Key West invokes a lot of imagery – fitting for a place that often seems right out of a postcard. During the day you can tread the same streets that Ernest Hemingway once did, hit the beach and spy a sea turtle, or take a ride out to one of the numerous sand bars for an afternoon of ocean fun. At night, the city comes alive with endless rows of restaurants and nightspots – as well as a seemingly endless medley of Jimmy Buffet covers played by local musicians.
Like many of the most magical places you can take your Airstream, Key West can be a slog to get to, making it worth the expense and planning it takes to stay for a while. No matter where you start your journey to Key West, you'll need to make your way down through the Floridian gauntlet to where the Overseas Highway – a 113-mile route down US Highway 1 that traverses dozens of small islands (and one seven-mile bridge!).
This stretch of island life—from Key Largo to Key West—is lined with everything from quirky shops and bustling marinas to dreamy waterfront views. Though the drive could take as little as two to three hours, you’ll want to leave extra time for detours and delightful surprises along the way.
Our handy Round Trip Guide to Key West has our recommendations for where to stay, what to eat and drink, and what to do once you arrive in this tropical southern haven.
Where to Airstream Camp in Key West, Florida
Boyd’s Key West Campground
Situated on Stock Island and one of the last stops before you reach Key West proper, Boyd’s offers oceanfront camping with unbeatable access to fishing, paddle boarding, and the downtown buzz. Chickens and iguanas wander the grounds, adding a uniquely Key West touch (leave your alarm clock at home!) and Boyd's is close to a couple great restaurants (try the Hogfish Bar) and fish markets (there's one right across the street).
Geiger Key Marina
A little further removed from Key West, Geiger Key Marina is a hub of activity and gorgeous views. Still close enough that you can get into Key West with a quick drive, the experience at Geiger Key is less about proximity to Key West and more about the charm and tropical vibes. Waterfront spots offer views of manatees, sharks, and more. Or you can rent a paddle board or kayak and set off into the mangrove swamps that surround the area. And when it comes to eating local, you can't beat the food at their dockside restaurant.
Where to Eat in Key West
Speaking of eating, Key West is dotted with incredible restaurants and even more incredible fish markets where you can grab today's freshest catch and take it back to the Airstream to grill. You can't really go wrong anywhere in Key West, but here are some of our favorites.
Croissants de France
Key West has one of the most eclectic and international vibes you'll find in mainland USA. A vibrant mixture of French, Cuban, and American style and culture, Key West can feel like the truest melting pot – especially when it comes to food. With two locations – one a bike ride from Boyd's campground – Croissants de France will have your mouth watering with their pastries, and they'll keep you fueled with the kind of energy you only find in Cuban coffee.
Cuban Coffee Queen
And speaking of coffee, the Cuban-inspired brew served up at Cuban Coffee Queen will keep you energized for whatever is next on your itinerary. They have four locations around Key West, but we love the waterfront spot where you can sip on a rich cafecito or refreshing iced coffee while taking in the picturesque surroundings. Stroll along the docks, watch for dolphins and manatees, and admire the impressive boats anchored nearby—this is coffee with a view like no other!
Fish Camp at Geiger Key Marina
If you're lucky enough to stay at one of Geiger Key Marina's RV spots, you have one of the very best sandwich spots in the lower 48. If you're staying elsewhere, it's worth the trip – especially if you can bring along (or rent) a paddle board. For a tiki-bar vibe with a touch of adventure, Fish Camp is the spot: Dive into local specialties like hogfish and fish sandwiches while watching for iguanas, manatees, and even sharks from your waterfront table.
The Conch Shack
Don’t let its small size fool you — The Conch Shack serves up some of the freshest conch fritters around. Pair them with key lime dipping sauce, and you’ve got yourself a quintessential Keys snack.
What to Do in Key West
First and foremost: There is no shortage of incredible adventures you can have in Key West. Your mileage will vary, but here are a couple of our favorites.
Deep-Sea Fishing
For an unforgettable fishing trip, head to Charter Row in Key West. The Jolly Roger II, led by the experienced Captain Joe, promises a fun and successful day on the water.
Paddle Boarding or Kayaking
Explore the crystal-clear waters of the flats, where you’ll encounter stingrays, starfish, and reef sharks. On sunny days, the wildlife below will take your breath away. If you're staying at Boyd's or Geiger Key, you have some incredible paddle boarding right off the dock.
Visit Dry Tortugas National Park
One of the least visited of America's National Parks, Dry Tortugas is an adventure unlike anything you will experience elsewhere. Book a trip on either the Yankee Freedom ferry or spring for a seaplane shuttle – either way, you'll end up 70 miles off the tip of the Keys at an island paradise that seems right out of a pirate movie. From snorkeling the crystal clear waters to exploring the Civil War-era Fort Jefferson, a trip to Dry Tortugas is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure you won't want to miss.
Books & Books
Part of the downtown shopping experience that expands off of Duval Street, Books & Books is a charming little bookshop owned and operated by famed young adult author Judy Blume. From books about local interest to signed first editions of bestsellers, this is a bookshop for book lovers.
Take a Key West Adventure in Your Airstream
Key West isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience that combines the best of island living with the comforts of home. Whether you’re indulging in fresh seafood, camping under the stars, or paddling through serene waters, you’ll leave with memories to last a lifetime.
Want more Airstreamer-approved itineraries? Check out all of our Round Trip Guides and start planning your next adventure today.
