Summary
Florida’s most renowned key has consistently served as a sought-after vacation locale, appealing to both international travelers and Americans seeking a serene refuge.
Despite its modest size, the island city boasts an array of attractions, including some of the finest snorkeling opportunities available in the United States right off its shores, along with abundant water sport activities for those with adventurous inclinations.
Once the residence of the illustrious Hemingway, the area features numerous cultural attractions, with the six-toed cats of Hemingway’s Home and Museum standing out as a notable highlight.
The vibrant scene along Duval Street offers a diverse selection of bars and restaurants, ensuring visitors can enjoy a different experience each evening.
The charming conch houses lining the waterfront provide a picturesque backdrop for a leisurely stroll along the boulevard.
With such an array of activities to engage in, you may still find yourself yearning for exploration beyond the island. Therefore, here are 15 of the most appealing day trips from Key West.
1. Miami
A visit to the Sunshine State would be incomplete without a brief excursion to Miami, its glamorous representative.
The skyline is dominated by skyscrapers, accompanied by a stretch of golden sands along the coast.
Recognized for its vibrant party atmosphere, Miami’s bustling center features an array of dining and nightlife options, while the prospect of lounging on the beach remains a captivating alternative.
Although the journey from Key West is considerable, the reward is a guaranteed day filled with enjoyment or an exhilarating night out.
2. Fort Lauderdale
While Key West is not celebrated for its beaches, Fort Lauderdale undoubtedly is, making this day trip even more enticing.
Water-based activities reign supreme here, with options such as gondola rides along the canals, amphibious tours, and a multitude of boat excursions departing from the harbor.
For those preferring to stay on land, the excellent shopping districts provide ample entertainment.
Marvel at the opulent Millionaire’s Row houses and yachts, and enjoy the historic district while strolling through.
Rest assured, boredom is not an option.
3. Fort Jefferson & Dry Tortugas National Park
A highlight of any trip to Key West is a day spent at the breathtaking Dry Tortugas National Park, renowned for its unparalleled snorkeling opportunities.
Board a high-speed ferry for a 70-mile journey to the park, where lunch is included during your travels.
The azure waters and pristine white sands provide a stunning backdrop for wildlife observation; remember to bring sunscreen.
After enjoying your time in the water, dry off and take a guided tour of the historic Fort Jefferson, an intriguing landmark in its own right.
4. Bahia Honda State Park
Bahia Honda presents an intriguing option for those seeking a unique state park experience.
Located at the end of the renowned Seven Mile Bridge, this park lies directly on the beach, with the Historic Overseas Railroad remnants towering above, offering visitors a glimpse into history during a stroll along the sand.
Ascend onto the old railroad bridge for breathtaking vistas of the ocean, which surely positions it among the most picturesque spots in the Florida Keys.
If you’re still eager for snorkeling, venture to the National Marine Sanctuary and Looe Key, where more aquatic adventures await.
5. Offshore water sports trip
Numerous boat trips are available from Key West, creating excellent family-friendly day trip opportunities.
Among the most popular is an adventure boating trip, where participants board a catamaran for a day brimming with activities at sea.
Snorkeling is typically the first stop, as anticipated, followed by exciting water activities such as jet skiing, parasailing, and kayaking.
The inflatable adventure park moored in the water, often reserved for the conclusion of the day, is guaranteed to be a hit with children.
Meals are generally provided, and if fortune smiles upon you, drinks may be included at the day’s end.
6. Ramrod Key
There exist countless more keys beyond just Key West.
At Ramrod Key, enjoy a day of serene relaxation, indulging in fresh seafood and participating in laid-back activities.
Miniature golf is a delightful option, specifically at Mile Marker 27, featuring an 18-hole course with intricately designed obstacles, perfect for keeping children engaged.
Once you’ve completed your round—hopefully with minimal disagreements—you can meander in search of seafood.
There is no shortage of choices, with scallops, lobster tail, and grouper available—all freshly caught.
7. Little Palm Island
For those seeking a touch of luxury, Little Palm Island is an ideal destination.
This private island resort spans just five acres, creating an intimate atmosphere, and features a path that bisects the island.
Enjoy fine dining with your significant other, perhaps accompanied by a glass of sparkling champagne while looking out over the water.
Accessing the island is easy, with a short ferry ride departing every 30 minutes from Little Torch Key at Mile Marker 28.
8. Turtle Hospital
Animal enthusiasts will find a visit to the Turtle Hospital at Mile Marker 48 to be essential.
This educational facility allows visitors to learn about the process of rescuing sick or injured sea turtles, rehabilitating them, and eventually releasing them back into the wild.
Hourly tours provide insights into the rehabilitation process and give guests a chance to see the area where this important work is conducted.
9. Fishing Charter
If adventure sports do not particularly interest you, another engaging option is to hire a fishing charter for the day.
Group tours present a more economical alternative to private charters, allowing participants to enjoy the thrill of fishing without substantial costs.
These charters serve the dual purpose of daytime entertainment and evening dining, allowing visitors to easily manage their catches while enjoying this rewarding activity.
Guests can even take their catch to a local restaurant and have it prepared for dinner.
10. Everglades National Park
The Everglades in Florida showcase a distinct natural habitat, home to a diverse range of wildlife including alligators, manatees, and dolphins—an assortment you are unlikely to encounter elsewhere.
With a bit of luck, you may even catch a glimpse of a Florida panther prowling about.
Numerous exploration options are available, from hiking to air boating; however, the most impressive views can be found from the 45-foot-high observation tower in Shark Valley.
11. Key Largo
Key Largo has earned the title of the diving capital of the world, and if that isn’t enticing enough, perhaps the famous beach bar at Alabama Jack’s will pique your interest.
Relax among the locals and savor a platter of fritters alongside a chilled beer to pass the afternoon.
If you choose to explore the aquatic opportunities, consider visiting the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, located to the east of the key.
12. Havana
If you wish to embark on a more adventurous journey, you might be surprised to discover that the capital of Cuba is accessible from Key West.
Although this option may be a bit costly, a quick flight grants you the opportunity to check off a unique entry from your bucket list.
Spend your day immersing yourself in an entirely different culture, wandering picturesque streets, and capturing images of the charming vintage cars strolling by.
Seek out authentic Cuban cigars, enjoy a glass of Havana Club rum, and return to the Key in time for dinner.
13. Islamorada
Feeding fish may initially sound like a mundane activity, yet you should reconsider when it comes to feeding wild tarpon in Islamorada.
Buckets of bait are readily available for purchase around the docks, enabling you to prepare for a truly thrilling experience as the colossal fish leap from the water to snatch food from your hand.
They may have teeth, but rest assured it’s not painful—though it might startle you.
These remarkable creatures can grow up to eight feet in length and weigh as much as 200 pounds.
14. Marathon Key
For those who prefer not to venture far from home, Marathon Key offers a relaxed atmosphere that provides a gentle change of scenery from Key West.
Spend your day unwinding on the water, enjoying a few beers, and watching the sun set over the ocean.
A variety of resorts, restaurants, and bars can enhance your experience, and with Key West just a short distance away, you can take your time there without any rush.
15. Key Biscayne
Located 20 miles out in the Straits, Key Biscayne is a must-visit destination for avid fishermen and women, boasting a remarkable variety of catches.
A range of fishing tours is available, reflecting the community’s reliance on fishing as a livelihood.
If you’re eager to catch anything from sailfish to marlin, or from swordfish to mahi-mahi, this excursion is tailor-made for you.
All the necessary fishing equipment is available for rent.
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