My husband and I along with another couple are planning a trip to the Keys in October for late 10 and 11 anniversary trips. We are looking at staying in Marathon at Tranquilty Resort. Never been to the Keys. So any and all info would be greatly appreciated on must do's, best places to eat fine dining and beach bar type places. Also looking at doing a day trip to Key West. Please pass along any info that you think we may need in planning this trip! Thanks in advance!

You will like Tranquilty Bay, very nice. They have the Butterfly Cafe onsite more upscale $$$ and they do have a beach bar. The pool is beautiful. Restaurants in the area are: Sunset Grille, by 7 mile bridge, food ok but the view at sunset is spectacular. Just have a cocktail and enjoy the view. Lazy Days good food and a great happy hour. Salty's (bay side) go to the top and check out the view. Berdines great sandwiches!! These places are close to where you are staying. Everything is by mile marker here, Marathon starts about MM 55 and down. Coming into town you will see The Island Resturant , a huge tiki Resturant, touristy and over priced but nice view. You will see Key Colony..3 places in here . Sparkys (just ok) and Cabanna Breezes which is located on the ocean, very nice view reasonable prices. Key Colony Inn,very good but you only eat inside. We have a nice beach here called Sombrero Beach. We have 2 large grocery stores..Publix & Winn Dixie. You can get everything you want. Let me know what kind of food or things you have interest in doing while here <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/dine.gif" alt="" /> <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Grin.gif" alt="" />

Just an FYI, if you don't care for large crowds be careful when you book in October. I believe Fantasy Fest is near the middle of the month and the Parrot Head convention is the week after that and then the week after is usually the speed boat races. We were there during the Parrot Head convention one year (not intentionally) and the restaurants and bars were very crowded.

Fantasy Fest is the end of Oct, first week of Nov is the Parrotheads and the boat races are Nov 7-10..... for the most part Marathon is not like Key West.

Looking to go to the Keys December 14 for a week. Does any one know what the weather is around that time.

It COULD be chilly, but no way to know. The past two years, it seems that we have had some pretty good cold spells in December, here in Florida.

Debjoe,

I go to Key West every year during that time frame; usually around Dec 11 to 18. Weather is always warm. Two years ago I was on a boat in the Lighted Boat Parade out on the water at night and was wearing only a tank top. Nights are only slightly cooler than the days. Maybe a light sweater or jacket could be in order for an air conditioned restaurant. Otherwise, bring summer clothes. After five years of going during this time frame it only rained once during the day for an hour or so. Of course, this is for Key West only. I can't speak for the upper keys and you didn't specifically mention Key West. Hope this helps.

Wayne <><

That's funny. We in Florida think it's cold. Someone from NH would think it's warm!
We go to the beach in the summer, never in the winter! Water is too cold. Depends where you are from I guess.
Cheers
irina

Yup, too right there, Irina! Living in Florida does mess with your perceptions of some things! <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Grin.gif" alt="" />

So true Irina. Most Florida natives don't go in the water without a wetsuit until it hits the 80s. December weather in Key West is usually quite nice, but the ocean temps are way too cold. Find a place with a heated pool or hot tub and you will love your stay.

Thank you for all your information. We are going to Key West for our 25th Wedding anniversary in December 15 to 21. We were they last March and loved it. Great weather and plenty to do.

Bring a sweater and you will get to see all the decorations!! Fabulous...

LOL Sweater for sure!
Cheers
irina