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Best Sunset in Key West – Top 5 Places

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The best places to watch the Key West Sunset can be found in several spots depending on the atmosphere you prefer.

Key West sunsets are one of the most famous attractions on the island. Visitors and locals gather at the end of the day to watch the sun slowly sink below the horizon before the revelry of the night begins.

Honestly, the best sunset in Key West isn’t at the most popular spot in Mallory Square where the nightly sunset celebration is held.

If you want to see a beautiful Key West sunset without large crowds and the distractions of street performers at Mallory Square, then I know just the places you’ll want to seek out.

Best Places to See A Key West Sunset that isn't Mallory Square

 

Best Spots to See the Key West Sunset:

1. Sunset Pier

Sunset Pier in Key West is a great place to watch the sunset.

View of the Sunset Pier from the water.

The Ocean Key Resort’s Sunset Pier is a picturesque restaurant with colorful umbrellas and painted bar stools.

It can get crowded just before the sun begins to set, but not nearly as crowded as the adjacent Mallory Square. If you’re looking for an unobstructed view, arrive about an hour early to grab a bar stool along the railing which runs the length of the pier. Order an appetizer, your favorite cocktail and watch the sun disappear.

Located on the waterside of the Ocean Key Resort where Duval St. ends into the Gulf of Mexico, just north of Mallory Square.

Address: 0 Duval St, Key West, FL 33040

Where to see the Key West Sunset

 
 

2. Fort Zachary Taylor State Park

Fort Zachary Key West is the best spot for a quiet sunset viewing.

Fort Zachary is my favorite spot to watch the sunset in Key West. It’s quiet, peaceful and nothing to distract from nature’s evening show. Simply perch on a rock, a crooked tree or lay a towel down by the jetties for a completely unobstructed sunset view. Truly on of the best sunset spots in all of Key West.

Sunsets are considerably less crowded here and there is plenty of room to spread out along the waterfront. Adding to the beauty, sailing vessels traverse across the setting sun.

The park closes right after the sun goes down. If you want to walk on the beach or check out the fort, arrive at least an hour before sunset.

To get there, enter the Truman Annex on Southard St. Continue straight on Southard St. through the residential neighborhood. Follow the signs to Fort Zachary Taylor State Park.

Address:
Admission Fees:
$2.50 Pedestrians or bicyclists
$4.50 Single-occupant vehicle or motorcycle
$7.00 2 people in a car. Add .50 cents for each additional person

One of the best places to see the Key West sunset is from Fort Zachary Taylor

 
 

3. Casa Marina Resort

Hammock at the Casa Marina in Key West

A little known secret is you do not have to stay at the Casa Marina to enjoy their property. The beach bar and separate outdoor restaurant are open to everyone which includes the beach and piers. Spend the day swinging in one of their comfy hammocks and a waiter will bring your drink orders to you.

There are 2 piers that extend out from the Casa Marina property into the Atlantic Ocean. Walk out on the longest one, which is the western pier, for the best Key West sunset views. Grab your drink and enjoy the spectacular sunset show.

If you’d prefer to stay lounging, the beach view isn’t too shabby as the sun sets on the other side of the pier.

Address: 1500 Reynolds Street Key West, FL 33040

Sunset view from the Casa Marina in Key West

 
 

4. Bistro 245 Restaurant / Sunset Deck

Bistro 245 is a restaurant located in the Margaritaville Key West Resort with indoor and outdoor seating. The outdoor seating is right on the waterfront. Here you can enjoy a little more upscale meal while watching the sunset. Reservations for dinner are highly recommended.

If you’d prefer something a little more budget-friendly (and even better views) head upstairs to the Sunset Deck located on top of Bistro 245. Order a mojito and watch the sunset unfold in front of you.

Address: 245 Front St, Key West, FL 33040

Gorgeous sunsets from Bistro 245 in Key West

 
 

5. A Sunset Sail

Key West Sunset Sail is the perfect way to see the sunset.

I enjoy a sunset sail almost every year on my annual trek to Key West. It’s a wonderful change of pace from walking around the island and you get a completely different view of Key West.

The first 30-45 minutes of your sail, you’ll have a chance to look back at the island from the water. As your boat heads out the channel, you’ll sail past the Sunset Pier, Mallory Square and Fort Zachary Taylor.

On your way back, turn and watch the sun dip into the ocean. Once again, you’ll have a completely unobstructed view of a Key West sunset. Plus a sea breeze, water lapping along the side of the boat and a cocktail in your hand.

Get the best view of the sun setting in Key West out over the open ocean from a sailboat.

 
 
This little island is full of hustle and bustle with so many fun things to do and see. As the evening approaches I hope you’ll find yourself in one of these best places to see a Key West sunset, where you can relax and watch mother nature dazzle.

Honorable Mentions for the Best Places to Watch a Key West Sunset:

Sunset Key is a spectacular viewing location, but it requires reservations and a boat taxi to get there. It’s less convenient than all the other places on the list.

In Key West Harbor, most of the sunset view is obscured by various structures. If you’re in this area and want to get the best glimpse of the sunset, the far ends of the harbor are your best bet. Take a walk down by Dante’s at the North East end or head to Sunset Grill at the North West end.

More Information About Vacationing In Key West:

Top 5 Places for Shopping in Key West
Best Beaches in Key West (Truly Worth Visiting)
Key West Cemetery Self Guided Tour
Best Key West Happy Hours
Best Lunch in Key West and it’s On The Beach!
Best Place for Breakfast in Key West

 

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Best Places to See A Key West Sunset

No trip to Key West is complete without watching the spectacular sunset. Pick a great spot from this list and you’ll be sure to see a gorgeous Key West Sunset.

I love easy recipes and delicious desserts and happy to share with you my favorite recipes. My favorite places are tropical, family always comes first and I'm a cocktail enthusiast for sure!
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  1. Carolyn says:

    The sunsets are breath taking and the best you could ask for.

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