When you consider the wintry mix (or should we say polar vortex?) that’s gripped much of the country since the start of 2014, perhaps there’s nothing more romantic than escaping to a warmer climate for Valentine’s Day. While even northern Florida hit freezing temperatures in January, the same could not be said of sunny Key West. There’s something about being the at the southern tip of a sub-tropical island chain that keeps temperatures just where you like them. In fact, right now, it’s 79 degrees and sunny.
Leave it to us to set you up with a romantic weekend in Key West for Valentine’s Day or anytime in February.
Most Romantic Hotel
What’s more romantic than a private cottage on a private island just offshore of the island of Key West? Add a hammock strung between a couple of palm trees and you’re pretty much in heaven. Take the ferry from the Margaritaville Key West Marina and check into your very own Sunset Key Guest Cottage. This is what they call barefoot luxury with a serious dose of romance. You can dine at waterfront Latitudes and enjoy a couples massage at the spa. And be sure to take advantage of your private beach.
Most Romantic Restaurant
Snag a reservation at Louie’s Backyard’s (ask for a table outside on the after deck) and enjoy a decadent dinner with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. This destination restaurant is tucked away from the action and brings a touch of Old Key West charm to any evening. You can’t go wrong with the sweet soy glazed grilled tuna with lime hoison sauce and grilled bamboo rice or the grilled double lamb chops with port wine reduction and bacon mashed potatoes. Save room for the smooth-as-silk key lime pie, widely considered the best on the island.
Most Romantic Bar
For a stellar cocktail in a sexy setting, head upstairs to Point Five, a speakeasy above restaurant Nine One Five. Find a cozy nook around the handmade wooden bar or grab a cafe table on the wraparound balcony of this preserved Victorian mansion. Opt for a Vesper martini or a glass of Champagne and gaze into each other’s eyes–or take a peak from your perch on Duval for some stellar people watching.
Most Romantic Activities
When in Key West, you must get on the water, and there’s no better place to do this than Fury Water Adventures, especially for Valentine’s Day. With every water sport under the sun, they’ve created some great Valentine’s Day packages with savings up to $20. Set sail on a three-hour snorkel trip to the third largest coral reef in the entire world and add a tandem parasail adventure to your day of adventure. For the ultimate in romance, opt for one of their sunset sails and sip Champagne while the sky changes color and day turns to night. Bonus, you can add a tandem parasail adventure to your sunset sail, as well, and save!
A Few More Romantic Recommendations
If your sweetie has a sweet tooth, head to Better Than Sex, an all dessert restaurant. With a selection of wine paired with glasses dipped in chocolate and decadent desserts with cheeky names, it will definitely get the two of you in the mood.
Finally, for a last minute Valentine’s gift, head to Besame Mucho in Bahama Village or the brand new Salt Island Provisions on Fleming Street. Both of these shops carry a smart selection of unique items that will be sure to set your Valentine’s heart afire.