Key West is a renowned destination filled with vibrant culture, rich history, and undeniable natural beauty. One of Key West’s highlights is the celebrated lobster season, a cherished time of year for locals and visitors. To optimize your time in the Florida Keys during this period, it’s important to understand the ins and outs of the season while finding accommodations that perfectly complement your stay.

Bayfront Suites offers extraordinary Key West waterfront rentals that combine luxury and convenience, ensuring every moment of your visit is extraordinary.

What Is a Spiny Lobster?

Key West is home to the spiny lobster, a species distinct from the Maine lobster, often found in colder Atlantic waters. Known for their hard shells and lack of large claws, spiny lobsters are especially recognized for their tender tails, prized by seafood lovers. These lobsters thrive in the warm coastal waters around Key West, with habitats ranging from coral reefs to rocky surfaces. Spiny lobsters are nocturnal scavengers, feeding under the cover of darkness and often hiding during the day.

For those attending lobster season in Key West, proper knowledge of this crustacean, its habitats, and the local guidelines on harvesting will help ensure a successful outing. Visitors are encouraged to familiarize themselves with Florida Keys regulations, as guidelines pertaining to size limits, seasonal restrictions, and licensing are closely monitored to maintain the health of the lobster population.

Spiny Lobster Sport Season

Each year, the Florida Keys host a special two-day event referred to as the spiny lobster sport season. In 2025, this season is scheduled for July 30–31. Intended primarily for recreational harvesters, this limited timeframe provides an opportunity for capturing fresh lobster before the regular season begins. Those attending this unique event must carry a recreational saltwater fishing license and a lobster permit. Rules regarding the number of lobsters that can be harvested per day vary between Monroe County, the region encompassing the Keys, and other Floridian waters. During these two thrilling days, dive gear and snorkeling equipment become indispensable tools for enthusiasts channeling expert precision to harvest spiny lobsters from the sea. This season also offers a chance to explore other unique things to do in Key West. Perhaps pair lobster-catching with other aquatic adventures, such as kayaking between mangrove islands or chartering a boat for reef exploration.

Regular Spiny Lobster Season

The regular spiny lobster season occurs each year between August 6 and March 31. This period provides commercial and recreational harvesters an extended window to enjoy Key West’s waters while engaging in the pursuit of Florida’s prized crustacean. An exciting aspect of the regular season is its harmonious coexistence with other Key West attractions and experiences. Many visitors plan trips that span days or weeks, combining lobster hunting with the best of the island’s other offerings. The warm tropical waters of Key West serve as the perfect location to spend hours snorkeling or scuba diving while searching for lobster alongside vibrant schools of fish, coral gardens, and exotic marine life. From sunrise to sunset, the regular season offers countless opportunities to integrate adventurous outings into your travel itinerary. 

What to Expect from Key West Lobster Season

Lobster season in Key West is more than a seafood-focused occasion; it’s a festive narrative embedded within the island lifestyle. For visitors, the adventure begins as they explore the coastline’s rich underwater environments in search of spiny lobsters. The clear waters and vibrant marine landscape provide unmatched opportunities for gathering shellfish while taking in the beauty of Key West’s surroundings. Local festivities also add layers of excitement. During lobster season in Key West, community-wide celebrations often take center stage. Seafood festivals, fishing competitions, and local markets offer visitors a chance to taste the freshest local catch alongside other remarkable regional dishes. Collectively, the atmosphere of lobster season is brimming with activity, ensuring visitors find countless Key West things to do during their time on the island. Travelers often arrive equipped with specialized gear enabling them to safely and effectively harvest spiny lobsters. 

The Perfect Vacation Rentals for Lobster Season

When visiting Key West for lobster season, finding the right accommodation is key to creating a seamless travel experience. Bayfront Suites offers a collection of Key West waterfront rentals designed to elevate your time on the island. With homes equipped to cater to families, groups, or solo travelers, these upscale properties boast proximity to the ocean, providing direct access to docks and marina facilities for those arriving by boat. Whether you plan to boat from Miami to Key West or bring your own vessel for lobster harvesting excursions, Bayfront Suites offers accommodations that perfectly complement your plans.

Upper Bayview North

Upper Bayview North exemplifies coastal elegance. This four-bedroom, four-bathroom rental provides ample space within a thoughtfully designed environment. Guests can expect refined interiors paired with luxurious amenities that set the tone for a tranquil stay. From comfortable bedding to well-appointed living spaces, every detail ensures relaxation is effortless. One of the standout features of Upper Bayview North is its waterfront location, which guarantees exceptional views and easy access to the marina. Whether you’re searching for lobster or enjoying the surrounding tropical serenity, this upscale property serves as an idyllic retreat from the activity of the day. Boat access further enhances Upper Bayview North’s prestige, making it a superb choice for lobster season in Key West.

Bayview Middle

For visitors looking for a sleek yet spacious setting, Bayview Middle offers a three-bedroom, two-bathroom suite that blends luxury and functionality. Tall ceilings and modern designs welcome guests, features that maximize comfort and spaciousness within this stunning rental. Another highlight is the suite’s private covered porch, offering direct access to the waterfront and pool area. This combination of stylish comfort and practical amenities makes it an attractive lodging option for visitors participating in the lobster season. Those looking for rentals in Key West that offer proximity to the water will benefit greatly from staying in Bayview Middle.

Bayview South

Bayfront Suites’ Bayview South property provides unparalleled accessibility and relaxation for guests seeking lodging with refined accommodations. Designed with care and attention to detail, Bayview South boasts luxurious furnishing and seamless functionality, including a fully equipped kitchen with stainless steel appliances as well as an accessible bathroom. The property offers ample room for families or groups through thoughtfully arranged bedroom options. Bayview South combines exceptional interiors with proximity to the waterfront, ensuring guests experience the best of Key West lobster season. 

Key West Luxury Rentals with Bayfront Suites

Bayfront Suites takes pride in offering luxury rentals in Key West that serve as a home away from home. Each carefully designed property merges waterfront views with modern functionality, accommodating guests seeking relaxation, adventure, or a mix of both. Every suite provides access to Key West’s marina and docks, ensuring hassle-free options for those harnessing boats for their lobster-season expeditions. Complete with amenities to make your stay comfortable and memorable, our properties allow you to fully savor lobster season without compromise. From thrilling Key West events to unforgettable excursions, Bayfront Suites guarantees an experience rooted in style, luxury, and convenience. Choose Bayfront Suites for your journey to the Florida Keys, and discover accommodations that redefine every aspect of traveler satisfaction during lobster season.