Going to Miami with friends for 3 days and the Keys (West) for a weekend. What should I do, where should I go, what should I see? Anyone know of a good inexpensive hotel in Key West? Thanks......Any comments welcomed

In Miami a visit to Little Havana for Cuban food and culture is worthwhile and definitelyplan on going to South Beach - lots of lively nightlife and great assortment of restored Art Deco buildings and hotels. Key West has sunset at Mallory Square, Hemingway House, perhaps a snorkeling trip and make sure to allow time to soak in the "island ambiance" and relax. It's truly a laid back place and unique in many respects. The main street (Duval) has become quite touristy but there's still much authentic atmosphere in KW. Consider going over to Thomas Street fro dinner and drinks at "Blue Heaven". It's not cheap but reasonable considering quality of food - a very unique place - trust me on that! We went on July 4 weekend and stayed at Jasmine House, a very small guesthouse in "oldtown". The room was quiet, clean, very tasteful and had a private bath. This facility has only 3 rooms available and no frills (no pool, happy hour etc.) but does include a pass to use pool and spa at a nearby Marriot. I checked around and her prices were the best I found in addition to having much better atmosphere than a motel. I don't have a phone # handy but go to www.keywestparadise.com and look under "Guesthouses" for the Jasmine House info.

Go to south beach, ride through corral gables, go to Miami beach, ride up AIA

We spent a week KW summer of 97. I don't know how inexpensive you are looking for, but we highly recommend the Island City House (Caroline and William streets). Beautiful layout, good pool. You are definitely "somewhere else." Beaches are disappointing (virtually non-existent). We had two wonderful experiences with Restless Native, a husband-and-wife company that run a trimaran for snorkel day trips and evening cruises. Unforgettable experience. The boat only holds 7 people; perfect if you don't like crowds. Also try the seaplane trip out to Fort Jefferson for picnic and snorkeling and great views of shipwrecks on the way.
Best restaurant: Pepe's. Everyone loves it, but you'd never go in if it weren't recommended.

I second the motion on "Restless Native". We were there July 4th weekend and went on a snorkeling trip charter. They were recommended by Linda, the proprietor of Jasmine House (we stayed there and if you're looking for a very nice, moderately priced no-frills guesthouse - check it out). The snorkel trip was fantastic - much better than the big charters. Also try "Blue Heaven" restaurant on Thomas Street - eclectic and very good. Have fun and get ready to be laid back - it's the best thing to do in KW!

I second the motion on "Restless Native". We were there July 4th weekend and went on a snorkeling trip charter. They were recommended by Linda, the proprietor of Jasmine House (we stayed there and if you're looking for a very nice, moderately priced no-frills guesthouse - check it out). The snorkel trip was fantastic - much better than the big charters. Also try "Blue Heaven" restaurant on Thomas Street - eclectic and very good. Have fun and get ready to be laid back - it's the best thing to do in KW!

Thanks----Keep them coming ! !

You asked for it - you got it! We were leaving on a Sunday and I just HAD to try conch salad. Ended up at Half Shell Raw Bar Restaurant (in Land's End Village by the docks where restless native operates). WE though the food was marginal at best. There is a place across the street at the first corner that had basic breakfast for half of what they charge on Duval Street (or less). If you're into conch fritters, we found the stand by the aquarium entrance to be better than the one on the pier at Mallory Square. Also try using the search function with Key West as text and Florida as topic search. You'll find loads of good posts on KW.

Go to a new restaurant called Havanna Harry's in Coral Gables

Spend time in Coral Gables. It is nice.

Spend time in Coral Gables. It is nice.

sit at the News Cafe on Ocean Dr. in South Beach and watch the people. Sooner or later anyone who is anyone comes by the News Cafe. You can go to their site with a simple search. You can have an interesting dinner almost anywhere along this street. We liked the cuban restaurant, Larios, owned by Gloria Estafan. There are some excellent nouvelle Floribean restaurants as well. Check Fodor's. if you have cultural interests, you might want to visit Viscaya in Coral Gables. Coconut Grove is a nice area to visit as well. We always stop at the Lorelei restaurant on the way to Key West. It is in Islamorada and you can't miss it's tacky Mermaid sign. Eat outside at the chickee hut for fresh grilled fish with mango salsa. Key West's appeal is mainly liquid: endless bars with endless parties, no matter your age or sexual persuasion. Please pack an open mind.

Thanks for the advice !! I will leave tomorrow so any last chance suggestions are welcomed. Thanks again everyone! ! !