Spring Break in Key West: The Conch Republic Independence Celebration Begins April 22

Visitors to the southernmost point in the United States are often so enchanted with Key West that they never leave. A favorite haunt of Ernest Hemingway, the sunny island has diving and snorkeling, sailing and sunning, deep-sea fishing, elegant dining, and a rowdy nightlife scene. All connected to the mainland by an impressive island-hopping roadway-- possibly one of the prettiest roads on earth. There's never a bad time to visit, but Key West's Conch Republic Independence Celebration is a real hoot. Key West has called itself the Conch Republic since it "seceded" from Florida in 1982 with the motto: "The People Who Seceded Where Others Failed." With drag races, parades, food fests, and the "Conch Crawl," the celebration promises to be a rip-roaring good time. Residents are calling it: "The Conch Republic's own 4th of July, Bastille Day & Cinco de Mayo all rolled into one!"

Looking for some hotel recommendations? Scroll through the photos in our hand-picked collection of Four-Star and Five-Star hotels, and be tempted to plan your getaway. Pictured at right: The Reach, A Waldorf Astoria Resort.