The Florida Keys are home to a national treasure: the only living coral reef in the continental United States. This year, Mote Marine Laboratory is inviting locals and visitors alike to step out of the daily grind and into the blue at Ocean Fest, a high-energy, family-friendly celebration of our marine environment.
Every fall, seafood lovers eagerly await one of Florida's most anticipated culinary traditions—stone crab season. From waterfront restaurants in Key West to seafood markets throughout Southwest Florida, fresh stone crab claws become the star of countless menus.
Known for their sweet, delicate meat and sustainable harvesting practices, Florida stone crabs are unlike any other seafood experience. Whether you're planning to enjoy them at a local restaurant, purchase them fresh from a seafood market, or learn about harvesting your own, this guide covers everything you need to know about stone crab season in Key West and Southwest Florida.
Here we go aging ourselves reminiscing about those old canteen trucks from the 1950's that were on army bases, mobile luncheonettes providing affordable food to blue collar workers outside their place of employment, street food in small push carts offering casual fare, snacks and fast food items on city street corners...fast forward to 2009 and this ever growing, popular, swanky gourmet version of the canteen.
No matter where you live or what you do, time seems to escape us. How many times have we referred to "time flying". Despite our best intentions, popular destinations and points of interest in our own backyard that are enjoyed by visitors are always on our "things to do and see list". One of the most common phrases we hear, at Key West Express is... " I've lived in Florida for XX number of years, but I've never been to Key West." Yes, we get it but, "Why NOT? What are you waiting for?" A staycation to Key West is just what the "ho-hum" doctor ordered.
Make your plans for the biggest party of the summer! The 27th annual Key West LobsterFest is being held this year from August 8th until the 11th , 2024.
Turn a Familiar Florida Drive Into an Unforgettable Adventure
A Florida road trip does not have to be a race from one hotel to the next. The most memorable itineraries mix scenery, wildlife, waterfront stops and different ways of traveling. That is what makes a road-and-ferry trip so appealing: you can explore at your own pace, park the car in Fort Myers Beach and finish the journey to Key West across the Gulf.
This flexible route works for couples, families, friends and solo travelers. Begin wherever your Florida plans take you, add one or two natural stops on the way to Southwest Florida, and then let Key West Express turn the final leg into part of the vacation. Instead of spending another long stretch behind the wheel, you can move between climate-controlled seating and open-air decks while the island gets closer.
UNIMAGINABLE CUISINE AND KOOKY CULINARY CREATIONS
Food trucks are no longer found only at carnivals and fairs.They no longer sell plastic wrapped pre-made sandwiches to construction workers. They are not just set up outside your local hardware stores, so weekend do-it-yourselfer's can grab a quick bite.
Key West has a habit of doing food its own way.
You’ll find lobster rolls served from tiny storefronts, wildly creative tacos coming out of a food truck and fresh seafood that tastes even better when you’re wearing flip-flops. A few of these colorful local spots have even caught the attention of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.
Three Key West-area restaurants received the national spotlight. Two are still serving hungry island visitors today: DJ’s Clam Shack and Garbo’s Grill.
January 28 - February 1, 2026
The annual Key West Food and Wine Festival has been recognized by the Travel Channel as one of the top 5 food and wine events that you must attend. This series of wine and food themed venues showcases a diverse range of wines and inventive cuisine, hosted by their passionate creators at iconic island locations.
