Sunday, November 27, 2011

Experience Key West like a local

Key West Beach

"The best thing about Miami is that it is in the continental US, " I heard this joke when I moved to Miami and I love it.  Miami is so unique but in my view it is what makes it special.  There are so many things to do if you are visiting Miami but one thing you can't miss is Key West.  Also known as the "America's Caribbean Islands", the Florida Keys attracts over 3 million visitors a year for its many attractions: white sand beaches, sport fishing (largest fishing destination in the world), diving or snorkeling in the living-coral barrier reef, exotic food, fun nightlife and a picturesque sunset.

Key West Southernmost Point

Key West is the final stop in the Florida Keys and closer to Havana than Miami, 90 miles to be exact.  I love going to Key West and it is always a must have tourist destination to our friends and families in town.  Since we made the trip last weekend, I wanted to give you my best picks to enjoy the best of Key West like a local.

The drive from Miami is long - about 4 hours - so kick back, relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery.  If you are hungry along the way, stop by "Lazydays" in Islamorada for a fish or lobster sandwich with their signature "lazydays style" sauce made with key lime, coconut and other spices to die for.  It is located on mile marker 79 and the terraces have a great view of the sea. 

Lazy Days Restaurant - Catch of the day "Lazydays Style"

Once in Key West, enjoy the afternoon on the beach and stop by the pier for fresh oysters and crabs.  Take a stroll through downtown, Duval Street and Ernest Hemingway's home.  Arrive early at Mallory Square for the sunset celebration.   The plaza gets filled quickly and you will have a great time watching jugglers, musicians and street artists perform before the sun is set. 

Key West Sunset

Mallory Square Sunset Celebration
If you have an extra day (strongly recommended), visit Dry Tortugas & Fort Jefferson.  We took the earliest seaplane tour for half day which is perfect to visit the park and snorkel around the island.  By taking the seaplane you not only have great aerial views but also avoid all the tourists who arrive by ferry at noon, just when it is time to head back to Key West.  Then, grab a quick lunch at BO's Fishing Wagon.  Don't be scared by the appearance of this shack because it serves the best fish sandwich in town with a delicious key lime mayonnaise.  Finally, stock up on key lime pie and be sure to drink a Cuban cortadito before heading back to Miami.
Seaplane tour

Dry Tortugas National Park
BO's Fish Wagon
 
 So, next time you're in Miami, plan to spend a couple of days at Key West for an unforgettable vacation.
Until next time,
xoxo