Key West sits at the very bottom of Florida, the southernmost point you can drive to in the United States. This tiny island offers something most mainland cities can’t, a true island feel with warm ocean breezes, swaying palm trees, and sunsets that paint the sky in brilliant colors.
People visit for the crystal clear water, fresh seafood, and laid-back atmosphere. You can swim with tropical fish in the morning, learn about Ernest Hemingway’s famous cats in the afternoon, and watch street performers at sunset.
This Key West itinerary breaks down three full days of activities, beaches, and restaurants. You can follow it exactly or mix things up based on what you like most. If you have more time, you can slow down and add extra beach days or boat trips.
Your Complete 3 Day Key West Itinerary
This plan covers the island’s best spots while giving you time to relax. You won’t feel rushed, and you can adjust based on the weather or how tired you feel each day.
Day 1: South Side and Iconic Landmarks
Start your morning at the Southernmost Point Buoy, a big red and black marker where everyone lines up for photos. Get there early, around 7 or 8 AM, to avoid the crowds. After your photo, walk over to the Key West Lighthouse. Climb the 88 steps to see views of the entire island and the ocean stretching for miles.
Grab lunch at Moon Dog Cafe or any casual spot along the way. Head to Smathers Beach for the afternoon.
This half-mile stretch of sand is perfect for swimming, and you can rent jet skis or paddleboards if you want.
End your first day at Mallory Square for the famous sunset celebration. Street performers juggle fire, musicians play, and food stands sell everything from conch fritters to ice cream. Walk down Duval Street for dinner at one of the many restaurants.
Day 2: Water Fun and Natural Beauty
Day two takes you to Fort Zachary Taylor State Park. This spot has the best snorkeling on the island. The entrance fee is $7 per car, and you should bring water shoes since the beach is rocky.
Spend your morning swimming and looking at colorful fish. Pack a cooler with lunch or buy food at the concession stand.
After lunch, visit either the Butterfly Conservatory or the Key West Aquarium. Both take about an hour. Then head to the Historic Seaport area to walk around the shops and see the Cuban Coffee Queen mural.
Book a sunset sail if you want to see the sun go down from the water, or pick a waterfront restaurant for dinner. When it gets dark, walk Duval Street and check out the bars with live music.
Day 3: History and Culture
Your final morning starts at the Hemingway House. Take a tour to see where the famous writer lived and meet the six-toed cats that still live there.
They’re descendants of Hemingway’s own pets. Next, walk through the Garden Club at Fort East Martello to see the tropical plants and old military fort.
Stop at Sloppy Joe’s for lunch or try a local seafood restaurant. Spend your afternoon on a self-guided historic walking tour through Old Town, or visit the Eco Discovery Center to learn about the reef and ocean life.
Use your last few hours for one more beach visit or shopping on Duval Street. Watch your final sunset and have a nice dinner to wrap up your trip.
Where to Stay in Key West?
Choose a hotel based on whether you want to be in the busy center or a quieter area.
- Duval Street area: Central but noisy at night
- Quieter areas: Short walk or ride to main spots
- Budget-friendly: Best Western Hibiscus, DoubleTree with pools and breakfast
- Convenience: Free shuttles and scooter or bike rentals available
- Tip: Stay within walking distance to save time and avoid parking hassles
Best Beaches to Visit
Key West has several beaches, each with its own vibe. Some are great for families, while others work better for snorkeling or water sports.
Smathers Beach
This is the biggest beach on the island, stretching for half a mile along the south shore. You can rent jet skis, paddleboards, and kayaks right on the sand. The beach has showers, restrooms, and volleyball nets set up.
Families like this spot because the water stays shallow for a long way out. The sand is soft, and there’s usually a food truck or two parked nearby. You can spend a whole afternoon here without getting bored.
Fort Zachary Taylor State Park
This beach wins for snorkeling. The clear water and rocky areas create perfect homes for tropical fish. Remember to pay the $7 per car entrance fee when you arrive.
Bring water shoes since the shore is rocky in places. The park also has nature trails and fort tours if you want a break from the beach. Many people call this their favorite spot on the island because it feels less crowded than other beaches.
Higgs Beach and South Beach
Higgs Beach has the White Street Pier, a playground for kids, and some memorial sites. It’s a good middle ground between busy and quiet. The beach is free and has parking nearby.
South Beach is the smallest option, sitting close to Duval Street. You can walk here from most hotels in just a few minutes. It’s perfect if you want a quick swim without spending your whole day at the beach.
Top Attractions You Can’t Miss
Beyond the beaches, Key West has museums, gardens, and historic homes worth seeing. These spots tell the island’s story and give you a break from the sun.
Hemingway House and Museum
Ernest Hemingway lived in this Spanish Colonial home during the 1930s. The famous six-toed cats that roam the property are related to his original cat, Snow White. The house is gorgeous, with high ceilings and antique furniture.
