The Florida Keys have welcomed travelers for decades, and it’s easy to see why. The abundant sunshine, crystal blue waters, and wide range of exciting activities draw visitors to Key West in particular year after year, no matter the month. If you’re finding yourself tempted by this charming island city and have never been there before, here are some tips for the most well-known, enjoyable, and luxurious experiences you could ask for. 

Laze the Day Away on a Sandbar Charter

Among the most exclusive experiences you can book in Key West are sandbar charters. These are often secluded sandbars best known by locals and the ideal place to truly relax and get away from it all. Sandbar charters are also wonderful ways to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, bachelorette parties, and family reunions. The charter boat brings you from the dock to the sandbar, and you can expect water toys, beach chairs and umbrellas, and even over-water swings. Swim, play, and sunbathe for hours accompanied by your favorite music in your own private paradise. 

Try Your Hand at Fishing

Many visitors book trips to Key West expressly for fishing. Year-round, you’ll find plenty of fish in season, and Key West’s special location between the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico ensures every chartered fishing trip yields great results. All In Fishing Charters is one of the most highly-rated charter companies around, and as a local business, it’s committed to high standards and attentive service. All you need to bring with you is your lunch, sunscreen, and a hat, while everything else you need is provided as part of your booking. 

Go Snorkeling at Dry Tortugas National Park

One of the new national parks, Dry Tortugas is legendary for its clear waters and gentle currents.  There are multiple small islands that make up the park, and underwater acreage that’s dotted with coral reefs and aged shipwrecks. The area is open for snorkeling and is suitable for novice and experienced snorkelers. Many visitors also love kayaking around the islands and birdwatching, as well as swimming at the beach, and touring the historic fort located there. 

Shop Along Duval Street

For the best shopping in Key West, make your way to Duval Street, which is lined with notable boutiques from leading brands and locally owned specialty shops. From high-end clothing and jewelry to hand-made pottery and glassware, artwork, sculpture, home decor, and crafts, you’re sure to find it on Duval Street. It’s also a great place to relax and have a leisurely meal or gossip over drinks, with lots of restaurants, bars, and cafes. 

Check Out a Specialty Museum

One of the most notable things about Key West is the sheer number of specialized museums located in just a few square miles. From shipwrecks to art, military history, and even a legendary haunted doll, you can find a dedicated museum about it in Key West. Depending on your interests check out Fort East Martello Museum, Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, Mel Fisher Maritime Heritage Museum, Truman’s Little White House, and the Key West Lighthouse and Keeper’s Museum.  Check out museum events in advance of your trip so you can attend special events, lectures, and programs that coincide with the dates you’ll be in Key West. 

Feast On the Grilled Lobster and Shrimp at Eaton Street Seafood Market

Key West is popular for its seafood restaurants, and when you’re in Old Town Key West, there’s no better place to go than Eaton Street Seafood Market and Restaurant. This local business is your local seafood expert, and it’s clear how the shop has earned that reputation for excellence. Whether you choose to buy your fresh fish and shellfish from Eaton Street and prepare it yourself or if you want to buy your cooked seafood to order and dine al fresco, this restaurant is the best place to go for delicious seafood dishes in a casual setting.

Enjoy the Activities at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park 

Not only does this historic state park offer an opportunity to learn more about American military conflicts of decades past with an up-close view, it also delivers a unique chance to spy wildlife in its natural habitat. The park is open every day of the year, and visitors can tour Fort Zachary Taylor, swim at one of Key West’s most well-known beaches, and fish from a jetty. There are also biking and walking trails that cross the park, picnic areas, and a cafe offering light meals and refreshing drinks and ice cream. 

If you have never been to Key West, you may wonder what the draw is, and once you arrive, it can be difficult to narrow down your choices to hit only the highlights–at least on your first trip. Use these ideas to build an itinerary that allows you to see a broad range of activities for your initial visit to Key West.