Planning a Key West vacation but trying not to max every credit card you have? Do not worry – it is possible to have fun in the sun without going broke, and we have even done the homework for you.

From plenty of free and affordable activities to inexpensive hotels and restaurants, planning an unforgettable, budget-friendly vacation will be as easy as Key Lime Pie. 

1) How To Visit Key West On A Budget – Take A Affordable  Tour

Taking a budget-friendly tour does not mean you must miss out on making memories. At Key West Boat Trips, we believe making lasting memories is essential regardless of how much money you have to spend.  We offer affordable tours so you can stay within your budget and have an unforgettable time:

• Shared Hopping Sandbars – This tour combines the experience of a private charter with affordable pricing. The weekday per-person price of $125 makes it perfect for small families, couples, or solo travelers. Enjoy navigating the Mud Keys and spending time with Key West residents at the Snipe Point Sandbar. 
• Key West Dinner Cruise – This cruise is perfect for family or group vacationers. The price includes dinner as well as time in the water. Our Captain trades in his hat for a chef’s hat and apron and cooks a fresh seafood dinner right before your eyes. It is a tour like no other. 

It is best to plan early for a budget vacation. Visit our website now to book your tour!

2) Florida Keys On A Budget – Timing Is Everything

When planning your Florida Keys vacation, timing is everything. Picking the right season to come and deciding on your mode of transportation can play a key role in staying within your budget. Here are a few tips:

The Best Season For Traveling:

• Off Season – May to November is considered the off season. Visitors can expect fewer people and lower rates on hotels and flights. Things tend to slow down on the keys, making it a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Low Season – September to November is the low season. There are few crowds, and hotel prices tend to be at their lowest, but there are plenty of activities to enjoy.

Best Ways To Travel:

• By Air – Some airlines have direct flights to Key West. Though they are often expensive, they may be the best option, especially during the off season.
• By Car – Skip flying into Key West and save money by planning a road trip from South Florida. Fly into Miami, if necessary, and enjoy a scenic car trip to Key West. The Overseas Highway has plenty of inexpensive activities to enjoy along the way, including John Pennekemp Park, Rain Barrel Artisan Village, and The Seven Mile Bridge.

Pro Tip: If traveling by car, pack a cooler full of drinks and snacks to help save money. Packed snacks will eliminate the need to stop at eateries for food or water.

3) Where To Stay In Key West On A Budget

If you have reward points, now may be the time to use them. Many brand hotels accept reward points. However, even if you don’t have any discounts to use, many hotels are budget-friendly. Some offer amenities, helping you to stretch your budget. From motels to inns, there are several choices for budget hotels. 

Top Hotel Choices:

• The Seashell Motel – The motel is located in Old Town Key West and offers low-cost rooms with air conditioning and small refrigerators.
• Hampton Inn – The Hampton Inn accepts reward points and also has budget-friendly rooms. The amenities include a pool, fitness center, free breakfast, and more.
• Ibis Bay Beach Resort – The resort offers breakfast and has a large outdoor pool, bar, hot tub, and beach access. 

Pro Tip: To get the best deal on a hotel, start looking early to get the best rooms and rates. Compare the rates on different travel sites and even contact the hotel directly to see what they offer.

4) Where To Eat In Key West On A Budget

You certainly do not want to come to the Florida Keys and not enjoy some of the best cuisine. However, you do not want to spend your food budget on one night out. Here are a few Key West restaurants that offer great food for reasonable prices. 

Restaurants:

• Pepe’s Cafe –  It is the oldest eatery in the Florida Keys and the second oldest in Florida. It is known for its reasonable prices and hearty meals. Check the website for coupons and deals. 
• Old Town Bakery – The family bakery is located in the historic district and serves fresh bread, pastries, sandwiches, and Cuban coffee. 
• Garbo’s Grill – It is a food stand run by a husband-wife team that serves delicious tacos and burritos. It is a must-visit for the budget-conscious foodie.
• Grocery Stores – There are several grocery stores scattered throughout Key West. Get a cold beer at Shorty’s Market or enjoy meeting locals while standing in line for a sandwich at 5 Brothers Grocery.

Pro Tip: Check for happy hour specials at restaurants you want to visit. It is a way to get great food and fun cocktails for less money.

5) Sunset Celebration Is A Must When Visiting Key West

Whether you are on a budget or not, there are activities that are a must when visiting Key West. One of those activities is the Sunset Celebration held in Mallory Square. Mallory Square, located in Old Town, has been the place to celebrate the sunset for generations.

Highlights:

• Admission – It’s free to watch the street performers and musicians. However, tipping is encouraged.
• Time – The festivities begin approximately 2 hours before sunset and continue well into the night.
• Food – There are plenty of food vendors for grabbing a snack or a late dinner.

Did You Know? According to legend, Tennessee Williams began the tradition of applauding the sunset at Mallory Square. He would come out with a gin and tonic to watch the setting sun.

6) Explore Key West’s Old Town

Key West’s Old Town is known for its history, vibrant culture, and beautiful architecture. Download the free walking tour guide and enjoy at your own pace. If you do not feel like walking and can spare a few bucks, hop on the Old Town Trolley and learn fascinating facts about the area. There are several places worth a stop along the way. 

• Southernmost Point – Visit the buoy that marks the southernmost point in the continental United States. It is the ideal place to get a social media-worthy picture. 
• Duval Street – It is one of the most popular streets in Key West. It has colorful buildings, unique shops, art galleries, restaurants, and bars. 
• Fort Zachary Taylor State Park –  The Civil War fort is a national historic site home to the largest Civil War armament anywhere in the world. It is also known for its natural beauty, nature trails, beach, and more.

Fun Fact: Fort Zachary Taylor was constructed to be used as a Naval Fort. Key West did not join the Confederacy with the rest of Florida. Instead, it stayed in the Union because of the Naval presence.

7) Key West On A Budget – Plenty Of More Free And Cheap Things To Do 

You do not need a lot of money to explore Key West. Enjoy plenty of fun and historical places that will keep your budget intact. From free beaches and cemeteries to museums and gardens, there are plenty of things to see and do while on a Key West vacation.

Highlights Of Places To Visit:

• Key West Shipwreck Museum – The Shipwreck Museum is the perfect place to channel your inner pirate. Learn about the shipwrecked Isaac Alberton, explore found treasures, climb the observation tower, and take in the views. Purchase discount tickets online. 
• Key West Cemetery – Go on a ghost tour. Download the free guide and check out the resting place of some of Key West’s oldest families and other historical sites. 
• West Martello Tower –  The tropical paradise, which is free to visit, was once a Civil War fort. Walk among the butterflies, explore the native wildflowers, and take in the lovely smells in the Perfume Garden. 
• Beach – Smathers Beach is Key West’s largest beach and known for its fun atmosphere and activities. 

Pro Tip: Check a place’s website before visiting. They are full of tips to make the visit the best it can be, which could help you save money. 

Having An Unforgettable Time In Key West Is Possible On A Budget

There is so much to do and see in Key West that staying on a budget will not be a problem. From going on self-guided tours to utilizing a restaurant’s happy hour menu, you will have an unforgettable time.

At Key West Boat Trips, we know staying on budget is necessary. We offer affordable tours so you can make lasting memories without breaking the bank.

Do not let your budget stop you from making memories. Book an affordable tour today!