Best Seafood Dishes in Key West and Where to Try Them

 Over 70,000 tourists are said to travel to the tropical island paradise by the Miami to Key West shuttle just to attain a taste of the freshest, most scrumptious seafood in South Florida. Here are Key West's best seafood dishes and where to sample them. 

Sashimi at Seven Fish Restaurant

After a hectic day of snorkeling in Key West, the sashimi at the Seven Fish Restaurant really hits the spot. The fish is fresh, the wine selection is vast and the menu is as eclectic as the island itself. The Asian-influenced sauces and spices adorn everything on the menu. The restaurant is pretty spacious and has won quite a few awards over the years including the highest Zagat Score in the Keys.

Maine Lobster at Alonzo & Berlin's Lobster House

Alonzo & Berlin's Lobster House is one of the oldest seafood haunts in Key West. A&B's, as the locals call it, has one of the most delicious Maine Lobsters on the island. Apart from that they also have a menu laden with locally procured seafood and prime steaks. A&B's looks like a riverboat which adds to its old-world charm.

Oysters at Half Shell Raw Bar

The Half Shell Raw Bar dishes out an assortment of seafood like shrimp, clams, crab, conch, and chilled oysters, served on the half shell. You seafood is served to you grilled, steamed, fried or even with some spice if you like it. Try the BBQ Baby Back Ribs, burgers Cuban bread, and the Key Lime Pie too.

Conch Fritters at Hog's Breath Saloon

Hog's Breath on Front Street has a reputation because of the quirky events it hosts such as the Hair of the Hog Leather & Lace Contest and the Homemade Bikini Contest as well as great food like conch fritters and fish nuggets. While you're here, you can enjoy a Bloody Mary breakfast bright and early in the morning. Don't miss the quirky gift items at the bar that makes for the perfect gift for friends and family back home.

Conch Chowder at Louie's Backyard

Louie's lets you soak up the sunny, scenic ocean-view as you dine on the aquamarine waters of Key West. While you're here, be sure to sample their creamy, wholesome Bahamian Conch Chowder with Bird Pepper hot sauce.

Seafood Platter at Commodore Waterfront Restaurant

The Commodore Waterfront Restaurant on the historic Key West Marina serves amazing seafood like calamari and shrimp scampi. Try the seafood platter which offers you a taste of almost everything on the menu on one plate.

Crab Benedict at Two Friends Patio Restaurant

The Two Friends Patio Restaurant is famous its Crab Benedict, served with poached eggs on English muffins and a lemon Hollandaise sauce. Also sample the seafood omelette with shrimps and scallops, or the cheese and steak omelette with peppers, onions, thinly sliced stead, and Jack cheese.

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The Best Kiddie Attractions in Key West

 

Key West is not just a place for adults. Children will find a Key West tour to be more, if not equally enjoyable. Key West is the southernmost island of a group of islands called the Florida Keys which are situated off the southern coast of Florida. Key West is around 160 miles from Miami. Hence, most tourists who come for holidays in Miami end up coming for a Key West tour.

Options for Traveling from One Sight to Another

A Miami to Key West shuttle will take you through the picturesque overseas highway all the way to Key West. It is a comfortable and enjoyable way to travel between the two tourist destinations. Tourists can also use other modes of travel such as water, road, or air travel.

Making a Child Smile

There are many Key West attractions which will appeal to kids. It is a known fact that Key West had a flourishing shipwrecking industry in the past, and that a number of treasure hunters made their fortunes salvaging the sunken ships. Families can take their kids to the Key West shipwreck museum and educate them about this distinctive past of the island city.

When Your Children are Happy, You are Happy

The museum, by itself, is quite unique. It has live actors who enact various scenes from past, numerous relics and artifacts, video recordings, underwater clippings, and even a lookout tower. A video presentation about the shipwrecking history is quite informative. Children will also find sessions at the lookout tower to be quite fascinating.

Freedom has not been Easy to Attain

Families can also take their children on a tour of the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Ingham Maritime Museum. It is one of the most decorated ships in U.S. Naval history, and is currently a museum. It may be noted that not even a single part of the ship is missing or rusty, even after its conversion into a museum. The tickets are reasonably priced. Your kids can spend a lovely sunny afternoon checking out the length and breadth of this magnificent ship.

