If you are looking for that someplace that is blessed with lots of sunshine, truly amazing sunsets, world-class diving and a wealth of tourist attractions, then it’s entirely possible that the paradise you seek is Key West – the land of the eternal vacation, where your dreams will become a reality! When the literary legend Ernest Hemingway visited the island of Key West Florida in the early 20th century, he instantly fell in love with its beauty, becoming one of the island’s most famous residents.
Key West, discovered by Ponce de Leon on May 13, 1513, is known as the southernmost city in the Continental United States, conveniently nestled on the last major island at the end of the Florida Keys. The city encompasses the island of Key West, part of Stock Island, Sigsbee Park, Fleming key and Sunset Key.
Visitors to this island paradise have lots to see and experience, and because the island is small, about 4 miles long and nearly 2 miles wide, it’s easy to orient in finding the main places of interest. Apart from offering fabulous beaches, a tropical blend of azure waters and pleasant year-round weather, Key West also boasts superb dining with fresh seafood available daily and accommodations to suit any budget and preference. Travelers to Key West are also attracted by the southern charm and Caribbean flavor of this laid-back island nation and the myriad of water sports, from great fishing to parasailing to jet skiing and more much more.
For history buffs and cultural enthusiasts, Key West offers a number of museums and movie theaters, including the significant Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, a unique property, where the world-renowned writer lived and wrote for more than ten years. Mel fisher Maritime Museum is another must-see attraction in Key West, housing treasures that cost more than $20 million. This includes a wide range of artifacts, from gold and silver bars, some four thousand silver coins, and a six-inch gold cross set with some of the finest emeralds in the world and more.
Shopping is also a popular pastime in Key West, with a wealth of shops, malls and markets, selling everything from souvenirs and unique gifts to shoes and clothing to food and goods. On Duval Street, visitors will find a wide range of T-shirt shops, while the Clinton Street at Mallory Square also pays to check as it houses an overly air-conditioned mall of kiosks and stalls, especially designed for the many cruise-ship passengers, who prefer lower prices.
Take your family to the Key West Butterfly & Nature Reserve Conservatory to see nature at its finest! Seek shipwreck bounty with wreckers at the Key West Shipwreck Museum. And do not miss out the sunset at Mallory Square; the nightly Sunset Celebration is truly intriguing. This and much more are waiting for you in Key West! Come! Experience! Enjoy!