No matter what you decide to do during your Key West holiday, it’s likely that you’ll become well-acquainted with Duval Street. Known for its vibrant buildings and quirky bars, it’s a central hub of things to do. Walk or take a trolley tour to soak up the street’s unique atmosphere, making sure to stop off at Sloppy Joe’s for a cold beer along the way. If you fancy seeing some incredible paintings and glass sculptures, you can pop into one of the locally-run galleries. Or, if you’re in need of some evening plans, why not visit Tropic Cinema for a retro movie-theatre experience?

Also located on Duval Street, the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory offers a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. See a multitude of exotic birds and butterfly species as you wander past the gently-flowing waterfalls and lush flora.

Sitting between Bahama Village and Key West’s Historic District, the Hemingway Home and Museum is a must-do for literary enthusiasts. You can take a tour of where the prolific writer lived during the Thirties, making sure to say hello to one of the many polydactyl cats that have famously settled here. Then, step further back in time with a trip to Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park. Walk past cannons and gun ports as you learn all about the site’s Civil War past.

Alternatively, there’s a more spirited history lesson to be had at the Key West First Legal Rum Distillery. You can spend some time touring the distillery and understanding the rum-making process, before sampling some of the locally-made produce.

Not too far from the shores of Cuba, the beaches of Key West are some of the most spectacular in the United States. Dotted with palm trees and boasting impeccable ocean views, Smathers Beach is the Key’s most popular, and largest, sandy spot. Play a game of volleyball on one of the sea-side pitches, or hire a paddleboard and head out across the gentle waves. Or, if you’d rather get away from the crowds, Rest Beach is just a 20-minute walk away. Perfect for sunset strolls and afternoon picnics in the sun, it’s a great option in you’re looking for some quiet time.

Up for an adventure? Then a day trip to Dry Tortugas National Park is just the thing. Only accessible by boat, it’s the place to go if you fancy seeing some sea turtles. Spot them swimming in the water as you scuba dive along this spotless marine park.

Key West holidays offer a tropical getaway all year round. With temperatures that rarely dip below 20 °C, it’s ideal if clear skies and warm weather are your sort of thing. The most popular time to go is between January and March, with holiday-goers seeking a sunny escape from the last of the winter blues. Visit at the beginning of the season to catch the Key West Food & Wine Festival, or plan your holiday a bit later if you fancy seeing the St Patrick’s Day celebrations and parades.

If you’re after quieter beaches and snorkelling hotspots to yourself, why not take a trip to the Keys in April? Although technically the low season, there are plenty of activities going on and you’ll still be avoiding the hurricane season that runs from June to November.