Holiday and birthday gift-giving gets harder as children get older. They outgrow the toys of childhood yet you still want to recognize important days. Giving the gift of travel does more than offer them a good time. It also expands their world and allows them to build memories with you that last a lifetime. Key West is a great destination for tweens, teens, and even your grown kids. Here are just a few reasons why it stands out.
Easy Travel
As kids get older, their schedules become more complicated. Between sports, dating, school breaks, and work, it can be a challenge to make travel arrangements without tearing your hair out. Fortunately, Key West is convenient to get to. It’s just a few hours’ drive south of Miami. Connecting flights can be arranged from every major airport. And plenty of marina space even gives you the option of boating to Key West. The point is, no matter how far apart your family is–with college or jobs–it’s easy to get to Key West, making this an accessible trip.
Budget-Friendly Accommodations
Of course, older kids will want their own rooms, and Key West offers plenty of options for accommodations that fit your preferences. From high-end luxury resorts that offer spacious suites to vacation home rentals and even campgrounds, there’s something for every family’s vacation style. Consider the pros and cons of going big; while you might spend more at a resort spa, the convenience of on-site dining and plentiful amenities like pools, beach access, and activities may be worth it. Smaller lodging options allow for cozier living and the low-key, peaceful vibe may be a better fit to slow down from your usual hectic lives. Regardless of what you choose, you’ll find Key West is a welcoming community where you’ll feel at ease and able to truly relax.
Exciting Activities
From snorkeling to fishing, swimming, kayaking, and even sandbar charters, Key West has plenty to do on and in the water. Make your first stop at Dry Tortugas National Park. It’s a quick ferry ride from Key West and offers world-class snorkeling among its attractions. The calm water and high level of visibility make it ideal for novice and experienced snorkelers to explore together. Well-known underwater landmarks include distinctive coral reefs and old shipwrecks. Above the water, you can tour the historic fort located here, kayak around the small islands that make up the park and swim at the beach.
Another reason Key West is so popular with travelers is fishing. There are dozens of types of fish that frequent these waters year-round, so the fishing season is always in effect. You’ll find that booking a charter fishing trip with All In Fishing Charters is the way to go as a non-local. You don’t need to worry about bringing anything but yourselves. All fishing gear, permits, and licenses are covered. Experience flats, deep sea, reef, and wreck fishing from a comfortable vessel served by a friendly and experienced crew who are committed to ensuring you have a good time.
If you’ve never experienced a sandbar charter, Key West is the ideal spot for it. Your boat captain will take you to one of the many hidden sandbar gems in Key West. Swim, sunbathe, and play in the water as the exclusive guests on a local sandbar. Crystal waters, bright sunshine, and even over-water swings make this a unique experience that you’ll remember for a long time.
Fine and Casual Dining
Key West has plenty of fine and casual dining options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, so you’ll always find something to tempt you. It’s been the crossroads of many cultural influences, so whether you enjoy familiar American dishes or like to explore Italian, Greek, Caribbean, Cuban, Mexican, Vietnamese, Chinese, French or Mediterranean dishes, you’ll find it in Key West. Among the stand-out restaurants is Eaton Street Seafood Market and Restaurant. It’s located in Old Key West and the art deco style makes it immediately recognizable. Comfortable outdoor seating is available, and menu items are also available to go. Shop for fresh fish and shellfish or order prepared-for-you dishes like grilled lobster, fish tacos, and conch fritters. Eaton Street uses only the day’s best catch for freshness and flavor, and its award-winning recipes keep customers coming back again and again.
Key West: A Gift That Lasts
When you’re out of ideas for growing or grown children, consider travel as a unique and enjoyable experience. It honors their milestone birthdays and recognizes the holidays your family celebrates while also giving you a chance to strengthen your relationships. Key West offers such a variety of things to do so that you’re practically guaranteed a great time whether you book for a weekend, a week or longer. So the next time a gift-giving occasion is around the corner, think Key West.
