Key West Overview

KEY WEST
Video compliments of the Travel Channel
Travelers come to Key West, the most popular and hopping island in the Florida Keys, for its eclectic vibe, vibrant decor and its anything-goes attitude. With Parrot Head-themed venues and gay bars galore, the Conch Republic is a welcoming town for all.
 

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One thing you don't have to worry about in Key West is finding a place to stay. There are plenty of options to choose from, including large-scale resorts, gingerbread cottage bed and breakfasts, and everything in between. Eden House is close to Key West's bustling main artery, Duval Street, and offers affordable digs. But if you want to spare no expense, check into the Victorian-style Island City House, with its pretty white trim and wrap-around porches, or try the contemporary, island-chic Hyatt Key West Resort. And if you want to avoid heavy traffic and hordes of tourists, visit Key West from November to mid-December. Hotels and shops tend to reduce prices at that time, too.
 

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When you're settled in, visit the home and museum of literary legend Ernest Hemingway, who wrote and lived—and drank a lot—in Key West for more than 10 years. Sixty felines also call Hemingway Home and Museum their home (some are descendents of a cat owned by the author himself and display a unique sixth toe) so bring some catnip.

 
When you crave the sun, head outdoors. Snorkel, ogle, kayak and swim on Key West's narrow but pristine beaches. Then score some food at the vegetarian-friendly The Cafe, or go exotic and try Cuban fare at El Siboney. At night, join the Parrot Heads and chill out at Margaritaville Cafe, owned by musician Jimmy Buffett, of course.

 
More Videos
© Travel Channel
Key West Beaches
Close to Cuba, Key West is a wild place, full of things to do and people to see. Check out this video to learn more about Smathers Beach, Key West's longest beach, and how it was built.
Parasailing in Key West
When you're tired of the sand and water at Key West's Smathers Beach, there's always parasailing, as this Travel Channel video shows you.