At the end of Highway 1 and over 100 miles from the mainland is the city of Key West, Florida. Famous for it’s laid-back atmosphere, sunsets, and all things Jimmy Buffet, this little city has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to kick back on the beach, take an adventure on a seaplane to a National Park, or listen to live music while sipping a Margarita – this is the place for you. Here’s how to spend one day in Key West, Florida!
Watch the Sunrise at the Southernmost Point
No trip to Key West is complete without documenting a visit to the Southernmost Point of the continental USA! A large buoy stands proudly on the corner of South and Whitehall Streets and is a photo that every traveler needs in their album! It’s one of the most popular sites in Key West and tourists flock to stand here and snap a few pics. During the day, this area gets very crowded and can make parking and getting photos a nightmare. My advice would be to visit first thing in the morning around sunrise. I was able to park on the street right near the buoy and have a few minutes all to myself to snap pictures. Plus, what a great place to watch the sunrise!
Visit the end of Highway 1
On the corner of Whitehead and Fleming Streets, you’ll find the end of Highway 1! Highway 1 runs 2,370 miles from Fort Kent, Maine all the way down to Key West. While it’s not the prettiest photo, but it still deserves a spot in your album! This is a quick stop, but another one that gets crowded during the day. Try to visit early in the morning for a hassle-free picture. There is also a small gift shop across the street where you can stock up on all your Mile 0 merch.
Take an early morning trip to Dry Tortugas National Park
While a day out to Dry Tortugas National Park could easily fill up an entire day, it’s entirely possible to add into a short itinerary! Book a half day excursion with Key West Seaplane Adventures – and get on the 8:00 am departure! This tour is about 4 hours round trip, so you’ll be back in Key West by noon. Plenty of time for more adventures!
The seaplane is about a 40 minute journey each way, which leaves you about 2.5 hours to explore the park. It’s by far the best way to get to Dry Tortugas! The ferry is a 3+ hour journey each way, but the seaplane is quick, smooth, and oh-so-scenic. You’ll get a bird’s eye view of the bright blue waters and even spot plenty of marine life from the air! In case you needed any more convincing, here is my in-depth breakdown comparing the sea plane to the ferry (since I uniquely got to experience both!).
The time at the park can go by quick, but it’s plenty of time to explore everything offered. The best part is, on the early flight you will arrive before the ferry docks, meaning you’ll have the entire island to yourself! Take some time to explore Fort Jefferson, walk the Moat Wall, and relax on the white sand beaches.
Read More: How to Spend a Day at Dry Tortugas National Park
Smathers Beach
After your day trip out to Dry Tortugas, take some time to relax at Smathers Beach. Smathers is located right across the street from Key West International Airport (where the seaplane returns). It is the perfect place to unwind (and even do some plane spotting). The water at Smathers Beach is very shallow and you can walk out quite a ways while still being able to touch! The sand is soft and was the perfect place for me to kick back with my book and enjoy the beach.
The walkways from the street to the beach are also super adorable and perfect for photo ops!
Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square
After a nap on the beach, make your way across town to Mallory Square. Each night, the area hosts a daily Sunset Celebration! Tons of vendors, musicians, and street performers come out and the square comes alive with activity. You can sip on a freshly cut coconut while getting a palm reading and listening to a live band as the sun goes down. Where else but Key West?! There are also tons of local shops surrounding the area to bop into. It’s THE place to be at sunset!
Parking can be tricky (which can be said for all of Key West). There is a small lot here, but it unsurprisingly fills up for sunset. Try to get there early to snag a spot!
End the night on Duval Street
Duval Street to Key West is Bourbon Street to New Orleans. Meaning it’s the place to be for a drink and a party.
Duval Street (specifically between Truman and Fleming Streets) is lined with fun bars, restaurants, and shops one right after the other. The street has wide sidewalks making it super easy to hop from spot to spot. If you’re looking for a good time, you’re in the right place. Even if you just walk this street during the day, you’re bound to hear live music coming from bars and feel the energy of Duval!
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