We'll be spending nine days in Key West early next month, a break from the cold in Paris and guaranteeing the balmiest early March weather ever in Paris, no doubt. Transportation is set, inexpensive Delta flight via Atlanta to Key West, with a couple of one-day car rentals planned. Lodging in Old Town at friends' house, otherwise the trip wouldn't be possible.

This is a late-breaking development and already the most-planned vacation ever: more than three hours, a record for us. (I'm exaggerating, but not by much.)

Now we wonder, what should two people who don't want to do very much do in Key West? We lean toward the odd and offbeat, sprinkled with a few "must sees." Sunset watching, the Hemingway house, fish sandwich from the B.O. Wagon and Key lime cookies (when were those invented?) are on the agenda. We think we'll try this restaurant:

http://www.cafesole.com/

We also plan to visit the Banyan Resort and "stroll around the grounds until we feel at home," in case nine days isn't enough.

Then what? All ideas deeply appreciated. I promise to take copious notes - and put them with the copious notes on our lazy stay in Venice two years ago that still haven't turned into a trip report. Sorry moderators! Maybe I can be rehabilitated?

Dave

Dave, just doing a quick search here I found this thread which seems to contain some good ideas, and a good link. For March, you should probably have gorgeous weather.

It's been many years since I've been to Key West, but I recall it as an excellent spot "to not do very much." Don't forget your sunglasses and sunscreen.

I did really like seeing the Victorian "Southernmost House" - I bought a great watercolor of it as a souvenir. I remember some great sunsets, climbing a one-story lighthouse-turned-museum, and tasty fried clams.

Have a great trip!

Colleen

As a Floridian, and a sales rep who works the area, in Key West, there's not a lot of go-see-do stuff to do. Basically, you fish or you drink... that's Key West.

However, if you have a car rental, drive UP the road on US 1 to Bahia Honda State Park. It's about 40 miles outside of Key West just before the 7 mile bridge to Marathon but it is a great place to snorkel the reefs and just relax as it has the BEST beach in all of the Keys.

There is a beach in Key West over by the airport side of the island but it's not that great. You can sunbath and take in the relaxing atmosphere but the sand quality is not that great.

The Southernmost Point is 90 miles from Cuba and is the Southernmost Point in the USA.

As a restaurant, go to El Siboney on the Southern end of the island. It's Cuban food and the place is normally packed but you won't spend a lot of money there. The Sangria is homemade and have the Siboney Steak!! You'll take home a doggie bag.

If you're adventurous, take a tour out to the Dry Tortugas... it's worth it. It's about a full day excursion as the trip is over an hours ride to the Tortugas.

Have a drink at Sloppy Joe's and the Hog's Breath Saloon. Avoid the restaurants along Duval as most are tourist traps with high prices and low food quality. I did post some reviews of restaurants in Key West so follow them.

Also good are The Rusty Anchor on Stock Island and the small mexican restaurant on Stock Island on the left side just before you come to the light on US 1 where you turn right or left at the Holiday Inn.

Ask your hosts or the locals for good places to eat!

Hope that info helps you....

quote:

there's not a lot of go-see-do stuff to do

That is fine news! Nine days of sloth. And thanks to you all for the great suggestions. The southernmost house is on our list now, Colleen, and so is Cuban food at El Siboney, Doug. And I did pore over that thread, Terry.

When we pull ourselves together, which happens now and then, we like nothing better than walking streets and ogling architecture - facade watching. It looks like Old Town Key West is going to be wonderful for that.

We've also been reading a great guidebook, "The Florida Keys," by Joy Williams. Dated, at least the edition we have, but rich in history and full of humor. This has, among other things, advised that the "oldest house" probably isn't the oldest house, and left us eager to see the famous Bat Tower on Sugarloaf Key, if it's still there, on one of our rent-a-car mobile days. It's old and odd looking and never did attract bats. Perfect!

Finally, we just reserved a car through Avis for Mobile Day #1. The rate is 27.83 euros for 24 hours with extra coverage and unlimited mileage. Wow! What a great country the Conch Republic is!

Dave

Dave,

I must assume you did not receive my e-mail to visit us on the civilized coast of FL., but have a great, relaxing time in the Conch Republic. I second "El Siboney"they do great things with roast pork and lemon chicken at reasonable prices. For a gourmet,"blow-out" meal try "Café Marquesa"on Simonton St.

There are 2 classic places for breakfast, "Pepe's" and "My Blue Heaven" each unique.

Seven Fish is a great place for dinner. But, make a reservation since it can fill up fast.

Have a drink at Schooner's Wharf and enjoy the laid back live music. We love Schooner's Wharf!

B.O. fish wagon has very good seafood, burgers and barbecue and is a great place for people watching.

Blue Heaven has the best brunch in Key West, if you don't mind the chickens that wander around at this outdoor restaurant.

Visit Fort Zachary Taylor if you are interested in history. Then go to the nearby "pebbly beach".

Be sure to go to Mallory Square for the nightly Sunset Celebration. Have a great time!

Laurie

Last time I was there we hired a sailboat and went snorkeling out in the Gulf. Pretty laid back.