The 10 Best Scenic Views and Instagrammable Spots in Key West
There are certain places around the world that just love to be photographed. Key West, Florida is definitely in the conversation when it comes to Insta-worthy spots that a camera’s lens just can’t get enough of. Check out our list of some of the best places to snap some memorable moments in the Conch Republic!
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Entertainment SOUTHERNMOST POINT
When it comes to one of the most scenic and photographed spots on the island, this one ranks high on just about any list. Standing as big as day on the corner of Whitehead & South Streets, is a decoratively painted, hulking mass of stone known as the Southernmost Point marker. Fashioned to look like a buoy, this is where the Instagram crowd waits their turn to take a pic of this landmark and the turquoise sea that stretches for 90 miles to Cuba behind it. A lot happened around this seawall back in the day from vendors hawking seafood to a Bahamian guy known as the Bishop who once entertained passers-by with his exceptional ‘conch-playing.’ He is remembered fondly with a bronze statue located here.
SUNSET CELEBRATION AT MALLORY SQUARE
This Insta-worthy nighttime event brings together a great many people to Mallory Square and makes for a lively evening of community by the water. This Key West tradition of saluting the sun on its way beneath the horizon is a prime photo op to capture the brilliance of the island’s legendary sunsets. Golden strands streak through the sky interwoven amongst brilliant pink and purple hues that make for some eye-popping Instagram content!
DRY TORTUGAS NATIONAL PARK
This unusual and magical island oasis, located 70 miles west of Key West, is one of the most unique (and Insta-worthy) national parks in the United States. The centerpiece of the island is an old, decommissioned military fort from the Civil War-era that was once the largest of its kind in the United States Navy. This hexagonal fortress, made of over 16 million bricks, is a photographer’s dream offering an endless variety of ways to shoot it. The scenic views surrounding the fort are also excellent with its quiet, virtually undisturbed beaches, migrating birds and marine life. But, there’s only one way to get there. Book your trip to paradise on the Yankee Freedom III, Key West’s only state-of-the-art, high-speed catamaran making daily trips to the Dry Tortugas.
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GREETINGS FROM KEY WEST MURAL
Well before Instagram was a thing (or the internet, for that matter) people would share their travels with others through postcards. German-born printer Curt Teich designed the classic “Greetings from..” style of postcard that is instantly recognizable to all generations. Located at 284 Margaret Street next to the Sails to Rails Museum is a mural done in the same vintage style. This is a great photo spot that lets everyone know exactly where you’ve been!
EL MESON DE PEPE
This restaurant is exactly where you want to be when the sun goes down! Located mere feet from the seawall in Mallory Square, El Meson de Pepe is the perfect spot to kick back, relax, and snap some sweet sunset pics in between sips of the island’s best mojitos! The food and ambiance here are Insta-worthy as well. Snap some action shots of people moving to the salsa rhythms of the house band or add a little food porn to your Insta mix by sharing the best Cuban sandwich you’ve ever had!
DUVAL STREET AT NIGHT
Old Town Key West’s main thoroughfare was named after Florida’s first territorial governor, William Pope Duval. If Old Bill were alive today, he would be very pleased with the notoriety the street of his namesake has earned. For an Insta-worthy night out on the town and a whole other kind of scenic view, Duval Street is the place to be! There’s a lot to train your camera eye on this historically designated 1.25-mile stretch like beautiful Bahamian and Spanish influenced Victorian mansions, groovy bungalows, and the always captivating sidewalk people traffic.
TOP OF THE KEY WEST SHIPWRECK TREASURE MUSEUM
Relive Key West’s glory days of “Wrecking” (the practice of salvaging valuable items from sunken ships) as you explore two floors of shipwreck artifacts and treasures dating from the Spanish galleons of the 17th and 18th centuries, through the merchant ships of the 1800s to modern day. In addition to the Shipwreck museum, the 65-foot watchtower is even more Insta-worthy. From this perch, you’ll enjoy 360-degree scenic views of the Conch Republic just begging to be photographed!
MILE MARKER ZERO
The northbound corridor of United States US Route 1 stretches and winds for almost 2,500 miles to the edge of the Canadian border. And its origins are located right here in Key West. A selfie at this photo spot is a rite of passage and a must-have for your island-friendly Instagram. The iconic green and white ‘Mile 0’ sign became so popular that an opportunistic t-shirt shop owner was able to trademark it after a lengthy and expensive court battle.
PARASAIL WITH FURY WATER ADVENTURES
On a Fury Water Adventure, the sky is literally the limit! Strap in and take to the skies, high above the crystal waters of Key West, and get treated to scenic views worthy of anyone’s Instagram! The trip includes a ride on a state-of-the art watercraft and even allows for parasailing of up to three people (weight restrictions apply.) For an added bonus, you can ask for an exhilarating dip in the ocean before rocketing back skyward to play amongst the clouds!
KEY WEST GHOST TOUR
Many find Key West strange during the day; but after the sun goes down, the restless souls of the island’s frightful past begin to stir. You will hear their tales that have been all but forgotten as you travel the narrow, dark streets of Old Town – filled with 19th century wooden houses that hold on to the secrets of their former inhabitants. Stories so tragic, so chilling, you’ll see why Key West is one of the top ten most haunted cities in America. This and more await you on your Key West Ghosts & Gravestones tour.
HIGGS BEACH PIER
Hit this beach for an Insta-worthy, Key West day at the beach! The picturesque scenes here make it popular among destination wedding planners and locals love it too. The white sand and wooden pier make ideal photo spots (and the sunbathing isn’t too shabby, either!) The beach also offers umbrella rentals for those who prefer to doze in the shade as well as tennis courts, a restaurant, volleyball courts and more!
SEE IT ALL ON OLD TOWN TROLLEY TOURS
The friendly and knowledgeable conductors on America’s favorite Trolley Tour will take you on a fully narrated journey filled with humor and history as you explore all the major Instagrammable sights of the Conch Republic. This entertaining spin through the heart of sunny and scenic Key West includes highlights like the historic waterfront, Simonton & Greene Streets in the city’s Old Town, Bahama Village, and the East Martello Fort to name just a few. This is our top recommendation for acquainting yourself with many of the Insta-worthy spots previously mentioned.
Sails to Rails Museum
Embark on a journey through Key West’s maritime past at the captivating Sails to Rails Museum. Discover the transition from sailboats to steamships and railways that shaped the island’s history. Explore artifacts, lift a real silver bar, and delve into maritime tales. Immerse yourself in Key West’s heritage with a Fort Jefferson diorama, offering a glimpse into its strategic importance.
Of the many things, like colorful, compelling, shareable imagery, that make up an Instagram account worth following, Key West checks off all the boxes. With so many scenic views to choose from and a contagious island vibe, you should make sure to keep your photographic devices charged so you don’t miss a thing!
