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by Dale Sanders
Key West has this perception of being weird, wild and simply offbeat. Indeed, it does possess these characteristics, but it is so much more! Be it a tropical retreat for some or a water sports destination for others, Key West has it all and then some.
Regardless of what might draw you to Key West it’s all about staying somewhere downtown AKA “Old Town.” Front Street, Mallory Square and Key West Bight border this historic area, with the lifeblood of the city running down Duval Street, which terminates at Front Street. The optimum place to stay is along the water somewhere on or near Front Street, which looks westward toward Keys West’s amazing sunsets. One of the most impressive luxury resorts found along waters edge here in Old Town is that of the Hyatt Key West Resort & Spa.
This tropically inspired resort offers spacious rooms most with gulf-view balconies, thus providing the optimum respite for travelers to Florida’s most famous key. Its numerous amenities include the Blue Mojito Pool Bar and Grill and the highly acclaimed Jala Spa. Evenings here are highlighted by the SHOR American Seafood Grill, which features superb seafood entrees. The restaurant also promotes a “cook your catch” offering which can’t be beat should you be so lucky as to have landed a catch on a day offshore or better yet bagged a few delectable lobsters.
Just a short walk from the Hyatt you will find some of Key West’s finest attractions. A favorite is the Key West Aquarium where visitors can see many of the amazing creatures that are found in the waters around the Florida Keys. Daily tours and the thrilling feeding of the sharks occurs at 11, 1, 3, & 4:30.
Just across the street from the aquarium, one might run into a reenactment of the early days of the wreckers and the auctions that took place in Mallory Square. If so, you have encountered the Key West Shipwreck Treasures Museum. Here, visitors can explore the two floors of shipwreck artifacts and learn the amazing history of how Key West became such a prominent hub for early mariners.
Upon exiting this museum, you are sure to see one of Key West’s most notable attractions…The Conch Train Tour. A trip to Key West without experiencing this classic tour is like going to Paris and not visiting the Eiffel Tower. For over 50 years, expert Conch Train engineers have tantalized more than ten million guests with the legends and history of the Conch Republic.
Adjacent to Mallory Square is the world-renowned Mel Fisher Treasure Museum. Inside, one will find the Fort Knox of recovered Spanish gold, silver, cannons and artifacts that came from nearby waters. A trip through the ever changing galleries here will quickly confirm why The Learning Channel declared this to be “The #1 Amazing Treasure in the World.”
At this point, it would be wise to re-hydrate, and with two of Hemingway’s favorite watering holes just a block away, it’s an easy call. As you pass the brightly hued Key West Kite Shop, you will immediately see the large goliath grouper of Captain Tony’s Bar, which extends out from this famous drinking establishment. Inside, business cards and ladies braziers adorn every inch of the wall and ceiling. Only a stones throw from here is perhaps the cornerstone of Key West’s best known bars, Sloppy Joe’s. A trip down Duval street know as the “Duval Crawl” would not be complete without a stop at this world famous bar, night club and restaurant. Every day of the week you can find some of the best musical talent appearing live on their stage, and once a year it hosts the Hemingway Days “look alike” festival.
As the day winds down in the Conch Republic, one will want to experience the sunset at Mallory Square where every sort of entertainment occurs 365 days a year. Another option is to climb aboard one of various sailboats, which will ply the waters of the harbor in search of the green flash. Fury Catamarans features an amazing trip aboard its mega-cat, which includes dinner, all you can drink and a live band to dance your way through the twilight moment.
Without a doubt, Key West offers a unique combination of fun and sun, with experiences from the mild to the wild. After you have visited Key West, one thing is for sure…you will want to return again and again!
Key West golf Course
Play a round in paradise at Key West Golf Course – the southernmost golf course in the Continental United States. Designed by golf legend Rees Jones, this 6,500 yard course offers 18 holes of challenging and scenic Key West golf. Try out the infamous "Mangrove Hole" – a 143 yard, par 3 hole known for testing even the most skilled golfer. Players of all levels will enjoy this fantastic course, located just four miles from Hyatt Key West Resort and Spa.
This full-service Key West golf resort course is open to the public 365 days a year with rental clubs, a driving range, PGA professional instruction, a pro golf shop, tournament services, locker facilities and private parking. Take advantage of the Hyatt’s resort concierge to arrange your tee time or contact the Key West Golf Club at 305-294-5232.
Facilities and Services
From an expert staff to an extensive pro shop, you'll delight in the superior amenities of the Key West Golf Club including:
18 holes of championship golf – with four tee placements, one for every level of golfer.
Pro golf shop – offering a wide assortment of golf wear, clubs, accessories, club and shoe rental as well as on-staff pros to assist you in planning your outing.
Practice facility – including a driving range, instruction area and balls for use during practice.
Locker facilities – with men's and women's locker facilities and showers.
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