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Looking for the best things to do in Key West, Florida? You’ve come to the right place!
We’ve explored this quirky, sun-soaked island multiple times—and each visit makes us want to come back for more. From kayaking through tangled mangroves to sunset sails, Key West offers way more than just beach vibes and touristy streets. There’s history, hidden wildlife, and a whole lot of flavor packed into this little island paradise.
In this guide, we’ve handpicked the best things to do in Key West based on our own experiences. Whether you’re squeezing in a quick weekend escape or settling in for more island time, these tours will turn your Key West trip into something truly memorable.
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE Key West experience was this shark and wildlife boat tour! We cruised on a catamaran as our guides lured sharks right to our boat. They also pointed out dolphins, stingrays, and sea turtles!
Check out the 2,400+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
- Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Key West, Florida
- 1. Kayak through mangroves
- 2. See sharks and other wildlife up close
- 3. Relax on a sunset sail
- 4. Take a bicycle tour of Old Key West
- 5. Enjoy a full day on the ocean: kayak, snorkel, and sail
- 6. Taste your way around Key West’s historic district
- 7. Get your adrenaline pumping on a jet ski
- 8. Go dolphin watching and snorkeling
- 9. Try the SNUBA snorkeling experience
- 10. Go on a cocktail crawl of Key West
- Where to Stay in Key West, Florida
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Renting a Car in the USA
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Things to do in Key West, Florida
1. Kayak through mangroves
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 10 am and 2 pm
- Highlights: Small-group kayaking tour of Key West’s mangroves, learn about local geology and nature, spot Florida wildlife in a natural habitat
- Inclusions: Local guide, single or double kayak, and tour the quiet side of Key West
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 1,950+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Key West’s mangrove forests are easy to miss if you stick to the usual tourist trail—but paddling through them on this small-group kayak tour completely changed how we saw the island. Instead of loud restaurants and packed sidewalks, we were surrounded by the sounds of birds, the dip of our paddles, and the occasional splash from something swimming below.
We met at Hurricane Hole Marina on the quiet side of Key West, where free parking and a laid-back vibe set the tone for the trip. After a quick rundown on safety and technique, we followed our guide, Courtney, into a maze of mangrove creeks.
The pace was relaxed and beginner-friendly, which made it easy to focus on the scenery. From sea cucumbers to jellyfish and sea stars, the shallow, clear water was full of movement!
Courtney kept things interesting with local geology facts and her sharp eye for spotting wildlife hiding in the roots. We even learned that the mangroves here aren’t just tree tunnels—they’re powerful ecosystems that literally hold the island together!
The route shifts depending on the tide and weather, so every trip is a little different. And you can even bring your dog!
We loved this tour because it gave us the chance to experience a quieter, more natural side of Key West—far from the crowds and chaos. It’s easy to see why others love it, too—just check out all the 5-star reviews here!
Book this tour here to get FREE cancellation 24 hours before you go!
2. See sharks and other wildlife up close
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 10 am and 1 pm
- Highlights: Seeing sharks and marine wildlife up close, traveling on an eco-friendly catamaran, watching the pilot draw a variety of sharks right to the boat, learning all about the marine life and mangrove islands
- Inclusions: Professional guide, use of polarized sunglasses, soda, juice, bottled water, chips, restroom on board
- Rating: 5 stars (check 2,500+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Finding something exciting to do in Key West that’s family-friendly, educational, and actually well-organized isn’t always easy. But this shark and wildlife boat tour delivered on all fronts—and gave us a chance to get up close with some serious marine life.
After checking in, we climbed aboard the Tiger Cat—a smooth-riding, eco-friendly catamaran captained by locals who clearly know these waters inside and out. As we cruised through the mangroves and into the Key West National Wildlife Refuge, we spotted dolphins, stingrays, and even a sea turtle.
First mate Matt kept us engaged the whole time, sharing cool facts about the ecosystem and the creatures that call it home. It was like having a floating marine biology lesson, but way more fun!
Once we reached shark territory, the crew dropped bait, and within minutes, they were circling. Lemon and nurse sharks came in close while a few blacktips made dramatic passes just below the surface. The kids on board were glued to the rail—and even got to toss in some food. Everyone had space for a front-row view, and the crew made sure we all got time (and tips) for great photos.