Prey and Predator

The Key West aquarium was the first Key West attraction. It was constructed in the 1930s so as to boost the tourism industry and revive the flagging economy of the city. Today, it hosts thousands of patrons every day and continues to thrill and entertain tourists, especially young kids. Groupers, barracudas, moral eels, turtles, parrotfishes, tarpons, and tropical fish among others are housed here. The Touch Tank and the daily feeding sessions with sharks and dolphins are the major attractions at this aquarium. Children will also be kept entertained by the lively and interactive commentary of the guides, during this excursion.

The Ocean's Habitat

A vacation in Key West cannot be complete without checking out the beauty of the coral reefs located in these waters. Young kids cannot go scuba diving or snorkeling. However, you can take them on a glass bottom boat tour. The bottoms of these boats have clear glass that offer stunning views of the underwater treasures. Sights of the colorful corals, the many species of exotic fish, and the spectacular marine life will definitely grab the attention of your kids. Have fun!

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Most Delicious Tropical Cocktails in Key West and Where to Try Them

 

Visiting the tropical island is pure treat with its scenic beaches, aquamarine oceans, historic structures and diverse attractions like water sports, scuba diving and snorkeling in Key West. Here is your guide to sampling the best tropical cocktails in Key West and where to try them.

Bahama Mama at Hog's Breath Saloon

The delicious Bahama Mama is a white and dark rum-based cocktail. Try the tropical Key West version of this classic cocktail at the Hog's Breath Saloon, which is a concoction of pineapple juice, lemon juice and coconut liqueur. Team it up with great food like conch fritters and fish nuggets. Your Bahama Mama can also act as liquid courage when you sign up for crazy events like the 'Hair of the Hog Leather & Lace Contest' and the 'Homemade Bikini Contest' at the Hog's Breath. The Hog's Breath is legendary for its line-up of live music entertainment, rocking parties and amazing food and cocktails.

Rum Punch at Half Shell Raw Bar

In Key West, there are many variations of the classic Rum Punch like the Planter's Punch with orange and pineapple juice, Jamaican rum and grenadine as well as the Bajan Punch which has a dash of Angostura bitters and nutmeg. For a classic rum punch, head to the Half Shell Raw Bar, in the heart of the Historic Seaport of Key West. Dig into some of the most delicious peel-your-own shrimp, clams, crab, conch and chilled oysters on the half shell on the island.

Key Lime Mojito At Schooner's Wharf bar

The mojito was born in Cuba and balmy Key West abounds with Cuban influence. It is no wonder then that the mojitos here are said to be even more authentic than those in Cuba. Traditionally a muddled blend of sugar, lime, rum and mint, in Key West you can find a signature mojito – the Key Lime Mojito, made with vanilla rum, and Key Lime juice. Try it at the outdoor waterfront setting of Schooner's Wharf Bar's. The best part is that happy hours at Schooner's begins at 9am!

Rum Runner at Caroline's Café

The rum runner is a mix of pineapple and orange juice, banana and blackberry liqueur, light rum, dark rum and a splash of grenadine. This iconic drink has been served in the Keys since it was concocted for the first time in 1950. Try a classic rum runner at Caroline's Cafe on Duvall Street. Wash it down with juicy burgers, bruschettas, jambalaya, and po'boys. If you want low quality food such as the food that McDonald's puts out, this is not the place. Not even close.   

Key West Sunset Ale at Two Friend's Bar

An ice-cold beer really hits the spot, especially while you relax on the beach or after you return from a snorkelling adventure in Key West. Try the Key West Sunset Ale, an amber coloured brew that is available at the Two Friend's Bar. Also sample the Key West Pilsner Light and the Southernmost Wheat that uses the Key Lime as an ingredient.

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Five Best Places to Pop the Question in Key West

With its spectacular sunsets, its tropical beauty and romantic activities like couple's snorkeling in Key West, the island has so much potential to be the perfect romantic getaway. If you're planning to propose to your special someone on your vacation, what better place to do it than Key West? Here are five places in Key West to pop the question.

1.      Key West Lighthouse

      Built in 1847 the Key West lighthouse has navigated several ships around the treacherous coral reefs to the safety of the shore. While you may have to climb 88 steps to get to the top of the observation deck, the reward is definitely worth it. The magnificent views of the tropical island and the water that surrounds it's breathtaking. You can also see the southernmost point from here. Why not pop the question on this arial observation deck?

