Ring in 2023 on the isle of Key West!

New Year’s on Key West is a fun celebration with plenty of parties and events. Visitors come from all over to witness the Last Sunset Celebration on Mallory Square, the Dropping of the Conch Shell at Sloppy Joe’s, the Red High Heel Shoe Drop Starring Sushi, and the Pirate Wench Drop at the Schooner Wharf Bar and Galley. And once the party is over, you have a whole new year ahead of you. To help you plan your 2023 island adventures, here are five Key West New Year’s resolutions that we hope to fulfill.

5. Set Sail on a Wind and Wine Sunset Sail with Danger Charters

Ranked as the #1 thing to do in Florida on TripAdvisor.com, the Wind and Wine Sunset Sail is a famous adventure, complemented by fine wines from around the world, international beer, and specialty hors-d’oeuvres. You will set sail on a Historic Key West schooner and enjoy eight different wines while witnessing the sunset from the water.

Book a Sunset Sail

4. Enjoy Dinner on the Beach at Latitudes on Sunset Key

Latitudes on Sunset Key offers a unique, alfresco dining experience. Positioned on Sunset Key, a very short boat ride from Key West, you can escape for a special evening of fresh island cuisine and open views of the water. Ranked as one of the top romantic restaurants in America, Latitudes is the ultimate place to go on a date.

3. Visit Mallory Square at Sunset

Every evening, Mallory Square comes to life for a Key West Sunset Celebration. You can spot magicians, jugglers, clowns, and psychics. The atmosphere is enhanced by local musicians and food vendors. People come to Key West to express themselves. And there’s something about the sunset that brings out the artist in all of us.

2. See a Show at the Waterfront Playhouse

Entertaining audiences for over 75 years, the Waterfront Playhouse is a classic Key West institution. Drawing talent from all over the world, you can enjoy professional acting in an intimate setting. With live comedies, dramas, and musicals, there’s always something interesting to see at the Waterfront Playhouse.

1. Experience Dry Tortugas National Park

Located 70 miles across the open water from Key West, Dry Tortugas National Park and historic Fort Jefferson are in a world of their own. On a trip to this land of coral reefs, clear water, and small islands, you will experience magical snorkeling spots, secluded beaches, guided tours of Fort Jefferson, and unique interactions with nature. Access is by ferry, sea plane or private boat charter.

See you in 2023

Thank you for checking out our 2023 Key West New Year’s resolutions. We love sharing the magic of Key West with our guests. We hope to see you on the island in the new year.

Stay with Us on the isle of Key West

Top 5 Things to Do in Key West in 2022

Plunge into 2022 with Key West Fun

Key West is a classic island destination with a great mix of historic and modern excitement. In 2020, as Key West continues to evolve, there will be tons of big events and ways to enjoy this special island paradise. To help you plan your 2022 vacation in Key West, we’ve highlighted the top 5 things to do in Key West in 2022.

5. Tour Key West’s Historic Sites

Despite its small size, Key West is packed with Historic Sites. By taking a simple stroll around Old Town, you can visit the Harry S. Truman Little White House, the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, and the Key West Lighthouse. For a fun way to cruise around Old Town, check out the Old Town Trolley or the Conch Tour Train. These tours are super popular with visitors of all ages and backgrounds. Touring Key West’s historic sites, no matter which form of transportation you choose, gives you a great sense of the diverse tapestry of culture in Old Town Key West. In the modern world, it’s great to have the chance to take a step back in time and experience Key West History.

4. Cruise the Open Water at Sunset

The clear, tropical water surrounding Key West is most spectacular at sunset. To allow you to enjoy this special time of day, there are several charter companies on Key West that offer sunset cruises. Fully catered with champagne and gourmet seafood, Key West Sunset cruises are a spectacular way to enjoy the calm seas that surround Key West. When the sky turns orange and the sea transforms, you will be treated to a natural spectacle. Many boats have limited space so be sure to book your sunset cruise in advance. Reasonably priced and lasting for only 2 to 3 hours, sunset cruises are a fantastic way to enjoy the open water of Key West.

3. Taste Fresh Lobster at Key West Lobster Fest

Key West is known for its many festivals, and one of the best is the Key West Lobster Fest, a fun annual event that begins Lobster Season on Key West. Every August, the streets of Key West come to life with great seafood, free concerts, and some of the biggest parties of the summer. If you’re looking for a special Key West vacation experience, full of lobster and unique entertainment, Key West Lobster Fest is your event. In 2022, the Key West Lobster Fest celebrates its 26th year, and it’s sure to bigger and better than ever.

2. Snorkel at Dry Tortugas National Park

Snorkeling is very popular in Key West, with many awesome snorkeling spots right out our back door, but a trip to Dry Tortugas National Park is the ultimate Key West snorkeling experience. On this trip, you will travel 70 miles by air or sea to Dry Tortugas National park, the site of Fort Jefferson Monument. Dry Tortugas National Park is a 100-square miles and consists of seven islands. The water is pristine and you can snorkel through live coral reef and old underwater ruins. Don’t wait to visit Dry Tortugas. In 2022, this trip is as popular as ever.

