Hyatt Vacation Club has been a long time leader in the resort industry and when it comes to top destinations Hyatt takes it seriously. Looking for a fun and relaxed island adventure, not too far from Miami?  Search no further than the tropical island of Key West.    Drive approximately 3 hours south of Miami on U.S. 1 / Overseas Highway until you arrive at Mile Marker 0.  This “Conch Republic” is known for pastel-hued buildings, quirky residents, fun festivals, water sports and a generally laid-back attitude. Here are a few of our favorite attractions and things to do while in Key West:

Mallory Square – Spend some time at the nightly arts and entertainment festival called “Sunset Celebration”. The excitement ends each day with a tribute to the sunset over the sparkling Gulf of Mexico.

Duval Street – You’ll find something for everyone on this famous street, just over one mile of fun-loving bars, live local entertainment, casual dining, art galleries, unique shopping and so much more.

Southernmost Point – Stand in line to take a selfie with the buoy at the south end of Duval Street. Located a mere 90 miles north of Cuba, this buoy marks the southernmost point in the continental U.S.

Harry S. Truman Little White House – Originally built in 1890 as the headquarters for U.S. Naval command, take a guided tour of the winter home of President Truman and learn some military history.

Ernest Hemmingway Home and Museum – See where Hemmingway wrote a few of his most famous novels.  Six- and seven-toed cats, the descendants Hemmingway’s cat “Snow White” roam freely through the estate’s gardens.

Key West Lighthouse & Keeper’s Quarters – Climb up the 88 steps to the top of the lighthouse for a fantastic 360-degree view of the town.  Visit the museum, now housed in the keeper’s quarters.

Audubon House & Tropical Gardens – Enjoy sketches of birds by naturalist John James Audubon, lush gardens and colonial décor.  A peaceful home in Old Town built in the early 1800’s.

Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park – Visit the historic fort used in the Civil War and Spanish-American War.  Sunbathe on the beach, fish or snorkel at this hidden gem on the west side of the island.

Fantasy Fest –  An annual 10 day party at the end of October for grown-ups with parades, costumes, body painting, food, music, dancing and of course plenty of libations!  www.fantasyfest.com

For your next Key West adventure, consider a stay at one of these Hyatt Resident Club properties located on the island.  All three are available for rent; however we recommend purchasing Hyatt on the resale market for the best deal out there.  As an owner of Hyatt, you get annual points to apply towards any vacation stays you choose at all of their locations.  Vacation Club Loans is a proud timeshare lending company for Hyatt ownership.  Below are the three located on the island of Key West:

Hyatt Windward Pointe is across the street from the Atlantic Ocean on the southeastern end of Key West. Well-appointed two bedroom/two bath units with Southern style décor. Large ocean-view balconies with telescopes for viewing the night sky and rocking chairs will put you in total relaxation mode.

Hyatt Beach House is a tranquil family-style enclave on the eastern end of Key West on a channel connecting the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean.  Spacious two bedroom/two bath condos with screened-in balconies, garden views and attractive wicker furnishings.

Hyatt Sunset Harbor is located in the heart of Old Town with luxurious Studio, 1- and 2-bedroom residences with contemporary décor.  Relax on your private balcony overlooking the Gulf of Mexico and enjoy the glorious sunset.

 

Contributed by Chris Golden