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        The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory

  The Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is home to many species of exotic birds and butterflies from many parts of the world. It is a spectacular experience visit the conservatory with its cascading waterfalls and lush tropical vegetation, all in a glass-enclosed, climate-controlled habitat. If you and your beloved are nature lovers, what better way to commit your love to one another than in the most beautiful nature conservatory, surrounded by butterflies of every size, shape and color? Don't miss the Gallery or the gift shops for many unique gifting items.

3.      Dry Tortugas National Park

Dry Tortugas National Park is located about 70 miles west of Key West. It is a cluster of seven islands made from sand and coral reefs. This cluster of islands offers many activities for visitors like bird and wildlife watching, picnicking, saltwater sport fishing and a visit to Fort Jefferson. The surrounding shoals and water that make up the Dry Tortugas National Park is famous for its marine and bird life as well as legends of hidden treasure and pirates. Dry Tortugas is considered to be one of the most remote parks in existence today and not many have visited it. Why not create memories by popping the question here?

4.      Hemingway House and Gardens

The world-famous American author Ernest Hemingway called the island home as he was in awe of its mellow charm, the flower-lined streets as well as the relaxing fishing options. He bought Hemingway house which today, is a museum dedicated in his honor. The house still contains all the original furnishings and artifacts used by the Hemingway family. The garden at Hemingway House is truly spectacular as are the grounds where any species of exotic plants flourish. Ask her for her hand in marriage among the lush landscape or in the study of Hemingway himself.

5.      Sunset Dinner Cruise

One of the most romantic ways to propose to her is to go on a sunset dinner cruise in Key West as you watch the sun setting beyond the horizon and dine on a variety of multi-cuisine culinary delights.

 

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Top Attractions for Couples

Key West is a gorgeous island city located in the southern coastal waters of Florida. It is the last island of the Florida Keys and about 160 miles from Miami. Couples can come for a Miami vacation and then travel from Miami to Key West for a wonderful end to their holidays.

A tour to Key West will appeal to every tourist. Couples will particularly enjoy the trip because it is very romantic. Tourists may avail the services of a Miami to Key West shuttle to come to the island paradise. It is comfortable and offers adequate privacy. There are other options of road, air, and water transportation from Miami to Key West, as well. 

Some of the top Key West attractions for couples are listed below:

The very first thing that couples need to do is find the ideal accommodation. Key West offers something for everyone. Couples who prefer peace and quiet can opt for quaint guest houses in tranquil Key West neighborhoods. An authentic Key West experience can be had at the traditional inns and hotels of old town Key West. International hotel chains are situated in new town Key West. Couples should however opt for waterfront resorts. They even come with their own private beaches.



A Key West tour can commence with idle sessions at the beaches where you can relax and unwind to the gentle sway of the palm breeze, the pleasant sunny weather, and the delightful seafood cuisines. Later, you can go for varied water sports such as jet skiing, parasailing, and lots more!

Couples will also love enthralling sessions of snorkeling in Key West. The sight of colorful corals, diverse fish species, and vibrant sea life will simply take your breath away. It is indeed the experience of a lifetime!



Adventure seeking couples can also go scuba diving and explore the mysteries of the many shipwreck sites. Additionally, you will come across an eclectic marine life such as sharks, manta rays, tarpons, sea turtles, groupers, and lots more!

Key West is also known as one of the most haunted places in America. Couples can go for after sunset ghost tours of Key West. It will be one of the spookiest experiences of your Miami to Key West tour. Friendly guides who accompany you during the tour will up the eeriness with varied tales of horror and gore.

Couples can also rent a luxurious yacht and go on a sailing expedition across the blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean. You can just relax on the deck and get a beautiful tan. You may also combine this trip with other activities such as tandem kayaking, dolphin sightseeing, fishing, and other excursions. Later, as the sun sets over the horizon, you can get mesmerized by the oranges, purples, reds, yellows, and other kaleidoscopic hues of this alluring Key West attraction. Go all out and enjoy every minute of it.

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The Top Aqua Adventures

Key Largo is the first and largest island of a group of islands known as the Florida Keys. It is located off the southern coastal waters of Florida, about 60 miles from Miami. Adventure seekers who are holidaying in Miami should come for a Miami to Key Largo tour to indulge in a variety of aqua adventures.

