Well, now you are in the South....the deep, deep South.  In fact, in Key West you are as far south as you can go in the Continental U.S., and it is beautiful here.  A veritable paradise when talking about weather, this westernmost spot in the Florida Keys averages an annual temperature of 77 degrees and rarely varies outside 10 degrees of that up or down.  When it comes to things to do in Key West Florida, relaxing in the sun on some prime Florida beaches with a slice of key lime pie seems like a good place to start, and when you feel the need to get up and get into something else, here are some ideas.

One of the great things about Key West’s small size is that you are always close to where you are heading on the island.  Of course one of the most popular things to do in Key West is to head to the beach.  Most of them are on the south side of the island and at busy Smathers Beach there are volleyball games and watersport concessions if you feel the need to play a little. 

At Fort Zachary Taylor, you’ll find a quieter beach and might add a picnic there at sunset for your more romantic things to do in Key West.  You’ll find recreational ball parks and tennis courts at other Key West parks.

Fort Zachary Taylor Park is a high recommendation for at least a brief stop while on the island.  The fort at this park was an important Union outpost in the Civil War and was again used during The Spanish American War.  Fishers will enjoy the west side of the park, which is ideal for casting. 

The picnic areas, ideal for couples, are also good for families looking for things to do in Key West FL, and they are equipped with tables, BBQ’s, outdoor showers and restroom facilities.  You can even take a guided tour of the fort. 

Snorkelers and swimmers might consider the 45 minute trek from Key West to Bahia Honda to take advantage of the perfect waters for doing both.  It also is ideal for fishing, camping and has boat ramps.  On Bahia Honda you’ll find the Sand and Sea Nature Center, and the nature trails, featuring rare animals and plant life, are a great idea for hikers looking for interesting things to do in Key West.

Surely one of the things to do in Key West Florida for any visitor is dine out.  There are a load of good restaurants in Key West and you’ll find a nice array of taste options.  Romantic things to do in Key West should include an elegant meal at one of the more formal spots, but relax and remember that on Key West you don’t necessarily have to dress up no matter where you are headed. 

To go along with the amount of restaurants, you’ll find a complimentary amount of bars for heading out and grabbing a drink. 

Among the most unique things to do in Key West is taking an “eco-tour”.  Eco-tours allow you to get out and around the waters and natural terrain of the area, often to view wildlife in their natural habitat.  A popular trip usually involves heading to the nearby Dry Tortuga Islands for snorkeling, bird watching and sightseeing.  Two options for getting there are by sea plane or on a high-speed catamaran.  Observing dolphins in the open waters is among the many memorable things to do in Key West Florida for eco tourists. 

Another good way to explore area waters is through jet ski adventures, and Key West offers some of the best Florida scuba diving. 

Rounding out some of the things to do in Key West involves heading to the theaters for movies or live performances, hitting Key West’s 18 hole public layout entry among the many Florida golf courses, and shopping the art galleries and antique shops for that special take home item, or items.  Also, you might consider a trip to one of the island’s museums, take a glass bottom boat ride, or hire a fishing charter for a sport fishing adventure that is hard to rival.  Literature buffs should head for the Hemingway home where many of his best works were penned. 

And finally, couples, for a remaining idea of the romantic things to do in Key West, try to schedule a sunset cruise.  These cruises offer unparalleled views of the setting sun on beautiful ships, and present options for drinks and dining, most all of them featuring fine wines, beer and champagne.  Imagine toasting the setting sun on a picturesque schooner, as the colors, the wind and the water combine to soothe your soul and bring you closer together.