Keys for the over 50's

I see some threads elicit far more response than others... Here%26#39;s my problem. We%26#39;d like to visit the keys but have no desire to get drunk or go topless (believe me at 50 something these days are behind us). Should we skip the Keys altogether or just skip Key West? Is there anything to see other that the world through the bottom of a bottle?

I was hoping for some coastline, and relaxing scenery. Where should I head?

Keys for the over 50's

Yes, Key West does attract its share of partiers, mostly in the old town area. But, Key West is rich in history and architecture and has more fabulous restaurants than any where I can think of! Hemingway House, John Audubon House, the little white house, the Sunset Celebration, the conch train are all attractions you may enjoy. The snorkel trips and sunset sails offer booze but I don%26#39;t think you need it to enjoy the trip. And if you are looking for %26#39;relaxing scenery%26#39;, wow, there is nothing on earth that can relax me faster then driving through the keys. Simply beautiful.

We like to split our trips between Key West and the Marathon area. Its a nice location where we can take day trips out to visit Bahia Honda park, Sombrero beach, John Pennecamp as well as go out fishing, etc. I think there is something for everyone in the keys (except maybe those looking for the white sandy beaches or that enjoy wearing a shirt and tie or evening dress to dinner).

If I were you, I%26#39;d look over the items on the %26#39;Florida Keys Attractions%26#39; tab and decide whether there is anything of interest to you.

Keys for the over 50's

I%26#39;m in your over 50 age group ( sob) and we visit Key West each year as one of our favorite getaway weekends.

You should definitely not go to Key West if you are looking for a nice beach- Mother Nature has been unkind in giving the island completely surrounded by water nothing but rocky unattractive beaches. A few upper end htels have made tiny artificial sandy beaches, but that is not a strong point for Key West ( most places do have pools and or hot tubs.)

What we enjoy is great dining, both upscale and casual, lots of great magaritas at open air bars, lots of window shopping and little galleries and just an interesting mix of artsy , open minded folks. We also enjoy the laid back attitude where casual wear is always tolerated, bikes and scooters are acceptable transportation etc.

Key West is not an inexpensive destination, but we stay at the Best Western Hibiscus, dine at many of the restaurants/bars in the Turtle Krall area and unfailingly have breakfast at the lunch counter of the Dennis Pharmacy across from the hotel. The people watching is terrific everywhere in town. While we are there we always go to Fast Buck Freddies on Duval to purchase outrageous birthday cards for all our friends and hit Mallory Square at sunset at least once- it%26#39;s always a beautful sight.

And, even though we have been to key West at least 25 times we really haven%26#39;t experienced any of the outrageous behaviors you mention. I%26#39;m sure they happen at times other than Fantasy Fest, but not sofrequently or audaciously that you find them everywhere. I would definitely suggest you spend a few days there