What to bring to Key West

Packing for Key West? Think casual and comfortable.

So many guests arrive in Key West with a suitcase full of stuff they'll never use on their vacation. And yet, most of them are missing some crucial pieces of island gear.

Dress in Key West is very casual. The finest restaurant in town will welcome you wearing neat shorts and a collared shirt.

In the summer, the climate is warm & muggy with a high of 90 and a nighttime low of 80 (quite balmy). Though warm, the surrounding waters moderate our temperatures keeping our all-time high temp. below 100 degrees. In the winter, temperatures are typically between 65 and 75 degrees, but a cold front can lower those numbers by ten degrees. The high humidity of the Keys means that you'll feel either hotter or cooler than it really is.

Key West Temperature, Rain, and Water Temperature

We offer some suggestions on packing:

• Suitcase - Travel smart. Get a suitcase that you will enjoy traveling with. Tie a ribbon on the handle to easily spot it on your arrival.
• Shorts - Key West is short territory. More than one pair is suggested.
• Sandals/Flip-Flops. Good footwear is crucial to island life. Check out our favorite island shoes available for purchase: Reef flip flops sandals
• Bathing suits
• Cotton shirts - light colors/whites work well with Key West's strong sun.
• Island wear - short sleeve shirts
• A pair of jean/pants - two if it's winter
• Sunscreen - the sun is intense and you will tan (and burn) no matter the spf.
• Sunglasses - We islanders live in our shades. You will too. And don't forget a leash (ex: Croakie) for them while you're on boats.
• Hat with brim.
• Light windbreaker/pullover - if it's cool on the water, especially after sunset.
• Dry Bag - Keeps your belongings (phone, camera, keys) safe and dry while near the water and beach. Very handy. We suggest the Tuff Sack Dry Bag (Small)
• Beach shoes - for you tenderfoots at the rocky Ft. Zachary Taylor beach.
• Personal/Toiletries
• Camera - film, batteries, memory card, recharger, disposable and waterproof cameras (see below)
• Gear - fishing, golfing, scuba diving, etc.
• Aspirin

Bring a couple disposable and waterproof cameras, even if you have a digital camera. These throw away cameras sometimes take the most fun pictures: on the boat, in the water, at the beach. Plus, you won't have to worry about damaging it if you take it out for a night on the town. Don't scramble around Key West looking for them - the tourist prices can be rough. Instead, order them from amazon for a sane price and click away.

Here is what you can leave behind: Wool, neckties, & uncomfortable shoes. Also, you won't need ski boots (no snow), surfboards (no waves), or air purifiers (no pollution).