Answer: Good question. Yes — Square Grouper Key West has already opened in the old *Off the Hook* location at 920 Caroline Street.

Answer: With your timeframe of Friday arrival through Wednesday afternoon departure, spending the first two nights in Fort Lauderdale and then heading to the Florida Keys (likely Key West) from Sunday to Wednesday is feasible for a relaxing, food-and-drinks-focused trip. Since your focus is on unwinding, eating well, enjoying drinks, and lounging by a pool with a great view, you can design a balanced itinerary that mixes some scenic drives with plenty of relaxation.

Answer: Good question. There’s a lot of circulation (especially in forums like Reddit) about Smokin’ Tuna Saloon in Key West relocating — here’s a rundown of what seems to be going on, what’s confirmed, and what’s still unclear:

Answer: Hi!

Answer: Hi!

Answer: Yes, many travelers are noticing that airfare to Key West (EYW) is unusually high this year, especially from non-direct origin cities like Detroit (DTW). There are a few reasons why prices may be elevated:

Answer: Key West is famous for sunsets, nightlife, and ocean views — but it is *not* famous for long, natural, swimmable beaches. Much of the island has rocky shoreline or man-made sea walls, so beachfront hotels with soft sand and good swimming are limited. You aren’t missing anything—true beach resorts in Key West are rare.

Answer: Driving from Miami to Key West is a beautiful journey along the Overseas Highway (US-1), covering approximately 160 miles. In May, traffic is generally moderate, and the drive usually takes about 4 to 4.5 hours without extended stops. However, if you want to enjoy the scenic views, stop at keys along the way, or take photos, it can easily take 6 hours or more.

Answer: Thank you for sharing such a thoughtful and detailed trip recap — this kind of firsthand experience is incredibly helpful for families planning their first Miami–to–Key West road trip. Below is an expanded, structured summary of your insights, along with additional tips that might help future travelers fine-tune their own itineraries.

Answer: Key West has long been known as a vibrant LGBTQ+ destination, but the scene has evolved significantly since the 1990s. While it may feel different if you haven’t visited in decades, the gay community is still very present, though there are several factors that have changed the atmosphere.

Answer: La Te Da in Key West is a well-known restaurant and cabaret that offers a charming and upscale dining experience. Yes, you can request outdoor seating here, and many guests enjoy dining on their patio, which provides a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere, perfect for people-watching or enjoying the evening breeze. It’s advisable to make your outdoor seating request when you make a reservation, as it can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season.

Answer: Key West is a popular vacation destination known for its vibrant nightlife, historic sites, and tropical atmosphere. It attracts a wide variety of visitors from all over the U.S. and internationally. While it’s true that the majority of tourists are often white, there is a presence of African American visitors and locals, especially in certain neighborhoods and cultural spots.

Answer: Key West doesn’t have as many “big” birthday freebies as large cities, but there are still several places—restaurants, dessert shops, and occasional excursions—that offer specials if you sign up for reward programs or visit on your birthday. Many of the older promos from years ago (like certain boat tours) no longer run the same offers, but there are still a handful of worthwhile options. Most require joining an email list or rewards app before your trip.

Answer: Key West is an excellent destination for a vacation with a teen, offering a mix of adventure, relaxation, and unique cultural experiences. Based on this trip review, it’s clear that the combination of outdoor activities, historic sites, and casual dining made the trip enjoyable for both parent and child.

Answer: If you are staying on Louisa Street in Key West and are looking for walkable grocery options, there are a few convenient choices nearby. Louisa Street is in the Old Town area, which is more residential and historic, so grocery stores are somewhat limited compared to larger commercial areas.

Answer: It sounds like your recent experience at Key West International Airport (EYW) highlights some of the challenges that have been increasingly reported by travelers. While the airport is small, its popularity, especially during peak tourist seasons, can make even routine operations feel chaotic.

Answer: Finding a new gathering spot for Philadelphia Eagles fans in Key West can be a little tricky since the old bar has closed and the area tends to have more general sports bars than team-specific ones. However, there are still a few options for catching games with fellow fans:

Answer: This is a tricky one — I wasn’t able to reliably identify a B&B in Key West that clearly matches *all* of the details you remembered (free bikes, breakfast, happy hour, pool, and Schipperkee dogs). That said, I found a few properties that share *some* of those characteristics, plus some thoughts and follow-up questions — and a few possibilities based on memory and B&B options in Key West.

