Southernmost Point - Key West

It's been a while since our last vacation, so naturally, I am dreaming of another get-away! Our last trip was to visit my husband's family in Fort Lauderdale. During our stay there, we also rented a car and took a three hour drive down to Key West for a night. If you've never explored Florida's Southernmost point, I highly recommend visiting the Florida Keys. You can easily fly into Miami or Fort Lauderdale, rent a car, and drive south for a few days. It doesn't require a passport, yet it feels like you are in a different country! 

Sunset Pier at the Ocean Key Resort and Spa

Unfortunately, it was a bit overcast when we arrived, but what's a little rain when it is warm and you're surrounded by palm trees and smiling faces?! And there are tons of activities to do while taking shelter from an impromptu shower. See list at the end of the post!

Lorelei Restaurant Cabana & Bar

Since we drove down from Fort Lauderdale early in the morning, we stopped in a little town called Islamorada for breakfast. This town is approximately the half-way point between Fort Lauderdale and Key West and is home to several really great restaurants on the water. It's sort of our tradition to eat at Lorelei's every time we are in Florida. You can sit on the patio or right on the beach and while their menu is simple, the dishes taste fresh and are full of flavor. 

Lorelei Restaurant Cabana & Bar

We continued down to Key West and since it was too early to check into our hotel, we parked our rental car and started strolling around town. My recommendation for lodging is to choose from one of the many Bed & Breakfasts around town. Most have pools and include a meal in the morning. If you are willing to splurge, book a room at the Southernmost Beach Resort. This place is in the perfect location, modern, with a old Southern charm. 

A great way to start your stay is to walk down Duval Street to Mallory Square. Along the way you will pass an aquarium, the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, and tons of different restaurants. Fun fact: the museum's premises is home to about 40-50 poly-dactyl (six-toed) cats! But you're not allowed to pick them up - which of course was torture for me!

Sunset Pier

Mallory Square is a waterfront meeting point with shops and restaurants. For an amazing sunset, visit Sunset Pier at the Ocean Key Resort & Spa. Get there early though...it gets packed! We love the relaxed atmosphere, friendly service, and delicious seafood.  Definitely a must if you are in Key West. 

Sunset Pier

You can finish off your night by choosing from numerous different types of entertainment. This town is so versatile in culture and establishments that there is something for everyone! We finished our evening by sitting at one of the bars on Duval Street and enjoyed people-watching!

My favorite time in Key West is the early morning, when the streets are still empty and only the free-roaming roosters greet you. We walked to a cute and delicious French Bistro called La Grignote and stuffed our bellies with fresh omelettes and croissants. 

La Grignote

Fresh Pastries at La Grignote

My favorite thing about Key West is that it truly feels like you are far away from the hustle and bustle of the main land. Everyone greets you with a smile and while you are allowed to consume alcohol on the streets, no one seems to get rowdy or cause a scene. I don't need much more than some palm trees, the view of the ocean, and a cold glass of wine in my hands!

There is lots to do on this small island. If you have more than just a day, I would also recommend taking advantage of the many snorkeling and catamaran tours that are available.
See the following list of places I recommend visiting while in Key West. Hope this entices you to check out the Southernmost Point one of these days!
Love,
Lena

Key West Sites to Visit:

• Key West Aquarium
• Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum
• Sunset Pier
• Mallory Square
• Dry Tortugas National Park