Key West with Kids?

[zakatak]

Hi.

We're thinking about going to Key West in August 2005 (next year). I've found The Eden House as a nice place to stay, but am worried about the kids. They like quiet, well behaved kids. The room has a private jacuzzi, full kitchen, bath, 2 rooms, etc... It would be nice to fix some meals at home instead of always eating out, however, I don't always want to be threatening my kids to not yell in the pool, make noise or giggle either. The price can't be beat ($1170 for 7 nights).

Are there any other nice places that allow kids to be kids, are on the beach and under $200/night?

Also, what beached would you recommend? Other activities for the kids (ages 9, 7 & 5)?

Thanks in advance!

Karen

 

[denisenh]

Do you want to stay in Key West? If not, there are some family friendly resorts further up...likeHawks Cay . We stayed in the hotel, but there are also villas.
We stayed in Key West one night but it was not necessary to do so. We could drive to key west from hawks cay for a day trip. We enjoyed the Key West Aquarium and a Trolley Tour through the streets of key west. Also for a nice day trip visit cranes point hammock, we loved it there. For a decent beach try Bahia Honda.
The Florida Keys is a nice family trip. FYI, the keys are not known for its beaches...the gulf coast in better for that.

 

[Pig Pen]

If you are going to Key West for the beaches, you will be sorely disappointed! I would recommend Clearwater Beach on the west coast near Tampa instead.

However, Key West is a quirky, fun town with lots of history. If you are looking for something different, then KW is your destination!

We took the Ghost Tour, Conch Train Tour, visited the Mel Fisher Museum, Hemingway House, shopped. And of course, the sunset celebration at Mallory Square!

 

[zakatak]

Well, that would explain it then. Why my dh wants to go to Key West instead of Captiva Island! He is NOT a beach person, I am. So, here I am thinking of lounging all day on the beautiful Key West beaches. Hmmm... oh well, I hope there is plenty to do down there for the kids. They are nature nuts, so I know we'll do the Everglades, and I've heard of some nature trails, butterfly conservatories and bird watching centers too.

Of course, sitting by the pool won't be too bad!

Has anyone else done the Keys with Kids? Is there a message board? lol

Thanks again!

Karen

 

[Karel]

Originally posted by zakatak
Well, that would explain it then. Why my dh wants to go to Key West instead of Captiva Island! He is NOT a beach person, I am. So, here I am thinking of lounging all day on the beautiful Key West beaches. Hmmm... oh well, I hope there is plenty to do down there for the kids. They are nature nuts, so I know we'll do the Everglades, and I've heard of some nature trails, butterfly conservatories and bird watching centers too.
Karen

I'm not sure but it seems to me that you'll be at least six hours away from the Everglades. Aren't they north of the Keys on the mainland?

You may want to consider staying some where in them middle of the Keys so you can travel the full length easier. It may be hard to fill seven days going to Key West only.

 

[zakatak]

Good Point, Karel! I was wondering the same thing. My initial thought was Key Largo, closer to the Everglades and also a day trip away from Key West.

I just realized that August is their rainy season and Hurricane Season. That could be why the prices are cut almost in half!

Still undecided for now...

Karen