7 of the Best Spots in Key West
Key West, or Cayo Hueso, has attracted tourists, expats, and wealthy investors for decades. The former home of Ernest Hemingway entices you with its warm waters and white sands. There is a catch though!
737,975 people flew into Key West International Airport in 2021. Bouncing back from the pandemic, demand has skyrocketed.
See rare wildlife like pelicans, wild osprey, stingrays, and if you're lucky, manatees. Bathe in the rays and explore secluded spots. Sip a drink on a desert island or take a kayak for a spin.
Vacation planning? Let's take a look at the 7 best spots in Key West.
1. Key West to a Wildlife Haven: Marquesas Keys
Ideal for nature lovers, Marquesas Keys is in a wildlife management area with special preservation rules. The island chain is around 20 miles from Key West and you can reach it by private charter boat. The islands are dense in mangrove forests and perfect for spotting aquatic birds like pelicans.
Legend has it that a meteorite formed the islands, adding to their mystic, back-to-nature vibe. Even today, a visit to Marquesas Keys is like taking a glimpse of the Florida Keys of olden times, before mass development.
In the water, you can see rays, sea turtles, sharks, sea trout, and tarpon. The area around the Marquesas Keys is popular for fishing trips. However, the interior is protected - it is illegal to take anything from the islands.
2. Boca Grande Key
Located in the westernmost part of the Mule Keys, Boca Grande is popular, but you can still find your own getaway here. The famous sandbar is on the southwest side of the island, and your charter boat captain can drop you there to relax. If you fancy more privacy, there are several other sandbar anchorage points; ask your captain for their favorites.
Seabirds flock to Boca Grande Key from across the ocean. There are many endangered species here that are hard to spot elsewhere. The Boca Grande Key is a loggerhead turtle nesting spot, and there are programs here to protect the species.
To avoid the crowds, plan your Key West vacation in the offseason: September to November, and April to May.
3. Mud Keys
This group of small islands offers plenty of quiet spots to enjoy yourself. The keys are home to Sand Key Reef, which we'll get to later, but there's plenty more here. Mud Keys is the perfect place to find secret sandbars and silent spots, but you'll need an expert guide to find them.
About 15 miles from Key West, Mud Keys is packed with wildlife and red mangroves. You can spot plenty of roosting birds here, so pack your binoculars. Osprey, frigatebirds, and great white heron all call the island home at times of the year.
In fact, there was a mass bird migration back in 2020. Once they saw the Keys, we'd bet many of them stayed!
4. Marvin Key
Beautiful, yes, but you need a guide if you want to sail to Marvin Key. The area has strong winds and shifting tides at times, and you need a charter boat expert to navigate them. The shallow waters are perfect for swimming, but it takes skill to dock without damaging your boat!
Okay, you've made it! Now it's time to enjoy some paradise island activities. Stroll through the dense mangrove forests and listen to the wildlife. Kick back on one of Marvin's beaches and gaze at the blue sky.
The east of Marvin Key tends to have lighter winds than the west, and there is a quiet ambiance in the tropical breeze. The tree cover of the islands adds to its private charm, and when your charter boat comes, you may decide to stay!
5. Sand Key Reef
The red iron lighthouse will catch your eye as you drift to shore. Built in 1853, this is the landmark of Sand Key Reef. A favorite of the early Spanish Mariners, the key was known as the Cayos Arena. There is an abundance of coral around the key, and it is perfect for snorkeling or diving tours.
Close to Clearwater Beach, Sand Key is the perfect spot to dodge the masses. Watch dazzling sunsets, hunt for shells, and wind down.
6. Boca Chica Key
Boca Chica is a short boat trip from Key West, Florida, and it has a charm all its own. A popular spot for, let's say, more naturalistic sunbathers, parts of Boca Chica are paradises with forgotten beauty. At Red Place beach, it feels like a place nature has claimed back as its own, the perfect place for dog-friendly travel.
Head to the quieter side of the key. Stroll along the beaches, gazing at driftwood lean-tos as tiny sea crabs scuttle past your feet. The popular yet abandoned sides of Boca Chica are unbeatable for those looking for something a bit different.
7. Snipe Point Keys
Another chain of islands - see the pattern here? - Snipe Keys has heaps of sandbars for you to place your family flag on and have fun. This area can be near silent at times with only a few boats, but it can also be busy with tourists; timing is key.
Famous for its clear water and soft sand, Snipe Point even has a driftwood swing for you and your family to enjoy. Back to nature and in the sun, what's not to love?
Note: Like most of the keys and sandbars on the list, it is in a protected zone. You need guidance if you come with your own boat as there are restricted areas. Charter captains will know the best routes and spots.
Discover Your Own Florida Keys
Sea Monkey Charters sails from the Hyatic Centric Resort in Key West. From here we can take you around the lower Florida Keys on 4, 6, or 8-hour adventures. Our 2 compact boats let you explore shallows that others struggle to reach - we can find your private paradise.
We welcome your pooches on tours with fresh water and toys. Family fun is our priority, so jump onboard and enjoy yourselves!