20+ Fun and Unique Things to Do in Key West, Florida: Beaches, History, Sunsets & Ghosts

Key West may only be four miles long and one mile wide, but don’t let its small size fool you. This laid-back island paradise is bursting with charm, quirky culture, unforgettable history, and tropical beauty. Whether you’re planning a relaxing beach escape, a foodie retreat, or a wild island adventure, Key West, Florida offers something for every type of traveler.

From ghost tours and coral reefs to Hemingway’s six-toed cats and nightly sunset parties, here’s your ultimate guide to the best things to do in Key West — plus local tips, hidden gems, and bonus experiences that will make your trip unforgettable.

1. Watch the Famous Sunset at Mallory Square

There’s no better way to end your day than at the Mallory Square Sunset Celebration — a nightly tradition that’s part festival, part spiritual experience.

Why Go:

• Street performers, fire jugglers, and musicians.

• Food carts offering fresh conch fritters and mojitos.

• A golden view of the sun melting into the Gulf of Mexico.

📸 Travel Tip: Arrive 45–60 minutes before sunset to snag a good seat, and bring your camera for epic golden hour shots.

2. Stroll Down Duval Street – The Island’s Main Artery

Duval Street is where the party lives in Key West. This vibrant, eclectic stretch runs from the Gulf to the Atlantic, packed with:

• Quirky boutiques and souvenir shops

• Tropical dive bars like Sloppy Joe’s and The Green Parrot

• Art galleries, cigar shops, and Cuban cafes

• Buzzing nightlife and drag shows

🥧 Foodie Tip: Don’t leave without trying a slice of authentic Key lime pie from Kermit’s or a Cuban sandwich from El Meson de Pepe.

3. Visit the Big Three Historic Landmarks

Key West is surprisingly rich in American history. Start your cultural tour with these iconic sites:

✍️ Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum

Explore the beautiful Spanish colonial home of the legendary author. Don’t miss the polydactyl (six-toed) cats, descendants of Hemingway’s own.

🇺🇸 Harry S. Truman Little White House

Once the winter retreat for President Truman, this home turned museum gives insight into Cold War-era decision-making and presidential life.

🌅 Key West Lighthouse & Keeper’s Quarters

Climb the 88 steps for one of the best panoramic views of the island.

🕰️ Timing Tip: Each attraction takes about an hour — you can easily visit all three in one morning or afternoon.

4. Relax at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

One of Key West’s most scenic spots, Fort Zachary Taylor offers the perfect blend of history and beach relaxation. Built in the 1800s, the fort was a key player during the Civil War.

What to Do:

• Swim or snorkel in crystal-clear waters

• Relax under shady trees with a picnic

• Explore the historic fort and learn about its wartime past

📅 Bonus Tip: On the third weekend of each month, the park hosts Civil War reenactments with actors in full costume!

5. Take the Old Town Trolley Tour

Want a fun and educational way to explore? Hop on the Old Town Trolley Tour, a hop-on-hop-off experience with 13 stops at major attractions.

Highlights Include:

• Southernmost Point

• Hemingway House

• Key West Shipwreck Museum

👻 Spooky Twist: The trolley company also offers a Ghosts & Gravestones Night Tour, one of the most haunted experiences in Florida!

6. Get on the Water with Fury Water Adventures

Key West is all about the ocean — and there’s no shortage of ways to explore it. Fury Water Adventures offers all kinds of aquatic excursions:

Top Activities:

• Sunset sails and catamaran cruises

• Snorkeling trips to the reef and sandbars

• Parasailing, jet skiing, kayaking, and dolphin watching

🌊 Family Travel Tip: Nearby Truman Waterfront Park is great for kids with a splash pad, playground, and wide grassy lawns.

7. Rent a Bike or Scooter to Explore Like a Local

Forget Uber or taxis — the best way to see Key West is by bike or scooter. With flat roads and a compact layout, the island is easy to navigate.

