For most people, the daily setting of the sun may not seem like much of big deal.
Not so in the Florida Keys. Here, we embrace each sunset as a cause for celebration where music, dancing and tropical libations are a nightly ritual and where revelers come together to pay homage to the gorgeous spectacle of the ocean swallowing a huge ball of fire.
So where to go for this theater by the sea? Here are some of our favorite places that embrace the event like there’s no tomorrow.
Drop by Snook’s Bayside Restaurant and Grand Tiki Bar (MM 99.9 Bayside, Key Largo) and you’ll be greeted by an enthusiastic crowd who regularly convene for the nightly sunset party and Happy Hour. You’ll also get a ringside seat to one of the best sunset celebrations in the Keys. Kick back with a rum punch on the 5,000 square foot waterfront patio, listen to some great live music and enjoy an unobstructed panoramic view of the sun sinking into the Florida Bay. You can also get Happy Hour prices from 4 – 6pm on a variety of libations and
appetizers. The nightly event is marked by the bellowing of the “Sunset Horn,” just before the fiery ball disappears into the horizon
In Islamorada, the best sunset party is at the famous Lor-e-lei Restaurant & Cabana Bar at MM82, Bayside. Located on a mangrove-rimmed bay dotted with palm trees, chickee huts and charter boats, it’s an ideal spot to wiggle your toes in the sand and get down with some great live music. The daily Happy Hour from 4 – 6pm draws a big crowd so get there early.
In Marathon, you can’t miss the massive Sunset Grille & Tiki Bar nestled at the northern foot of the 7 Mile Bridge. With multiple waterfront bars, a giant oceanfront pool and terrific local musicians, it’s a popular hang for enjoying glorious sunsets and expansive views of the Historic 7 Mile Bridge.
And that brings us to Key West’s world famous Mallory Square and Margaritaville Resort Pier – the mother of all Sunset Celebrations where you can wander among a myriad of one-of-a-kind street performers, local artists, live musicians and food vendors. Each night as the sun dips below the horizon, the crowd revels with a loud cheer.
It’s an unforgettable way to say farewell to another beautiful day in Key West.
