The Overseas Highway ends in the land of margaritas

South Beach is one of Key West's best sandy shores, thanks to its location right at the end of the island's main drag, Duval Street. That means that if you find yourself in need of more sunblock or a towel, or even a cold drink, you're only a few blocks away from a store or bar. Plus, the white sand, free public access, and awesome people-watching don't hurt either!

Unbelievably fresh seafood, delicious cocktails, and oceanfront seating make the Southernmost Beach Cafe the perfect place for pre-dinner drinks and apps or a relaxing meal. Enjoy shrimp and grits or fish tacos and the ocean breezes. If you don't like seafood, don't worry. They offer tons of other tasty options as well.

Key West has a really unique history: For a period in the mid-19th century, Key West had the wealthiest population per capita thanks to shipwreck salvagers! Learn about the island's past in an equally unique way at the Shipwreck Historeum. Artifacts from sunken ships, videos of divers exploring wrecks, and historical re-enactors tell the island's maritime history.

B.O.'s Fish Wagon is the perfect seafood shack. The funky, dive-y decor and delicious grub make this a must-visit. Local specialties such as conch, grouper and mahi-mahi are served in ceviche and tacos, and on sandwiches, or "seawiches", as they call them. Wash it all down with a cold beer or a Key Limeade as you unwind at a picnic table.

Away from the beach, in nearby Big Pine Key, you'll find the Blue Hole, a freshwater lake that used to be an old rock quarry. Alligators, turtles, iguanas, deer, and more call this Key home, and a hike around here is the perfect way to get some sightseeing in!

Relax by the pool, fish from the dock, or nap away the afternoon heat in your room at the Royal Hawaiian Motel/Botel. "What's a botel?" you might ask. If you’re lucky enough to have a boat, the Royal Hawaiian has several rooms that provide dockage right outside and killer views of the water. Imagine watching the sun set over the ocean as you cook up your catch of the day on the grill!

The Dolphin Research Center is a facility dedicated to studying and protecting marine life, especially dolphins. Back in the day, it was actually a porpoise training center where Mitzi, the porpoise star of the 1960s TV show "Flipper" was trained. You can find a memorial to her here, as well as a dolphin theater, a garden, and an aquatic playground. You even get an opportunity to swim with dolphins!

The Windley Key Fossil Reef is an old quarry that offers visitors a rare opportunity: the chance to see fossilized coral from thousands of years ago! There's no better place to learn how the Florida Keys were formed. Plus the ability to see old mining equipment tells the story of the more recent past. There are several self-guided trails here, each offering different views.