16 Fun Things To Do In Key West During Spring Break

This post may contain affiliate links. Read the full disclosure

Spring break is the perfect time for a Florida vacation, and if you’re looking for some ideas on what to do in Key West, you have come to the right place.

From swimming and diving in the crystal-clear waters of the Keys to exploring world-famous attractions like Ernest Hemingway’s Home, there’s something for everyone in this tropical paradise.

Discover the best things to do in Key West during spring break. However, don’t limit your visit just to Spring Break! These Key West activities are great any time of year!

So put on your sunscreen and start planning your Florida trip today.

A Guide To Visiting Key West Florida

As one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States, Key West is a great place to spend your spring break. The weather is warm, the beaches are beautiful, and there are plenty of things to do.

One of the best ways to visit Key West is on a Florida Keys road trip if you have more time!

But before we get into the fun Key West attractions and what to do, let’s plan your visit!

How To Get To Key West

Key West is located at the very southern tip of Florida, at the end of the Florida Keys – a chain of small islands extending from the southern tip of the State of Florida.

The position puts it at the southernmost tip of the continental USA. And getting there is easy!

The easiest way to get to Key West is by car. You can either drive down the Overseas Highway (US 1) from Miami or fly into Key West International Airport.

The drive takes you along one of the most unique in the USA, across 40 bridges and stunning views of the water, with Seven Mile Bridge being one of the most popular.

There is also a daily ferry service that runs between Key West and Ft. Myers.

Best Time To Visit Key West

The best time to visit Key West is usually between December and April. The weather is warm and sunny, but not too hot, and there are fewer crowds than in the summer months.

Key West during Spring Break in March and April is definitely one of the busier times to visit, but don’t let the crowds put you off!

However, if you want to avoid the spring break crowds, you can visit Key West in May or September/October, when the weather is still warm and the prices are lower.

How To Get Around Key West

Key West is a small island, measuring just 2 miles by 4 miles. That means that getting around is easy – you can walk or cycle everywhere! This is especially a great option if staying in Old Town Key West.

There are also plenty of public buses and taxis if you don’t want to walk. And if you’re staying in a hotel or resort, they may even offer a shuttle service.

Bicycle hire or moped hire is available from several different places and this can be a thrifty option rather than hiring a car.

Alternatively, there are also Old Town Trolley Tours that allow you to hop on and hop off and they are great for short stays with a 1 or 2-day pass.

Best Places To Stay In Key West

Now that you know how to get to Key West and get around, let’s look at where to stay. Depending on your budget and the type of vacation you’re looking for, there are several different areas to stay in Key West.

Old Town – If you want to be in the heart of the action, then Old Town is the best place to stay. This is where you’ll find the majority of the restaurants, bars, and attractions. There are also some great places to stay in Old Town, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels.

New Town – New Town is a great option if you’re looking for somewhere a little quieter. It’s just a 10-minute drive from Old Town and has its own restaurants, bars, and shops. Plus, it’s where you can enjoy staying on the beach at Smathers Beach.

Best Things to Do in Key West During Spring Break

If you are looking for fun things to do in Key West with kids or simply looking for what to do in Key West Florida during spring break, this list has got you covered. From

1. Visit Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park

Fort Zachary Taylor State Park is a great place to visit during spring break in Key West, Florida. The park offers stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico and is also home to various plant and animal life.

The park offers plenty of activities for kids, including swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and picnicking. Undoubtedly, it is also a great place to learn about the history of Key West and the Florida Keys.

Your kids are sure to have a great time at this state park, which is also home to some of the best beaches in Key West.

In fact, this is often referred to as Key West’s best beach! Especially since you can snorkel right off the beach. But don’t forget your reef shoes since it is a coral beach!

There are also plenty of picnic tables and wide footpaths for bike-riding to make a full day of your visit.

And if you want to explore the fort itself, guided tours are available.

2. Visit South Beach

If you’re looking for a spring break destination that’s guaranteed to be sunny and warm, you should not look further than South Beach in Key West, Florida. This is a great central spot for a dip, located at the end of Duval Street.

As one of the smallest beaches in Key West, South Beach is flanked by Southernmost Beach Resort and South Beach Pier, with lots of places to dine. You can also hire a beach chair.

But one of the best things to do at South Beach is take in the sunrise from the beach or pier.

