Amanda Johnson’s Guide To Paradise: top picks to do and see in Key West (2025 Edition)
Because paradise doesn’t plan itself
Often I am asked by visitors, where is the best place for seafood? What is a good sunset sail to book? Where is a great place for breakfast? Etc. Etc. Etc. After living in Key West for 15 years, I’ve seen a lot of businesses come and go. Here’s a list of my current top picks. Also, be sure to check out my post on all the wonderful businesses on Fleming St!
I hope this handy reference guide will help you make the most out of your time in Key West!
Click here to skip to the section that interests you!
Best Coffee Shops
Best Breakfasts Spots
Best Eco-Tour Kayaking Tours
Best Sunset Sailing Experience
Best Dinner
Best Landmarks
Best Parks
Best Seafood
Best Happy Hour
Best Boutiques
Best place for a cup of coffee:
Black Rifle Coffee
Location: Corner of Truman and Duval (AKA Truval)
Why you’ll love it: As compared to Cuban Coffee Queen, Black Rifle uses a lighter roast for their espresso and this is not only a very intense flavor, but is guaranteed to get you a serious buzz.
Interesting facts: Veterans owned
Cuban Coffee Queen
Multiple Locations - Key Lime Square is my favorite
Hours: Daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Why you’ll love it: Consistently great brew. Ice coffee cubes make the last sip taste just as good as the first sip. Order online and avoid the long lines.
Interesting facts: They roast the coffee in Key West and also serve cuban style bucci!
Funky Rooster Coffee House and Wine Bar
Location: 713 Caroline St., Key West, Florida
Hours: 7am - 10pm Monday - Saturday
8am - 10pm Sunday
Why you’ll love it: Consistently brew and most importantly, quality organic coffee! Homey living room atmosphere and friendly staff. Come in the morning for coffee and come back later for wine!
Interesting facts: Fun people watching on Caroline Street
Best places for Breakfast:
Location: 729 Thomas Street, Key West, FL.
Breakfast & Lunch: 8:00 AM – 2:30 PM
Dinner: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
305-296-8666 (dinner reservations only)
Why you’ll love it: An established Key West destination place. Relax under the trees in their funky backyard while savoring a southern style breakfast and listening to live music.Get there early for breakfast to avoid the wait!
Interesting facts: The roosters are part of the entertainment!
Location: 610 Greene Street, Key West, FL.
Hours 8-2pm Daily, no reservations accepted
Why you’ll love it: When you crave a hearty meal for breakfast that will stay with you all day this is the place to go! Their skillets hit the spot! They also have great coffee drinks.
Interesting facts: They close at 2pm
Location: 832 Caroline Street, Key West, FL 33040
Hours 6:30am - 9pm Daily, no reservations accepted
Why you’ll love it: A classic diner serving up an iconic breakfast and fabulous bloody mary’s.
Interesting facts: They only accept cash so bring the old-school vibe to your morning!
Location: 832 Caroline Street, Key West, FL
Hours: 6:30 AM – 9:00 PM Daily, no reservations accepted
Why you’ll love it: More refined breakfast options in a cozy setting.
Interesting facts: Sarabeth’s has a sister location in New York City
Best Sunset Sailing Experience:
Danger Charters - Wind and Wine Sail
Location: Opal Key Resort & Marina, 255 Front Street, Key West, FL 33040
Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Reservations: Required; book online or by phone (305) 304-7999
Why you’ll love it: Enjoy a sunset cruise with many wines to taste as you take in the stunning views of Key West’s coastline.
Interesting facts: They serve a lot of wine, beware!
Location: Historic Seaport area, Key West, FL 33040
Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Why you’ll love it: Hop aboard the historic Schooner Hindu for an unforgettable sunset sail experience.
Interesting facts: The Schooner Hindu was launched in 1925 and has a rich history, including service during World War II.
Eco Tours and Kayaking:
Lazy Dog
Location: Tours depart from Hurricane Hole Marina in Key West. Tours depart from Hurricane Hole Marina in Key West. For reservations you can book on their website.
Why you’ll love it: If you're into nature, kayaking is a must. Head to Hurricane Hole for some of the best eco tours where you can paddle through the mangroves and spot wildlife in their natural habitat.
Interesting facts: : The area is home to a diverse range of marine life, including tropical fish, crabs, sea stars, jellyfish, sea cucumbers, sponges, and various aquatic birds
Best Landmarks To Visit
Location: 907 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL
Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Why you’ll love it: The property exudes a sense of old-world charm and provides an intimate look at Hemingway’s personal life and his connection to Key West.
Interesting facts: The house is home to descendants of Hemingway’s beloved six-toed cats, which can be seen roaming the grounds.
Location: 938 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL
Hours: Open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last admission at 4:30 PM)
Why you’ll love it: The Key West Lighthouse offers not only a fascinating history but also panoramic views of Key West from the top. It’s an iconic part of the island's history, guiding sailors to safety for over 150 years.
