Among the most famous residents ever to call Key West home is Ernest Hemingway, arguably the father of American literature. The Hemingway Home and Museum is an attraction that many purposely come to Key West to visit. See firsthand where the writer lived, worked, and of course, there are all those cats! Be sure to stop by Sloppy Joe’s Bar after the tour—a favorite hangout of Hemingway.
Because Key West is basically the tip of Florida, you can imagine how popular water sports and activities are here. Snorkeling is a huge pastime of city residents and visitors alike. There’s also of course just about any form of boating you can imagine, swimming, parasailing, you name it—if it involves water, you can do it in Key West.
An area in the northwest section of Key West, Mallory Square hosts a daily Sunset Celebration. If you want to see an amazing sunset, this is the place to do it. That said, it can become crowded as many visitors and also ships make their way here just prior to sunset.
If you’re looking for a Key West day trip, about seventy miles outside of the city you’ll find Dry Tortugas National Park. The park consists of small islands surrounded by water. It is accessible by boat or seaplane. Many visitors come here to marvel at the various species of birds and marine life and also to explore Fort Jefferson.
Key West's winter is warm and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from the 60s to 70s Fahrenheit. It offers a perfect escape from colder climates. Winter is the high season for tourism, with visitors seeking the island's sunny weather and beautiful beaches. It's an excellent time for outdoor activities like snorkeling, diving, and exploring the Dry Tortugas National Park. The city hosts various events and festivals, making it a lively and vibrant destination during the winter months.
Spring in Key West is delightful, with temperatures in the 70s to 80s Fahrenheit. The island's flora is in full bloom, and the weather is perfect for enjoying outdoor adventures like kayaking through mangroves and exploring the Conch Tour Train. Spring is also a great time to attend events like the Conch Republic Independence Celebration and the Key West Songwriters Festival.
Key West's summer is hot and humid, with temperatures in the 80s to 90s Fahrenheit. It's the low season for tourism, offering a quieter and more laid-back atmosphere. Despite the heat, visitors can enjoy water activities like jet-skiing, paddleboarding, and parasailing. Summer is also the time for events like the Hemingway Days and the Key Lime Festival.
Fall in Key West is still warm and inviting, with temperatures cooling down to the 70s and 80s Fahrenheit. The island experiences fewer crowds during this time, making it a great time to relax and enjoy the beaches without the usual hustle and bustle. Fall is an excellent time for fishing, sunset cruises, and exploring the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory. The city's arts and cultural scene continue to thrive with various events and art exhibitions during this season.