🚲 Rental Options: Bikes are available by the hour, day, or week — just look for rental shops near Duval Street or Mallory Square.

🚶 Alternative: Many travelers explore on foot. If you’re staying centrally, you won’t need a car at all.

8. Chill at the Island’s Best Beaches

Key West might not have miles of coastline, but its beaches still pack a punch.

🏖️ Best Beaches in Key West:

• Higgs Beach – Laid-back, great for couples and solo travelers

• Smathers Beach – Long and lively, perfect for swimming and volleyball

• Fort Zachary Taylor Beach – Best for snorkeling and natural beauty

🐬 Beach Tip: Bring goggles or a snorkel set — sea life is often visible close to shore!

9. Snap a Photo at the Southernmost Point Buoy

No trip to Key West is complete without a stop at the Southernmost Point Buoy — just 90 miles from Cuba!

📍 Located at Whitehead and South Street, this colorful concrete marker is one of the most photographed spots in Florida.

📸 Pro Tip: Get there early (before 8 AM) to skip the long lines and heat.

10. Join the Haunted Robert the Doll Ghost Tour

If you love eerie legends, the story of Robert the Doll will give you chills. Said to be haunted, Robert resides at the Fort East Martello Museum.

Why It’s Worth It:

• Learn about the island’s haunted history

• Explore after dark with an expert guide

• Encounter one of the most haunted objects in America

👻 Bonus Tip: You can stay at the Artist House, Robert’s original home, now a charming B&B.

11. Spend a Day at Dry Tortugas National Park

Dry Tortugas is one of the most remote national parks in the U.S. and a must for adventurers.

Getting There:

• Accessible only by ferry (Yankee Freedom III) or seaplane

• The trip takes about 2–2.5 hours each way

Highlights:

• Explore Fort Jefferson, a massive 19th-century coastal fortress

• Snorkel around shipwrecks and coral reefs

• Lounge on untouched, white-sand beaches

🏝️ Tip: Book tickets in advance — seats fill up fast!

12. Go on a Food Tour or Cooking Class

Key West’s food scene is a rich mix of Caribbean, Cuban, and Southern U.S. flavors.

🍤 Must-Try Dishes:

• Conch fritters

• Lobster rolls

• Key lime pie

• Rum-based cocktails

🎟️ Recommended Tours:

• Key West Food Tours (walking tastings)

• Cooking classes featuring Cuban and seafood specialties

13. Visit the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory

Perfect for families or anyone who loves nature, this beautiful indoor sanctuary features:

• 50+ butterfly species

• Exotic birds

• Lush tropical plants

🦋 Why It’s Special: It’s air-conditioned and serene — ideal for a midday break from the heat.

14. Discover the Key West Shipwreck Museum

This interactive museum tells the story of how 19th-century wreck salvaging built Key West’s early wealth.

• Live actor-guides in costume

• Exhibits with treasure and artifacts

• A 65-foot lookout tower you can climb

📚 Fun Fact: At one point, Key West was the richest city per capita in the U.S. — thanks to shipwrecks.

15. Take a Sunset Sail with Live Music

Want a romantic or relaxing end to your day? Book a sunset sail with a local company like Sebago or Danger Charters.

🥂 Most cruises include:

• Wine or rum punch

• Snacks or full dinner

• Live tropical or jazz music

🌅 The views of the sky turning orange over the Gulf are unforgettable.

 Plan the Perfect Key West Vacation

From sun-drenched beaches and snorkeling adventures to presidential history and spooky haunted dolls, Key West is packed with personality and possibility. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or a weeklong escape, there’s something special about this quirky corner of the Florida Keys.

🏖️ Pro Travel Tips:

• Stay central to avoid needing a car.

• Book tours early (especially Dry Tortugas and ghost tours).

• Visit off-season (May–June or September–October) for better prices and fewer crowds.

So — when are you heading to Key West? What are you most excited to do?

👇 Leave a comment below, and don’t forget to be adventurous, smile often, and keep traveling!