When you think of Key West, images on white sand beaches with crystal clear waters, deep sea dives, fishing charters and relaxing days spent sunbathing and sipping on tropical cocktails probably come to mind. With mild winters and sultry summers, it's not wonder Key West enjoys a long-held reputation as one of the country's top vacation destinations. So book your flight, pack your favorite swimsuit and get ready for an activity-filled vacation in Key West.
Beaches
If you've decided to take a vacation to Key West, you most likely want to spend at least a couple hours doing nothing more than sunbathing on a white sand beach and dipping your toes in the crystal clear waters of Key West beaches. The Fort Zachary Taylor State Park and beach is a public beach popular with families with young children. If you are traveling with your dog, check out Dog beach. Smathas Beach has the most amenities and services, such as restroom, a picnic area, and sports and games, of any beaches in Key West
Motorized and Non-motorized Water Sports
Like any oceanside destination, you can enjoy water sports such as jetskiing, water skiing, boating, sailing, parasailing, windsurfing and kitesurfing off the waters of Key West. But what really brings water sport enthusiasts to Key West is the snorkeling and diving opportunities the island offers. Whether you're an experienced diver or are trying out snorkeling for the first time, the crystal clear waters, sunken ships and tugboats and coral reefs near Key West offer colorful sites for the adventurous traveler. Or go deep sea fishing for marlin and tarpon.
RV Parks and Campgrounds
If your budget doesn't include dropping a few hundred dollars a night at an upscale resort or hotel, RV and tent camping offer a more affordable lodging option for your Key West visit. Boyd's Key West Campground is popular with families with young children while Lee's RV campground and RV Park tends to attract an older, retired clientele. For a truly unique camping experience, head to Dry Tortugas National Park 70 miles west of Key West. Sure, it's a bit of boat ride away, but the beaches and coral reefs here will blow your mind.
Land Recreation
If you prefer to stay active on land, you'll want to check out the hiking trails at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park, take an evening jog on any of Key West's white sand beaches or polish your golf game at the Key West Golf Club. If you need a little spiritual and physical renovation, consider checking out Shakti Yoga and Yoga on the Beach, two Key West yoga schools offering beginner to advanced classes, or head to the Little Palm Island Resort and Spa or the Spa el Mare at the Waldorf Astoria for a beach massage and exfoliation session.
Healthy Eating and Dining
Everyone knows that eating healthy on vacation is no easy feat. From sugary cocktails to fried beach food, vacation food usually does little for your waistline. Luckily, Key West offers visitors several healthy food options. Help Yourself Foods is a health food restaurant that serves up tasty dishes, such as Polynesian Stir Fry and Summer Mahi Mahi Salad. Other vegetarian and healthy restaurants in Key West include Green Republic and The Cafe. If you'd rather do your own cooking, consider checking out Sugar Apple Natural Foods, which sells herbs, organic fruits and vegetables and other healthy foods.
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