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Best Place to Watch Sunset in Key West
Best place to watch sunset in Key West sets the stage for enjoying this amazing and fantastically unique island paradise. Whether you’re looking to take in the view with a romantic partner, enjoy the beauty of nature, or immerse yourself in the fun… there are some amazing spots to watch sunset in Key West.
The sun sets in the west. And Key West is… west! It’s the most southern tip of the continental United States, and jets out into the Gulf of Mexico. For the best Key West sunsets, stick to the west side of the island.
What’s the best spot on the west side of the island? Our favorite is Mallory Square at Sunset! But we’ll also share a few more great locations as well.
Mallory Square at Sunset
Located at the westernmost point of the island, Mallory Square offers a front-row seat to nature’s nightly spectacle. Every night at sunset, there is a huge gathering often referred to as the “Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square”. Visitors to the island, food vendors, musicians, artists and street performers all gather to watch the sunset and join in the fun.
The atmosphere at Mallory Square is electric, filled with anticipation and awe as visitors and locals alike gather for this daily ritual. Street performers, artists, and musicians add to the vibrant ambiance.
The panoramic view from Mallory Square allows you to soak in the uninterrupted beauty of the horizon as the sun gradually disappears into the ocean. Whether you’re seeking a romantic moment or a shared memory with friends and family, Mallory Square at sunset is a truly magical place that will leave you captivated by the natural wonders of Key West.
The good:
It’s free, fun and easy to get to! Walk west on Duval Street towards the ocean. You can’t miss it!
The bad:
Parking can be a challenge. There are a few parking lots, but they fill up fast. And if you park where you shouldn’t, you’ll get a ticket. Walk, ride a bike or rent a scooter for the easiest way to get around.
Sunset Pier at Ocean Key Resort
Sunset Pier at Ocean Key Resort is another great place to watch the sun set in Key West. It’s part of the Ocean Key Resort, so grab a drink at the bar, or sit down and eat a romantic meal as you watch as the sun set across the ocean.
It’s the north part of Mallory Square, also super easy to find. Duval Street and head through the Mallory Square parking lot towards the ocean, and hang a right.
Fort Zachary Taylor State Park
Truman Waterfront Park, and any spot in this huge Florida State Park located on the west side along the ocean, will be a great spot to watch the sunset.
Sunset Key
There’s an island just west of Mallory Square called Sunset Key. You can’t miss it, it will be in front of you as you’re watching the sun set. Everyone always asks what that place is! It’s a 5 star resort… Sunset Key Cottages. It’s a privately owned island resort with a white sandy beach and the most westernly unobstructed sunset view.
It’s just a 7 minute boat ride from the Mallory Square area, and the island has everything you need including fine dining, bar, beautiful pool and activities. If you want to check it out, here’s the official Sunset Key Cottages website here.
Southernmost Point
Southernmost Point is the southwest corner of the island, and the very tip of the continental United States. It’s marked by a huge iconic buoy that some say… if you don’t take a picture with it, you can’t prove you were actually in Key West!
Southernmost Point is a must-do for photos. But it’s not the best place to see the sunset. Anytime after breakfast a line starts to form and it’s not a place to simply hang out and enjoy the view. It’s more of a “take your photo then move” kinda spot. A small spot that does see the sunset but it’s the southern part of the island, so the view isn’t as unobstructed as the west side.
Want to see what Southernmost Point looks like right now? Check out the live Key West Southernmost Point webcam here.
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FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about Key West Sunsets
Q: What is the island in front of Mallory Square?
A: The island in front of Mallory Square is known as Sunset Key. Also referred to as Tank Island, this small, picturesque island is located just off the coast of Key West. Sunset Key is a private island resort that offers an exclusive getaway for visitors seeking luxury accommodations and a tranquil tropical setting. It boasts pristine beaches, lush vegetation, and stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. The island is accessible by a short 7 minute boat ride from Key West.
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Q: What is the best time to arrive at Mallory Square for sunset?
A: It is recommended to arrive at Mallory Square approximately 30 to 45 minutes before the scheduled sunset time. This allows you to secure a good spot along the waterfront and ensures that you have ample time to explore the vibrant atmosphere, enjoy street performances, and find the perfect vantage point to witness the stunning sunset. Arriving early also gives you the opportunity to savor the local cuisine from the nearby food vendors and grab a refreshing beverage to enhance your sunset-watching experience.
Q: Are there any specific safety precautions to keep in mind while watching the sunset at Mallory Square?
A: While watching the sunset at Mallory Square is a delightful experience, it’s important to keep a few safety precautions in mind. As the area can get crowded, it’s advisable to secure your belongings and keep an eye on personal belongings at all times. Additionally, it’s a good idea to wear comfortable footwear, as the waterfront area may have uneven surfaces. If you plan to take photographs, be cautious of your surroundings and respect the space of others. Lastly, stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunscreen and a hat.
Q: Are there any alternative spots to watch the sunset in Key West?
A: While Mallory Square is renowned for its stunning sunsets, there are other locations in Key West that offer equally mesmerizing views. Fort Zachary Taylor State Park, also located on the west side of the island, offers fantastic sunset viewing. There are also several private resorts located along the west side of the island that offer excellent sunset views as well.