1. Celebrate Freedom at Key West Fantasy Fest 2022

Key West is known for its special values and unique culture. Pride is a part of life on Key West, and we embrace individuality and artistic expression every day. Key West Fantasy Fest, founded in 1979, celebrates the creativity of Key West with 10 days of parades, concerts, costumes, and parties. The 2022 Fantasy Fest is sure to be bigger and better than ever. If you’re looking to attend a Key West event full of creativity and surprise, be sure to visit our island in October 2022.

Thanks for checking out the top 5 things to do in Key West in 2022. We’re excited for an action-packed year. This short list is just the beginning. Be sure to check with our vacation experts to begin planning your perfect vacation in Key West.

A Few of the Best Key West Rentals near a Beach

Take A True Beach Vacation

Key West, because of its compact size and interesting geography, is a unique Florida beach destination. No matter where you stay, Higgs Beach, Smathers Beach, and Fort Zachary Taylor State Park Beach are relatively close by. But for a true beach vacation, there’s nothing better than staying right next to the water.

Stay Near Key West’s Top Beaches

We invite you to plan a sunny Key West vacation with the best Key West vacation rentals near the beach. From a resort condos to a private home with a pool near Higgs Beach, our popular beach rentals are the perfect places to relax Key West style.

Key West Rentals by the Beach

Vista Fresco & Key West’s Crown Jewel at 1800 Atlantic

The 1800 Atlantic Condo Community Sits on 400 feet of oceanfront property. The gated community offers an expansive pool and spa. Surrounded by a lush garden of native Key West plants and trees, this special property is located just West of Smathers Beach, Key West’s biggest beach. While staying here you can relax on your private balcony enjoying the sea breeze and ocean view.

Key West Beach Club Units: 103, 104, 112, 204, and 304

Situated right on the ocean’s edge, the Key West Beach Club condos offer large balconies with great views to enjoy while relaxing, socializing and dining. The Key West Beach Club is a quiet, gated residential community offering two pools, tennis courts and garage parking.

Villa Paradiso

Paradise awaits at Villa Paradiso, a private home with a pool, located near both Higgs and Smathers Beach. Recently refreshed with light colors and beautiful British Colonial furnishings, Villa Paradiso is a great spot to relax with your family and friends. This popular Key West rental is in a very quiet residential neighborhood near the beaches on the south side of the island. It’s also an easy bike ride to Duval Street and even closer to the Casa Marina area.

La Brisa Condominiums’ Ocean Vista, Sea Orchid

The La Brisa Condominiums are located directly across from Key West’s largest beach, Smathers Beach. The gated community offers pool, spa and tennis. Relax and enjoy your private balcony after enjoying fun on the beach or a relaxing stroll and lounging on the water’s edge or by the pool.

See You at the Beach

Thanks for exploring Key West’s best beach vacation rentals. We look forward to hosting you on our special island.

View All Rentals Near the Beach

A Few of the Best Vacation Rentals Near Duval Street

Stay in Old Town Key West

When it comes to Key West, and South Florida as a whole, few places are more fun than Duval Street. Just barely over a mile long, but running from the Atlantic Ocean to the Gulf of Mexico, Duval Street packs a whole lot of excitement from sea to shining sea! From some of the trendy new restaurants to its timeless attractions, Duval Street always delivers for a day full of fun. And when the sun goes down, the excitement really starts. On its busier nights, the nightlife on Duval Street can be compared to Bourbon Street in New Orleans or 6th Street in Austin. Crowds of people overflow into the street and some of the brave bar-goers out there take part in the infamous “Duval Crawl.” Whether you’re looking for a delicious meal, some unique sightseeing, shopping, or a great nightlife experience; Duval Street fits the bill.

Find the Top Historic Homes & Cottages on Key West

With a variety of historic homes and cottages, we offer many of the top vacation rentals near Duval Street. To help you plan an exciting getaway to Key West, we’ve highlighted a few of the best rentals near Duval Street. Find your dream home in Key West with us.

Louisa’s Hideaway

This historic district 3 bedroom, 3 bathroom home is right in the core of Key West. It features a private swimming pool and a spacious patio area that is perfect for hosting. This awesome vacation rental puts you just steps from the beach and the stunning turquoise water of Key West. You’ll also be within walking distance of the Southernmost Point of the Continental U.S, the Banana Cafe, and Nelson English Park. When you book your stay at Louisa’s Hideaway, you’ll have all the amenities of downtown Key West, plus the comfort of privacy in a whole home rental.

