What to Wear in Key West: The Ultimate Checklist

What to Wear in Key West: The Ultimate Checklist

If you’re prepping for your next Key West adventure, picking the right clothes is likely one of the top items on your to-do list. Clothes for Key West are laid-back yet chic, perfect for every one of your day’s adventures, and easy to transition from day to night. Playa Largo Ocean Residences has some helpful tips for what to wear in Key West, whether it’s your first time or a highly-anticipated return trip.

Starting Your Adventure from Playa Largo 

Playa Largo Ocean Residences, located in stunning Key Largo, is the perfect starting point for your journey to Key West. Just a two-hour drive away, Playa Largo provides an ideal base for exploring the beauty of the Florida Keys. This guide will help you plan your Key West wardrobe, ensuring you are stylish and comfortable for your trip.

Understanding the Key West Climate

Key West boasts a moderate, mild climate that is typically very warm during the day to slightly chilly at night. From November through February, lows can dip to the 50s at night, but even that tends to be rare, with average evening lows in the 60s. In the summer, average temperatures are in the upper 70s to upper 80s, while fall in Key West features mild temperatures of low to mid-70s to mid-80s. While rain in Key West is relatively rare, it occurs most often in September and October.

Day-to-Day Attire: Casual Meets Chic

Key West clothing style is casual, with most locals and visitors opting for laid-back shorts, sundresses, or loose, flowing pants. However, given the upscale vibe of Playa Largo Ocean Residences and Playa Largo Resort, you may want to elevate your style with a “Keys Chic” or “Resort Chic” approach. This style incorporates casual, breezy pieces with an elevated twist, such as a linen shirt paired with tailored shorts or a flowy maxi dress with statement accessories. Opt for light, breathable fabrics like linen or cotton and lighter shades that reflect the sunny, tropical environment.

Beach Attire

If you’re heading to the beach, think comfort and convenience. A dry-fit shirt or tank top is a great option that can serve as a cover-up over your swimsuit. Don’t forget sunscreen. Consider packing a beach towel, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and a lightweight cover-up, such as a breezy kimono or shawl—perfect for a stylish yet practical layer.

Dining Out in Key West

While eating out in Key West can be as upscale or as relaxed as you prefer, clothing is still fairly casual unless a restaurant’s dress code notes otherwise on their website or social page. To fit the “Keys Chic” vibe, consider dressy shorts or light slacks for men paired with a linen or cotton shirt. Women can opt for a flowy dress, a romper, or a skirt with a light blouse. These choices are comfortable yet stylish, perfect for a tropical evening.

Outdoor Activities: Tours and Excursions

Dress for comfort during your daily adventures in Key West. Every list of Key West outfit ideas should include a pair of comfortable walking shoes, flowy pants or shorts, and lightweight T-shirts. Whether you’re heading to a museum or walking around exploring local shops, this kind of outfit will keep you comfortable and cool.

Evening Wear

Key West evenings offer an opportunity to dress up while still maintaining comfort. For a more glamorous yet relaxed look, think “Resort Chic”: a maxi dress with elegant sandals for women or a tailored shirt with linen pants for men. While fine evening wear isn’t often required, packing one elevated outfit is a good idea for upscale dining or special occasions.

Special Considerations

While Key West is known for its sunny, warm days, unexpected weather events do occur. Prepare for pop-up rain showers by packing a few light layering pieces, such as a lightweight kimono-style garment or a shawl, and a rain jacket or poncho. For cooler evenings or more formal occasions, consider alternatives like a lightweight jacket. It’s also a good idea to have some clothing items designed for insect protection, like a lightweight long-sleeved shirt, since bugs are common in parks and other outdoor areas.

Embrace the Local Style While Enjoying Playa Largo Ocean Residences

Find your Key West clothing style when you visit us at Playa Largo Ocean Residences. Whether your adventures include fine dining, lazy beach days, shopping, or a combination of everything, you can ensure a fabulous, relaxing vacation by preparing your checklist ahead of time and packing for any eventuality. Contact us at Playa Largo Ocean Residences to learn more about our Florida Keys vacation rentals.

Image Credit: Maridav / Shutterstock

Plan Your Dream Wedding in the Florida Keys at Our Resort!

There’s nothing more stunning than a beachfront wedding, full of peaceful vibes and incredible views. If you’re on the hunt for wedding venues in Florida to make your special day truly magical, Playa Largo Ocean Residences are ideal. Our luxurious vacation property and our helpful team will help make your wedding the unforgettable occasion you dream of.

