Key West, Florida, US

Key West, Florida, is a tropical paradise known for its stunning sunsets, vibrant coral reefs, and lively arts scene. Renowned for historic landmarks and the lively Duval Street, it offers a relaxed island vibe for tourists seeking sun and culture.

Location Overview

Timezone

America/New York

Local Time

09:52 AM

Population

25,000

Best Time to Visit

Temperature:

79-90°F (26-32°C) - Hot and humid; high chance of tropical storms.

Best Time

Jan, Mar-May, Oct-Dec

Connectivity

Power

120V

Port

Type A, Type B

Internet

Great

Airport Info

MIA

Miami International Airport

Distance

Approximately 3 hours and 160 miles by car via US-1 N and I-95 N.

Description

A major airport offering numerous international flights with extensive facilities, including shopping, dining, and lounges; easily accessible via major highways.

Key West, a vibrant island city in the Florida Keys, attracts visitors with its gorgeous beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich history. Home to the southernmost point in the continental U.S., it offers captivating experiences like snorkeling in coral reefs, visiting Ernest Hemingway's home, and exploring the lively art and music scene. Tourists enjoy the relaxed pace, colorful Caribbean architecture, and the stunning nightly sunset celebration at Mallory Square. Key West's conch cuisine, unique cultural festivals, and charming Old Town charm visitors looking for leisure mixed with adventure. Don't miss the famed Key Lime Pie and the diverse marine life-packed attractions in this seaside haven.

Top trips icon

Key West Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating

Safe

Exercise standard precautions.

Local Laws

Key West has specific local laws regarding alcohol consumption and public behavior. Open container laws are enforced, and public intoxication is prohibited.

Crime Rates

Key West is generally considered a safe destination with lower crime rates compared to other cities in Florida. However, petty crimes such as pickpocketing and theft can occur, especially in tourist-heavy areas.

Health Risks

Healthcare facilities in Key West are adequate for most needs, but serious medical conditions may require transfer to mainland hospitals. Mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue fever can be a concern, especially during warmer months.

Natural Disasters

Key West is susceptible to hurricanes, particularly from June to November. Visitors should stay informed about weather conditions during hurricane season.

Law Enforcement

Law enforcement presence in Key West is visible and effective, with regular patrols in tourist areas to ensure safety.

Public Transportation

Public transportation in Key West, including buses and taxis, is generally safe. However, services are limited due to the city's small size.

Solo Travelers

Solo travelers can generally feel safe in Key West, but should take standard precautions, especially at night.

Recent Developments

There have been no significant recent developments affecting safety in Key West as of the latest updates.

No data Found...

No data Found...

Top trips icon

Key West Monthly Weather Overview

Summary

arrow down icon

Average High


Average Low


Humidity


Rainy Days


Sunny Days


Wind Speed


Daylight Hours


Sunrise


Sunset


Pattern

Best season to visit

arrow down icon

Current Conditions ():

Top trips icon

Best Time to Visit Key West

Summary: The best time to visit Key West is from March to May when the weather is pleasant with warm temperatures averaging 24-28°C (75-82°F). Events like the Conch Republic Independence Celebration offer unique experiences.

❄️

January

Best

Cool and pleasant with temperatures ranging from 64-73°F (18-23°C). Enjoy quieter beaches.

💘

February

Mild and dry weather with temperatures between 66-75°F (19-24°C). Great for outdoor activities.

🌱

March

Best

Ideal for visiting with temperatures around 70-79°F (21-26°C). Great time for aquatic adventures.

🌸

April

Best

Warm and breezy, 72-81°F (22-27°C). Experience the Conch Republic Independence Celebration.

🌷

May

Best

Pleasant temperatures from 73-82°F (23-28°C). Perfect for summer travelers before the crowd.

☀️

June

Warmer and starting rainy season, 77-86°F (25-30°C). Enjoy vibrant underwater scenes.

🏖️

July

Hot and humid, temperatures 79-88°F (26-31°C). Key Lime Festival takes place.

🌞

August

Peak humidity and rain with temperatures 79-88°F (26-31°C). Less crowded.

🍂

September

Rainy season, high humidity, 77-86°F (25-30°C). Fewer tourists for serene visits.

🍁

October

Best

Cooler as the rainy season ends, temperatures 75-84°F (24-29°C). Join the Fantasy Fest.

November

Best

Pleasant and dry with temperatures 72-81°F (22-27°C). Enjoy peaceful walks in nature.

🎄

December

Best

Mild conditions, temperatures around 68-77°F (20-25°C). Great for holiday festivities.

Top trips icon

Seasonal Events in Key West

Late October

Fantasy Fest

Annual spectacle celebrating imaginative costumes, street parades, and parties.

Fantasy Fest
July

Hemingway Days

Festival honoring Ernest Hemingway with look-alike contests, literary readings, and events.

Hemingway Days
July 1-4

Key Lime Festival

Celebration of Key Lime pie includes baking contests, pie-eating competitions, and tours.

Key Lime Festival
April

Margaritaville Key West 5K Run

Annual race event with Margaritaville-themed run, celebrating fitness and tropical vibes.

Margaritaville Fun Run
Top trips icon

Popular Foods in Key West

Key Lime Pie

A tangy dessert famous in Key West, made with key lime juice, condensed milk, and a graham cracker crust.

Conch Fritters

Deep-fried balls of conch meat mixed with batter and seasonings, served as an appetizer or snack.

Cuban Sandwich

Pressed sandwich filled with roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on Cuban bread.

Pink Shrimp

Locally-sourced shrimp known for their sweet flavor, often served in various seafood dishes.

