Kinda Key West

Question

Hello. I travel every year to Key West. This fall will be 21 consecutive years. I love it there and will continue to travel there. There once was a time when I was going twice a year. Once in the fall and once in early February.Staying at the Pier House and Southernmost mostly, but have stayed at other oceanfront hotels. The prices are what they are, but are too much for me to rent a monthly rental…. Leading to my question. I’m interested in renting a place for the month of February. My question is, What is similar to Key West ? I don’t want to rent a car ( other than occasional taxi or Uber), close too airport, restaurants and bars, and marinas within walking distance, and be on the water. Minus Key West Prices. I was looking at Treasure island and st Pete’s ( being close to airport ) but I’m curious as to what your opinion is. I’m early 50‘s and quiet is better than noise. Thanks for your thoughts.

Answer

If you’re looking for a Key West-like experience without the high prices, there are several spots in Florida that can give you the charm of coastal living with walkable amenities, calm surroundings, and access to the water.

Treasure Island and St. Pete Beach are both solid options. They offer beautiful beaches, some waterfront rentals, and a more relaxed pace compared to Key West. Both are also relatively close to airports (Tampa for St. Pete Beach and St. Pete-Clearwater for Treasure Island), which makes them convenient for monthly stays without a car. You’ll find a variety of restaurants and bars within walking or short drive distance, and marinas if boating is of interest.

Treasure Island: Smaller town, quieter than St. Pete Beach, good selection of oceanfront condos and rentals, walkable restaurants and bars along Gulf Blvd, small marinas nearby.
St. Pete Beach: Larger and a bit busier, but still relaxed compared to Key West, plenty of oceanfront rentals, some boutique shops and eateries within walking distance, close to the airport (TPA about 45 min drive).
Anna Maria Island: North of Sarasota, very charming and quiet, limited nightlife but lots of local restaurants, small-town feel, beautiful beaches, and water access, though a car is slightly more needed for exploring fully.
Longboat Key: Exclusive and serene, quieter than Key West, some waterfront rentals, small number of restaurants within walking distance, more of a retreat feel.
Fort Myers Beach or Sanibel Island: Calm, walkable areas with water access, some nice rentals on the water, small-town charm, not as bustling as Key West, can be quieter in February.

All of these areas provide a mix of convenience, walkability, and water access, without the nonstop nightlife or high Key West prices. February is generally a quiet time outside of peak holiday weeks, so you can enjoy a more peaceful stay. If avoiding a car is important, Treasure Island or St. Pete Beach are likely the most practical choices because they are compact, have walkable amenities, and taxi/Uber services are readily available.

In conclusion, while nothing can fully replicate Key West’s vibe, these alternatives give you beach access, waterfront rentals, and a walkable lifestyle, with lower cost and a quieter atmosphere suitable for a month-long stay.

Kinda Key West

More Florida (FL) Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions