Feature Image by Parrot Key Hotel and Villas
SPONSORED BY PARROT KEY HOTEL AND VILLAS

There’s a sunny tropical destination calling your name, and you don’t need a passport to get there. We’re talking about Key West (also known as the Conch Republic), a small island near the southernmost tip of Florida, which offers the same dreamy weather, beachy vibes, breathtaking scenery, and convivial culture as its Caribbean neighbors.

So what makes the Key West so fitting of its “close to perfect, far from normal” motto? We’re giving you the full run-down below.

Where to stay
If you’re looking for a gorgeous, peaceful escape, look no further than the Parrot Key Hotel and Villas. Located just minutes from the city center, the hotel recently underwent a major remodel after Hurricane Irma. The 148-room resort includes spacious lodging for all types of travelers with one or two-bedroom suites and three-bedroom villas. You’ll have a full luxury experience with perks like L’Occitane bath products, Sun Bum sunscreen, and a generous mini bar. You can even opt for The Waterfront Experience, a luxe guest option that includes rooms right on the water, complete with beachfront lounge chairs, complimentary mixers in the fridge, turndown services, and so much more.

What to do
We suggest renting a roofless car from Key West Adventures – a Jeep or Polaris Slingshot is the best way to cruise around the island. Get your adrenaline pumping while parasailing, snorkeling, or jet skiing with Sunset Watersports, then take it down a notch with a Conch Train tour or bike ride through Bahama Village to see the historic, colorful cottages. You can even take a tour of Ernest Hemingway’s house!

Want something a bit more relaxing? Smathers Beach is a long stretch of gorgeous white sand for people who love long walks on the beach. Follow up with a massage or facial at Ocean Wellness Day Spa, which offers a luxurious spa experience complete with manicures, acupuncture, and body wraps.

What to eat and drink
From mouthwatering seafood to traditional Cuban food, there are so many dining options available on the island. Check out these local favorites:

  • Fisherman’s Cafe: As seen on the Cooking Channel, the seafood haven offers unique plates like lobster tacos, which you can order to-go when you’re overlooking the boat docks.
  • Grand Cafe: When you find yourself on Duval Street (you will, no doubt), be sure to drop by Grand Cafe.
  • El Meson de Pepe: Key West is only 90 short miles from Cuba, so try the traditional Cuban food at this restaurant in Mallory Square where a “sunset celebration” happens each night.
  • Kermit’s Key Lime Shoppe: You can’t go to Key West without indulging in some key lime pie – and Kermit’s is the cream of the crop. Not only does it offer traditional pie, but it also has key lime salsa, cookies, olive oil, and more.
  • Captain Tony’s Saloon: Rich with history, this dive bar is one of the oldest and most beloved bars in town. Grab a cold one and enjoy live music or a game of pool to escape the heat.

xx, The FabFitFun Team