Tours run throughout the day, and you can do a self-guided walk if you prefer. Tickets cost around $15 for adults. The cats are the real stars, though. They sleep on the beds, lounge on the porch, and don’t mind if you take their photo.
Key West Butterfly Conservatory
This indoor garden stays warm and humid year-round. Hundreds of butterflies fly around freely, landing on flowers and sometimes on visitors. The conservatory also has flamingos and other birds walking around.
Visit in the morning when it’s less crowded. The whole experience takes about 45 minutes to an hour. Kids love it because they can get close to the butterflies without any barriers or cages.
Other Notable Stops
The Key West Lighthouse offers 360-degree views after you climb 88 steps. The Truman Little White House shows where President Truman spent his winters and made important decisions.
At the Key West Aquarium, you can watch feeding times and touch stingrays in the shallow tanks. The Eco Discovery Center is free and teaches visitors about the coral reef and local wildlife through interactive displays.
Where to Eat in Key West?
Food is a big part of any Key West itinerary. The island serves fresh seafood, Cuban coffee, and Key lime pie that tastes better than anywhere else.
Key West Dining & Bars:
- Breakfast: Hotels’ complimentary options or Cuban Coffee Queen.
- Lunch:Sinz Burritos, Southernmost Beach Cafe, Lobster Shack.
- Dinner:Nine One Five, Salute, Alonzo’s Oyster Bar, try Key lime pie, conch fritters, and fresh local fish.
- Bars:Sloppy Joe’s, hotel pool bars, Old Town Tavern,expect higher prices and possible wait times.
Getting Around the Island
Walking works for most of what you’ll do. The main tourist area is small, and you can reach most beaches within 10 to 20 minutes on foot.
Scooter and bike rentals sit on practically every corner. They cost around $30 to $50 per day and make getting around faster and more fun. Just watch the speed limits because police do write tickets.
For trips to and from the airport, use Uber or Lyft. Some hotels offer free shuttles to downtown. If you’re traveling with a group, golf cart rentals let everyone ride together. You don’t need to rent a car if you’re staying in the main tourist areas. Parking is hard to find during busy times anyway.
Essential Tips for Your Visit
Getting ready for your trip helps everything go smoother. Key West has some quirks that visitors should know about before they arrive.
- Pack reef-safe sunscreen since regular sunscreen harms the coral
- Bring water shoes for rocky beaches at Fort Zachary Taylor
- A sun hat and beach towels are must-haves
- Key West runs about 10 degrees warmer than mainland Florida, so dress light.
- You can bring your own snorkel gear or rent it when you get there
- Make restaurant reservations ahead of time for popular dinner spots
- Download free apps that offer self-guided historic walking tours
- Police are strict about speed limits, so drive carefully if you rent a vehicle
- Expect to wait in line at the Southernmost Point for your photo
- Get to attractions early in the morning to avoid crowds
- Many shops and attractions close by 5 PM, so plan your days accordingly
Following these simple tips will help you make the most of your Key West itinerary without running into common problems that catch visitors off guard.
Conclusion
Key West packs a lot into a small space. You get pretty beaches, interesting history, good food, and amazing sunsets all within walking distance. This three-day plan covers the main highlights while leaving room to relax.
Feel free to change this Key West itinerary based on what matters most to you. If you love beaches, skip a museum and add more swim time. If history interests you more, spend extra time at the historic sites.
The best part about Key West is the slow island pace. Don’t rush from place to place. Sit at a cafe and watch people walk by. Stay for the whole sunset. Take the long way back to your hotel. Key West feels like the Caribbean without leaving the United States, and that’s what makes it special.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Key West?
December through April brings the dry season with perfect weather. March often works best since it’s warm but not too hot. Summer has heat and humidity but fewer crowds. Hurricane season runs from June through November, so check forecasts if visiting then.
Can You Walk Everywhere in Key West?
Yes, most tourist areas are walkable. Duval Street to the beaches takes 10 to 20 minutes on foot. Scooters and bikes help for longer distances. Uber works well for late nights or when your feet hurt.
Is Key West Family Friendly?
Yes, during the day. Beaches, the aquarium, and the butterfly house work great for kids. Duval Street gets loud and rowdy at night with a 21-plus crowd. Many restaurants welcome families for lunch and early dinner.
How Much Money Should I Budget for a Key West Trip?
Plan for $150 to $250 per person per day, covering lodging, food, and activities. Attraction entrance fees run $15 to $25 each. Meals cost $15 to $30 on average. Water activities like boat trips and snorkel tours add $50 to $150 more.
Do I Need to Rent a Car in Key West?
Not if you’re staying on the island. Everything sits within walking distance or a short Uber ride. You might want a car to visit other Florida Keys. Parking is limited and expensive in Key West.