Stay at Louisa’s Hideaway

Casa de Cuba

Just steps from Duval Street, Casa de Cuba is a hidden gem tucked away amongst massive palm trees and lush vegetation. This whole home private vacation rental features a private pool, backyard patio area, and a barbecue grill for hosting dinner parties. Alongside Casa de Cuba’s spectacular amenities, the home is also just steps from the beach and walking distance to many of Duval Street’s most popular bars and restaurants. You’ll also be able to walk to Fort Zachary Taylor, the Ernest Hemingway House, and other attractions of Key West’s Historic District. Book your stay at the stunning Casa de Cuba today!

Book Casa de Cuba

Namaste

Namaste is just as its name suggests – peace and quiet amidst the hustle-bustle of Duval Street. Tucked away in a large garden, this one bedroom cottage just a half a block away from the center of Duval Street. You’ll be just steps away from the famous Sloppy Joe’s Bar and the many other bars and restaurants that make up Duval Street. You’ll also be within walking distance of the Oldest House and Garden Museum, plus many other historic Key West attractions. Book your stay to experience a serene vacation rental right in the heart of Duval Street.

Enjoy Namaste

Villa Serena at Duval Square

This Duval Street rental lies in the heart of Old Town Key West near the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. This two bedroom space features abundant living space, gated parking, and access to a rooftop pool. Villa Serena is walking distance to the Green Parrot Bar, along with the beach and the glowing Atlantic Ocean. Book this one of a kind vacation rental to make the most of your Duval Street vacation!

Visit Villa Serena

Thanks for Checking Out A Few of Our Duval Street Area Rentals

Duval Street is one of the most exciting and fun streets in the country and is the perfect place for any vacation. Even if you don’t plan on checking out one of Duval Street’s many bars, there’s still plenty of fun to be had in Key West’s Historic District. With all the excitement going on, the last thing you want is a bad vacation rental. Book a Duval Street rental with Rent Key West for a comfortable, amenity-rich, and accommodating stay during your time in Key West.

Browse our Key West Rentals

Start 2022 in Key West – January Island Happenings

Winter is the best time of year to travel south. What better destination than Key West? Why come to Key West in January? The truth is that January is one of the best times to visit Key West for a number of reasons. The holidays have passed and Key West begins to slow down for awhile. January is the slowest of our winter months. Come down to escape the cold and beat the crowds! The sun sets just after 6:00 p.m. leaving plenty of time to enjoy the night life. The average air temperature is between 65 – 75 degrees (Fahrenheit). The water averages 69 degrees (F), but if you have a vacation rental with a heated pool you’re set for swimming! For fishing enthusiasts, January is best for cobia, king mackerel and sailfish, but also good for amberjack, bonefish, grouper, redfish, tarpon and wahoo. In true Key West fashion, there are plenty of events occurring in January to make your stay more exciting. We’ll cover a few, but make sure to check the calendar of events at Fla-Keys.com for a complete listing.

Bookworms and literature lovers are sure to enjoy the Annual Key West Literary Seminar. This non-profit organization celebrates American writers by exploring new themes year after year.

Explore this year’s topic, titled “The Dark Side”, by exploring mystery, crime and thriller. The seminar holds two sessions of four day events including lectures, panels and readings at the historic San Carlos Institute on Duval Street. Be sure to check out all of the seminar’s offerings and more details on their website at http://www.kwls.org/. Book a private home rental for the literary seminar to enjoy peace and quiet to reflect on the event’s takeaways.

Sunglasses and flip flops, hot sunshine and palm trees, cold fruity drinks and…seafood, of course! The Florida Keys Commercial Fishermen’s Association knows how to celebrate seafood! Join in for the Annual Florida Keys Seafood Festival at Bayview Park on January 15th & 16th. The all day family friendly event (11 a.m. – 8 p.m.) features fresh seafood served by local fishermen, live music and more!

Continue feasting on delicious local cuisine for the second annual Key West Food & Wine Festival. Fresh seafood and local ingredients combine for a Key West-style party. Events include food tastings at sunset and educational seminars covering food and wine. Learn about our rich local food and drink heritage. Choose from a number of different events including the “Kick off your Flip Flops” Beach Party, Grand Tasting, Shrimp Boil, Duval UNCORKED, and so much more! Varieties of seminars are offered throughout the festival and fill up fast, so head on over to their website and register to get a seat!

Ask us at Rent Key West Vacations how you can purchase your VIP ticket and pick it up when you check in! The Key West Craft Show is a favorite event that brings people from all regions to our wonderful island, and has even gained repeat attention from the Sunshine Artists’ Magazine for being one of the top 200 in the nation. Art and craft vendors sprawl out along Whitehead and Caroline Streets for several blocks to showcase their handmade works of pottery, fabric, glass wood, jewelry and other creations.

It’s easy to see why the beginning of the year is the perfect time to visit us here at Rent Key West Vacations! Call us today to book your perfect vacation rental and start your year off right!