Located in Islamorada stopping at Robbie's is a must! It is so much more than a restaurant! It offers an open-air market, water-sports to rent, and the chance to hand feed Tarpon. Once you are seated at the restaurant you are greeted with a laid back vibe, good food, and the ability to enjoy the view of the key's teal colored water.

Tip: You most likely will find yourself having to wait. Grab a drink and shop around. There are multiple seating areas and a fun game to try to swing the line and make it on the hook. You will know what we are talking about when we see it. It is way harder than it looks! 

Also located in Islamorada is a marine mammal park that is definitely a stop you don't want to miss. Previously have been to multiple aquariums, and bigger parks like Sea World, we can confidently say this is hands down the best experience. Theater of the Sea was established in 1946 and is home to dolphins, sea lions, sea turtles, fish, sharks, stingrays, alligators, and birds. General admission includes all of the incredible shows throughout the park. You can also purchase more interactive experiences that include meeting the marine mammals at the park. 

Tip: Seriously have your camera out at all times to capture unique and up close pictures/videos of these amazing species. Especially during the glass bottom boat ride! Give yourself around 3 hours to see all of the shows which are perfectly timed so you don't have to miss one! 

Duval Street is the main street in downtown Key West where all the action happens. It is home to many restaurants, pubs, galleries, shops, and wild roosters galore. Who knew this was a thing?! We didn't until we made it down to the most southern point in the continental US. There is live music everywhere and you can also take your drink and go. 

Tip:  Grab a seat at Willie T's and enjoy the live music, shade, and the delicious BBQ chicken flat bread pizza. We also had an afternoon iced coffee at Cuban Coffee Queen. They roast their own beans right there and also offer food if you wanted to enjoy the shaded colorful seated area they provide.

Every evening Mallory Square is filled with people to watch the beautiful sunset. The area is full of street performers to provide some entertainment while you wait. We grabbed some homemade ice cream at Key West Polar Bear Ice Cream Parlor. We highly recommend as there is absolutely nothing that beats homemade ice cream. It is located right next to Opal Key Resort and Marina. 

Tip: Park in the parking garage located in Opal Key Resort and Marina. They allow for public parking even if you are not a guest at the hotel. Parking quickly adds up so be prepared for this unexpected cost.  

Fort Taylor is located on the southern edge of Key West. It is a a National Historic Monument that houses the largest cache of Civil War armament in the world. We have been to a few forts during our vacations but have never had the ability to actually walk not only inside the fort, but also on the top. The top provides views of the beautiful park, and the water. Bring your swimsuit as there is a beach available.  

Tip: It costs $4 per vehicle. They give you a daily password and you are allowed to enter and exit the park for the rest of the day. If you are in town multiple days make sure to use this to your advantage and come here for sunset views.  

Where to stay?

We stayed at the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Key West at The Key's Collection. There are a few hotels with this name in Key West so make sure to click the picture above to book at the one we stayed. The location was very convenient for our departure flight in the morning as it is only a mile away from the airport. This hotel had free continental breakfast, a gym, and a pool bar. As an added bonus we received two free drink coupons a day. The pool was very relaxing and included shaded cabanas that were first come, first serve at no extra cost.