The Absolute Best Places to Watch a Sunset in Key West

Looking forward to a colorful evening in Key West? Vibrant hues of red, orange, and pink take over the western sky every eventing as the sun sinks below the horizon. It’s truly a sight to behold. That said, here are our recommendations for the best spots to catch the sunset.

[Key Weird: Celebrate Sunset and Eyeing the Green Flash]

Key West’s Waterfront Restaurants

Order a drink  at a waterfront restaurant and enjoy the sensory experience of a Key West sunset. Along the Key West Bight Marina at the Key West Historic Seaport, El Mesón de Pepe’s Restaurant and Bar, Half Shell Raw Bar, and Schooner Wharf Bar are all excellent options. On the other side of the island, take a seat at the Southernmost Beach Café. The restaurant on the Atlantic end of Duval Street lets you dine with your toes in the sand as you admire the Key West sunset from the southernmost point of the United States.

Mallory Square

Mallory Square is practically synonymous with the words “Key West Sunset,” not just for its views, but for its nightly Sunset Celebration. Arrive a few hours early to claim your spot and see a whole host of Key West characters and performers. Be warned, it does get crowded. It’s one of the top things to do here in Key West!

Fort Zachary Taylor Park

For a more low-key sunset, try Fort Zach - it’s where the locals go! Located on the west end of the island, Fort Zach has one of the best beaches in all of Key West. It's as far west as you can get on the island, so the sunset views are sublime. Stretch out on the beach and watch the sun descend over the Gulf.

Sunset Cruise

Now, if you’re looking for a more of a party with the Key West sunset in the background, book a sunset cruise on the Fury Watersports’ catamaran. Our favorite is their “Commotion on the Ocean” Sunset Cruise. Your cruise includes live music, drinks, appetizers, and an underway anchorage for great views and an even better ambience.

24 North Hotel

24 North Hotel is situated at Key West’s port of entry and is just 10 minutes from the airport. Located in New Town, the hotel is a nice refuge from Duval Street and our shuttle service to Old Town is a convenient way to avoid the sunset traffic around Mallory Square. Although, you don’t have to go anywhere to Key West’s spectacular sunset - it’s visible from right here on our property. Book an Ocean View Suite to see it for yourself.

Planning a trip to Key West? Enjoy all the perks of 24 North Hotel and see which of our special offers works for you. Families will love our new Tropical Retreat Package which includes beach essentials, tropical cocktails for parents, kid-friendly snacks, a curated list of activities, and exclusive discounts on our private poolside cabana rentals.

See what our past guests had to say:

“This location was actually amazing! Everyone there was incredible including the bartender within the lounge. The view was spectacular, especially for the sunset over the water, and they have free shuttle to Duval area which was perfect.” - Stephen Collins, Google

“I really enjoyed my stay at 24 North Hotel! The view was amazing and I was able to take gorgeous sunset photos!” - tassiewhatley, TripAdvisor

“Great location. Hotel, pool, and hourly transportation to the sunset was great.” - Gayle, Google

“We enjoyed the sunrise and sunset views from our room. Room was clean, bed was comfortable. The bus shuttle to downtown was very useful as we didn’t have to worry about parking. We’ll definitely go back.” - mahajanati, TripAdvisor

“This IS the best place to stay while in Key West!...Every other hotel was way overpriced and booked. We stopped at 24 North Hotel and…were able to stay in paradise for a few nights. We found that from this hotel you get a better view of the sunset and sunrise than anywhere else on the island. Thanks to everyone here, we had a wonderful time.” - Mike Camp, Google