We loved this tour for the thrill, the crew’s passion, and the chance to safely get up close with these incredible animals.
Check out the 2,000+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!
3. Relax on a sunset sail
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times from 4:30 pm to 6:45 pm
- Highlights: Seeing the sunset and the moon rise, cruising on a 60-foot (18-meter) catamaran, and feasting on peel-and-eat shrimp and other fresh hors d’oeuvres with drinks included
- Inclusions: Full bar, chef’s selection of hors d’oeuvres including shrimp cocktail, live music from local Key West musicians, soft drinks, filtered water
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 3,100+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Key West’s sunsets are legendary—but trying to catch one from Mallory Square can feel like standing shoulder-to-shoulder at a concert. For a far more relaxed (and scenic) experience, we booked this sunset cruise, and it turned out to be one of our favorite nights of the trip.
We boarded the massive 60-foot (18-meter) catamaran and immediately found our spot on the spacious deck. With live music setting the mood, a cold drink in hand, and views of the seaport and historic Fort Zachary Taylor in the distance, we knew we were in for a great evening.
The crew was incredible—friendly, attentive, and quick to keep the drinks flowing. And the appetizers were a hit! We snacked on mahi dip, tomato and mozzarella skewers with kalamata olives, and the freshest peel-and-eat shrimp.
As the sun dropped toward the water, the sky lit up in layers of gold and pink. The horizon looked like it was glowing, and for a few minutes, everything just felt still, like the whole boat was holding its breath. The water stayed calm the entire time, and the breeze made it even better.
We loved this tour for the relaxing vibe, great food, and front-row seat to a Key West sunset. Just keep in mind that this tour tends to sell out, so you’ll want to grab your spot early before it fills up!
Don’t miss out on this popular sunset cruise—secure your spot early here!
4. Take a bicycle tour of Old Key West
- Duration: 2.5 hours
- Time: 10 am and 2 pm
- Highlights: Small-group bicycle tour through the streets of Old Town Key West, learn about the island’s history, see top sights such as Mallory Square, Mile Marker Zero, and White Street Pier, pedal out to the Southernmost Point Buoy and enjoy panoramic ocean views
- Inclusions: Guide, use of bicycle and helmet, bottled water, key lime pie
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 2,450+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Wandering around Key West on foot sounds nice in theory—until you realize how much ground there is to cover and how hot it gets. That’s why this small-group bike tour was the best way to see all the highlights without sweating it out or constantly checking Google Maps.
The ride was super easy—not strenuous at all—and gave us a behind-the-scenes look at places we never would’ve found on our own.
Our guide, James, was fantastic! He was friendly, easygoing, and full of not just history, but local stories and quirky island folklore that gave the tour real personality.
We hit iconic spots like Mallory Square, Mile Marker Zero, and White Street Pier, and even stopped at the Southernmost Point for ocean views and photos. Cruising through quiet backstreets and colorful neighborhoods gave us a feel for the island that you just don’t get by car.
We waved to locals on their porches, passed roosters strutting across the road, and soaked up the charm that makes Old Town so unique. The ride ended with a slice of Key lime pie—zesty, creamy, and hands-down the best way to wrap up a bike ride in Key West!
This tour is ideal for first-time visitors or anyone who wants a fun, laid-back way to explore the island. We left feeling like we’d seen the real Key West, beyond the tourist trails and full of local flavor!
Read thousands of 5-star reviews here and reserve this top-rated bicycle tour!
5. Enjoy a full day on the ocean: kayak, snorkel, and sail
- Duration: 6.5 hours
- Time: 9:30 am and 10 am
- Highlights: All-inclusive, full-day sailing, snorkeling, and kayaking excursion, visit the Key West National Wildlife Refuge, and explore and see top attractions from the water
- Inclusions: Professional guide, all activities, local taxes, buffet lunch, unlimited drinks
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 650+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Booking separate tours for kayaking, snorkeling, and sailing in Key West can quickly eat up your time—and your budget. Thankfully, this all-inclusive full-day tour bundled it all into one seamless, adventure-packed day without the stress of planning a thing.
