First made famous as the home of the noted 20^th century writer Ernest Hemingway and later by Jimmy Buffet’s folk songs and pirate tales, Key West is the United States’ southernmost point and capital of the “Conch Republic”.

This island lies at the end of the Florida Keys and serves as the beginning of US Highway 1 that connects the Keys to the mainland and runs all the way up to Canada. Key West is steeped in maritime history as a hideout for pirates of the Caribbean, sunken treasures have been recovered here with more being actively sought and the American Civil War made this island a strategic marine stronghold. Vacationers will enjoy the beautiful “Conch” style architecture, the stunning sunsets and live entertainment at Mallory square and the vibrant nightlife down Duvall street.

The waters surrounding Key West are home to several natural coral reef formations that team with tropical fish, nurse sharks, southern sting rays, spotted eagle rays, moray eels, goliath grouper and many more marine animals. Lobster diving is a favourite sport for many divers both during the two day mini season and throughout the months of August until October. This area also host a number of ship wrecks sunk during the war, by hurricanes and by pirate warfare. With warm clear waters and an abundance of sites to choose from, divers from all levels of experience will find several locations to suit their needs.

Seahorse, Key West, Credit