Looking for things to do in key west beyond a quick beach stop? Think sunset sails, colorful streets and a slice of Key lime pie between adventures.
These pictures give you plenty to plan around, whether you’d rather paddle through mangroves or settle into a waterfront seat.
You can keep your days simple or fit in a little of everything. Pick a few favorites, then leave yourself room for a slow lunch and another look at the water.
Key West Ideas to Save for Your Trip
sail into the sunset
We’re starting off strong with this gorgeous sunset sail. The two tall sails look so pretty against that orange sky, with sunlight stretching right across the water.
If a boat trip is on your list, consider a sunset departure. I’d leave the rest of that evening unhurried.
stop at the Southernmost Point
Want that classic Key West vacation photo? Make a stop at the Southernmost Point buoy.
Its red, yellow and black stripes are hard to miss, with the ocean right behind it.
Keep the whole marker in your frame if you want a photo like this one.
look inside a historic home
I love the tall arched windows in this room. The chandelier, framed pictures and dark dining chairs give you so many little details to look at.
Add a historic-home tour to your plans if you enjoy interiors. Rather than rushing through, take a moment to notice the ceiling decorations too.
bring your snorkel
How gorgeous is this turquoise water? The snorkelers are floating beside a rocky underwater patch, with the sandy bottom visible around them.
For your own snorkeling outing, choose a trip suited to your swimming ability. Follow the guide’s directions and give underwater life plenty of space.
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head out after dark
If you like a lively evening, this is your kind of scene. Lucy’s glowing sign, the upstairs balcony and strings of lights make this street-side stop stand out.
Try an evening stroll with a restaurant stop along the way. You don’t have to plan every part of the night.
make time for Key lime pie
This bright yellow bakery is just too cute. I love the lime-green benches beneath the big Key Lime Pie Bakery sign.
Make a pie stop part of your afternoon. If you’re in the mood for coffee too, check the menu before choosing your order.
choose a catamaran outing
Here’s another sailing idea, but this time there’s a white catamaran beneath the setting sun. That stretch of blue water is absolutely gorgeous.
Compare the boat styles before booking your outing. A catamaran trip is another option to consider alongside the two-masted boat above.
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kayak beneath the mangroves
This may just be one of my favorite scenes here. The branches form a leafy tunnel over the kayaks, with bright open water waiting ahead.
Consider a guided mangrove paddle if you’d like help navigating. Keep your paddle clear of the roots as you pass through.
leave room for a beach break
Don’t want every hour filled with activities? No problem! Make room for a beach break with pale sand, blue-green water and a spot to sit.
The small rocky edge gives this shoreline a different look from a long, uninterrupted beach. Check local access and swimming guidance before choosing your spot.
wander past pastel houses
How cute are these pink and mint houses? I am obsessed with the white porch railings and the orange-red flowers above the rooftops.
Take a neighborhood walk if you love colorful architecture. Enjoy the details from the sidewalk and keep private porches out of your route.
visit the butterfly conservatory
Calling all butterfly fans, add the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory to your list. The big blue butterfly on the sign makes a lovely introduction.
This photo shows the entrance rather than the experience inside. Check current admission details and opening hours before making it part of your day.
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take the scenic beach path
I love this beach entrance with the palms on either side. The pink sky and rope-lined boardwalk are just so pretty together.
Let this inspire a slow walk toward the water. You don’t need an elaborate activity for every part of your trip.
see the lighthouse
If you enjoy a landmark stop, the Key West Lighthouse belongs on your list. The white tower rises above the trees with a black lantern room at the top.
I especially love this view from the grounds. Check current visitor information if you want to include a climb rather than just an exterior look.
sit down for seafood
Ready for a lunch break? This spread has a browned fish fillet in front, a lobster tail across the table and yellow rice with vegetables on both plates.
Use it as a little seafood-order inspiration. Ask what’s available that day rather than expecting every restaurant to serve this exact combination.
take a trolley tour
Want another way to look around town? Consider a trolley tour. This orange-and-green Old Town Trolley is pictured passing the lighthouse.
Check the current route before choosing your ticket, especially if there are particular sights you want to visit.
try a jet ski outing
If you want something a little more active, this one is for you. A jet ski sits on clear green water beneath a sky full of big white clouds.
Choose an operator that explains the riding rules and safety requirements. Wear a properly fitted life jacket and follow the designated route.
enjoy a drink with a view
Who wouldn’t want to pause for this view? The green stemmed drink and amber-colored drink sit above a beach dotted with chairs, with the sunset behind them.
Pick a waterfront seat and order whatever sounds good to you. A mocktail would fit this little sunset break just as nicely.
paddleboard between the greenery
This is another pretty way to get out on the water. The two paddleboarders are making their way through a channel with thick greenery on either side.
If you’re new to paddleboarding, consider a lesson or guided outing. Ask about conditions and flotation equipment before heading out.
explore local history
Love an old photograph? This black-and-white scene shows a shuttered house, a columned porch and a palm tree across the lawn.
It’s a different side of the trip from the bright beach views.
For a history-focused stop, consider the Harry S. Truman Little White House. Let its exhibits and guides provide the stories behind the historic photographs.
linger beside the marina
Last but definitely not least, make time for a marina-side meal. I love the tables beneath the covered roof and the boats sitting just beyond the boardwalk.
Choose a seat facing the docks if you want a view like this. It’s a lovely idea for a day when you’d rather watch the boats than board one.
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