Summer is the slow season in Key West. It can be a bit warm… it’s Florida. But, it can also be the perfect time to visit Key West. If you are planning a trip (or letting us take care of those details), be sure to check out these 10 Summer Activities in Key West.
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#1 Take A Tour Up the Keys
The Florida Keys are one of the most amazing places on Earth. There is so much to see and do, but if you fly into Key West, or simply want someone else to do the driving… consider taking a tour with Up the Keys.
They specialize in tours, well, Up the Keys. You can check out Bahia Honda, the Key Deer National Refuge, the Dolphin Research Center and so much more. Bonus?? Not only is the van comfy, but it is also air-conditioned. A very welcome thing during the warm summer months in the Keys.
#2 Hemingway Days
This annual festival celebrates Ernest Hemingway. It’s in July (around his birthday) and offers a lot of fun activities. Sign up for the Hemingway Sunset 5K run/walk. At sunset runners and walkers take to the streets of Key West and after the finish line, they can enjoy a cold beer. Your starting point is at the Southernmost Point and usually ending at the Southernmost Resort. Great way to make memories while in Key West.
Check out the Hemingway Look A Like Contest. Papas from all over descend on Key West in hopes of winning the contest. Held every year at Sloppy Joe’s this fundraiser benefits many great causes and provides a lot of entertainment as well.
Another activity to add to your list is the running of the bulls. Head over to Sloppy Joe’s and get your picture taken with the Papa Look A Like contestants. Then step aside as they take the bulls out for a run around the block.
#3 First Legal Rum Tour
Looking for another indoor activity? Then walk over to Southard and check out Key West First Legal Rum Distillery. Located in the old Coca-Cola bottling plant, you can take a free tour, taste wonderful locally made rum and take a free mojito class.
#4 Go On A Food Tour
I think the best way to learn about a place is through its food. Key West is no exception. With so many choices, where do you start first? I say with a food tour. Wander through Old Town on a 3 hour tour and learn the history of the Key West food scene. Try locally made and sourced foods or head out on a cocktail tour and try some local favorites.
#5 Go For A Morning Bike Tour
One of the best ways to get around Key West is by bike. Of course, you can rent a bike, but why not head out with Lloyd and experience the off-the-beaten-path Key West? Learn all about the flora and fauna of the Island.
#6 Come Celebrate 4th of July
Picnic on the beach, sip a tropical cocktail, and enjoy fireworks. Yep, all of this while in Key West. I love spending holidays in Key West, and the 4th of July is amazing. You can watch the fireworks while on the beach and then the party continues on Duval Street.
#7 Go Fishing
The Florida Keys are synonymous with fishing. So, why not head down over the summer months and book a charter? Maybe you want to go out and try your luck for tarpon, or maybe you want to experience the rush of catching a shark. Or, maybe you want to try fishing in the flats. Key West offers many choices.
#8 Hang Out On A Sandbar
You have to spend time on the water while in Key West. It’s a great way to cool off from the heat of summer. Why not schedule a private charter with Captain Howie? Spend time on a sandbar, maybe grill up lunch, or even go dolphin watching. You decide how you want to spend your summer day while on the water.
#9 Go On A Ghost Hunt
After the sun goes down, take advantage of the cooler evening temps. Go for a Haunted Ghost hunt or hop on the bus and hear the ghostly stories of Key West and meet Robert the Doll.
Book a Haunted Ghost Hunt here
Book Meet Robert the Doll Tour Here
#10 Key Lime Festiva
July marks the month of this wonderful festival. Come to Key West and celebrate all that is the Key Lime. Try Key Lime pies, watch as pies are dropped from the Lighthouse, try Key Lime cocktails and so much more. It’s a great way to celebrate Summer and the Key Lime
Learn all about the Sip and Stroll
As you can see, summer is a great time to visit Key West. Come on down and enjoy amazing food, drinks and of course, meet great people.