Interesting facts: Built in 1848 - The lighthouse is one of the oldest and most recognizable structures in Key West.
Best Parks to visit
Location: 70 miles west of Key West, Florida — accessible only by boat or seaplane
Book here: Take a ferry or seaplane ride to the Dry Tortugas
Hours: Open 24 hours a day, year-round
Why you’ll love it: Home to Fort Jefferson and pristine coral reefs. It’s as remote as Key West gets, and a snorkeler's dream.
Interesting facts: Don’t snorkel with shiny jewelry on or metal on swimwear.
Location: 1100 Atlantic Blvd, Key West, FL 33040
Hours: Open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Why you’ll love it: This tranquil seaside garden offers a unique blend of lush tropical flora and historic architecture. It's a peaceful escape with ocean views, perfect for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
Interesting facts: In 1949, the Key West Garden Club saved the fort from demolition and transformed it into the beautiful garden it is today.
Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory
Location: 1316 Duval Street, Key West, FL 33040
Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Why you’ll love it: Not technically a park, but a conservatory with consistently high reviews. Walk amidst whimsical birds, real live flamingos and butterflies.
Interesting facts: There’s two live flamingos in there!
Location: 601 Howard England Way, Key West, FL 33040
Hours: The park is open daily from 8:00 AM until sundown. The historic concession stand closes at 5:00 PM
Why you’ll love it: As Florida's southernmost state park, it offers a tranquil beach, lush nature trails, and a Civil War-era fort. You can rent sunbeds.
Interesting facts: They close at sunset and will kick you out right away after sunset.
Best Seafood Spots
Thirsty Mermaid
Location: 521 Fleming Street, Key West, FL
Hours: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM Daily
Why you’ll love it: Arguably the best oysters in town, served fresh and chilled with creative accompaniments.
Interesting facts: Their seafood selection changes daily depending on local catches—always fresh!
The Docks – Fishbusters
Location: 6406 Maloney Ave, Stock Island, FL
Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Closed Sundays
Why you’ll love it: Straight-from-the-boat seafood. Buy fresh catch or have it cooked on-site for unbeatable flavor.
Interesting facts: They’re a working fish house, so you're literally eating what the boats just brought in.
A&B Lobster House
Location: 700 Front Street, Key West, FL
Hours: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM Daily
Why you’ll love it: Elegant waterfront dining with giant lobsters and premium seafood dishes.
Interesting facts: They’ve been a Key West staple since 1947—perfect for a special evening out.
Dinner Favorites
Prime Steakhouse
Location: 951 Caroline Street, Key West, FL
Hours: 5:30 PM – 10:00 PM, Closed Sundays
Why you’ll love it: Elegant ambiance, incredible steaks, and an impressive wine list.
Interesting facts: Tucked away near the seaport, it’s a hidden gem for meat lovers.
La Trattoria
Location: 524 Duval Street, Key West, FL
Hours: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM Daily
Why you’ll love it: Classic Italian dishes in a cozy romantic setting.
Interesting facts: Their Key Lime martinis are as memorable as their pasta!
Boutique Shopping
Float Key West Boutique
Location: 803 Whitehead Street, Key West, FL
Why you’ll love it: Boho-chic clothing and accessories perfect for tropical vibes.
Interesting facts: Locally owned, their curated pieces reflect the island lifestyle.
Luna
Location: 519 Fleming Street, Key West, FL
Why you’ll love it: A blend of upscale fashion and casual elegance, with lots of unique finds.
Interesting facts: They feature many eco-conscious and sustainable brands.
Madda Fella Boutique at Ocean Key
Location: 0 Duval Street, Key West, FL (Ocean Key Resort)
Why you’ll love it: Island-style menswear and accessories—crisp, classic, and cool.
Interesting facts: Their clothing is designed for Key West’s laid-back sophistication.
Besame Mucho
Location: 315 Petronia Street, Key West, FL
Why you’ll love it: Part apothecary, part vintage shop, part romantic escape.
Interesting facts: This boutique is a sensory experience—everything smells amazing!
Best Happy Hour Spots
Martin’s
Location: 917 Duval Street, Key West, FL
Hours: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM Daily
Why you’ll love it: Upscale cocktails and gourmet small plates in a sleek, modern setting.
Interesting facts: Their martini selection is one of the best on the island.
Conch Republic Seafood Company (AKA Conch Farm)
Location: 631 Greene Street, Key West, FL
Hours: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM Daily
Why you’ll love it: Classic waterside spot for discounted drinks and seafood at sunset.
Interesting facts: The name “Conch Farm” comes from its previous life as a shellfish processing facility.
Santiago’s Bodega
Location: 207 Petronia Street, Key West, FL
Happy Hour 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM Daily
Why you’ll love it: Tapas lovers rejoice—affordable bites, sangria, and an eclectic local crowd.
Interesting facts: A local favorite tucked in Bahama Village