Even though your vacation is supposed to be relaxing, making sure you get to see and do everything you want to can be stressful! One of the best ways to address this is to make a list of the most important things you want to do and then plan your trip around them. While Key West offers hundreds of activities, from watersports to dining, landmarks, and nature experiences, these are four of the most popular ones so you can start planning your vacation today.
Exciting Charter Fishing with All In Fishing Charters
Key West is uniquely positioned between the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean to have great fishing any time of year. While many experienced anglers make the trip to Key West for world-renowned fishing, it’s a welcoming sport that’s really open to anyone, even if you’ve never held a fishing rod. With All In Fishing Charters, you can book the ideal trip. Wrecks, reefs, and even off-shore fishing is easy. You have your choice of half, ¾ or full-day fishing trips so you can find one that conveniently fits your itinerary. All you need to pack is your sunscreen, hat and sunglasses, and your snacks. Your reservation includes all the fishing gear you need, plus the experienced captain and crew offer plenty of helpful suggestions if you’re a total novice. A charter fishing trip is a great way to encourage family bonding and make memories together.
Casual Dining at Eaton Street Seafood Market
When you’re in Old Town Key West, stop at Eaton Street Seafood Market for lunch or dinner. They use only the day’s fresh catch to prepare your made-to-order meals, accompanied by house-made sides. The Art Deco-designed building is charming, and the shaded outdoor seating allows you to really take it easy and enjoy your meal and the beautiful surroundings. The menu offers to-go meals plus you can get seafood to prepare your own dishes if your accommodations have a kitchen you can use. Among the most in-demand dishes are fish tacos, fish sandwiches, grilled lobsters, and conch ceviche. For true fans of Eaton Street, you can even order your seafood online from home and have it delivered to your door, for a taste of that Key West life no matter where you live.
Snorkel at Dry Tortugas National Park
Key West is more than just relaxing and fishing. It’s also home to Dry Tortugas National Park, where snorkeling is legendary. Even if you’re a new snorkeler, the calm waters of this park are ideal for having the time of your life. There are numerous coral reefs and shipwrecks to explore. You’ll also have the chance to swim, kayak, birdwatch, and tour the historic fort located on the largest of the islands that make up the park, Garden Key. There are a few campsites here that can be reserved if you are interested in spending an overnight; this is a pack-in/pack-out park, and facilities are limited.
It’s important to know that Dry Tortugas National Park is accessible by water only, and there’s a ferry that goes between Key West and the park every day. Space is limited, and seats book quickly, so you will want to make your reservation for the ferry as soon as you’ve finalized your travel plans to make sure you get tickets.
See It All From Duval Street
As you walk along Duval Street, you can’t help but notice the amazing array of shops and boutiques that dot the street. If you love to shop or are seeking that ideal souvenir for someone very special, you’ll find it here. Locally made and sourced art, pottery, glass, vintage, jewelry, leather, candles, and more will impress you. This street is also convenient to many of the most well-known museums and attractions in Key West. It’s a short walk from Duval Street to the Key West Butterfly Garden and Nature Conservancy, The Key West Lighthouse and Keepers Quarters, and The Audubon House and Tropical Gardens. You’ll also discover all the best key lime pie you could ask for. Visit Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe for traditional and creative pie flavors such as strawberry key lime. Each pie is made fresh daily and available by the slice or whole pie. Check out the jazz clubs with live music nightly, cafes full of delicious coffees and baked goods, and ice cream shops, too. And to end every day happily, make sure you’re at Mallory Square at the end of Duval Street for the Sunset Celebration, held every day. This welcoming street fair includes performers, live music, and plenty of great eating, drinking, and shopping opportunities, too.
Make the Most of Your Time in Key West
Key West is on many people’s must-see vacation list, and it’s well worth it. From the great food to the exciting outdoor adventures and welcoming community, this is a trip you’ll enjoy every moment of. By using these ideas to start planning your itinerary, you’ll be better able to include everything you want to see and do so you won’t feel like you missed a thing.
