OP here, thanks for all the replies. I hadn't thought about the middle keys, that's a good idea I'll look into.

We went to Key Colony West our first time to the Keys, and we really didn't like it much. Had a four year old. Went to Key West a couple of times as a day trip and loved it. The following year we took our then five year old to Key West for a week. We all had a blast. Key West can be very adult, but it can also be kid-friendly.

We've only flown into Miami and rented a car to drive to the Keys. Next time we will fly to KW and not bother renting a car.

Anonymous wrote:Taking your 10yo to Key West is kind of like taking them to Mardi Gras. Any other options?

My kid goes to MG every year, live a little!

I think Key West is changing, we went 16 years ago and it was a massive party after 9pm, every night.

Visited again September 2015 for a poker run. It was much calmer than I remember. The clothing optional places aren't as plentiful as they used to be and I saw a ton of kids.

I don't mean it's like Disney World family friendly just not as adultish as it used to be.

Agree with trying the middle keys. Cheeca Lodge is lovely and kid friendly. You can do a day trip to Key West from there, or do 3 nights in Key Islamorada and 1 night in Key West.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:How old is your child? I don't think Key West is very kid friendly.

We went for years as kids! It's fabulous! Mallory square, butterfly house, even Duval.

Beaches are limited and kind of crappy, and the focus of much of Key West is on drinking and nightlife. Snorkeling is a lot of fun, too, but young kids aren't really the best age for snorkeling. I have been and really, really enjoyed it, but I don't think a 10 year old would feel at home there.