Travel tips · Key West · United States
Key West travel tips: what to know before you go
The etiquette, money and practical details that make the first day easier.
Updated By the AMZBooking editorial team
Photo: Radomianin, CC BY-SA 4.0
Quick answer
Key West is famously laid-back and tolerant, proud of its 'One Human Family' motto and of its 1982 mock secession as the Conch Republic. Its culture blends Bahamian, Cuban and Florida influences, a long literary history (Hemingway, Tennessee Williams, Elizabeth Bishop) and a strong LGBTQ+ community. Locals born on the island are 'Conchs'.
Key facts
- Language
- English and Spanish
- Currency
- USD
- Plugs
- Type A and B sockets, 120 V, 60 Hz
- Tap water
- Tap water is safe to drink; it is piped down the Keys from the mainland.
- Emergency
- 911 (police, fire, ambulance)
Things to know
- Do not feed or chase the free-roaming chickens and roosters; they are protected.
- Respect residents in Old Town's quiet side streets, where many guest houses sit among private homes.
- Do not touch or stand on coral when snorkelling, and use reef-safe sunscreen.
- Fantasy Fest in late October includes adult-oriented costumes and parades; families may prefer other dates.
- Ride bikes in the direction of traffic and use lights at night.
- Book Snorkelling and diving on the Florida Reef ahead: Book a day or two ahead in winter and spring; trips can be cancelled for wind, so keep a backup day.
- Book Sunset sail ahead: Reserve a day or more ahead in high season.
- Visit between June and early December, outside holiday weeks, for much lower room rates.
Tipping
Tip 18–20% at restaurants, $1–$2 per drink at bars, 15–20% for taxis and pedicabs, and about 15–20% for snorkelling, fishing and sailing crews, who rely on tips.
Language
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Conch | Someone born in Key West; also the sea snail |
| Freshwater Conch | A long-term resident not born on the island |
| Conch Republic | The island's tongue-in-cheek 1982 'independent nation' |
| Mile Marker 0 | The end of US-1, where Keys addresses are measured from |
What to wear
Light, casual clothing year-round, a hat and sun protection; a light layer for breezy winter evenings and air-conditioned restaurants.
Practical details
- Plugs and voltage
- Type A and B sockets, 120 V, 60 Hz
- Drinking water
- Tap water is safe to drink; it is piped down the Keys from the mainland.
- Emergency number
- 911 (police, fire, ambulance)
- Phone and internet
- Free Wi-Fi in most guest houses and cafés; US mobile networks cover the island and the Overseas Highway.
- Time zone
- America/New York
Key West is generally relaxed for visitors, but bike theft is common, so always lock bikes, and drink-related incidents occur on Duval Street late at night. Sun and heat are intense year-round, and reef trips can be cancelled or rough in wind. Follow official evacuation orders if a hurricane approaches.
Entry requirements
Visa and passport rules depend on your nationality and change often. Check United States's official government guidance and your own government's travel advice before booking.
Plan the trip
Questions travellers ask
+Do you tip in Key West?
Tip 18–20% at restaurants, $1–$2 per drink at bars, 15–20% for taxis and pedicabs, and about 15–20% for snorkelling, fishing and sailing crews, who rely on tips.
+Can you drink the tap water in Key West?
Tap water is safe to drink; it is piped down the Keys from the mainland.
+What plugs are used in Key West?
Type A and B sockets, 120 V, 60 Hz
+What language is spoken in Key West?
English and Spanish.