The Florida Keys are sometimes called America’s Caribbean and they exude a blissful remoteness and languid tropical vibe that rivals the West Indies. In a day, you can visit the Southernmost Point in the Continental U.S., take a dip in the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico, visit Ernest Hemingway’s House, eat fresh, off-the-boat seafood, drink at Florida’s oldest bar, and witness a world-renowned sunset. Here are my top places to eat, stay, and shop in Key West.

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WHAT TO DO IN KEY WEST

Fury Water Adventures: Parasailing, Kayaking, & Snorkeling

Fury Adventure packages are the way to go! The morning adventure included snorkeling in crystal clear waters, kayaking through the mangroves, and paddle boarding through the mangroves,  as well as breakfast and lunch on the boat along with great company and a charming crew. As you glide over the pondlike water, you’ll spot nurse sharks, turtles, and fish that come in every color of the rainbow. Paddling up a creek through the intricacies of a mangrove forest, using moist, knobbly roots to anchor yourself and pull past tree trunks coated with hundreds of tiny little creatures, was something I will never forget.

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Danger Charters: Wind + Wine Sunset Sail on a Catamaran

This is how I like to unwind after a day of adventure in the sun! We climbed aboard a beautiful catamaran and sailed along the picturesque waters while enjoying stunning panoramic views of Key West. The wine and cheese are absolutely delicious and never ending! The crew was such a delight to be around and everybody is there for a good time so it’s just smiles and happy people all round! Would definitely do this again if I come back.

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Southern Most Point

Yes. This is me taking a picture of the line waiting to take a picture at the Southern Most Point of the Central America’s. This girl had places to go and a sunset to see so I wasn’t able to wait in line for the photo opp. Till next time, Southern Most Point!

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WHERE TO SHOP

Local Luxe Jewelry

I absolutely ADORE this shop and felt like I had found quite the gem in the heart of Key West. Absolutely a must if you are looking for jewelry or accessories in any capacity. I wish we had a place like this in Austin because it had a lot to offer with endless possibilities. Local Luxe was the most compelling shopping detour I experienced in Key West.

The jewelry: Remarkable and unique, like nothing I’ve seen before.
The owner:  Delightful and personable. I appreciate the hospitality, knowledge and sincerity.

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WHERE TO EAT

Garbo’s Grill

Garbo’s is a cool retro food truck located in the back of Grunt’s bar on Caroline street. It hit all the right notes for me because I felt like we were eating at a friend’s house. The burger was mouthwatering, juicy, and filled with flavor. The fish tacos, so I hear, (Jordan ate it so fast I didn’t even have time to try a bite!) were great: sweet, juicy, tangy.

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Le Macaron

My obsession with these dreamy, soft, crunchy, chewy delicacies means I have tried a lot of macarons in my time. This French bakery is known as a macaron and pastry boutique, so you know their macarons are great. As you can see, we tried almost every flavor on the menu. They were of perfect consistency and sweetness.

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WHERE TO STAY

The Gates Hotel Key West

The theme of this resort could be Gilligan’s Island set in the Raj. We were greeted as soon as we walked in and at checkin were told about the food truck on premises and given a schedule for the complimentary trolley that takes you downtown. The trolley stops at 9:30 pm but it drops and picks up right by where all the water activities leave from and some great restaurants. The rooms are clean and cozy and the pool is a fun place to spend a day under the sun.

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