We met up with our group at the base of Opal Key Resort and climbed aboard a 65-foot (20-meter) schooner bound for the Key West National Wildlife Refuge. Our hosts, Brian and Anna, made us feel like old friends from the start. They were professional, enthusiastic, and full of fascinating stories about the Keys’ history and marine life.
The day was a dream mix of action and ease: snorkeling in clear backcountry waters, kayaking beneath tangled mangrove canopies, and stretching out on deck in between. The water was calm, the gear top-notch, and the crew made sure even beginners felt confident and comfortable.
Midway through, we loaded up plates with a fresh buffet lunch and kicked back with unlimited drinks as the boat cruised past quiet islands and endless blue. It felt like we’d found our own private slice of paradise.
This is one of the rare tours in Key West that manages to pack in so much without ever feeling rushed. If you’re looking for one unforgettable day on the water, book this all-inclusive tour and enjoy unlimited adventure and island-style relaxation!
Secure your spot now and pay later when you book this all-inclusive tour here!
6. Taste your way around Key West’s historic district
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times from 11 am to 3:30 pm
- Highlights: Key West food and culture tour, visit local establishments for tastings, learn about the island’s history and architecture from a guide
- Inclusions: Local guide, 1.2-mile (1.9-kilometer) walking tour of Key West’s Old Town covering five food tastings and one drink (totaling a hearty lunch), exclusive in-store coupons, water, and small-group tour
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 1,470+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
It’s easy to get stuck eating at touristy spots in Key West, especially along Duval Street. We wanted something more local, so we booked this small-group food tour—and it ended up being one of the best (and most delicious) ways to explore the island!
Our guide, Kyle, knew the island inside and out and shared a great mix of history, local culture, and food stories that made the tour even more fun and engaging. He kept the vibe fun and easygoing, and by the end of the tour, we were walking around with a group of new friends.
We sampled our way through Old Town with stops that included jerk fish at a hidden backyard bistro, authentic Cuban dishes at a family-run spot, and a stop for smooth Cuban coffee and tart, creamy Key lime pie. The final tasting? A drink special at an old speakeasy that felt like a secret locals’ hangout.
Each stop felt thoughtfully chosen and gave us a real taste of what locals love. The portions were generous, the flavors bold, and everything was served with a warm, welcoming vibe.
Between bites, we wandered through quiet streets shaded by banyan trees, passing pastel homes and learning about Key West’s laid-back way of life. We walked away with a deeper connection to the island—not just through the food, but through the stories behind it.
This award-winning tour sells out fast—book your spot here before it’s too late!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
7. Get your adrenaline pumping on a jet ski
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Time: Multiple departure times from 9:30 am to 6 pm
- Highlights: Discover the Floridian coast on a Jet Ski tour, feel confident with a brief training session, enjoy the security of an on-hand guide, learn local history and cool facts
- Inclusions: Knowledgeable guides, exciting 28 miles (45 kilometers) Jet Ski tour, complimentary shuttle pick up, the newest, high-performance Jet Skis
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 1,190+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Renting a Jet Ski in Florida can be confusing, especially with the state’s boating rules and hidden fees that tend to sneak in at the last minute. That’s why we booked this thrilling Jet Ski tour around Key West—it made everything easy, clear, and a whole lot more fun.
Our guides, Phil and Jake, gave us a quick safety briefing and a short lesson before we climbed aboard brand-new WaveRunners and followed them into open water. The Jet Skis were surprisingly easy to drive, even for first-timers, and we quickly got the hang of them as we cruised along the coast.
The ride itself was incredible—fast, smooth, and packed with views of iconic spots like the Southernmost Point, the Boca Chica Sandbar, and even the old submarine pens. Phil and Jake kept the energy up with fun stories and local tips while making sure everyone felt safe and comfortable along the way.
One of the best parts is that you pay per Jet Ski, not per person, so you can bring a friend or partner along for free. Plus, there were no extra charges for fuel or equipment! Just keep in mind: Florida law requires anyone born after January 1, 1988, to pass a quick boater safety test before driving. But it only takes about 15 minutes and can be done online before your tour.
This was hands down one of the most exciting ways to experience Key West. We couldn’t stop smiling the whole time!