Ocean’s Edge Clubhouse

Fabulous celebrations start at the Ocean’s Edge Clubhouse. An exclusive recreational facility, the Ocean’s Edge Clubhouse tops lists of local seaside wedding venues. Discover panoramic views, concierge services, and much more, all designed to make your wedding and reception stress-free and enjoyable.

Unique venue features

The Ocean’s Edge Clubhouse offers unique features like a dedicated concierge service that can assist you and your guests with every need and a chic interior lounge where guests can socialize and unwind. You’ll also discover fine dining experiences at the clubhouse, curated and prepared by world-class chefs.

Exquisite oceanfront views and pristine beaches

One of the best features of the Ocean’s Edge Clubhouse is the incredible oceanfront views. When you host your wedding here, you’ll enjoy easy access to pristine Florida Keys beaches and panoramic views that invite your guests to drink in the beauty of the area.

Elegant indoor and outdoor spaces for ceremonies and receptions

Whether you want to host your wedding ceremony indoors or out, the Ocean’s Edge Clubhouse has the space to accommodate. Our versatile event spaces are designed to enhance the sense of community among guests, ensuring an easy flow of conversation and a good time for all.

Playa Largo Resort & Spa

The Playa Largo Resort & Spa offers even more opportunities to unwind and enjoy your special occasion. Unique among Florida Keys wedding venues, the Playa Largo Resort & Spa provides the ultimate luxury for you and your guests.

Ocean Spa

When you want to unwind after a busy weekend or get a relaxing massage before the evening’s festivities, the Ocean Spa at Playa Largo Resort & Spa is here for you. Rejuvenate and relax with a menu of services that includes body scrubs, massages, facials, and much more.

Club Playa

Club Playa provides a restful spot for guests who want to unwind in a hammock, enjoy ocean views, or chat with a friend. With the same dedicated service that we provide at every area of our resort, you’ll discover fresh towels on hand, refreshing beverages, and light snacks.

White Sand Beach

Florida beaches are known for their white sand and sparkling water, and at Playa Largo Ocean Residences, we offer easy access to 14 acres of stunning beachfront. Whether you love watersports or just want to bask in the sunshine, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at the beach.

Exciting Resort Events

Our oceanfront resort frequently hosts special events, including live music and shows, all for our guests to enjoy. Be sure to ask our event planners about any special performances or events happening in the area so you can plan your weekend accordingly!

Planning Your Dream Wedding

Wedding planning can be a lot of work. At Playa Largo Resort & Spa, we take the stress out of planning by providing all the help you need to make your big day a smashing success.

Dedicated wedding planner support

We offer dedicated wedding planner support, so no detail is left to chance. Working with a wedding planner makes the process a breeze, so you can live in the moment without worrying about scheduling and vendor arrangements.

Local attractions and activities

There’s always plenty to do in Key Largo. From sunup to sundown, the city has things to do. Whether you’re in town for a weeklong wedding extravaganza or a weekend ceremony, you can find attractions and activities to suit your fancy. Just ask your wedding planner what’s happening around your event time to get the scoop on local happenings.

Playa Largo Ocean Residences is the ideal wedding destination

Discover how easy it is to have your dream wedding when you plan your event at Playa Largo Ocean Residences. Our luxury oceanfront residences and resort is the perfect setting for a truly unforgettable ceremony. Contact us today to learn more about our luxury Key Largo resort!

Image Credit: NeonShot / Shutterstock

Key Largo NightLife – Your Guide to Key Largo After Dark!

Key Largo is famous for everything you can do here during the day. You can sail, swim, snorkel, hike, eat, and visit historical sites. Simply taking in all the natural beauty will take time, and there’s always something else to do next. But the daytime playtime isn’t all we have to offer. Aside from the usual list of things to do in Key Largo, there’s plenty more to do once the sun goes down.

KEY LARGO NIGHTLIGHT ACTIVITIES

The nightlife in Key Largo offers a whole new playground, with many places to dance and enjoy the ocean-side vibe. If you’re interested in going out after hours, rest assured that the fun in Key Largo is just getting started when the sun goes down. If you’re just getting going when other people are heading to bed, here are a few places to see.

TOP NIGHTLIGHT RESTAURANTS IN KEY LARGO

The Fish House

The Fish House is a beloved local institution renowned for its fresh seafood and breathtaking waterfront views. Nestled amidst lush tropical foliage, this charming restaurant offers a casual yet upscale dining experience focusing on sustainable, locally sourced ingredients. From succulent grilled fish to delectable seafood platters, The Fish House consistently delivers mouthwatering dishes that capture the essence of the Florida Keys.

