Key West 4th of July Activity Guide
Your Ultimate Guide to 4th of July 2025 in Key West
Planning to spend Independence Day in paradise? Key West throws one of the most unforgettable July 4th celebrations in the country — complete with fireworks over the ocean, live music in the streets, beach days, and bucket-list watersports. Let’s dive into the must-do tours, land-based events, and top watersports activities to make your July 4th celebration one to remember.
Featured 4th of July Fireworks Experience
July 4th Fireworks Cruise
Hands down the #1 way to watch the fireworks in Key West is to jump on a catamaran and see them from the water. There is no better or closer way to experience them. The fireworks are set off so they go right over the boats. Many of these trips have live music, food and open bars. These do sell out every year so you need to book this in advance. 👉 More Info On Fireworks Cruises
Best locations to watch the 4th of July Fireworks In Key West
The official Key West fireworks display kicks off around 9:00 PM at White Street Pier (Edward B. Knight Pier). You will not be able to go on the pier as it will be completely blocked off. So where should you go to watch them? We have compiled a list of our top spots to watch the fireworks. It doesn’t matter which location you choose, they all will be packed, so get there early.
Key West 4th of July fireworks viewing locations
- Fireworks Cruises: If there are any spots available left on the fireworks cruises, grab them now! This is a really cool way to experience the 4th of July in Key West. Imagine having your personal bartenders serving you unlimited drinks on a boat as the fireworks go off right over your heads. This is by far the best way to see the show. Here is a list of Key West’s best fireworks cruises.
- Higgs Beach Pier: Grab a spot along this intimate pier and dangle your feet over the water as the fireworks shoot out over the ocean. Please note, this is not a large pier. It typically cannot hold more than 50 people.
- Higgs Beach: Grab a blanket or a chair and reserve your spot early. This beach fills up fast and is one of the most popular locations. This will be a shoulder to shoulder viewing location. Walking or biking over to this location is highly advised as there is limited parking and the police will shut down the road early.
- Rest Beach: This location is right next to Higgs Beach, but much smaller. All of the recommendations for the Higgs Beach location hold true for this location as well.
- Smathers Beach: Smathers Beach might be the most underrated viewing location. This is Key West’s largest beach and will have tons of space to view the show. Parking is much easier at Smathers Beach as well. It is a little farther away from the show but allows for a much more comfortable viewing, parking and less traffic.
4th of July Key West Events
Key Lime Pie Eating Contest (Key Lime Festival)
Only in Key West can you celebrate the 4th with your face in a pie. This iconic event happens at the Southernmost Beach Café on July 4th as part of the Key Lime Festival, which runs July 3–7. 👉 More Info
Rotary Club 5K Run/Walk
Start your holiday early with a festive 5K that kicks off at 7:30 AM from White Street Pier. You’ll burn some calories before the cocktails and fireworks roll in. 👉 More Info
Duval Street Bar Crawl
Spend the day (or night) hopping between Duval Street’s famous bars, from Sloppy Joe’s to Smokin’ Tuna and The Green Parrot.
Pro Tip: Grab a Party Pass Key West to get free drinks and BOGO cocktails at 20+ bars. 👉 Get the Party Pass
Watersports Adventures for July 4th Weekend
Top overall 4th of July activity: 4th of July Sandbar Charters
Escape the crowds and float into paradise. These 3-hour trip takes you to a remote sandbar where you can swim, sip unlimited drinks, and soak up the sun. 👉 Book the Sandbar Trip
Best 4th of July activity for the family: Do It All Watersports Adventure
Ready for non-stop fun? This all-day experience includes 10 watersports like jet skiing, parasailing, snorkeling, paddleboarding, banana boat rides, and more. It’s the best value watersports combo in Key West. 👉 Check Out the Do It All
Next Key West Tip: Happy Hour At The Sandbar In Key West