The white sand and turquoise waters are simply stunning, and there’s plenty to do in the area, from shopping and dining to exploring the nearby coral reef areas.

Best of all, Key West is just a short drive from many major cities in the southeastern United States.

Otherwise, don’t miss your chance to visit the very popular Smathers Beach, pictured at the top of this post. And Higgs Beach is another favourite!

3. Take a Ride on The Conch Tour Train

You need to be sure to take a ride on The Conch Tour Train during your spring break vacation in Florida.

It is a great way to see the island and learn about its history and culture. The train ride lasts for about 90 minutes, and you will get to see some of the most famous sights in Key West, including the Southernmost Point and Duval Street.

You also have the chance to visit Ernest Hemingway Home, Key West Lighthouse, the Southernmost Point and many more iconic Key West attractions. This is the perfect way to experience the best of Key West during your visit.

Tickets are reasonably priced, costing around $35.87 for an adult & $16.02 for kids under 12, and you can even buy a souvenir photo to remember your ride.

Book your Key West Conch Train Tour tickets online

4. Visit Ernest Hemingway House

Ernest Hemingway is one of the most influential writers of the 20th century.

His novels and short stories are considered classics of American literature. Hemingway was also a passionate adventurer and lived in various countries worldwide, including Spain, Italy, and Africa.

He even spent time as a correspondent during World War II.

Hemingway’s home in Key West, Florida, is now a museum that is open to the public. You can tour the house and see Hemingway’s personal belongings, including his typewriter and fishing tackle.

The museum also has a library with Hemingway’s books and letters.

If you’re a fan of Hemingway’s work or just curious about the man himself, a visit to the Ernest Hemingway House is a must-do during your spring break in Key West.

5. Enjoy the Nightlife on Duval Street

Duval Street is the main street in Key West, Florida, and it comes alive at night during spring break.

The party starts when the sun goes down and continues until the wee hours of the morning. Bars, clubs, and restaurants line the street, and you will find everything in this place.

Duval Street has everything from laid-back bars where you can enjoy a cocktail and listen to live music to dance clubs where you can let loose and party the night away. 

And since Key West is such a small island, you can easily bar-hop from one place to the next.

You can even do a Duval Street pub crawl tour, which includes 5 stops each with a cocktail and a souvenir t-shirt to take home.

6. Take A Sunset Cruise

Looking to take in the sights and sounds of Key West during spring break? One activity you won’t want to miss is a sunset cruise.

There’s something special about watching the sun dip below the horizon from the deck of a boat surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Florida Keys. And Key West is the perfect place to do it.

There are plenty of cruise options, whether you’re looking for a romantic experience for two or a sunset celebration party atmosphere with friends.

If you’re keen on a buffet dinner and open bar, check out this Key West sunset cruise.

And no matter which one you choose, you’re sure to enjoy the incredible views of Key West as the sun sets.

7. Take A Fishing Charter

Take A Fishing Charter is the perfect way to spend spring break in Key West, Florida.

With experienced captains and crews, you’re sure to have a great time fishing in the beautiful waters of the Florida Keys.

What’s more, you can also enjoy the island chain’s stunning views while out on the charter.

8. Eat Some Key Lime Pie

Looking for something sweet to eat during your spring break in Key West, Florida? Then be sure to try some key lime pie!

This delicious dessert is made with key lime juice, eggs, and sweetened condensed milk and is typically served with a whipped cream or meringue topping.

It is said to have originated in Key West, and several restaurants claim to serve the best pie in town.

One of the most popular places to get key lime pie is at Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe, which has been featured on the Food Network and in USA Today.

For something different, take the Jimmy Buffet walking tour, learning about the musician’s history and favourite places, with a stop for Key Lime Pie.

9. Shop For Souvenirs

If you’re looking for souvenirs to bring home from your spring break trip to Key West, Florida, there are plenty of great options to choose from.

One popular choice is key lime pie, which you can find at many local restaurants and cafes. Other popular souvenirs include t-shirts, magnets, and postcards.

You can also find plenty of great art and jewellery from local artists.

10. Visit Dry Tortugas National Park

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Key West, head to Dry Tortugas National Park. This park is only accessible by boat or seaplane, making it a truly unique experience.

During your visit, check out Fort Jefferson, the largest brick structure in the Western Hemisphere.

