Key West, Florida, is one of the most beautiful places on Earth, especially at night. With the waves crashing on the beach, the stars and moon lighting up the dark sky, and the most breathtaking sunset, it’s no wonder why Key West is one of the top honeymoon destinations. The island is also considered one of the most haunted places, making it great for ghost hunters. And when there’s fright, you need laughter to balance it, and Key West has plenty of that to offer too. Then, there’s, of course, plenty of dancing and partying. You can put up your feet with your partner in one of the best adults-only hotels or in one of the homier and cozy Airbnb vacation rentals and plan a fun-filled itinerary to satisfy your spirits at night. Scroll down for a list of the best things to do at night in Key West, Florida.
Good to know:
- According to the official website for Key West, public transport in the city runs from 5:40am to 10pm. If your plan is to stay out later than that, you'll need to rent a car or bring your own vehicle.
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1. Dig into delicious dishes at Louie's Backyard
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Looking for fun evening activities in Key West? Head to Louie’s Backyard. The place offers a memorable and enchanting dining experience combining delectable cuisine and breathtaking waterfront views. Situated right along the Atlantic Ocean, this iconic restaurant allows guests to savor the soothing sound of waves while enjoying a sumptuous meal.
The menu at Louie’s Backyard showcases a diverse selection of fresh seafood and other mouthwatering dishes that cater to various palates. Each plate is a culinary masterpiece, from succulent grilled shrimp to flavorful tropical-inspired creations. The restaurant’s elegant and romantic ambiance makes it an ideal spot for special occasions or a romantic evening. With indoor and outdoor seating options, patrons can relish the coastal breeze and stunning sunsets from the deck.
Louie's Backyard
Address: 700 Waddell Ave, Key West, FL 33040, United States
Website: Louie’s Backyard
Opening hours: 11:30am - 9:30pm (daily)
2. Watch a show at Key West Theater
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
One of the most captivating night activities in Key West is visiting this theater. The historic theater, dating back to the 1800s, has been beautifully restored to become a premier venue for live performances and entertainment.
At Key West Theater, you can experience various events, including concerts, comedy shows, theatrical performances, and more. From local acts to renowned artists, the theater hosts a wide range of talent, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy and look forward to when they visit.
Key West Theater
Address: 512 Eaton St, Key West, FL 33040, United States
Website: Key West Theater
3. Welcome the night at Sunset Pier
Perhaps the best place to take in the breathtaking views that Key West has to offer is Sunset Pier. On the pier you’ll get the best view of boats going by as the sun goes down over the ocean. The view, though, is not what makes Sunset Pier so special. What distinguishes it from the rest is the waterfront dining and drinks, from small plates to large meals. On top of that is the nightly music and dancing bringing the crowd to life and creating a memorable night for all.
Sunset Pier
Address: Ocean Key Resort & Spa, 0 Duval St, Key West, FL 33040
Opening Hours: 11 am to 11 pm
Contact: +1 305-296-7701
Website: Sunset Pier
4. Explore Mallory Square
A former warehouse area, Mallory Square Docks faces the Gulf of Mexico and is now a nightly sunset watching ritual for the people of Key West. It has also become a tourist highlight thanks to its carnival-like atmosphere of live entertainment including jugglers, vendors and musicians. This collection of tourists and carnival has become known as the Sunset Celebration and begins two hours before sunset each and every day of the year.
Mallory Square
Address: 400 Wall St, Key West, FL 33040
Opening Hours: Daily 7 am to 12 am
Contact: +1 305 809 3700
Website: Mallory Square Docks
5. Enjoy the views at Key West Lighthouse and Keepers Quarters
Built in 1847 and standing 86 feet (26.2 m) tall, the Key West Lighthouse is a great spot to take in views of the area as you are able to climb up to the observation deck and see things from a perspective that you wouldn’t normally be able to get. The house of the original keeper of the lighthouse was torn down in the 1880s after it was damaged in a hurricane and replaced. It was decommissioned in 1969 and now houses a museum and is furnished for the early 20th Century.
