking underwater world. Admire the vibrant coral formations and get up close and personal with marine life in these crystal-clear waters.
Afternoon:
After your snorkeling adventure, head to the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory. Immerse yourself in a tropical paradise filled with hundreds of free-flying butterflies, vibrant flowers, and cascading waterfalls. Take your time to wander through this enchanting oasis, capturing unforgettable moments with these delicate creatures.
For lunch, make your way to El Siboney, a local favorite for authentic Cuban cuisine. Indulge in their famous roast pork, black beans, and plantains, which will transport your taste buds to the flavors of Havana.
Evening:
As the sun begins to set, make your way to the Key West Lighthouse and Keeper’s Quarters Museum. Climb to the top of the lighthouse for panoramic views of the island and the surrounding turquoise waters. Learn about the history of this iconic structure and the brave keepers who maintained it over the years.
For dinner, enjoy the lively atmosphere and delicious seafood at Conch Republic Seafood Company. Situated on the Historic Seaport, this waterfront restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring fresh catches from local fishermen. Savor their seafood paella or indulge in their famous Key West Pink Shrimp.
End your evening with a dose of entertainment at the Waterfront Playhouse. This intimate theater showcases a variety of performances, ranging from plays to musicals and comedy shows. Check their schedule ahead of time to catch a show that suits your interests.
Day 3: Natural Wonders and Iconic Key West
Morning:
Start your last day in Key West with a leisurely breakfast at Sarabeth’s. This charming café serves up a delectable array of breakfast classics, including fluffy pancakes, eggs Benedict, and freshly squeezed orange juice.
Embark on an adventure to Dry Tortugas National Park, a remote oasis located 70 miles west of Key West. Hop on a seaplane or ferry to reach this pristine and protected paradise. Marvel at the stunning coral reefs, explore the historic Fort Jefferson, and relax on the pristine white sandy beaches. This hidden gem offers an unrivaled opportunity to connect with nature and experience the true beauty of the Florida Keys.
Afternoon:
Upon returning from Dry Tortugas, grab a quick bite at Garbo’s Grill, a food truck serving up mouthwatering gourmet tacos and sandwiches. Their fish tacos and Korean barbecue pork sliders are absolute must-tries.
Next, visit the Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum, where you can delve into the fascinating history of shipwreck salvaging. Embark on a guided tour to learn about the treacherous journeys of early mariners and discover the valuable treasures recovered from sunken ships. Don’t miss the breathtaking view from the observation deck, offering panoramic vistas of the island.
Evening:
For your final dinner in Key West, head to Santiago’s Bodega. This tapas-style restaurant offers a diverse menu of small plates, allowing you and your friends to savor a variety of flavors. From Spanish-inspired dishes to fresh seafood and creative vegetarian options, there’s something to please every palate.
End your Key West adventure with a sunset sail aboard a historic schooner. Sail into the horizon while enjoying complimentary drinks and live music, as the sky transforms into stunning hues of orange and pink. Sebago Watersports offers a variety of sunset cruises that promise a memorable end to your trip.
As you bid farewell to the island paradise of Key West, take a moment to reflect on the incredible experiences, delicious flavors, and captivating beauty this tropical haven has to offer. Cherish the memories made with your friends and carry a piece of Key West’s vibrant spirit with you wherever you go.
Safe travels and until we meet again, Key West!
*Blue Heaven – Iconic eatery in Key West, known for its delightful outdoor dining experience and delicious breakfast options.
*Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum – Historic landmark and former residence of Ernest Hemingway, offering guided tours and a glimpse into the life of this renowned author.
*Louie’s Backyard – Waterfront restaurant with stunning ocean views, serving fresh seafood and Caribbean-inspired dishes.
*Mallory Square – Historic waterfront square famous for its nightly Sunset Celebration, featuring street performers and breathtaking sunsets.
*A&B Lobster House – Upscale waterfront restaurant offering a refined dining experience with an extensive menu showcasing the best of Key West’s seafood.
*Duval Street – Vibrant street in Key West’s historic district, known for its lively bars, live music venues, and quirky shops.
*Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory – Tropical paradise filled with hundreds of free-flying butterflies, vibrant flowers, and cascading waterfalls.
*El Siboney – Local favorite for authentic Cuban cuisine, serving delicious roast pork, black beans, and plantains.
*Key West Lighthouse and Keeper’s Quarters Museum – Historic lighthouse with stunning views of Key West, accompanied by a museum showcasing the history of the area.
*Conch Republic Seafood Company – Waterfront restaurant known for its lively atmosphere and delicious seafood dishes.
*Waterfront Playhouse – Intimate theater offering a variety of performances, including plays, musicals, and comedy shows.
*Sarabeth’s – Charming café serving delectable breakfast classics, including fluffy pancakes and eggs Benedict.
*Garbo’s Grill – Food truck offering mouthwatering gourmet tacos and sandwiches, including their famous fish tacos and Korean barbecue pork sliders.
*Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum – Museum dedicated to the history of shipwreck salvaging, offering guided tours and panoramic views from the observation deck.
*Santiago’s Bodega – Tapas-style restaurant with a diverse menu of small plates, showcasing Spanish-inspired dishes, fresh seafood, and creative vegetarian options.
*Sebago Watersports – Watersports company offering sunset cruises aboard historic schooners, providing complimentary drinks, live music, and stunning sunset views.