Stone Crab Claws

Prized shellfish delicacy, usually served chilled with mustard sauce, harvested seasonally.

Top trips icon

Closest Airports to Key West

Regional Airport

Top trips icon

Key West International Airport (EYW)

Small and efficient, with basic amenities and regional flights, mainly from mainland Florida; offers quick check-in and security.

Located just 3 miles from the city center; approximately a 10-minute drive.

Book ground transportation in advance during peak travel seasons. Limited dining options, so plan accordingly.

EYW Website

International Airport

Top trips icon

Miami International Airport (MIA)

A major airport offering numerous international flights with extensive facilities, including shopping, dining, and lounges; easily accessible via major highways.

Approximately 3 hours and 160 miles by car via US-1 N and I-95 N.

Utilize the MIA Mover for seamless connections between terminals. Plenty of Wi-Fi access throughout for work or entertainment.

MIA Website

Top trips icon

Popular Trip Types

Bachelorette Party Icon

Bachelorette Party

Key West is renowned for its lively nightlife, including Duval Street's bars and live music venues, making it an exciting destination for a bachelorette party. The island also offers unique group activities such as sunset cruises, snorkeling tours, and trolley rides, perfect for a fun-filled getaway with friends.

Family Vacation Icon

Family Vacation

Key West is a fantastic family vacation spot with its abundance of attractions suitable for all ages. Families can explore the Key West Aquarium, visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, or enjoy a day at Smathers Beach. The island's family-friendly resorts and dining options further enhance its appeal as a family vacation destination.

Couples Retreat Icon

Couples Retreat

Key West provides a charming and romantic atmosphere ideal for a couples retreat. Couples can enjoy intimate dinners at waterfront restaurants, breathtaking sunsets at Mallory Square, and luxurious accommodations in quaint bed-and-breakfasts. The tranquil island setting offers relaxation and intimacy, making it perfect for romantic getaways.

Spa Weekend

Key West is an excellent choice for a spa weekend, with numerous high-quality spas offering rejuvenating treatments. Visitors can indulge in massages, facials, and wellness therapies while enjoying the island's serene environment. The peaceful beaches and gentle ocean breezes add to the relaxation and wellness-focused ambiance ideal for a spa retreat.

Adventure and Water Sports

Key West's location in the Gulf of Mexico makes it a prime spot for adventure and water sports. Visitors can engage in activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving at the nearby coral reefs, parasailing, and deep-sea fishing. The warm climate and crystal-clear waters provide optimal conditions for thrill-seekers and ocean enthusiasts.

Top trips icon

Custom Language

Conch

Local resident

Referring to someone born and raised in the Florida Keys.

It's all good

No worries

Used to express everything is fine or going well.

Flip-flop attitude

Casual vibe

Reflects the laid-back lifestyle and fashion in Key West.

Island time

Relaxed pace

Emphasizing the slow and easy-going pace of life in Key West.

Key West sunset

Daily ritual

Highlight of the day involving gathering to watch the sun go down.

Top trips icon

Popular Sports & Teams in Key West

Key West Conchs Football

Key West High School's football team, the Conchs, is a beloved local institution with a passionate fan base.

Key West High School Athletics

Southernmost Hockey Club

The Southernmost Hockey Club is a local ice hockey team that plays at the Southernmost Ice Arena, bringing the thrill of ice sports to Key West.

Southernmost Hockey Club

Key West Rugby Club

The Key West Rugby Club is a community-based rugby team that offers both competitive and social rugby experiences.

Key West Rugby Club

Key West Fishing Tournaments

Fishing is a popular sport in Key West, with numerous tournaments held annually, attracting anglers from around the world.

Key West Fishing Tournament

Key West Sailing Club

The Key West Sailing Club promotes sailing and offers races and events for sailing enthusiasts in the region.

Key West Sailing Club

Top trips icon

Unique customs/traditions

Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square

A tradition where locals and tourists gather nightly to celebrate the sunset with street performers.

Conch Republic

A symbolic secession of Key West from the United States, celebrated annually with a 'war' and festivities.

Annual Fantasy Fest

A week-long festival encouraging creativity and freedom through elaborate costumes and themed parties.

Local Superstitions

Various quirks like saying 'Bye bye, von Shoenhoffen' as ferries leave Key West for luck.

Gumbo Limbo Festival

A local eco-conscious celebration focused on the Gumbo Limbo tree and environmental awareness.

Top trips icon

Recommended Activities by Group Type

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

Visit Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

Outdoor (Half-day)

This family-friendly park offers historical tours, beach access, and picnic areas, making it perfect for a family day out.

Key West Shipwreck Museum

Explore the Key West Shipwreck Museum

Museum (1-2 hours)

This interactive museum features exhibits and live reenactments that make the history of shipwrecks fun and engaging for the whole family.

Historic Harbor

Take a sunset sail

Outdoor (2-3 hours)

Families can relax together on a sunset sail, enjoying stunning views of the water and the sunset while enjoying snacks.

Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center

Visit the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center

Museum (1-2 hours)

This center provides hands-on exhibits about the local ecosystem, making it educational and entertaining for families exploring nature.

Key West Watersports

Go on a dolphin watching tour

Outdoor (Half-day)

Dolphin tours offer families the chance to see these amazing creatures up close in their natural habitat, creating unforgettable memories.

Ticket to travel

Pass along this location with your friends!

Our journey partners

Viator Logo
Google Logo
TripAdvisor Logo
BBB Logo
IATA Logo
Duffel Logo
AWS Logo
footer_linear_gradiant_image

Copyright © 2025 Trip Tap Inc | All Rights Reserved