You can also go snorkelling, swimming, or fishing in crystal clear waters, enjoying the unique marine life and tropical fish that inhabit the area.

Situated in the Gulf of Mexico & 70 miles from Key West, this slice of paradise is the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature during your fun-filled day.

Things To Do In Key West With Kids

There’s no shortage of things to do in Key West with kids during spring break. From exploring the island’s many attractions to taking part in fun activities, your family is sure to have a great time.

Here are just a few ideas of things to do in Key West with kids:

11. Visit The Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory

The Butterfly Conservatory is located in Key West’s historic Old Town district and is home to over 50 species of butterflies.

Your kids will love seeing all the different colours and patterns of these beautiful butterflies as they flutter around the conservatory.

And be sure to take a camera, as there are plenty of photo opportunities throughout the exhibit.

12. Take A Glass Bottom Boat Tour

A glass bottom boat tour is a great way to see Key West’s coral reefs and marine life without getting wet.

This is North America’s only living coral reef!

During the tour, your kids will be able to see colourful fish, sea turtles, and other marine life through the boat’s glass bottom.

This is perfect if looking for things to do in Key West with toddlers or younger kids who are not yet confident swimmers.

And if you want to get even closer to the action, there are also snorkelling and scuba diving tours available if visiting with older kids and teens.

Book a glass bottom boat tour and sunset cruise experience.

13. Key West Aquarium

The Key West Aquarium is one of the island’s most popular attractions and is perfect for kids of all ages.

During your visit, you’ll get to see a variety of different fish, sharks, turtles, and other marine life. And there are also touch tank experiences where kids can get up close and personal with some of the creatures.

Your kids are sure to love this educational and fun attraction, which is one of the top things to do in Key West with kids.

Book your Key West Aquarium tickets online.

14. Key West Shipwreck Treasure Museum

The Key West Shipwreck Museum is a must-visit for any family vacation in Key West, Florida.

This interactive museum tells the story of shipwrecks that have occurred near the island and features a variety of artefacts that were recovered from the wrecks.

Your kids will love learning about these shipwrecks and seeing the artefacts up close.

15. Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center

The Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center is a great place to learn about the natural history of the Florida Keys.

Your kids can explore interactive exhibits, watch films about the local ecosystem, and even take part in hands-on activities at the learning center.

Admission to the centre is free, making it a great activity for families on a budget. There is also free parking for visitors.

16. Key West Lighthouse & Keeper’s Quarters Museum

The Key West Lighthouse is one of the island’s most iconic landmarks and is a great place to visit with kids.

Your kids can learn about the history of the lighthouse and see the keeper’s quarters, which have been turned into a museum. They can also climb to the top of the lighthouse for some stunning views of Key West.

This is a great activity for any family vacation in Key West, Florida.

So there you have it, a list of things to do in Key West with kids during spring break. From exploring the island’s many attractions to taking part in fun activities, your entire family is sure to have a great time.

Is Key West, Florida A Good Option For Spring Break?

Absolutely! Key West is a unique and beautiful place. You’ll find it here whether you’re looking for a party atmosphere or a more relaxed vacation.

Many activities keep you busy, from exploring the island to taking part in the nightlife. And with its stunning views and warm weather, It is the perfect place to enjoy a spring break getaway.

Key West is a great place to spend spring break with plenty of activities and attractions to keep you busy. Whether you’re looking for a party atmosphere or something more relaxed, for fun things to do in Key West with kids or for a beach vacation, Key West has it all. With beautiful scenery, warm weather, and friendly locals, you’re sure to have a great time during your stay in this island paradise.

What are you most excited to do during a Key West Spring break trip?

• Flights – We use Skyscanner or WayAway to research, set price alerts and book flights.
• Car hire – compare the best car rental prices.
• Trains & Buses – We book with Omio
• Accommodation – We use Booking.com or Agoda to book most of our hotel accommodation when we travel.
• Travel insurance – Protect yourself and your belongings with Hey Mondo.
• Tours & attractions – Our preferred attraction and tour booking sites are Get Your Guide and Viator. Booking ahead will mean you don’t miss out on popular tours!

AUTHOR BIO: Emma Parker shares her experiences in the United States and other global destinations, alongside other pursuits related to travelling and teaching in the world via her website Itravelinn.