Key West is the ultimate destination for adventure seekers and beach lovers alike! From the stunning natural beauty of sites such as Smathers Beach to the unique historical landmarks of Old Town, there’s something special hidden around every corner. Plus, with Mallory Square’s nightly sunset celebration, you won’t want your vacation to end once you’ve reached this gorgeous piece of paradise at America’s southernmost point!
With its balmy weather, white sand beaches, and colorful island culture, Key West provides the perfect summer escape. But if you’re visiting in the especially hot months of July and August, it’s important to know how to beat that humid Southern Florida heat! Fortunately, there are loads of fun — and cooling — ways to enjoy this little piece of paradise without wilting away from the heat. We’ll explore everything from where to go swimming or find a refreshing drink to the best oceanfront accommodations to catch the cool ocean breezes all summer long.
Beachfront Hotels with Refreshing Swimming Pools
Casa Marina
The Casa Marina in Key West is a luxurious beachfront resort located on the Atlantic Ocean. Its waterfront location ensures that guests have access to cool ocean breezes at all times of the day, providing much-needed relief from the summer heat. For those looking for more opportunities to cool off, the resort features several swimming pools and a beach lounge area with direct access to the sea. Additionally, its modern amenities include delicious restaurants serving up local cuisine, luxurious spa services, and refreshing cocktails available poolside. Guests can also take advantage of outdoor activities, such as kayaking and fishing, or explore the stunning natural landscape around them. With all these features in one place, it’s no wonder why so many people choose to spend their summer vacations at the Casa Marina resort!
Pier House
The Pier House is a luxurious beachfront resort located on the Gulf of Mexico side of the island. From its private cabanas and lush tropical gardens to cooling ocean breezes, there’s no better place to relax and unwind. In addition to its location on a secluded stretch of beach, the Pier House Resort also features an on-site spa, two outdoor pools with a swim-up bar, and multiple restaurants with exquisite oceanfront dining. Plus, its central location makes it easy to explore all of Key West’s attractions without having to venture too far away from the resort. With such unbeatable amenities and unparalleled comfort, you’ll be sure to have an unforgettable stay this summer!
Sunset Key Cottages
Imagine stepping out of your luxurious, pastel-colored cottage on a private island, feeling the cool white sand beneath your feet, and being greeted by the captivating sight of the sun setting into the horizon as it paints the sky with a breathtaking palette of colors. Surrounded by swaying palm trees and the crystal-clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico, Sunset Key Cottages is the epitome of serenity and relaxation. Indulge in mouthwatering dining options, rejuvenating spa treatments, and a myriad of recreational activities all within foot steps of your cottage. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a unique destination wedding, Sunset Key Cottages promises to create memories that will last a lifetime.
Key West Marriott Beachside Resort
Located just outside the hustle and bustle of Old Town Key West, the Marriott Beachside Resort is a great place to beat the summer heat and enjoy a wonderful vacation. Air-conditioned suites offer exceptional comfort and convenience, with fully equipped kitchens, spacious bedrooms, and separate living areas. Plus, they have an array of relaxing amenities to help you keep cool: from two outdoor swimming pools to private beachfront access, plus a selection of on-site restaurants and bars providing delicious seafood dishes and other local delicacies for all tastes.
Cool Attractions to Help Beat the Heat
Key West Aquarium
The Key West Aquarium is an ideal attraction for the entire family to enjoy during the hot and humid days of summer. It is air-conditioned, so visitors can escape from the heat and humidity outdoors while also experiencing a wide variety of marine life. The interactive exhibits feature sharks, sea turtles, stingrays, and other sea creatures. Visitors will learn about conservation efforts and their importance in protecting our oceans. Additionally, the aquarium offers educational programs, such as “behind-the-scenes” tours and lectures by experts in their field. With so much to explore and discover, Key West Aquarium provides an exciting opportunity for all ages to learn more about ocean life while staying cool!
The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum
The Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum is an ideal place to visit during the hot and humid summer months in Key West, Florida. Not only does it provide a cool and breezy atmosphere with lush gardens, but it also offers a unique glimpse into the life of one of America’s most iconic authors. With over 40 cats roaming around the grounds, a museum featuring his memorabilia, and various tours throughout the home and grounds that provide insight into Hemingway’s lifestyle, there is something for everyone in your family to enjoy! Not to mention, the home itself is an architectural masterpiece built in 1851 with its original Spanish Colonial design providing visitors with old-world charm.