The Natural and Unnatural Environments Collide with Each Other

Some of the top water escapades in Key Largo are listed below:

Snorkeling in Key Largo

The Key Largo waters are home to varied coral reefs. Both experienced and beginners can go snorkeling and explore the beauty of the coral reefs. The vendors will offer necessary training to inexperienced snorkelers. You may rent the snorkeling gear or use the ones provided by the vendors.



Adventurists can also opt for guided snorkeling excursions, wherein an expert guide will accompany you and help you check out the colorful corals, the vibrant species of fishes, the stunning marine life, and other underwater Key Largo attractions.

Scuba Diving

A number of shipwreck sites are also located in the Key Largo waters. A majority of these ships have been artificially sunk so as to create a natural reef for the sea life and also to provide diving opportunities for adventure seekers. Tourists who come for a tour to Key Largo may however note that scuba diving is only open for experienced divers. This is because the waters are susceptible to wave surges, water swells, changes in water levels, and other unpredictable circumstances.



Diving enthusiasts will travel to the sites in well-maintained and clean boats that offer easy descent into the water as well as easy access back into the boat after the dive is over. Divers can check out the secrets of the sunken vessels as well as come across tarpons, sharks, manta rays, red fishes, groupers, turtles, and other eclectic sea creatures during a fascinating scuba diving excursion. Enjoy!

A Glass Bottom Key Largo Boat Tour



Tourists who do not want to dive into the Key Largo waters but still want to check out the underwater treasures can go for a Key Largo boat tour aboard the glass bottom boats. The glass bottoms of these boats offer clear views of the coral reefs and its diverse inhabitants. You will be accompanied by friendly and knowledgeable guides who will point out the varied underwater life and keep you entertained with their interesting and interactive commentary.

Sailing Excursions



The first thing that tourists need to do after getting off a Miami to Key Largo shuttle is to book a sailing expedition. You may hire a luxurious yacht or any other kind of sailboat, and sail off into the clear blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean. You may choose to just soak up the sunrays on the deck and relax, or opt for additional water adventures such as kayaking, fishing, dolphin sightseeing, swimming, and more. Have fun!

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The Best Five Attractions for Young Adults

Miami and Key West are two of the most popular tourist destinations in south Florida. The city of Miami is situated in mainland Florida, while Key West is an island city located off the southern coast. It is about 160 miles from Miami. Tourists can come to Miami for vacations and then cap it off with a Key West tour.



Tourists can board a Miami to Key West shuttle to come to the island paradise. However, young adults must ensure that they visit the below listed top 5 Miami attractions, before journeying to the island city.

An airboat tour of the Florida Everglades will offer you a thrilling ride across the shallow waters of the saw grass marshes as well as close-up encounters with big and small alligators, a variety of birds, and other native wildlife.

 

Young adults can also visit the varied performance arts centers and theaters in the city and catch some of best acts performed by really talented artists from around the world.





An open-roof double decker bus tour is a great way to simultaneously check out the sights and sounds of the city and enjoy the sunny weather. Moreover, tourists only need to purchase one ticket for the entire tour, which includes many hop-off and hop-on spots.

Miami is full of glamour and glitz. It is one of the best places in the world to party. You can even mingle with celebrities during such sessions of fun and partying.







Young adults will be delighted by the numerous opportunities of shopping. You can also avail of great discounts, even on luxury products!



The top 5 Key West attractions for young adults are listed below:

• Key West is a place of much historical importance. Tourists can avail of a Conch train tour and a trolleybus tour to check out varied places of interest in the island city. The former offers a trip to different historic sites in the city, while the latter provides a fun-filled trip through old town Key West.

 

• Key West is also home to many shipwreck sites as well as the only living barrier reef in North America. Young adults can go snorkeling in Key West and explore the beauty of the coral reefs and its diverse marine life. You can scuba dive and explore the secrets of the sunken vessels. In case you do not want to dive into the waters, then you can avail the services of a glass bottom boat tour to check out the underwater treasures.

 

• Both novice and expert anglers can go for enjoyable fishing expeditions across the Key West waters

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• Young adults can also hire a lavish yacht and go on fun-filled sailing excursions through the crystal blue waters.

 

• A tour to Key West must also include a trip to the Dry Tortugas islands. It is a fantastic place to enjoy varied adventures.

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