One of Key West's arguably lesser-known aspects is the island's large Cuban-born population. Cuban revolutionary Jose Marti, for example, fired up supporters from the balcony of what is now La Te Da on Duval Street. You can sample great Cuban food in several places in Old Town.

The Key West Cemetery, located at the base of Solares Hill in Old Town, is one of the best places to appreciate the island's rich and varied history. Look for the grave of Edwina Lariz, who described herself as a "devoted fan of singer Julio Iglesias" on her tombstone.

Captain Steve and his crew on the Blu Q catamaranoffer a variety of clothing-optional snorkeling, kayaking and sunset cruises that bring passengers to coral reefs, sand bars and other areas roughly 10 miles west of Key West. You're almost guaranteed to see sea turtles, barracuda, sharks and other denizens of the deep.
 

The best way to explore Old Town is on bike. The city has installed numerous bike lanes to accommodate bicyclists. With its highest point at only 18 feet above sea level, even novices will have little difficulty navigating Key West's streets.