Answer: Key West has a surprisingly vibrant contemporary art scene, beyond the typical touristy crafts and beach-themed art. While many galleries in Key West do feature souvenir-style work, there are several spaces dedicated to original and innovative contemporary pieces. The Old Town area, particularly around Duval Street and the surrounding side streets, is the hub for art galleries.

Answer: Happy New Year! If you’re having second thoughts about Oceans Edge Resort for your Key West trip with your 8-year-old, there are definitely alternatives that are more kid-friendly, have great pools, and offer on-site dining and bars. Key West and the surrounding areas have several resorts that cater well to families and make it easy to enjoy the island without being restricted to downtown Key West.

Answer: Key West offers a variety of resorts and boutique hotels that are within walking distance of Duval Street and have either ocean views or attractive pool areas. Since you enjoyed Santa Maria Suites last year, you might appreciate options that blend charm with a central location and scenic views. Traveling in May with two 20-year-olds, you may want a lively atmosphere but also relaxing spaces to unwind.

Answer: Great question. Both are solid Marriott-brand options in Key West, but they offer very different experiences. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide which fits you best as a Platinum member.

Answer: Taking a sandbar excursion in Key West, such as the one near Jewfish Key, can be a very enjoyable experience, especially if you’re looking for a mix of relaxation, sightseeing, and unique water experiences. These trips typically combine cruising through the shallow, crystal-clear waters of the Keys, stopping at sandbars to swim, snorkel, or just hang out, and sometimes include additional activities like spotting dolphins or enjoying drinks on the water.

Answer: Key West is a compact island, and staying in Old Town is ideal if your goal is to experience the heart of the city, walk to restaurants, shops, and attractions, and soak in the historic charm. Old Town can be pricier, but there are some options that might fit your requirements if you book early and are flexible on amenities.

Answer: Good question. Unfortunately, Smokin’ Tuna Saloon in Key West is *not currently open* in its original location. According to several sources, the Charles Street spot has closed.

Answer: Stock Island offers a distinctly different vibe from Key West’s bustling Old Town. While it is close to Key West, it’s more laid-back, less touristy, and has a local, working-island feel. The area is known for marinas, fishing operations, artist studios, and a few standout restaurants like Hogfish Grill, which is popular for its fresh seafood and casual waterfront setting.

Answer: The RoofTop Cafe in Key West, which was a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, has been closed for a few years. Many longtime patrons were sad to see it go, as it offered a unique combination of rooftop views and casual dining. As of now, there isn’t a direct replacement operating in the same space.

Answer: Good question. Short answer: the Higgs Beach playground has been a bit up and down, but there is some encouraging news — mixed as it may be.

Answer: Good question. I couldn’t find a *publicly available, detailed resort-map* that clearly shows exactly where each timeshare or condo unit is located (by building number) at The Galleon Resort & Marina in Key West. Their official website lists unit types (studios, 1BR, 2BR, and penthouses) but doesn’t provide a labeled schematic or resort-plan map with unit-by-unit placement.

Answer: Hi!

Answer: For a fun-loving couple in your mid-50s visiting Key West in February, a half-day sandbar trip can be a perfect mix of relaxation, scenery, and casual socializing. Since you prefer not to charter a private boat or be in a group dominated by families or younger crowds, the key is choosing operators that cater to an adult-oriented crowd and offer a chill, laid-back vibe.

Answer: Key West has indeed evolved over the decades, shifting from its quirky, offbeat roots to a more commercialized tourist destination. Many travelers looking for that same eccentric, bohemian energy may need to explore lesser-known towns and destinations that retain a local, artistic, and slightly unconventional vibe.

Answer: Both the Southernmost Guest House (often listed as Southernmost Point / Guest House properties near the Southernmost Point) and the Best Western Hibiscus are solid choices in Old Town Key West — but they offer different vibes. The Guest House leans into a small, historic/quirky, resort-like experience near the very southern tip and beach access, while the Best Western Hibiscus is a dependable, budget-friendly motel in an excellent Old Town location with straightforward amenities (pool, free breakfast, free parking).