At VHKW~ Vacation Homes of Key West we often get the question: "What is there to do in the off season?" Well that's somewhat of a loaded subject. This tiny island plays host to countless festivals along with musical and cultural events that out number many more well known destinations. There is a good chance that there's an event taking place around town, even if you don't coordinate your vacation with a pre-planed festival
(See Our List Of Key West Events Here). But what about visitors that prefer a less eventful vacation? Or what about coming down in the off season to escape the crowds? How about a family just looking for an escape from their hectic schedules?
Well, Key West has just what your after! We are talking about long sunny days with strong drinks and stronger sunshine. Hot afternoons spent grilling and chilling by the pool with the whole family. Real vacation time spent relaxing with your loved ones. All this is easy at your very own private retreat. Want to know how you can really live your vacation island style and experience a little of that island time you've heard so much about?
Traveling to Key West in the off season is a great way to see the island in a new light. If you have seen what Duval looks like in season, you know the island can get crowded. Visitors planing to come from May - September will find it quieter, with a more laid back atmosphere. With less people in town the streets are easier to navigate and attractions are less crowded. The locals are more relaxed as a result. With shorter lines and less hassle getting places, you're sure to see more of the island. This gives visitors the chance to slow down and experience the joys of living on "Island Time". See what we are talking about in the write up below.
Imagine waking up to this, and starting your day with a refreshing swim. The temperature of the pool, a brisk 72º after a night of cooling off. This is a great way to prepare for your morning walk and the coming humidity the day will bring. Live like a local and open the doors, taking in some fresh air. This indoor/outdoor living style is what these houses where built for.
Now it's time to get out the house and take in some sights around the neighborhood. Jumpstart your morning with a walk through the Historic Key West Seaport. You can feel the energy, with crews of fishermen and sailors loading their supplies in the various boats as they prepare for the day's work.
Just watching the harbour come to life can make one hungry, but you are in luck. In the area of the Seaport there are several good places to fuel up for the day. Just a few blocks off the water you'll find Old Town Bakery. A European inspired emporium of baked goods and hot coffee. Don't be shy! Try a few of the treats in the case, savory and sweet to chose from.
After breakfast you'll need to walk off those pastries. Let's head towards the action and make our way to Fleming Street. Along the way you can see some great examples of well preserved Key West architecture, also passing by the Monroe County Library.
Down towards the shopping district that centers around Duval Street you can find some worthy retail. Coming down Flemming you'll find the Duck & Dolphin Antique Store with it's one-of-a-kind building, unique as every object inside. Just across the street is a wonderful resort wear boutique. You will find local goods and more unique shopping if you avoid the tourist shops. There are many locally owned shops and boutiques on Duval and more just off the beaten path.
Continuing down Flemming past Duval you'll find Mile Marker 0 and the giant Kapok Tree in front of our local court house. This is a fun location to people watch and also a great photo opportunity, worthy of a selfie or two. Snap one in front of the end (or beginning) of US 1 - MM0, then head over to relax under the Kapok for a few shady minutes.
Speaking of local hangouts, the Green Parrot is just a hop, skip and a jump from here. This bar was once named #5 of the to 10 bars in the US by Playboy Magazine. You never know who you will find perched on the bar stool next to you. They could be a dressed down celebrity in a Hawaiian shirt and flip-flops or a local sailor, as authentic a pirate as any that walked the island before him. This confluence of people is what makes Key West so amazing and the Green Parrot is a prime location to observe this force of nature in action.
After a cold one it's time to catch the best show in Key West. SUNSET! From the Parrot you are positioned to chose from a few of the best locations on the island. If your looking for entertainment, try heading down to Sunset Pier and checking out some of the performers. With performances ranging from contortionist acts and tightrope walkers to locals hawking handcrafted keepsakes, Mallory Square is an action packed way to end your day in Key West.
Or if your looking for something more relaxing or romantic, go the other direction. You can head south on Whitehead and take in the view from one of the many beaches on the Atlantic side. There is a small pier at the end of Duval that has a nice vantage point. If you are ready for some dinner along with your show, make your way out to
Salute! On The Beach. Here you can enjoy some of the best food in town while over looking the ocean and sunset.
After a night cap and a slice of the best key lime pie on the island, you'll be ready for a good night's sleep. You can rest easy knowing you have this amazing bed waiting for you when you return from a long day exploring the island.
Ready to book your stay with VHKW ~ Vacation Homes of Key West? You can start by looking over our
vacation rental inventory here or talk to one of our friendly rental agents by calling (305) 294-7358. Don't get lost or overwhelmed by big booking sites, let VHKW find you the perfect vacation rental home. See you soon!
