Key West and the Florida Keys are defined by a laid-back vibe, an atmosphere of welcome and acceptance, and an approach to living that blends individuality and a near-reverence for relaxation. And once you get home, you can create a space that allows you to recapture that magical Key West mindset.
The tropical weather, nearby Gulf Stream and 125-mile-long arc of islands that makes up the Florida Keys create a fishing environment that’s completely unique in the world. Get to know this diverse fishery with seven quick essentials.
Captain Finbar Gittelman, a roguish Florida Keys seafarer, bears a slightly unnerving resemblance to the fierce Barbossa from “Pirates of the Caribbean.” Owner and master of the majestic Schooner Wolf, he’s also the venerable First Sea Lord and Supreme Commander of the Keys’ picturesque Conch Republic Navy. Yet despite his imposing titles, most people simply call him “Finbar."
Artists, authors, playwrights and poets have been lured to Key West and seized upon its one-of-a-kind environment of creativity, natural beauty and sometimes eccentric qualities — making it the muse for some of their most acclaimed career accomplishments.
Every day is an adventure in the Florida Keys, where the subtropical climate and scenic natural setting create the perfect backdrop for high-energy activities. Visitors can experience "only in the Keys" watersports and eco-adventures, unparalleled offshore diving, and organized sporting challenges to test skill and endurance — some with a little wackiness thrown in for added enjoyment.
Indigenous Florida Keys cuisine is rich in fresh boat-to-table seafood, enhanced with the light tropical flavors of lime, coconut, mango and papaya. Four delicious foods can be considered signature treats that are best savored only in the Keys: succulent stone crab claws, sweet Key West pink shrimp, light yet exotic lionfish and melt-in-your-mouth Key lime pie.
Key West launches its annual Pride celebration with a June 2 theatrical performance aptly named “Pride Follies.” The production’s format is similar to an old-fashioned vaudeville-type show, presenting a wide array of skilled local talents to delight audiences.
From celebrations of resident artists’ and writers’ legacies to an art festival that recalls the Florida Keys' fascinating railroad history, "only-in-the-Keys" cultural events spotlight the island chain's heritage as a haven for creative spirits — and draw huge numbers of visitors every year.
The Florida Keys are known around the globe for their array of underwater adventures that can be enjoyed only in the island chain. For example, you can snorkel or dive on the continental United States’ only contiguous living coral barrier reef — which, naturally, makes the Keys a paradise for ocean enthusiasts.
Key West will welcome visitors to Pride festivities June 6-10 -- with a lively roster of activities showcasing the diversity and equality that help make the southernmost city a top vacation destination for LGBT visitors from around the world.