Key West Lighthouse and Keepers Quarters
Address: 938 Whitehead St, Key West, FL 33040
Opening Hours: 9:30 am to 4:30 pm
Contact: +1 305-294-0012
Website: Key West Lighthouse
6. Wander around Smather's Beach
Located on the southern shore of the island, Smather’s Beach is the popular choice for young people on Spring Break, and if you ask any of them when the best time to visit the beach is, they’ll all say you should go at sunset as the views are brilliant. If the large crowed isn’t really your thing then just wait until the sun is completely down, as Smather’s Beach is known to clear out when it’s dark, allowing you to enjoy the night sky with that special someone in peace. Also, if you’re looking for a place to spend the entire day (not just the night), the beach has picnic areas, volleyball courts and even Jet Ski rentals. The best part of it all? Entry is completely free. Not only can you enjoy a sunny day with great people, but you can do it without breaking the bank.
Smather's Beach
Address: S Roosevelt Blvd, Key West, FL 33040
Price: Free entry
Opening Hours: 7 am to 11 pm
Contact: +1 305-809-3700
Website: Smather’s Beach
7. Get tipsy at Bourbon Street Pub
You know that the Bourbon Street Pub is serious about the night entertainment in Key West since the real party doesn’t even start until 10 pm. At that time, everybody is welcome out front of the club, but once you go out back it turns into Key West’s premier gay bar where only the men are allowed to enjoy the pool and hot tub. To add to the festivities, Bourbon Street Pub has new events happening all the time, based on the time of year. So if you’re looking for a scene different from any other, and a party that goes on all night, then look no further than the Bourbon Street Pub.
Bourbon Street Pub
Address: 724 Duval St, Key West, FL 33040
Opening Hours: 10 am to 4 am
Contact: +1 305-294-9354
Website: Bourbon Street Pub
8. Drink with a conscience at The Green Room
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Famous in Key West for its nightlife, The Green Room is in the heart of the bar district and gets its name from the completely eco-friendly operation. In fact, 5-10% of the proceeds that the bar generates goes straight to community initiatives. The bar also specializes in one-of-a-kind, all natural, concoctions, specializing in organic frozen cocktails. This is the perfect place for those that enjoy a lively environment, delicious drink and saving the environment.
The Green Room
Address: 501 Greene St, Key West, FL 33040
Opening Hours: 11 am to 4 am
Contact: +1 305-741-7300
Website: The Green Room
9. Laugh the night away at Comedy Key West
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
After a long day of enjoying the hot sun and swimming at the beach, snorkeling, parasailing or whatever else you may have done, what better way to end the day than with a laugh. At Comedy Key West you’ll enjoy stand-up comedy from comedians from all over the world. Some comedians will be names you’ve never heard or household names. And during the down times when the comedians are on a break, the club will provide you with music and funny videos to fill the void. Who doesn’t enjoy a good laugh? Nobody. That’s who.
Comedy Key West
Address: 1128 Simonton St. Key West, Florida
Price: from 10 USD
Opening Hours: Doors open at 10 pm
Contact: +1 305-985-7370
Website: Comedy Key West
10. Get spooked at Ghosts and Gravestones
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Key West was ranked the 4th most haunted place in America by Haunted American Tours, so if you dare, go on a ghost tour of the island with Ghosts and Gravestones. While there are tours during daylight, as well as at night, those are the not-so-tough people. And you’re not one of them… are you? On the tour you’ll travel the streets of Old Town and go through old 19th century wooden houses and gain entry to the East Martello Civil War Fort, where dozens of soldiers once died of yellow fever and are believed to haunt the fort to this day. So, if you have what it takes, join Ghosts and Gravestones and hear… and see… things that’ll be so strange that they’ll be hard to believe.
