The thought of Key West conjures up images of gorgeous sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and endless cold drinks at local bars. Key West is a tropical paradise and many travellers that visit the paradise enjoy the beaches, swaying palm trees, and laidback lifestyle. Yet, there is more to do on Key West than just spend time sipping drink and splashing in warm ocean water.
Key West’s weather makes it a travel destination almost all year-round. You can enjoy the small island’s outdoor offerings on land or head out into the ocean for an excursion. There is a lot to do on Key West besides spend all day at the beach. Let’s explore the best excursions in Key West for your next vacation.
Dry Tortugas National Park Day Trip by Catamaran from Key West
Set sail for Dry Tortugas National Park on a full-day tour. Dry Tortugas National Park is 70 miles (113 km) long and just over one mile (1.6 km) wide. The 100-square mile (259-sq km) open water park is made up of seven small islands with Fort Jefferson as the centrepiece of the national park.
Along with exploring the fort, you can splash in the calm blue waters, view the coral reefs, and swim with the marine life. Birdwatchers also have plenty of unique birds to spot. Snorkelling is a popular past time for tourists visiting Dry Tortugas thanks to the shipwrecks off the island’s coast. Daily tours start at 7 a.m. and leave around 5:15 p.m.
Key West Ghost and Mysteries Guided Tour
Key West is an old island and had inhabitants long before ever becoming part of Florida. It has plenty of history and mysteries, and the Key West Ghost and Mysteries Guided Tour is a great way to learn about the island’s spooky side.
Key West has been called one of America’s most haunted cities. This 90-minute walking tour will teach you all about the ghosts, mysteries, and haunted places around town. You will learn about the legends that many of the island’s residence are familiar with. Don’t forget to take your camera for this spooky tour.
Secret Food Tours Key West
Key West has specialty dishes all its own and the Secret Food Tours gives you the chance to taste the island’s cuisine. Sample blackened mahi-mahi tacos, shrimp sandwiches, secret dishes, and key lime pie. You can also upgrade your food package to enjoy locally brewed beers and margaritas.
One of the best aspects about the Secret Food Tours Key West – aside from the food – is the stories told by guides. You will learn about Key West’s architecture, history, and famous residents. The tour takes about 3.5 hours and stops off at five different locations. Tours are limited to 10 people.
Conch Tour Train
The Conch Tour Train has run in Key West since 1958. The Conch is an open-air train that makes three stops along a 75-minute route. The entire trip is narrated, giving you the chance to discover more about Key West.
You will stop at Truval Village, Key West Seaport and the Sails to Rails Museum. Passengers receive free admission to the Sails to Rails Museum. While riding the train, you have the chance to get off at each stop and explore the attractions. You can then jump aboard the next Conch Tour Train that comes along.
Key West Jet Ski Tours
If you want to explore the island from a different vantage point, book a Key West Jet Ski Tour. You can ride around the island on the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico sides to take in all of the sights, sounds, and shorelines. You can ride the jet ski solo or with a partner. If you are on a budget, it is cheaper to ride with a partner.
Private Fishing Charter
While visiting Key West, why not take a break from the beaches to board a charter boat for a little fishing excursion? Booking a private fishing charter to explore the Gulf of Mexico or Atlantic Ocean is a once in a lifetime experience for most people.
Booking an excursion allows you to have some of the best fishing gear available. You will also have a fishing guide with expert knowledge to take you offshore trolling, reef fishing, and wreck fishing. You may even go home from your Key West vacation with a giant Blue Marlin mounted to a plaque.