Lazy Lobster Seafood Restaurant

The Lazy Lobster Seafood Restaurant is a casual and family-friendly seafood restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere and delicious fresh catches. Known for its friendly staff and affordable prices, Lazy the Lobster is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Enjoy a variety of seafood dishes, including lobster, shrimp, and fish, all prepared with a simple yet flavorful approach that highlights the natural tastes of the ingredients.

C&C Wood Fire Eats

C&C Wood Fire Eats is a casual and inviting eatery specializing in delicious wood-fired cuisine. With a menu featuring juicy burgers, flavorful pizzas, and other grilled delights, C&C offers a satisfying and satisfying dining experience. The restaurant’s cozy atmosphere and friendly service make it a great spot to enjoy a meal with friends and family.

Hobo’s Cafe

Hobo’s Cafe is a charming and eclectic eatery known for its laid-back atmosphere and delicious breakfast and lunch options. With a menu featuring classic American dishes like pancakes, omelets, and burgers, Hobo’s Cafe offers a satisfying and affordable dining experience. The restaurant’s friendly staff and casual ambiance make it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

Blonde Giraffe Key Lime Pie Factory

The Blond Giraffe Key Lime Pie Factory is a must-visit destination for those with a sweet tooth. This charming bakery specializes in delicious key lime pies made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. From classic to creative variations, the Blonde Giraffe offers a variety of mouthwatering flavors that will satisfy any craving. In addition to their pies, the bakery also serves other sweet treats, such as cookies and cupcakes.

KEY LARGO NIGHTCLUBS & MORE

Aqua Bar and Nightclub

You can dance late into the night at this busy establishment. It has an informal vibe but high-energy fun. Aqua Bar & Nightclub has a range of shows and parties to keep things fresh, including their popular drag shows. To keep you going through the night, you can choose from a great selection of food at the bar, even a poké bowl.

Take a Sunset Cruise

It’s not a bar, but a sunset cruise may be the perfect start to an evening of a lifetime. Some cruises include dinner, live music, and even dancing, all as the sun sinks low and the water glitters with sunset colors. You can make a sunset cruise your first stop on an evening of fun or your entire night’s plan, but it’s certainly an unforgettable way to experience the beauty of Key Largo.

EXPERIENCE KEY LARGO NIGHTLIGHT LIKE NEVER BEFORE!

Key Largo has you covered whether you’re more interested in playing all day or partying all night. At Playa Largo Ocean Residences, we offer beautiful homes where you can relax as you prepare for your next activity. We love Key Largo, and we think you’ll love it too. Come see everything this remarkable region offers–even after the sun goes down!

Travel Options to Key West, FL: How To Get to Key West

Updated: August 30, 2024

What is the Best Way to Get to Key West, FL?

If you’re longing to leave ordinary life behind and bask in the warmth of a tropical vacation, then Key West is calling your name. This beautiful island is the perfect place to de-stress and reset. But what’s the best way to travel here? Don’t worry; although Key West feels like another world, getting here from where you are is not hard.

At Playa Largo Ocean Residences, we would love to welcome you to this tropical paradise. Let us start by telling you the best ways to travel here. 

Getting To Key West By Land

If you’re starting your journey in Florida and love a scenic drive, this is a great time to hit the open road. The drive from Miami is roughly three hours long, while you’ll spend about four hours behind the wheel if you’re coming from Fort Lauderdale. Along the way, you’ll pass some gorgeous scenery, including the coastal portion of the Everglades. You’ll also cross several long bridges that span cerulean expanses of water.

The Florida Turnpike and the Overseas Highway

The most direct route to the Keys starts on the Florida Turnpike. This is a toll road, but you won’t have to stop at a booth to pay tolls. They’ll be automatically charged using your license plate number. If you’re driving a rental car, check with the rental company about how they handle tolls. 

At the end of the Turnpike, you’ll take US 1 and the Overseas Highway. Follow the posted speed limits because local law enforcement keeps looking for speeders. Because Key West is the farthest island to the west, the trip will take you past the other islands, so enjoy all the gorgeous coastal scenery along the way. You know you’re there when you arrive at mile marker 0 and the beauty of Key West.

Book Now!

Getting to Key West by Sea

If you’d rather arrive at the island by sea, you have several options. You can catch a high-speed passenger ferry from Fort Myers. The trip takes three and a half hours, and you will travel comfortably. You can spend that time in the air-conditioned interior or try out the sun deck to take in the scenery and breathe in the sea air. 

You can sail to Key West alone if you’re an experienced boater. You can approach from the Atlantic or the Gulf of Mexico. Be sure to make a reservation at a local marina before you arrive. 

Getting To Key West By Air

It may feel like you’re leaving the world behind when you arrive at Key West, but don’t worry – you still have easy access to it all by plane. Several airlines offer nonstop flights to Key West International Airport. Check with your preferred carrier, but here are some convenient options for nonstop flights.

