Experiences
Take a dip in our luxe swimming pool or relax in a lounge chair while gazing out at the blue waters just beyond the pool deck. This quiet, tranquil space is your calming getaway from the bustling energy of Key West. Unwind with a book in the sunshine, chat about your day with a fellow traveler, plan your next big adventure in town, or take a doze in the soothing South Florida breezes. It’s your go-to getaway to rest, relax, and repeat between exploring.
The Laureate has partnered with Fausto’s – Key West’s oldest running business – to provide fresh groceries delivered to your suite. Have your favorite snacks, sweets, and ingredients delivered directly to your door for a cozy in-room dinner or brunch with your fellow travelers. Suite kitchens include a two-stove cooktop, refrigerator, microwave, and toaster to whip up your favorite meals. You can even stock your kitchen before you even check in: simply order from the grocery list 48 hours before you check in, and your fresh ingredients will be placed in your kitchen by 4pm on the day you arrive.
Hop on a short boat ride to dine across the water at Latitudes, an award-winning culinary experience at Sunset Key Cottages. Latitudes offers delicious, fresh, and flavorful island cuisine, complemented by ocean breezes and gorgeous views. The menu is an ever-changing “work of art,” featuring locally sourced fresh fish, a daily fresh catch, tropical fruit, and in-season flavors. Dining in style in Latitudes’ Ernest Hemingway Room, where photos of authors, fishermen, and former Key West locals decorate the walls, or savor your meal outside overlooking the Gulf of Mexico.
Activities
Key West is home to vibrant flavors, arts, adventures, and wildlife experiences. Soak up the island’s year-round calendar of vibrant events between enjoying the beach and the warm summer sun.
Southernmost Point
No visit to Key West is complete without stopping at the famous Southernmost Point buoy, marking the southern tip of the continental United States. Just 90 miles from Cuba, this iconic landmark is not only one of the top attractions in the Keys, but also offers breathtaking views of the Caribbean-blue waters stretching out before you. Don’t forget to snap a picture—this is one of the most photographed spots in Key West!
Sunset Celebration
Every evening, Mallory Square transforms into the heart of Key West’s vibrant energy as locals and visitors gather to celebrate the setting sun. This lively event features a unique blend of street performers, including jugglers, musicians, and artists, all creating a festive atmosphere. Stroll through food vendors offering local treats, browse art displays, and mingle with fellow travelers while watching the sun dip below the horizon.
Literary Adventures
For book lovers and history enthusiasts, a visit to the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum is a must. Step into the former residence of the iconic writer and discover where Hemingway penned some of his most famous works. With its lush gardens, historic architecture, and the famed six-toed cats roaming the grounds, this spot is a fascinating journey into the world of one of America’s greatest authors. Whether you’re a literary buff or simply curious, the Hemingway Home offers an enriching experience that brings history and literature to life.
Mel Fisher Museum
Step into the world of maritime discovery at the Mel Fisher Museum, where the thrilling history of shipwrecks and lost treasures comes to life. See authentic gold, silver, and artifacts recovered from 17th-century Spanish galleons, and learn about the daring expeditions that uncovered them. Whether you’re fascinated by pirate lore or the science of underwater archaeology, this museum offers a glimpse into the riches—and mysteries—of the deep.
Live Music
Key West’s vibrant live music scene is the perfect soundtrack to your island escape. Stroll along Duval Street and beyond to find an eclectic mix of performances, from classic rock at Sloppy Joe’s to the laid-back acoustic vibes at Willie T’s. The Green Parrot, voted Key West’s ‘Best Live Music Venue’ for 10 consecutive years, is a local favorite, while live piano and cocktails at Little Room Jazz Club offer the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of downtown.
Snorkeling & Diving
Hit the water for some of the best snorkeling and diving opportunities in the country. Key West’s vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life make it a world-class destination for underwater exploration. Swim alongside colorful tropical fish at spots like Eastern Dry Rocks, or dive deeper to discover the famous Vandenberg shipwreck, one of the largest artificial reefs in the world.
Boating
Set sail on Key West’s crystal-clear waters for an unforgettable adventure. Glide past historic landmarks on a sunset cruise aboard a Schooner Appledore, or reel in the catch of the day on a deep-sea fishing trip with Salty Goat Fishing Charters. For a more leisurely outing, rent a boat and explore the backcountry waters at your own pace. However you choose to cruise, the island’s boating experiences promise breathtaking views and endless ocean breezes.
Dog Friendly Beaches
Furry friends 30 pounds and under are welcome at The Laureate, and Key West has plenty of spots for them to explore. Let your pup splash in the surf at Key West Dog Beach, a small but beloved stretch of sand, or head to the dog park at Higgs Memorial Beach, where fenced-in areas let them roam leash-free. After some fun in the sun, stroll over to one of the island’s pet-friendly patios for a well-earned treat.
Breweries
Raise a glass to Key West’s craft beer scene at favorite local spots like The Waterfront Brewery, where you can sip house-brewed beers with scenic harbor views, or First Flight Island Restaurant & Brewery, famously known as the birthplace of Pan Am Airways. Venture a little farther up the Keys to Florida Keys Brewing Company for a colorful beer garden and island-inspired brews. Prefer something stronger? The island’s top-rated distilleries serve up expertly crafted rums and spirits for a true taste of the tropics.
Opal Unpacked
Score exclusive access to four Opal Collection destinations in Key West, Florida for the price of one. We’ve taken care of the heavy lifting and put together the perfect itinerary, so you can hit all of Opal’s Key West destinations in one easy (gulf breeze)y day.