Key West Lighthouse Museum
The Key West Lighthouse Museum is an incredible destination for visitors looking to explore the history of this beautiful city. Located on Whitehead Street, this historic property was once home to Key West’s first lighthouse and dates back to 1825. The museum offers a unique glimpse into the lives of the people who lived and worked here, including the keepers and their families. The museum features a variety of artifacts, such as photographs and equipment used during the lighthouse’s operation. Additionally, visitors can enjoy a range of activities while visiting the museum, such as bird-watching and nature hikes. With its fascinating history and beautiful scenery, the Key West Lighthouse Museum is a must-see destination for those looking to explore the culture and history of Key West.
Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum
The Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum is a must-see destination for visitors looking to explore the fascinating history of this beautiful city. Located on the southernmost tip of Key West, this stunning property dates back to 1856 and is home to a variety of artifacts from shipwrecks that took place in the area. It offers an intriguing glimpse into the lives of sailors and their cargo, as well as insight into the history of Key West. Visitors can view a variety of artifacts, including salvaged items from some of the most famous shipwrecks in Florida’s history. Additionally, guests can enjoy a range of activities while visiting the museum, such as guided tours and educational programs. With its interesting history and fascinating artifacts, the Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum is an ideal destination for those looking to explore the culture and history of Key West.
Mel Fisher Maritime Museum
The Mel Fisher Maritime Museum in Key West is an interesting and unique destination for visitors looking to explore the culture and history of this stunning city. Located on Whitehead Street, this historic property was once home to master salvager and treasure hunter, Mel Fisher. The museum offers an intriguing glimpse into the life of Fisher through artifacts, photographs, and educational programs. Visitors can view a variety of artifacts, including salvaged items from some of the most famous shipwrecks in Florida’s history. Additionally, guests can enjoy a range of activities while visiting the museum, such as guided tours, scavenger hunts, and treasure-hunting trips.
Summer Fun Activities In Key West
Hemingway Days
The Hemingway Days festival is an annual celebration of the life and legacy of the legendary author Ernest Hemingway. Held the last weekend of July each year, this festival allows visitors to experience the city through a variety of activities, such as literary events, live music performances, art exhibitions, film screenings, historical tours, and much more.
Hang Out on a Sandbar
Explore secluded islands and sandbars in the Florida Keys backcountry with Fury Water Adventures. During the 4.5-hour adventure, you’ll have access to kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, so you can take a leisurely glide around the calm waters of secluded beach coves. Afterward, enjoy a delicious lunch onboard the boat as you sail off into the sunset, leaving you with lasting memories of this incredible adventure. The guides onboard will ensure that you learn about all the amazing plants and animals that inhabit this special area of Florida’s coastline, as well as share interesting facts about local environmental efforts to protect these areas.
Go On a Ghost Hunt
A Ghosts & Gravestones tour in Key West is the perfect activity for families looking to experience something unique and exciting. The tour takes visitors through some of the most notorious locations in the city, including haunted sites, where they can learn about the history and legends associated with each place. Along the way, you can also enjoy family-friendly storytelling from experienced guides who will bring Key West’s ghosts to life. Plus, you get a chance to explore the city in a whole new light after dark. It’s an evening of fun and scares that your family won’t soon forget!
First Legal Rum Tour
The First Legal Rum Tour in Key West is a fun and educational way to explore the city’s rich rum-making history. Located on historic Duval Street, the tour takes visitors to three different rum distilleries, each with its own unique story. Guests can experience a variety of tastings, as well as learn about the process and history of rum-making in Key West. With its fun and informative atmosphere, the First Legal Rum Tour is a must for visitors to Key West.
FAQs
Key West is home to two historic forts: Fort Zachary Taylor State Park and Fort East Martello Museum. Located on the southwestern side of the island, Fort Zachary Taylor State Park is a popular spot for visitors looking to discover the area’s military history. The fort was built in 1845 during the Second Seminole War and is one of the best-preserved forts in the United States. Visitors can explore the fort’s grounds and learn about its history with interpretive displays, as well as take part in guided tours of the fort itself. Fort East Martello Museum is located on the opposite side of Key West and offers visitors a chance to see an example of 19th-century military architecture. The museum also features a collection of artifacts from the fort’s time as a Union army outpost, as well as several permanent and rotating exhibits about Key West’s history.
Key West, Florida has a variety of beach options for visitors. Free beaches, such as Smathers Beach and Higgs Beach, offer white sand and crystal-blue waters for visitors to enjoy at no cost. Smathers Beach is the largest beach in the city and offers plenty of amenities, such as showers and picnic areas, while Higgs Beach has a dog park, fishing pier, playground equipment, and more. For a fee, people can visit Bahia Honda State Park or Fort Zachary Taylor. Bahia Honda State Park is known for its scenic views as well as unique activities, such as kayaking and snorkeling, while Fort Zachary Taylor offers a historical experience with guided tours, nature trails, and an old-fashioned fort to explore.
