Our Favorites: Best Place to Watch the Sunset in Key West

You are here

8 Aug 2020
Related Items: 
Things to do in Key West

Key West is among the top destinations to witness the sunset over the water. The brilliant colors that reflect onto the clouds create a new and exciting sunset viewing experience every evening. Sometimes, just after the sun sets, a green flash can be seen. The sun sets on the West side of the island of Key West where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Gulf of Mexico. There are several locations to witness this magical event. Here are some of our favorite places to watch the sunset in Key West.

6 Best Places to Watch the Sunset in Key West

Mallory Square

Mallory Square Sunset Celebration in Key West

Join locals and tourists for a Sunset Celebration for all ages at this nightly festival at Mallory Square Dock. Gather at the water's edge to experience a multicultural event and watch the sun sink into the Gulf of Mexico. Arrive two hours before sunset to enjoy our local arts and crafts, live music, exhibitors, street performers, food carts, and more. Performers include a sword swallower, a juggling and high-wire act, the Southernmost Bagpiper, a fire thrower, and everyone’s favorite, Dominique The Cat Man. This is an event not to be missed.

Mallory Square Information

Fort Zachary Taylor State Park

Fort Zachary State Park Sunset in Key West

Named the “Best Beach in Key West,” Ft. Zach is among the top sunset locations. Bring a chair and pick a spot on the grass to enjoy the picturesque sunset as boats pass by. Bring a fishing pole and catch dinner off the west rock jetty. Fishing is permitted on the west side of the park along the Key West Shipping Channel (license required). Whether you’ve been on the beach all day or you are just coming by to enjoy the sunset, Ft. Zachary is a relaxing place to end the day and watch the sun fall into the ocean.

Fort Zachary Taylor State Park Information

Sunset Tiki Bar at The Galleon Resort

sunset tiki bar cocktails in key west

If hanging at the bar while watching the sunset is more your speed, The Sunset Tiki Bar is the place for you. A local’s favorite, this bar is off the beaten path and fills up fast. Sunset Tiki Bar is open seven days a week and offers live music in the evening for their own sunset celebration and Happy Hour from 5 - 7 PM, with 2-4-1 well drinks, domestic beer, and their famous Margaritas! Watch the sun go down while you lift your cup up and toast to the best sunset in Key West.

Sunset Tiki Bar Information

Sunset Pier at The Ocean Key Resort

Sunset Pier at the Ocean Key Resort Key West

Want to grab dinner while you wait for the sun to set? Sunset Pier is the best choice for tropical drinks, delicious food, and of course amazing sunsets. Just steps from Mallory Square, this pier has tables with umbrellas in each one to provide a shaded space while you await the sunset. Sitting here you will get to see all the sunset cruises, sailboats and other ships pass by. Lift your glass and wave to them as they pass. Enjoy live music in this fun and upbeat atmosphere right on the water.

Sunset Pier Information

Lagerheads Beach Bar

Lagerheads Beach Bar Key West

Not quite as crowded as Mallory Square or Sunset Pier, Lagerheads Beach Bar is a more relaxed place to watch the sunset. Hang out on the beach or grab a lounge chair and kick back in the sand. This little beach bar oasis and food shack is known for some of the best tacos and ceviche on the Island. Step out onto the dock for a closer look as the sun sets into the ocean. Better yet, take a swim out into the ocean and let the sunset with you. This is a definite Key West gem.

Lagerheads Beach Bar Information

Cruisin’ Tikis Key West

tiki boat in key west

One of the newest and coolest ways to watch the sunset in Key West. Hop on your own private tiki boat and sail into the Key West Harbor for sunset. This tiki boat fits up to 6 people and is BYOB. The Crusin’ Tiki will sail around the Historic Seaport, pass by the crowds at Sunset Pier and Mallory Square, and end with the stunning Key West Sunset. A certified US Coast Guard captain will provide you with a cooler full of ice, bottled water and soft drinks, a blender, and even a Bluetooth speaker for you to enjoy your own tunes. This is a one-of-a-kind sunset experience!

Crusin' Tikis Key West Information

Plan Your Next Key West Vacation With At Home Key West

Catch an iconic Key West sunset yourself on your next vacation. At Home Key West manages a variety of accommodations, including pet friendly rentals and monthly rentals. Browse all of our Key West vacation rentals to find the perfect home base for your trip to the Southernmost Point of the Continental U.S. 

Browse All Key West Vacation Rentals