7 nights - split or stay in one place?

Question

Hi there.

We are coming from the UK to Florida Keys for 7 nights, arriving 7th November, flying into Miami Intl.

Originally, I had planned to do 4 nights in Islamorada (Three Waters Resort) and the 3 nights Key West (not booked yet..) but now I'm thinking about it, I wonder if it might be better just to do the full 7 nights on Islamorada and do a day trip to Key West.

I'm not big on night life, we much prefer quiet with nice food and drink, I love wildlife and I'm most excited to see wild iguanas and hopefully a manatee, the only place that I have to see in KW is Hemmingway's house, I haven't come across anything else that particular draws me there yet also the butterfly sanctuary looks nice. I probably would enjoy mooching around the shops and streets of Old Town as well. We are in no rush to get back for a flight as we are taking a cruise that leaves from Miami on Saturday 15th, so will be staying on Miami on the Friday 14th night.

What are your thoughts?

Answer

It sounds like you're planning a wonderful trip to the Florida Keys! Both Islamorada and Key West offer distinct experiences, so your choice will depend on what kind of atmosphere you’re looking for during your vacation. Based on your preferences for quiet surroundings, wildlife, and a relaxed pace, here’s my take on the two options:

Staying in Islamorada for the Full 7 Nights: Since you’re not big on nightlife and enjoy quiet surroundings, Islamorada could be a perfect home base for the entire trip. Islamorada is known for its laid-back atmosphere, beautiful natural scenery, and access to some great wildlife experiences, making it an ideal location if you prefer a peaceful environment. Here are some reasons why this might work well for you:

Wildlife and Nature: Islamorada offers plenty of opportunities to see wildlife, including wild iguanas, manatees, and birds. You can take a boat tour or visit nearby nature reserves for the best chances to spot manatees and other marine life. You can also enjoy scenic hikes or explore the area's beaches and mangroves.
Quiet and Relaxed Atmosphere: Islamorada has a more relaxed vibe compared to Key West. With quiet resorts like Three Waters Resort, you can unwind without the hustle and bustle of a tourist-heavy destination. The focus is more on nature, water sports, and local dining, which sounds like exactly what you're after.
Dining and Drinks: Islamorada has a range of excellent restaurants that offer fresh seafood and island-inspired cuisine. You’ll find plenty of low-key places where you can enjoy good food and drinks, including waterfront dining spots with beautiful views. No need for a hectic nightlife scene!
Day Trip to Key West: Since you mentioned wanting to see Hemingway’s House and explore the shops in Old Town, a day trip to Key West could be a perfect compromise. It’s about a 2-hour drive from Islamorada, and with your itinerary, you can make the most of a relaxed day trip. You’ll have enough time to see the sights you’re interested in and still return to Islamorada in the evening for some quiet downtime.

Staying Split Between Islamorada and Key West: This option would allow you to experience both destinations, but it may feel a bit rushed if you're after a more laid-back experience. Key West is definitely more lively, with a bigger focus on tourism, nightlife, and crowds. While you would have the chance to explore the areas you're interested in (Hemingway’s House, the butterfly sanctuary, Old Town), it could mean less relaxation time for you. Here's what to consider:

Key West's Liveliness: Key West is vibrant and full of energy, with plenty of bars, restaurants, and entertainment. It’s a lot more touristy compared to Islamorada, and if you're not keen on the crowds and nightlife, this might detract from the peaceful vacation you’re seeking.
Shorter Time in Each Place: Splitting your time means you’ll have to pack up and move around, which could take away from the relaxation you’re hoping for. Plus, Key West’s attractions are spread out, and you might not have enough time to explore everything you want without feeling rushed.
Travel Time: The drive from Islamorada to Key West is about 2 hours one way, so you'd spend around 4 hours of your 3-night stay just driving back and forth. If you're fine with that, it’s doable, but it might eat into your sightseeing time in Key West.

My Recommendation: Based on your preferences for a peaceful environment, wildlife, and a relaxed pace, I recommend staying the full 7 nights in Islamorada and doing a day trip to Key West. This way, you can enjoy everything Islamorada has to offer without feeling rushed. Key West is great for a day trip if you want to see Hemingway’s House, the butterfly sanctuary, and the shops, but for the bulk of your vacation, Islamorada provides a perfect setting for relaxation and wildlife experiences. You can always make the drive to Key West early in the day and return in the evening to unwind in a quieter environment.

In conclusion, a full 7-night stay in Islamorada with a Key West day trip offers the best of both worlds—nature and wildlife in a peaceful setting, with the chance to visit the highlights of Key West without committing to a more chaotic stay there. Enjoy your trip to the Florida Keys!

7 nights - split or stay in one place?

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