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Mini guide to Key West
The capital of the Conch Republic, Key West has held a fascination for visitors since the original Spanish landings in the early 16th century. More than five million visitors per year now make their way here from the mainland, across the islands and bridges of the Overseas Hwy past perfect beaches and great scuba diving opportunities.
Key West has a well-earned reputation as a tropical paradise, complete with the gorgeous sunsets and sultry nightlife. The reputation as a romantic, untouched, steamy paradise is somewhat overstated but if you take the time to unearth what you're after, finding the romantic, quirky and even sultry side of the Keys is very possible. Wandering among the delightfully laidback, typically tropical suburbs with their wooden, broad-balconied, houses, you’ll understand why it’s been an artists and writers hideaway for decades. The little town is also very gay friendly.
For nature lovers, there is some great diving and snorkeling off the southern shore. The coral reef off the Keys is one of the most beautiful and ecologically diverse on Earth. Or sit by the shore and see the adorable but endangered Key deer.
The Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum is one of Key West's biggest attractions; the world famous Key lime pie is wonderful; and nowhere else in the world can you wake up in an abandoned Civil War fortress.
Mallory Square, at the far northwestern tip, is the site of nightly sunset celebrations - juggling and acrobatic displays from local entertainers to commemorate the day’s end, finishing off the evening with a magnificent margherita.
By night it’s lively and there are several festivals throughout the year.
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