Find the ultimate ‘Blue Space’ in Key West

Sun-drenched, warm and carefree, Key West is renowned the world over as a languid vacation destination. Visitors here always seem to report a boost in mood and an enhanced outlook on life — and now science explains why. 

It all comes down to vitamin D and vitamin SEA! 

There are numerous benefits for our mental health just by immersing ourselves in “blue spaces,” defined as areas with visible bodies of water. 

Proximity to water — especially the sea — is associated with many positive measures of physical and mental wellbeing, from lower blood pressure to better social relations. 

And exposure to sunshine (with proper levels of sunscreen) naturally increases the body’s level of vitamin D, a fat-soluble vitamin essential for health. (It keeps our bones strong, can improve our mental health and helps us sleep). 

 A combination of ocean air, sun and getting in the water and moving around is something science calls “surf therapy.” It’s known to increase mindfulness, lower stress and stress hormone levels, lessen anxiety and lift your mood. 

Now that we know the prescription, how do we carry out the treatment plan? Naturally, Historic Key West Vacation Rentals would love to facilitate your shift to the happiest blue space on the planet. 

Summer’s here and Key West offers plenty of ways to soak it up. Hit the beach, take a dip, or stroll the streets of Old Town with a sun-kissed escape ready to be shared. 

HKWVR offers the following 5 reasons to make Key West your summer destination:

• The sunshine: June is an ideal time of the year to experience Key West. The weather is in its sweet spot, and the water is warm and inviting. The weather is not quite muggy yet, but Key West's party vibe is very much alive and swinging for the start of the summer season. And when it gets too warm, there are plenty of ways to chill!

• Hit the sand: Key West has many local beaches, each with its own distinctive fit and feel. Smathers Beach is the largest and (in popular opinion) the most beautiful of all. A family-friendly beach with public restrooms and plenty of space to spread out, the sand is white and fine, with few rocks — ideal for kids to play and adults to sunbathe. Palm trees arch over the beach, and there are umbrellas available for rent. This is also a perfect spot to catch an iconic Key West sunrise or sunset.
• Head out on the water: The water is the reason you’re here. Whether you drove or flew, you’ve landed and can’t wait to dive right in. Key West offers a variety of fantastic water sports, including snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, paddleboarding, kiteboarding and jet skiing. Each provides a unique way to experience the beauty of the surrounding waters and marine life.
• Check out the flora and fauna: One of the area’s most popular attractions, Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, boasting an impressive collection of flowering plants, cascading waterfalls and trees that set the stage for the “flowers of the sky.” Witness some 50 to 60 different species from around the world, as well as varieties of colorful birds, all under a climate-controlled, glass-enclosed habitat. Voted “Best Place to Take the Kids” and “Best Attraction in Key West,” it puts the natural world at your fingertips.
• Chilling at your own poolside bar: For good times with great people, just add water. And maybe one of those giant pink flamingo floaties for good measure. Having your own pool is the perfect way to refresh your attitude. We offer several properties with private pools. Rented by the month, Tropical Dream offers a retreat with wrap-around balconies and a sitting pool that spills into the main pool with a splashing waterfall. Available nightly or weekly, Dreaming on Duval boasts a sumptuous garden featuring a pool with waterfall, lush landscaping, outdoor grill and dining area and an elevated partially covered front porch. Check out our full inventory of Key West homes, all within a short trek to the sand.

  Whether you’re feeling burned out at work or just tired of the grind and need to step away from it all, create the ultimate change of scenery with a trip to Key West. Engage your senses in new sights, smells, tastes and sounds, improve your mental state and increase those coveted feelings of relaxation. Let us show you the way!