Welcome to Key West, the ideal vacation spot for clear-water beaches, beautiful coral, and a touch of Caribbean culture without needing to leave the U.S. There are so many fun things to do in Key West in August. While summer brings higher heat, it also brings fewer crowds and lower hotel rates. August is the perfect time to plan your vacation.
Key West offers an island paradise mixed with Caribbean culture and a laid-back vibe. No matter if you’re a history buff, water enthusiast or just seeking a relaxing vacation at a stunning beach, there are many attractions, restaurants, and events to fit all tastes. Take a boat tour among the sandbars, or soak up the most stunning sunsets. There are so many reasons to visit Key West in August.
A tour we think you'll love
So prepare your luggage, gather your loved ones, and brace yourself for an unforgettable experience as you spend this August in Key West.
1) Take A Boat Tour To See The Most Stunning Sunsets
Key West has amazing sunsets, and the summer is the perfect time to see them. If you’re looking for amazing sunset views and smaller crowds, a boat tour is the ideal choice. Travel through the backcountry waters and enjoy the peace as you stand in the middle of the ocean and enjoy the views.
You can book one of our preplanned boat tours to catch that sunset. Or take advantage of our other options such as hopping sandbars in Key West, or going on a Mangrove Safari. We specialize in small group tours that offer a range of activities away from the larger crowds, helping you find the perfect sandbar for relaxing in a little slice of paradise.
We also cater to your taste buds with some delicious food options, making your sandbar boat tour a completely tantalizing experience. Let’s make unforgettable memories together! Join us for the boat tour of a lifetime!
2) Immerse Yourself One Of The Lively Events Or Festivals In Key West
Key West in August seems to come alive with a vibrant calendar of events and festivals. Be sure to check what’s happening during your stay:
The Key West Lobster Fest
Celebrate the lobster season with this ten-day event that is held from late July to early August. Enjoy the food, live music, and family-friendly activities.
Rum Fest Key West
The inaugural Key West Rum Fest breaks onto the scene August 14-18. If you’re a rum enthusiast run on down and indulge in tasting some of the best rum from over 100 brands. This paired with live music and food vendors is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the lively street fair vibe of this Key West festival.
Bear & Burton’s Rub and Tug Invitational
Looking to take part in a fun event that also has a strong purpose? The Rub and Tug Invitational isn’t your normal competition. This three-day, three-leg event focuses on friendly competition, good food, and supporting a good cause. Competitors will take part in a tournament consisting of fishing, lobster diving, and a mini-BBQ festival to raise donations. At this year’s 2nd Annual Rub and Tug Invitational, they hope to surpass last year’s efforts of raising $50,000 for the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation. Go down and enjoy the competition, food, and support a good cause along the way.
Don’t miss out on the fun: Key West festivals in August bring about lots of lively streets and great food. Take a look at some of these amazing festivals and you’ll be sure to have a vacation bursting with unique experiences and delicious indulgences.
3) This Season Brings The Perfect Weather For Water Activities
The Key West weather in August boasts sunny days and calm seas, making it a great time to venture out away from the sandy beaches and enjoy some water activities, maybe even observe some sea life.
The weather is great for activities like these:
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Snorkeling
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Kayaking
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Diving
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Paddleboarding
Water sports offer a wide range of adventure and exercise at all different levels. If you’re willing to stretch your adventurous side and get a full-body workout, head over and try paddle boarding or kayaking.
Or maybe you are seeking less thrill and more peaceful exploration, snorkeling offers breathtaking views of marine life. Whichever you crave, there’s a water sport that lets you experience the beauty of the water while having a blast.
4) Florida Keys Cuisine
Key West offers a unique blend of culinary influences. They are immaculate at blending together a little of the Caribbean, a little Cuban, and a little local flair to make their cuisine top-tier.
What to try when you get there:
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Lobster: The lobster season starts at the end of July, making it the perfect time to try some freshly caught lobster. Head over to the landmark restaurant Blue Heaven or enjoy the ocean view at A&B Lobster House for some fresh local cuisine.
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Key Lime Pie: Always a hit! Who can visit the Florida Keys without trying the key lime pie? Find a slice of the traditional Key Lime Pie at Kermit’s Key Lime Pie Shop.
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Authentic Cuban Dishes: Since Key West is only about 90 miles from Cuba, it is no surprise that the area is heavily influenced by Cuban cuisine and heritage. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to savor the roasted garlic chicken or pulled pork platter at El Meson de Pepe Restaurant. The food here is just as exceptional as the inviting ambiance.
These are just a few examples of the amazing cuisine that you can find here in the Florida Keys. With a delicious fusion of fresh seafood, tropical flavors, and Cuban influences foodies of all adventure levels can delve into something that fits their pallet and excites their taste buds.
5) Relax On One Of The Stunning Beaches
If you are seeking a place to soak up the sun and enjoy crystal-clear water this summer, then you must hit one of the beaches. There are so many great choices in Key West. Each one with its unique feel and is always a great spot for kids to play and swim.
Take a pick from some of these amazing beaches you can only find here in Key West:
Dog Beach
If you’re bringing your furry friend for the trip, then you must hit Dog Beach. It is found on the Atlantic side of the island and is the only one where dogs are allowed to play off-leash.
Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
This beach is made up of crushed coral and it’s recommended that you wear shoes. Don’t let that deter you from visiting the historic fort, taking part in one of the many water sports, or soaking up the stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico.
Higgs Beach
Located on the Atlantic side of the island, you can find beautiful white beaches and calm waters. This makes it the perfect spot to beat the heat and go swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
Smathers Beach
If you’re not seeking smaller crowds, head on over to the largest public beach in Key West. Smathers Beach offers a place to relax, sunbathe, swim, or take part in many water activities. There are also volleyball courts, a concession stand, and restrooms available.
Bahia Honda State Park
For those seeking a hiking adventure during their trip, this is the perfect spot to explore. Located on the island of Bahia Honda Key, it is just a short drive from Key West and offers several hiking trails right along with its pristine white sand beaches and clear blue water.
Why Visit Key West In August?
While Key West offers sunshine and temperatures in the 70s and 80s most of the year, the winter months bring the tail end of hurricane season, which means it’s peak season for tourism. Even though winter does offer lower humidity, less rain, and storms, and is not part of hurricane season, it does coincide with higher hotel prices and larger crowds compared to the summer season.
August does fall in hurricane season, but it’s considered shoulder season. This means it’s the ideal time to find great deals on hotels and local attractions. Despite the occasional rainy days, hurricane season provides an excellent opportunity to indulge in the diverse array of restaurants and savor the local Key West cuisine.
Explore Key West And All It Has To Offer
So brave the storms and rainy days of hurricane season and head down to Key West this summer. Escape the peak season crowds and experience Key West at its most vibrant time. Savor succulent lobster, cool off with a slice of legendary pie, explore historic forts and vibrant coral reefs, or immerse yourself in the lively festivals.
Take advantage of the lower hotel rates during the off-season! There may be a little rain, but there will be plenty of sunshine as well. Key West offers a delightful blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery so whatever you choose to do in Key West, you will make memories to last a lifetime.
Join us on a boat tour and prepare to bask in breathtaking sunsets, explore sandbars, and embark on an unforgettable snorkeling adventure. Don’t miss out on the adventure of a lifetime – reserve your spot now!
