Key West is a classic New Year’s destination. There aren’t many other places in the U.S. that can boast an average high temperature of 75 degrees during the months of December and January. Did we mention we’re also a classic party destination where anything goes? That’s what we like to call a recipe for a fun-filled, happy-go-lucky New Year. From the Conch Shell Drop at Sloppy Joe’s to savoring the last sunset of the year at sea, here’s your guide to a variety of things to do on New Year’s Eve in Key West!
Get A Delicious Dinner
There are so many yummy spots to eat in Key West. You really can’t go wrong. For delicious tapas and shared plates, head to the Bahama Village for Santiago’s Bodega. There are festive New Year’s Eve dinners at Cafe Sole, where the pan seared hogfish can’t be missed, and at Blackfin Bistro, where you can end the year devouring a Diablo Burger.
Looking for a place that’s close to the action? Try 2 Cents. The menu is both down to earth and inventive, and above all tasty. With indoor and outdoor dining and a funky steampunk, graffiti motif, it’s a taste of new Key West in the heart of Old Town. Bonus: all the hot party stops are within steps of this cozy restaurant.
Last Sunset of the Year Sunset Sail
In Key West, the sunset is practically our religion. We celebrate it aboard almost all of our vessels on a nightly basis. Whether it’s the Commotion on the Ocean with The Cory Heydon Band, a Champagne Sunset Sail, the Rum & Reggae, Island Adventure, Dolphin Watch or Glass Bottom Boat, we love that moment every night when the sun touches the western horizon. A crowd also gathers at Mallory Square every night to watch street performers, drink mojitos and browse the crafts of local artisans. All of this with the backdrop of one of the most spectacular sunsets you’ll ever see.
We think catching the last sunset of the year is a pretty symbolic way to say goodbye to the year (and what a year it has been!) and hello to the new year. That’s why we’re throwing a sunset sail bash on December 31st to watch the sunset in style. Join us aboard the Commotion on the Ocean with the Cory Heydon Band for a very special celebration with live music, beer, wine, champagne, soda and appetizers. We’ll even have some festive party favors. It’s the perfect way to get your Key West New Year’s Eve started. We’re also throwing special celebrations aboard our Champagne Sunset Sail and the Glass Bottom Boat. Reserve your space now!
Watch The Ball Drop
NYE Stiletto Drop at 801 Bourbon
New York City might have the Times Square Ball Drop, but do you know what Key West has? We have a Conch Shell Drop at Sloppy Joe’s, a Wench Drop at Schooner Wharf and a Drag Queen in a Stiletto Drop at 801 Bourbon Street. Where would you rather be? Each of these are absolutely classic Key West party spots and you can’t go wrong counting down to the new year with any one of them. Just be warned, it gets very crowded.
Where Else to Ring in the New Year
If the crowds are too much at Sloppy’s, Schooner’s or Bourbon, not to worry. There are more than enough other places to count down the New Year and have a great party. They don’t call it the Duval Crawl for nothing. Step onto the massive outdoor patio at Fogarty’s and dance the night away amidst locals. Head to Key West bars like the Green Parrot for live music and a festive atmosphere or hit up Virgilio’s to dance the night away in style. If it’s a club atmosphere that you’re after, stop by Rick’s or The Lazy Gecko.
We hope to see you in Key West this New Year’s Eve. Happy, Happy New Year!
