Practical Tips & Hacks: Key West

Money-Saving Strategies

Strategies for keeping your budget in check.

Discount Cards and Passes

No single ' West Pass' provides comprehensive coverage for multiple attractions.
Local publications or visitor centers may present coupons for specific tours or restaurants.
Pick up free tourist guides upon arrival.

Free Activities and Attractions

Mallory Square Sunset Celebration: Enjoy daily free entertainment.
Southernmost Point Buoy: A free photo opportunity; visit early or late.
Public Beaches: Smathers Beach and Higgs Beach have public access.
West Cemetery: A unique and free self-guided tour.

Happy Hours and Dining Deals

Many bars and restaurants throughout West have happy hour specials.
These often include discounted drinks and appetizers.
This setup presents a way to sample places at a lower price point.
Ask locals for their favored happy hour spots.

Transportation Savings

Walking or cycling is ideal for the compact and flat West.
West Transit Buses present an affordable way for longer distances.
A multi-day pass may yield additional value.

Accommodation Alternatives

Lodging options influence your budget significantly.

Lower Cost Areas

Staying in New Town or on Stock Island often presents lower accommodation rates than Old Town.

Budget Lodging

For solo travelers or those on a tight budget, hostels generally have the most affordable lodging.

Seasonal Savings

Book during the low season (summer/fall) as accommodation prices generally decrease.

Local Insights: Avoiding Common Mistakes

Awareness of typical visitor missteps elevates your experience.

Car Over-reliance

West is small, and parking presents difficulties (limited and expensive).
Avoid renting a car for your entire stay. Instead, walk, bike, or use scooters.

Duval Street Focus

While lively, Duval Street presents just one facet of West.
Explore charming side streets, authentic Bahama Village, and the West Bight.

Sun Protection Neglect

The Florida sun remains intense year-round. Sunburn and dehydration are common.
Always stay hydrated, use High SPF sunscreen, wear a Wide-brimmed hat, and seek shade.

Hurricane Season Underestimation

While direct hits are rare, they can occur.
Possess comprehensive travel insurance and closely monitor forecasts.

Local Customs & Unofficial Rules

Immersing in local traditions and norms enriches your visit.

Conch Republic Spirit

West possesses a playful, independent spirit.
Embrace the quirkiness, the "Conch Republic" flags, and the laid-back attitude.

Attire & Roosters

Very relaxed dress code everywhere; no need to dress formally.
Wild chickens and roosters roam freely; they have protection and are part of the charm.

"Island Time"

Things often move at a slower, more relaxed pace.
Embrace this rather than becoming frustrated by delays.

Sunset Ritual

The Mallory Square Sunset Celebration is a daily ritual for locals and visitors.
Join in the applause as the sun dips below the horizon.

General Conduct

Be polite to service staff, engage politely with locals, embrace the laid-back attitude. Knowing the difference in pronunciation between "conch" (pronounced "KONK") and "couch" can amuse locals.

Time-Saving & Group Travel

Efficient planning and tailored advice maximize your exploration.

Skip-the-Line Options

Purchase attraction tickets online. For the Dry Tortugas ferry, book many months ahead.

Best and Worst Times

Southernmost Point: early/late. Hemingway Home: opening. Mallory Square: 1-2 hours before sunset. Duval Street: mornings for quiet.

Express Transportation

Keys Shuttle from MIA/FLL. Walking/biking often move faster in Old Town. Pedicabs for short rides.

Pre-Booking Recommendations

Flights, Accommodation & Popular Tours

Flights and accommodation are absolutely necessary.
The Dry Tortugas ferry/seaplane is required; book months ahead.
Popular sunset sails or snorkeling tours are highly recommended.

Dining & Car Rentals

Fine dining reservations are advised, especially on weekends or peak season.
If driving from the mainland, book your car rental in advance.

Efficient Routing & General Advice

Group attractions by geographical area to minimize travel time. Use a navigation app for route planning. Refer to section 11.4 for accessibility considerations.

Practical Tips & Hacks