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Insider's Guide

Explore Like a Local

Think of this as the Keys’ not-so-secret handshake.

The Insider’s Guide is your path to hidden gems, insider’s tips and expert recommendations. From snorkeling secrets and fishing tips to stories of locals who protect these islands, this articles in this guide takes you beyond the surface, so you can travel The Florida Keys & Key West like a local.

Bookshelves and display table filled with colorful books in a bookstore.

15 Ways to Experience Arts in Key West

Long a haven for writers, artists, and dreamers, Key West continues to inspire with its sun-soaked streets, storied past, and vibrant creative spirit.

Angela Sayre sits on a large fallen tree, surrounded by greenery.

Steward of the Keys: Angela Sayre, Founder of Crustacean Plantation, Saves Hermit Crabs

Meet Angela Sayre, the 'Jane Goodall of hermit crabs,' and learn how her nonprofit Crustacean Plantation is saving Florida Keys' hermit crabs through conservation and education.

Floyd "Pepa" Jenkins riding a bike, wearing a cap and glasses, on a sunny day.

Local’s Choice Tips: Floyd “Pepa” Jenkins

Learn about Floyd 'Pepa' Jenkins, the Duke of Fantasy Fest 2025, philanthropist, and public servant in Key West. Explore his inspiring journey and community impact.

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15 Ways to Experience Arts in Key West

Long a haven for writers, artists, and dreamers, Key West continues to inspire with its sun-soaked streets, storied past, and vibrant creative spirit.

Steward of the Keys: Angela Sayre, Founder of Crustacean Plantation, Saves Hermit Crabs

Meet Angela Sayre, the 'Jane Goodall of hermit crabs,' and learn how her nonprofit Crustacean Plantation is saving Florida Keys' hermit crabs through conservation and education.

Local’s Choice Tips: Floyd “Pepa” Jenkins

Learn about Floyd 'Pepa' Jenkins, the Duke of Fantasy Fest 2025, philanthropist, and public servant in Key West. Explore his inspiring journey and community impact.

Costumed group attending Fantasy Fest parade

Fantasy Fest & Beyond: Spooky Fun in the Florida Keys

Fantasy Fest may be Key West’s most famous costume extravaganza (Oct. 17–26), but the spooky season fun doesn’t stop there. Across the Florida Keys...

Smiling man embraces a dolphin in shallow water.

Steward of the Keys: Hunter Kinney Innovates with the Keys’ Dolphin Life Inc.

Hunter Kinney, head coach and chief innovation officer for Dolphin Life Inc. in the Upper Keys, is a Kentucky boy who loves all animals.

Man wearing glasses and a red shirt, sitting and looking into the camera thoughtfully.

Local’s Choice Tips: Rob Dougherty

As executive director of the Key West Business Guild, Rob Dougherty oversees the daily operations of the island city’s LGBTQ+ visitor offerings to the...

Smiling woman in a gray sleeveless shirt, tropical background.

Steward of the Keys: REEF’s Jill Kuehnert Brings New Ocean Exploration Center to Life

Mermaid and divers playing music underwater, surrounded by clear blue water.

Lower Keys Underwater Music Festival

A man in a blue suit and a woman in a bright pink dress, smiling at an event.

Local’s Choice Tips: Andrew Morawski

Like many Key West residents, Andrew Morawski began his career in hospitality, working as operations manager at Rick’s Key West entertainment complex...