Key West’s nightly Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square and snorkeling trips to the surrounding coral reef give visitors both a laid-back island tradition and access to vibrant underwater scenery.
Why Visit Key West
As the southernmost point in the continental United States, Key West offers a distinctly Caribbean atmosphere, with a colorful downtown, a rich literary history tied to Ernest Hemingway, and easy access to North America’s only living coral barrier reef.
Top Experiences in Key West
- Mallory Square Sunset Celebration: This nightly gathering of street performers, artisans, and food vendors celebrates the sunset over the water, a beloved Key West tradition.
- Coral Reef Snorkeling Tour: A boat trip out to the surrounding reef, part of the only living coral barrier reef in the continental United States, offers vibrant snorkeling.
- Ernest Hemingway House Tour: This former home of the famous author, now a museum, is known for its population of polydactyl cats descended from Hemingway’s own pets.
- Duval Street Bar Crawl: This lively main strip of bars and restaurants captures Key West’s laid-back, party-friendly island atmosphere.
- Dry Tortugas Day Trip: A boat or seaplane trip to this remote island national park offers Fort Jefferson’s massive brick fortress and excellent snorkeling.
Book Tours & Activities in Key West
From Mallory Square’s sunset tradition to coral reef snorkeling, these tours cover Key West’s laid-back island culture and natural beauty.
Practical Tips for Visiting Key West
- Mallory Square gets crowded before sunset, arrive early to secure a good viewing spot along the waterfront.
- Coral reef snorkeling tours are best booked for morning departures when water visibility is typically clearest.
- The Hemingway House is a working museum with actual resident cats, expect a lively and unique visit.
- Dry Tortugas day trips require significant travel time, book well ahead as spots are limited.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Key West coral reef worth snorkeling?
Yes, it’s part of the only living coral barrier reef in the continental United States, offering vibrant marine life within a relatively short boat ride.
What is the Mallory Square Sunset Celebration?
A nightly gathering of street performers, artists, and food vendors celebrating sunset over the water, a decades-old Key West tradition.
Final Thoughts
Key West’s island atmosphere, literary history, and access to vibrant coral reefs make it one of the most distinctive destinations in the continental United States.
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