Reserve this Jet Ski tour here and get FREE cancellation 24 hours before you go!
8. Go dolphin watching and snorkeling
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 9 am, 12:30 pm, 5 pm, and 5:30 pm
- Highlights: Admire the gorgeous scenery as you sail alongside dolphins, snorkel at the Key West National Wildlife Refuge, and spot a variety of fish
- Inclusions: Local guide, use of snorkeling equipment, drinks, nautical restroom available aboard, public restrooms located near check-in
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 1,050+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
We’ve been on dolphin tours before, where the “watch” part felt more like waiting and hoping. But this dolphin-watching and snorkeling adventure was a totally different story—organized, fun, and packed with wildlife sightings from start to finish.
We boarded a spacious catamaran and cruised out into the clear waters off Key West. The boat had a large sundeck, shaded seating, and plenty of room to stretch out, so it already felt like a laid-back day on the water before we even left the dock.
Our guides for the day, Stevie and Logan, were fantastic and dedicated to responsible wildlife watching! Stevie shared tons of dolphin knowledge and clearly knew where to find them—sure enough, we spotted a pod not long into the trip, leaping and swimming right alongside the boat. Logan made sure everyone was comfortable, relaxed, and had everything they needed the whole time.
After some dolphin watching, we headed to the Key West National Wildlife Refuge for snorkeling. The water was calm and shallow, and the crew gave a quick but helpful rundown before we jumped in. We saw loads of colorful fish and even a few coral patches swaying in the current. All gear was included, and the boat had plenty of space to dry off and unwind afterward.
Once we got back on board, we soaked in the sunshine and sipped on cold drinks as we cruised back to shore. For a relaxing, eco-conscious adventure that delivers real wildlife moments, this one definitely stands out!
Reserve this tour now and pay later when you book it in advance here!
9. Try the SNUBA snorkeling experience
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 9 am and 1 pm
- Highlights: Experience the underwater beauty of southern Florida on a SNUBA tour from Key West, breathe underwater without scuba gear, travel to the dive site by boat, then hop in the warm water to get close views of an array of colorful fish and marine life
- Inclusions: Professional instruction, use of SNUBA equipment, bottled water, souvenir photos available for purchase
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 460+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: No
- Price: Check price here!
Snorkeling is great, but trying to stay down long enough to actually see anything can be frustrating. We also wanted to explore underwater without the hassle of scuba certification, so we gave this SNUBA tour a try, and it ended up being one of the coolest things we did in Key West.
After a short boat ride to the reef, our dive master, Nicole, gave us an easy-to-follow briefing on how SNUBA works. You still wear a mask and fins like snorkeling, but instead of coming up for air every few seconds, you breathe through a regulator attached to a hose that floats on the surface. No tank, no certification, no stress!
The moment we dipped below the surface, it felt like we were in another world. We floated over coral formations, spotted swaying sea fans, and watched schools of colorful fish zip past us.
The depth and time underwater totally blew snorkeling out of the water! Plus, Nicole and the crew were supportive, fun, and clearly passionate about what they do.
SNUBA gear is included, but bring some extra cash for a $35 USD fuel and fee charge per person, and souvenir photos!
We loved this tour because it gave us a true underwater experience without needing certification or bulky gear. It felt adventurous, easy, and completely unforgettable. If you want to go deeper without the hassle, this SNUBA tour is the way to do it!
For an unforgettable Key West adventure, book this SNUBA tour here!
10. Go on a cocktail crawl of Key West
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 3 pm, 3:30 pm, and 4 pm
- Highlights: Stop at six off–the–beaten–path establishments for drinks and food tastings during this Key West craft cocktail tour, get an overview of the city’s history and culture
- Inclusions: Expert and enthusiastic local guide, five tasty craft beverages, food samples to accompany your drinks, all taxes, fees and handling charges, snacks, beverages, small-group tour
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 460+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
The Key West bar scene can be overwhelming—especially if you don’t want to waste time (or money) on overpriced tourist traps. That’s why we joined this small-group craft cocktail tour, and it turned out to be one of the best ways to experience the island’s flavor, history, and hidden hangouts all at once.
