Off the Beaten Path Things to Do in Key West
Local Favorites, Hidden Adventures & Laid-Back Island Vibes
Think you’ve seen all that Key West has to offer? Think again. The Conch Republic is filled with tucked-away gems that most visitors miss, from waterfront dives with killer views to sandbars so secluded, you’d think they were your own private island.
Whether you’re a repeat visitor or a curious first-timer, here’s your local-approved list of off-the-beaten-path restaurants, bars, and tours in Key West.
🍽️ Hidden Gem Restaurants in Key West
🌅 Stock Rock Café
A casual waterfront shack next to the marina, perfect for a cold beer and some killer views. With daily manatee sightings and waterfront tiki atmosphere, this place is a must visit stop on your visit to Key West. Expect laid-back vibes, live music, and locals kicking back after work.
📍 6840 Front St, Stock Island
📞 (305) 432-0084
🔗 stockrockcafe.com
🐟 Hogfish Bar & Grill
Located on Stock Island, this local legend serves up fresh seafood and a true old-Keys atmosphere, no frozen fish, no fluff, just flavor. Try the namesake Hogfish sandwich (trust us).
📍 6810 Front St, Stock Island
📞 (305) 293-4041
🔗 hogfishbar.com
🌊 Salute! On The Beach
A toes-in-the-sand beachside restaurant on Higgs Beach serving Caribbean-Italian fusion. It’s perfect for lunch with a view or cocktails at sunset.
📍 1000 Atlantic Blvd, Key West
📞 (305) 292-1117
🔗 saluteonthebeach.com
🦞 The Lobster Shack
Tucked just steps from the Southernmost Point, this tiny spot packs a big flavor punch. Get the spicy lobster roll and a fresh coconut water straight from the shell.
📍 507 South St, Key West
📞 (305) 741-7149
🔗 lobstershackkeywest.com
☕ Frenchies Café
This cozy French-owned café serves authentic pastries, croque madames, espresso, and daily specials. Quietly nestled in Old Town and always worth the stop.
📍 529 United St, Key West
📞 (305) 396-7124
🔗 frenchiescafe.com
🍹 Offbeat Key West Bars & Local Watering Holes
🌴 Sunset Tiki Bar at The Galleon Resort
Tucked away behind the Galleon, this bar offers the best waterfront sunset views in town without the crowds. Grab a frozen drink and chill on the dock with live music.
📍 617 Front St, Key West
📞 (305) 296-5000
🔗 Sunset Tiki
🏴☠️ Pirate Cove Bar
A hidden bar at the marina on Stock Island with strong drinks, friendly locals, and the occasional chicken wandering through. A perfect stop after a boat trip.
📍 6810 Front St, Stock Island
📞 (305) 292-9982
🔗 Pirate’s Cove Bar
🍿 Chart Room Bar
Inside the Pier House Resort, this divey little bar has a ton of character, think free popcorn and peanuts and a guestbook full of stories. A secret spot with serious history.
📍 1 Duval St, Key West
📞 (305) 296-4600
🔗 pierhouse.com
🌈 22&Co
Quirky, glitter-filled, and outrageously fun. Think martinis topped with cotton candy and a vibe that’s part drag show, part speakeasy. One of the most unique bar experiences on the island.
📍 504 Angela St, Key West
📞 (305) 395-0213
🔗 facebook.com/22andCo
🚤 Open Bar Sandbar Charter
It’s not just a bar — it’s a floating party. Book this all-inclusive sandbar trip with a real open bar on board. Music, drinks, and one of Key West’s best views.
📍 Departs from 201 William St, Key West
📞 (305) 296-2554
🔗 sunsetwatersportskeywest.com
🚤 Off the Beaten Path Key West Tours
🛶 Backcountry Kayak Tour
Paddle through mangrove tunnels and hidden creeks in the Florida Marine Sanctuary. Quiet, scenic, and loaded with wildlife — this is one of the Keys’ most peaceful adventures.
📍 201 William St, Key West
📞 (305) 296-2554
🔗 Key West Kayak Tour
🌊 Safari Eco Tour (Drive-Your-Own Mini Boat)
This small-group tour lets you captain your own boat through secluded areas of the backcountry. Explore mangroves, see wildlife, and enjoy a fast-paced but safe adventure.
📍 201 William St, Key West
📞 (305) 296-2554
🔗 Safari Eco Tour
🍹 Happy Hour at the Sandbar Tour
The newest and most laid-back way to end your day. This happy hour cruise takes you to a local sandbar with music, drinks, and good vibes — a floating tiki experience without the crowds.
📍 201 William St, Key West
📞 (305) 296-2554
🔗 Sandbar Happy Hour Trip
🛥️ Custom Private Small Group Charter
Build your dream day on the water. Snorkel, fish, visit secret sandbars, rope swings — you name it. Perfect for birthdays, bachelor/bachelorette parties, or families who want a 100% personalized experience.
📍 201 William St, Key West
📞 (305) 296-2554
🔗 Private Custom Charters
Next Key West Tip: Happy Hour At The Sandbar In Key West
