The Most Common Information Before a First Trip to Key West

Evan Kingsley wrote on 9/24/2023. Last updated: 6/20/2024

Sure, I'll be thrilled to take you along on a written journey to one of America's most charming and unique places, Key West. Have your flip flops and sunglasses on hand, because we're heading towards a place full of sunshine, warm breezes, and relaxed island vibes.

Where is Key West on map

Key West, folks, is the perfect destination to escape the mainland. It sits pretty at the end point of the scenic US Highway 1, about 130 miles from Miami. Imagine a jewel, placed delicately, all the way at the southern tip of the Florida Keys island chain. That jewel, my friends, is the underappreciated wonder of Key West, quite literally, on the southernmost point of the continental United States!

This slice of paradise is closer to Havana, Cuba (only 90 miles away) than to its own home city, Miami. So, if you're dreaming of tropical climes and Caribbean vibes, you won't have to whisk yourself off to a different country to get it. Just point your compass south and let the good ol' US Highway 1 lead you to the experience!

How big is Key West

Now, don't let its seeming remoteness fool you. Even though it's tucked away at the end of the Keys, Key West is a destination big on charm and character. In terms of land size, it covers a modest area, just over 7 square miles.

But wait, there's more to Key West than what shows up on a standard map! Surrounded by the wonderfully warm and clear Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, it extends its hospitality to coral reefs, shipwrecks, and fascinating marine life. So, whilst it might be a smallish part of our world, it certainly knows how to make a big splash!

How many people live in Key West

Key West, the island city, is home to over 25,000 lucky residents who get to enjoy the beautiful weather, natural beauty, a fun-loving spirit, and unparalleled sunsets on a daily basis.

But that’s not all. Key West also warmly welcomes a diverse mix of sun-seeking tourists, budding Ernest Hemingways, treasure-hunting divers, and laid-back retirees. For a city that’s not exactly bursting at the seams size-wise, it’s certainly filled to the brim with charm, personality, and a fun-loving mix of people.

So, whether visitors or residents, average Joes or artists-in-residence, everyone feels tickled pink to have landed on the shores of Key West!

Pack your bags, my friends, and let's keep exploring this great, wide, wonderful world! Next stop, who knows? But remember, the journey is just as exciting as the destination.


Evan Kingsley

Evan Kingsley

Hey, I’m Evan! Even though I’ve been bitten by a piranha, left stranded in the Sahara when my camel ditched me, and even spent a night in a Bhutanese jail over a supposedly stolen fruit (I swear I didn’t take it!), I still love traveling so much I don’t think I’ll ever stop. With over 130 countries under my belt, I’m always on the lookout for the next wild adventure… hopefully with fewer bites, camel betrayals, and misunderstandings over fruit!

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