If you’re travelling with young children, Key West is an ideal destination filled with family-friendly adventures, engaging history, and easy-to-navigate guided tours. Whether you're planning a long weekend getaway or an extended vacation, guided tours make it simple to explore the island without the stress of planning every detail yourself. Here’s a look at the best experiences tailored for families with kids in Key West and nearby Stock Island.
Easy Island Exploration for Families
Keeping little ones entertained while navigating a new place can be a challenge, but not in Key West. The Old Town Trolley Tour is a fun and low-stress way to see the island with kids in tow. With hop-on, hop-off access and lively narration, it keeps everyone engaged while covering all the major sights. Families can also opt for private electric car tours, which allow for frequent stops and personalised itineraries based on your family’s interests and energy levels.
Discover Key West’s Colorful History
Children love stories, and Key West’s past is full of them. Join a guided walking tour of Old Town to visit famous spots like the Hemingway House and the colourful homes that line the island’s historic streets. The Key West Lighthouse and Shipwreck Museum also offer guided tours with interactive exhibits, shipwreck treasures, and plenty of hands-on learning for curious young minds.
Kid-Friendly Seafood Experiences
Introducing children to new foods is part of the adventure, and Key West’s seafood is a delicious place to start. Family-friendly food tours highlight conch fritters, fish tacos, and other local treats. Make sure to stop at Eaton Street Seafood, known for its laid-back vibe and fresh catch. It’s a great spot for parents and kids to enjoy delicious seafood together. Click here to browse their menu.
Fun and Safe Fishing Trips for the Whole Family
Fishing is a wonderful way for families to bond, and Key West’s calm waters are perfect for beginners. Fish All In Charters, captained by Garret Frey, offers kid-friendly trips designed to keep young anglers entertained and safe. These guided outings provide all the gear, instruction, and excitement your family needs for a memorable day on the water. Learn more about available family trips and updates.
Snorkeling and Beach Fun for Little Explorers
If your children are comfortable in the water, guided snorkelling tours can be an unforgettable highlight. Many family tours cater specifically to beginners, with shallow reef stops, floating devices, and calm waters. For land-based fun, several tour operators also lead beach adventures and eco-tours that combine wildlife spotting with plenty of playtime in the sand.
Sunset Cruises and Dolphin Watching
Children of all ages will enjoy a sunset cruise around Key West. These family-friendly tours often include snacks, music, and a chance to spot dolphins playing in the waves. Dolphin-watching tours are another popular choice, offering educational commentary and up-close views of these friendly marine mammals in their natural habitat.
Light-Hearted Ghost Tours for Older Kids
If your kids are a little older and enjoy a good story, consider a guided ghost tour. These experiences are filled with fun (and not-too-scary) tales of haunted houses and Key West legends. It’s a unique way to learn about the island’s history after dark and spark your children’s imaginations.
Private Tours for Flexible Family Fun
Sometimes the best way to tour with kids is to go private. Private guided tours let you set the pace, make extra stops, and avoid big crowds. Whether you want to kayak through calm mangroves, tour the island’s art scene, or take a scenic boat ride to Dry Tortugas National Park, private guides can create the perfect itinerary for your family’s needs.
Why Families Love Key West
Key West offers a warm welcome to families, with plenty of activities to keep both parents and kids entertained. From the fun of Eaton Street Seafood to reeling in a fish with Fish All In Charters, guided tours make your vacation easier and more memorable. Ready to plan your family’s adventure?
