Take a trip to Higgs beach, located on the eastern side of the island (/just south of the White Street pier) and stop in at one of Key West’s best kept secrets, the West Martello Tower. The fort, which dates back to before the Civil War, now houses a breathtaking array of indigenous and non-indigenous flowers. Take an hour to stroll through the gardens and photograph the numerous species of palms, cacti, and tropical flowers. If you’re on the lookout for lizards, this is the place to be. Key West’s laziest non-alcoholic citizens (the lizards) can be seen sprawled atop the garden’s rocks, reminding you that you’re still on vacation. If you’re in the mood for a little sun, bring a towel and head to Higgs beach, which surrounds the Tower. If you’re into kayak and snorkeling, you can rent equipment here. The snorkeling is probably the best off-shore snorkeling on the island. Also, if you catch my drift, Higgs beach is a favorite hang out for European sunbathers, who generally sunbathe on the ocean side of the Tower. Top the morning, afternoon, whatever, off with a trip to Salute!, which is located directly on the beach. Salute! Is an open-air restaurant and it has some of the best lunch on the island. Treat yourself to a Kalik (pronounced “click”), a light, Bahamian beer that tastes similar to, but, in my opinion, is better than Corona. Salute! Can be a little pricey for a lunch, but hey, you’re on vacation. So sit back, enjoy yourself, and let the beer and the ocean’s tide wash away your worries.
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