Our guide, Mike, was the kind of host you want for a tour like this—personable, passionate, and full of great local stories. At each of the six stops, he shared cool tidbits about Key West’s past while introducing us to signature drinks with a twist, like a spin on the classic Hemingway Daiquiri and a tropical tiki creation we’re still thinking about!
We sipped expertly made cocktails inside everything from a historic mansion to a boutique hotel that used to be a hospital. The drinks were strong (in the best way), and the bar lineup felt curated, not touristy.
Between sips, we also sampled a couple of tasty bites, including a taco from Garbo’s Grill—a legit local favorite featured on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives!
This tour is perfect for cocktail lovers who want something a little more elevated than a standard bar crawl. Just be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes—you’ll be strolling between stops while soaking up the charm of Old Town. We left tipsy, full, and already planning to do it again next time.
Check availability and grab your spot on this cocktail tour before it sells out!
Related Read: If you need help organizing your trip, follow our 3-day Key West itinerary, including these top activities!
Where to Stay in Key West, Florida
Key West is a colorful, quirky island where laid-back vibes meet sun-soaked adventure, and finding the right place to stay can make all the difference. Whether you’re splurging on a luxury escape, planning a longer stay with all the comforts of home, or traveling on a budget, there’s something here for every kind of traveler.
To help you choose, we’ve rounded up some of the best places to stay in Key West, from upscale resorts to charming, affordable spots—so you can focus more on exploring and less on scrolling.
Luxury – $$$
Tucked along the Florida Bay, Parrot Key Hotel & Villas is a luxury escape just minutes from Old Town Key West. Surrounded by palm trees and tropical gardens, this resort offers spacious rooms and villas with private terraces, garden or water views, and crisp, coastal interiors. Relax in one of four pools, dine at The Grove Kitchen and Bar, or unwind on the sandy sun deck. Kayak adventures and a free Old Town shuttle add to the experience!
Rates range from $300–$900 USD per night, depending on the season and room type. Book this hotel on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
The Laureate Key West is a great mid-range hotel located on North Roosevelt Boulevard, just a short drive from Duval Street and the airport. The spacious suites feel more like mini-apartments, with separate living areas, kitchenettes, and balconies—some offering ocean views. Guests love the year-round outdoor pool, on-site parking, and the friendly, helpful staff. It’s also pet-friendly and ideal for families or longer stays, thanks to the extra space and amenities.
Prices range from around $250–$400 USD per night. Check availability for your stay on Booking.com.
Budget – $
For a budget-friendly stay in Key West, The Palms Hotel is a great pick! Located just a mile from Duval Street, it’s close to the action but tucked in a quiet, tropical neighborhood. Rooms are clean and comfortable with flat-screen TVs, ceiling fans, and coffee makers—some even have kitchenettes. Guests love the heated pool, daily continental breakfast served poolside, and the friendly staff. There’s also free Wi-Fi, bike rentals, and a laid-back vibe throughout.
Rooms start at $230 USD per night with breakfast. Book now on Booking.com!
For more options, see all of Key West’s hotels listed here!
Renting a Car in the USA
The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country’s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in the USA
- Drive on the right: In the U.S., vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the left. If this is different than your home country, take some time to adjust before hitting busy streets!
- Know the local rules: Speed limits, road signs, and driving laws can differ between states. For example, turning right on red is generally allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign indicates otherwise. Always check the specific rules for the states you’ll be driving in.
- Add full insurance: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance, especially in the U.S., where long distances, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather can lead to unexpected situations. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable!) to add this peace of mind when you book.
- Choose the right car: Consider the nature of your trip. For city driving, a compact car is convenient, while for road trips or national park visits, an SUV might be more comfortable. With Discover Cars, it’s easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, fuel efficiency, and more to find the perfect fit.
What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet. Some rental companies may require it, so it’s best to check in advance.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the USA on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
Key West is truly a paradise and a bucket list getaway for any traveler. We had so much fun relaxing on boats, seeing wildlife, and exploring its historic streets. If you knock off just a few items on this list, I know you’ll have an amazing time!
Before you go, check out our other USA blogs! We love sharing our favorite places and experiences with fellow travelers and have put together tons of resources to help you plan a memorable trip. Here are a few related reads to get you started:
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