Ghosts and Gravestones
Address: 501 Front St, Key West, FL 33040
Price: from 23.63 USD
Opening Hours: 9 am to 10 pm
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Contact: +1 305-294-4678
Website: Ghosts and Gravestones
11. Dance all night at Aqua Nightclub
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
This neon-lit atmosphere of cocktails, dance music and performers make Aqua Nightclub the quintessential nightlife destination for Key West. There is never a dull night with karaoke every Sunday to Thursday and a dance floor every Friday to Saturday. And I didn’t even mention the nightly drag show featuring the Aquanettes that is a must-see. When you’ve relaxed enough for one day and are ready to blow off some energy, there’s no better place than Aqua Nightclub.
Aqua Nightclub
Address: 711 Duval St, Key West, FL 33040
Opening Hours: 3 pm to 2 am
Contact: +1 305-294-0555
Website: Aqua Nightclub
12. Indulge in the city’s bar scene
On this tour, you will understand why the people of Florida or Key West love cocktails. The tour will take you to five places, including a boutique hotel and a historic mansion, where your guide will tell you about the city’s culture and history. The best part of this excursion is you will get to taste five craft cocktails, gourmet food, and bar snacks.
Book Tours : Key West Craft Cocktail Crawl
13. Visit the Southernmost Point
The southernmost point in the continental United States is marked by a colourful concrete buoy firmly anchored to the ground in Key West, Florida, that overlooks the sparkling sea. It has stood against the strength of several hurricanes, including Hurricane Irma in 2017. The landmark serves as the most famous photo spot in the area, so get ready your cameras and be prepared to wait in line for that must-have picture.
Southernmost Point
Address: Whitehead St & South Street, Key West, FL 33040, United States
Website: Southernmost Point
Opening hours: Mon - Sun: 12am - 12am
Price: Free
14. Go for a food tour at Duval Street
If you are looking to grab some local delights and check out some of the most famous restaurants and bars in the Key West, take a food tour down Duval Street. An engaging experience where you can stroll along the historic district while visiting non-touristy food establishments to fill up your appetite!
Usher in the night with special sunset activities!
Make your night extra special by booking a sunset activity. After all, the sunsets of Key West are famous around the world, and it would be remiss to miss the spectacular sight.
15. Sail aboard a catamaran and enjoy views of a spectacular sunset
Sail along the coast of Key West in a huge catamaran and enjoy gorgeous views of the sun going down on the city while sipping wine. The captain takes you to the best spot to get a breathtaking view. Don’t forget to take pictures and freeze the moment in time!
You can enjoy champagne, wine, homemade sangria, and chilled beer from a full-liquor bar while the little ones can sip a soft drink. Guests can lounge on the huge deck and relish fresh hors d'oeuvres.
16. Explore the rich sea life without diving into the ocean
If you are not into snorkeling or scuba diving, then take this tour instead. This cruise will take you to the only coral barrier reef in North America. Here, you will enjoy looking at sea creatures through the catamaran’s glass bottom. The captain will also introduce you to 600 tropical fish species, turtles, jellyfish, crabs, and more. There are two options for this cruise - either in the daytime or during sunset. If you pick the sunset cruise, you can have a glass of champagne as you witness the sunset.
17. Head out on boat Tours
This is a very broad option for you to enjoy at night in Key West because there are many different boat tour companies you can choose from. Some offer cheese and wine tastings, some snorkeling and some are sailboats while some are motor boats. They price is very reasonable, from 45 USD to 100 USD per person. The most important thing is that you choose whichever option is best for you and your group. Regardless, each one will give you a spectacular view of the sunset and of the island itself. Plus, you never know — you may even get a surprise visit from a dolphin.
Book Tours : Sunset Sail from Key West
Nights in Key West are like no other
Wondering yet about what to do in Key West after the sun has gone down? You can’t beat Key West in this regard. With the best views of the sunset, the greatest nightclubs, and boat tours that’ll feel like you’re going to a different world, the heat goes up as the sun goes down in Key West.
Frequently asked questions about things to do at night in Key West
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