Hi all,

I'm heading down to Key West with my boyfriend for a long weekend next week, and we're both very excited! We've been reading a lot about restaurants, bars, touristy tips, etc., and I was wondering if anyone here had any suggestions for things not to be missed!

In particular, I was wondering whether the Conch Train or the Old Town Trolley tour would be better in terms of seeing and learning about more of the island.

Also, given the time of year, what time would you suggest arriving at Mallory Square to see the sunset? I know it gets really crowded there.

Thanks in advance!

I have always recommended the Train. Its only about 1 1/2 of a ride but you get to see and hear a lot about the island. It will point out many sites of interest and if something looks interesting to you, you can go back to it on your own and see it more fully. As far as the sunset thing goes, you want to be there about 1 1/2 hours before sunset. It will be crowded no matter what time of year you go but Fri and Sat evenings are usually the worst nights for crowds. Be sure to see the Silver Man and Dominique and his cats.

Gotta agree with the above post posted by Grglnswsh. Once you know where ya been in Key West will help make you to decide on where you like to visit. Plenty of museums, tours & shoppin on Duval St. plus the nitely activities at Mallory Square. Don't forget bout takin a Sunset cruise, its really very romanic & of course, relaxin & havin a sip or two with your better half.

Thanks for all the great suggestions!

Would anyone recommend any particular cruise lines for a sunset cruise? Do these need to be booked in advance?

I am definitely looking forward to a mix of relaxing by the pool/beach and seeing the sights of the town. Does anyone know if Key West is like New Orleans in the sense that you can walk around outdoors while drinking alcoholic beverages? :)

Any other must-sees or must-dos?

Thanks again!

Molst times of the year you can book one the morning of but I always suggest doing it a day or two out just in case you find out the entire boat has been booked for a private charter. I like the Floridays. It is out of the Hyatt.

I agree with takin the Floridays sunset cruise but there are other sunset cruises in Key West if you wish to look over them at their respected websites.

Sunny Days Catamarans

Fury Catamarans

Sebago/Schooner America

Schooner Liberty at the Hilton Resort.

Schooner Western Union

Thanks for all the input... this is great stuff!
/adds to everyone's reputation

Yes, this is seriously great advice! I am getting more and more excited for this trip - 2 days to go!

One last question - we are staying at the Wyndham Casa Marina. Does anyone know if the beach at this resort is any good, or would we be better off going to one of the other beaches, like the Simonton Street Beach or the beach at Fort Zachary Taylor Park? We don't plan to spend TOO much time at the beach but would like to check one out.

And is all the main action near and on Duval Street within walking distance from the Casa Marina? If not, what would be the best way for us to get there? We will be dropping our rental car off at the airport upon arrival (driving down from ft. lauderdale)

I guess that was more than one question, sorry :)

Thanks!

The one thing Key West lacks is decent beaches. They are all man made, small and rocky. With that said, the one at the Casa is one of the nicer ones. I would also check out the one at Fort Zac. The Casa is a bit far from the where all the main action is on Duval Street but its only a quick cab ride or a nice easy ride on a bike.

The Casa Marina is one of the best places to stay, as it has a nice little beach area, a wonderful brunch and piano player in the evenings. Right next door to the hotel is a very, very nice restaurant (ask at the front desk - I forget the name) that faces the water. It's a bit pricey, but worth it! They'll also come pick you up and take you there - or you can walk. Here is a link to some of the restaurants. http://www.foodreference.com/html/ke...formation.html

You can also book your excursions from the hotel. Most activities are around $50 (snorkeling, etc.). Take the train to get familiar with the island and they'll point out things to do, as well. There are places you can sign up for excursions all over the place! Scooners Wharf is one of the "locals" bars and has live bands. You can take a pink cab, or a pedi cab to get around the island. I also like Hoggs Breath Saloon. Most places has live entertainment. And don't miss Rick's bar, a block fro Hoggs Breath and catch the Steven Neil show!

Blue Heaven is really cool for dinner, as the tables are out on the lawn (don't go if you don't like cats). Just sort of feel it out - you'll know what to do! Oh - and take another suitcase along for souveneers and t-shirts! Have fun!

For a sunset cruise I would recommend Sunset Watersports sunset cruise on their yacht, the Party Cat. They treat their guests fantastic and is a very enjoyable experience. Dont be afraid to ask the crew and captain questions about the island or their local hangouts,they'll usually be glad to share. Yes Key West is like New Orleans in the sense that you can walk down the street while drinking an alcoholic beverage...from bar to bar on Duval street all night long. Beach wise, the Simonton street beach is a pretty nice LITTLE beach with pretty sand, but sometimes it is just over run by homeless people. Fort Zachary Taylor has a pretty nice beach also, but the best beach is probably on Sunset Key...its the little island right off of Key West that has all the expensive looking houses and such. Hope this was of help to somebody.

I preferred the Old Town Trolley tour