DK Travel : Miami

At its best, Miami is all pastel hues and warm, velvety zephyrs – a tropical reverie. The culture is sensuous and physical, often spiked with Caribbean rhythms and accents. Outdoor activities hold sway throughout the area, at the world-famous beaches and in the turquoise waters; the vibrant nightlife, too, attracts pleasure-seekers, while significant historical sights are around every corner.

Key West Old Town

The only sensible way to get around Key West is either on foot or by bike; there’s so much detail to take in and, besides, parking is usually a problem here. A planned tour can be fine (see Old Town Ghost Walk), but it’s just as good to walk wherever inspiration leads (see Key West).
Key West Old Town

Key West has the largest collection of 19thcentury structures in the US. About 4,000 buildings, mostly houses, embody the distinctive local style. Many architectural features take their cues from elements used on ships, such as roof hatches to allow air circulation. One unique innovation is the “eyebrow” house, with secondfloor windows hidden under a front porch roof overhang, providing shade in the unremitting heat.
Key West Waters

Take the plunge right off the beach at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park, or join an expedition out to the reefs that lie all around this island (see Key West). There are plenty of trips offered by local companies, most of them taking three to four hours in total, including at least an hour and a half of reef time. They usually leave twice a day, at around 9am and again at about 1pm.
Key West Youth Hostel

Offers snorkeling trips and scuba instruction, plus bike rentals. It has a courtyard, picnic area, and game rooms, but only 10 private rooms, so book well in advance.
King Mango Strut

An outrageous local tradition that sends up the year’s events and celebrities, harking back to the days when the Grove was a haven for intellectuals and eccentrics. The party climaxes with a concert and dance in Peacock Park.
King Mango Strut

A Coconut Grove spoof on the now-defunct Orange Bowl Parade.
Kite-Flying

A very popular activity, given the prevailing maritime winds. There’s even a park especially for kite enthusiasts at the south end of Haulover Park.
Kon Tiki Resort, Islamorada

The homey Olde Keys experience at its best. Not at all stylish, in fact, just a little bit raw, but very welcoming and comfortable. It has gardens, a heated freshwater pool, a sandy beach, and protected lagoon on Florida Bay, and a boat ramp.
Kona Kai Resort, Key Largo

This is a truly magical hideaway, with lovely gardens. Each guestroom is uniquely decorated in refreshing Island style, using tropical fabrics, original art, and elegant simplicity. Private beach, pool, and Jacuzzi.
KWEST

Multi-bar complex featuring a nightly drag show, men dancing for men, a leather bar and shop, and occasional theme nights.

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Hotel price categories

For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
- under $100
- $100–$200
- $200–$250
- $250–$300
- over $300