Key West - The Perfect Getaway
Key West: A Tropical Escape Full of Color, Charm, and Adventure
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Getting There: Easy and Direct
Sometimes the best vacations start with a stress-free flight, and ours to Key West, Florida was exactly that. We hopped on a direct flight out of Newark Airport, and just a few hours later we were stepping into the laid-back island vibes of America’s southernmost city. No long layovers, no connections — just palm trees, ocean air, and sunshine waiting for us.
Where We Stayed: Peace in New Town
While many visitors swear that Old Town is the only place to stay, we opted for the quieter, more affordable New Town and checked into the DoubleTree by Hilton. It turned out to be a perfect choice. Not only did we enjoy peaceful nights away from the bustle, but the hotel’s free hourly shuttle made getting to downtown Key West a breeze.
The property itself was a little tropical oasis, complete with a beautiful swimming pool — which just so happened to be home to a family of iguanas. Yes, iguanas! They lounged by the pool, and every so often one would even take a dip.
Island Life: Chickens, Roosters, and Charm
One of the first things you notice on the island is the abundance of chickens and roosters roaming freely, crowing at all hours. They’re part of the island’s quirky charm and have been here for generations.
Must-See Sights and Activities
No trip to Key West is complete without a photo at the Southernmost Point Buoy — the iconic landmark marking just 90 miles to Cuba. Like everyone else, we lined up for our turn and captured the classic family shot.
Butterfly and Nature Conservatory
We loved visiting the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, where hundreds of butterflies floated through the air, some landing right on us. Among the residents were two flamboyant flamingos, Brett and Scarlett, who added a dash of pink personality to the experience.
Brunch at Blue Heaven
For brunch, we couldn’t resist the legendary Blue Heaven — famous for its open-air setting, live music, and roosters wandering between tables. The food was as unforgettable as the atmosphere.
Tarpon and Shark Feeding at the Marina
Down by the marina, we watched massive tarpon and even a few sharks being fed, their powerful splashes echoing against the dock.
Mallory Square Sunsets
When the sun began to set, we made our way to Mallory Square for the nightly celebration. The Key West sunset is truly spectacular — the sky explodes with color while street performers, artists, and musicians keep the energy alive.
Jimmy Buffett’s Recording Studio
Along the way, we even caught a glimpse of Jimmy Buffett’s recording studio, a nod to the island’s deep connection to music and laid-back living.
One of the best ways to see the island was on the Key West sightseeing trolley. It gave us a perfect mix of history, fun facts, and local tips, all while letting us hop on and off at our own pace.
Sunset Cruise
We also treated ourselves to a sunset cruise, complete with an open bar, appetizers, and live music as we sailed into the golden horizon.
Snorkeling the Coral Reef
Another day was dedicated to adventure — a snorkeling trip out to a coral reef, where we swam among tropical fish in the crystal-clear water.
Key Lime Pie
Of course, no Key West trip would be complete without indulging in a slice (or two) of key lime pie — tart, creamy, and the perfect sweet ending to our island days.
Why We Love Key West
From breathtaking sunsets and vibrant wildlife to unforgettable meals and ocean adventures, Key West is pure magic. It’s a place where time slows down, laughter lingers in the warm breeze, and every day feels like a celebration of life. Whether you’re here for relaxation, exploration, or a little of both, this colorful island paradise leaves you with memories as bright as its sunsets — and a strong desire to return.
Key West Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit: December–May for sunny skies and lower humidity.
- Getting Around: Use the free hotel shuttles, rent a bike, or hop on the trolley. Parking in Old Town can be tricky.
- What to Pack: Lightweight clothes, a swimsuit, reef-safe sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection.
- Don’t Miss: Mallory Square sunset celebration, Southernmost Point photo, and Blue Heaven for brunch.
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