Airlines that Fly to Key West

  • Delta Airlines – Atlanta and New York La Guardia
  • United Airlines – Chicago and Newark
  • American Airlines – Boston, Miami, Philadelphia, Dallas/Fort Worth, Charlotte, and Washington DC
  • Silver Airways – Fort Lauderdale, Fort Myers, Tampa, and Orlando

Once you land, several options get you where you’re going, including shuttles, taxis, ferry service, car rentals, bike rentals, and more. No matter what transportation you choose, the island isn’t very big, so it won’t take long to get there.

Interested in visiting Key West? Let Playa Largo Ocean Residences help you plan your vacation!

If you’re ready to come enjoy the play land of Key West, you owe it to yourself to look at our vacation rentals at Playa Largo Ocean Residences. We have beautiful residences to give you the feel of Old Florida with the comforts of home. Look at the packages we have available and book your vacation home today!

Image Credit: lunamarina / Shutterstock

Ernest Hemingway’s Home, Museum, & 6 Toed Cats in Key West

Updated: August 29, 2024

Looking for something unique to do during your Florida Keys vacation? Check out the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum. It might seem strange, but you don’t need to be a fan of literature to appreciate the Hemingway House in Key West or, more to the point, the Hemingway House cats.

It’s one of several attractions within striking distance of our vacation rentals at Playa Largo Ocean Residences. Contact us to find out more or book one of our great rentals, which are ideal for larger families or groups.

Contact Us

What is the Hemingway House?

Ernest Hemingway wrote some of his most famous books while living in Key West, so if you feel inspired while here, you are in the best company. Hemingway built a house here, and legend has it he chose a plot near the lighthouse so it would guide him home at night…after, you know, spending time in one of the local bars. His favorite was Sloppy Joe’s Bar, which is still open today, and you can eat there…or copy Hemingway…if you want.

When he died in 1961, the house was transformed into a museum. You can explore the beautiful grounds and then tour the house, where you will see the space where Hemingway worked. The home had an in-ground pool, a remarkable luxury at the time….although, before that, that site was a boxing ring where he took on local amateurs.

What’s with the Hemingway House Cats?

Most people don’t come here to see the house or even that swimming pool. In the 1930s, a passing sea captain gave Hemingway a surplus kitten, a cat he named Snow White.

What is a Polydactyl Cat? Hemingways’ Famous 6 Toed Cats

Snow White wasn’t an ordinary cat, though. She had six toes! This is a genetic mutation known as polydactyly. (In fact, polydactyl cats have been known to have as many as nine digits on a paw, but six is more normal). The trait bred to some of her kittens, and the Ernest Hemingway House is now home to 60 cats, about half of whom have the extra toes. (The other half are just as cute, though).

All of these Hemingway Cats are named after famous people. Some of them look rather as if they’re wearing mittens. Some of the cats are known to be descendants of Snow White, and most are likely related…Key West is not a big island.

The anomaly doesn’t cause any issues for the Hemingway cats with six toes (if it does, the extra digits may be removed). They may have an advantage in balancing, climbing, and catching prey. (Maybe they had a particular advantage on the moving deck of a ship, hence Snow White’s ship-bound relatives).

The cats have the run of the museum…and it’s best to remember it’s their home. Visitors are asked not to pick up the Key West author’s cats (remember they have extra claws), but you can pet them if they let you.

Things to Know about the Hemingway Museum

The museum is open for walk-ins from 9 am to 5 pm, with tours every 15 minutes, starting at 9:30 am. The 20 to 30-minute tour is included in your admission. Please don’t use flash photography at any time (it annoys the cats).

The museum is located at 907 Whitehead Street on Key West and is about a 2-hour drive from our vacation rentals…an amazing drive through the Keys. There are also bus tours available.

You can book the Hemingway Home Evening Writing Experience Monday through Thursday for the aspiring writer with money to spare. You and one guest get the tour and then access to the house, gardens, and Hemingway’s studio. Maybe you’ll be inspired to create your next masterpiece…if the Hemingway House cats will let you!

If you are interested in a trip to the Florida Keys, contact us today to learn more!

Our vacation homes have 3 or 4 bedrooms, perfect for families or groups. You can access the Ocean’s Edge Clubhouse with its pool, sun deck, and lounge. We also offer great packages, including a seaplane tour to Key West or a chef experience. Contact us to find out more.

Image Credit: Mathew Risley / Shutterstock

Footer

PLOR logo white

97801 Overseas Highway 22

Key Largo , FL 33037

Toll Free: 888-425-0535

info@PMGVacationRentals.com

Skip to content