I have lived in the Keys partime for the last 12 years. We are in Sugarloaf Key which is about 25 minutes from Key West. There are many nice BB's as well as Hotel's. If you like a beach Pier House, Casa Marina are two that you would like. Casa Marina is quite a walk from Duval Street ( the main tourist street) but the pier House is right there at Mallory Square. You can walk to everything from the Pier House. La Concha, Hyatt, Ocean Key are right downtown also. Many great Restaurants you will find there. Italian-La Tratorria- Antoinias the two best - Tapas--Beachside Marriott (Tuesday and Thursday 2 for 1 Tapas and drinks) and Louis Backyard. Louis Backyard is also great for lunch and dinner or just drinks at the afterdeck. Right on the ocean. Spectacular view. Cafe Sole is a locals favorite, great for fish. Michael's- one of my favorites. The best martinis. Ask to sit in the courtyard. For casual dining--Conch Republic-The Raw Bar for oysters-Alonzos-half price appetizers and 2 for 1 drinks during Happy Hour each day. These are just a few to choose from. There are so many. If you want to experience something really special. There is Little Palm Island. It is further up the Keys, about 55 min drive approx. It is a private island but on Sunday's they have a brunch. It is 75 dollars a person, but it includes all the champagne and bloody mary's you want. You have to make a reservation for this and you take a boat out to the island. They have a menu with 5 or 6 items on it and you can order as many of these small plates as you wish. There is also a cold buffet set up that you can have also. This is 5 star dining. Excellent. Perfect place for a special occasion. You can also go over for lunch or dinner a, but you have to make a reservation in advance. When we go we take the first boat over at 11am and usually take the 3 oclock boat back to shore. We like to take our time and enjoy the island. If you are looking for a laid back, friendly place to vacation, Key West is the place |