March 27, 2014

I was told I forgot to mention snorkeling in last post - we did snorkel - not as good water clarity as Hawaii or Bahamas, but still fun.  Did see parrot fish and huge black fish with electric blue edges and another barracuda - a small fry compared to the one I saw years ago in the Bahamas.

And to answer another question, Yes Matt, it WAS the best Key Lime pie I've every had!  Very "limey".

Even though Key West is on the east coast because it's down on the peninsula and curves west so there is a great sunset area.  Every night in the wharf area there is a sunset celebration and many, many people come.  There are great restaurants there, street performers  trying  to make a few bucks and artisans and craft folk selling their wares.  After the sunset it clears out pretty quickly.

Duval Street is the hopping tourist area - tourist trap stores and bars/restaurants.  Last Monday was St. Patrick's day and we knew it would be hoppin and it was.  We went on our tour that day and the tour guide had to stop talking as we drove past two bars because it was SO LOUD.  It's rolling Spring Break so there were a TON of young folk enjoying their liquid refreshment that day!!  The tour guide said it's a problem that happy hour doesn't start until 7....7:00 a.m. that is!!  We didn't stay in town very late that day - didn't want to deal with the amateur hour young folk.  :)

One surprising fact  we learned  is that Key West is essentially an island made of coral - so no sand beaches.  All the beaches were created with sand that was imported from the Bahamas!  Our guide said he would appreciate it if we would shake out our towels very carefully and leave as much sand as possible since it was a very pricey investment for the citizens of Key West!!  Next post - all pics.