Walk the full length of Bournemouth Pier and the town gradually drops away behind you until there is nothing but water on three sides. Key West is what waits at the end: a wide, glass-fronted restaurant and bar with a terrace that hangs over the sea. It is one of the few places in Bournemouth where the view genuinely is the point.
The food
The kitchen keeps things relaxed and coastal rather than formal. Lunch, sharing plates, snacks to go with a drink and a properly long cocktail list are the backbone of it, and fish and chips is the order most people default to once they have seen where they are sitting. The menu reflects a focus on fresh, simple ingredients that suit the seaside setting, with an emphasis on seafood but also options for meat-eaters and vegetarians alike. Gluten-free choices are marked on the menu and there is a separate children's menu, so mixed groups tend to sort themselves out easily.
Drinks get as much attention as the food here, which suits the way people actually use the place, settling in for a couple of hours rather than eating and leaving. The cocktail list is extensive and imaginative, featuring classic favourites alongside creative house specials that make the most of fresh fruit and herbs. There is also a good selection of wines, beers, and non-alcoholic options, ensuring everyone can find something to enjoy. Menus change through the year, so it is worth downloading the current one from their website before you go.
The relaxed approach to dining means that Key West is equally suitable for a casual lunch, a leisurely afternoon with drinks and snacks, or a more substantial evening meal. Sharing plates encourage a social atmosphere, perfect for groups or couples who want to sample a variety of flavours while enjoying the views.
The setting
The room is big, bright and unfussy, built to make the most of the windows. The interior design is contemporary and coastal, with light woods, nautical colours and comfortable seating that invites you to linger. The real draw is the outdoor terrace, a large open deck set with parasols that catches sun for most of the day and turns golden in the evening. Sunsets from here are the thing locals recommend, and there is very little between you and the horizon, making it a perfect spot for a memorable evening.
It is not a quiet corner restaurant. Live music runs through the year, along with tribute acts, comedy nights and DJ sessions on Sundays, and the space is regularly given over to birthdays, weddings and private events. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, with a mix of locals and visitors enjoying the unique setting. If you want a scenic lunch, come earlier in the day. If you want atmosphere and a soundtrack, come later. The terrace does close in rough weather, which is worth remembering in winter.
The venue’s location at the end of the pier means you are surrounded by sea air and the sound of waves, which adds to the overall experience. Whether you are dining inside with panoramic views through the floor-to-ceiling windows or outside on the terrace soaking up the sunshine, the setting is undeniably special.
Where it is
Key West is at the far end of Bournemouth Pier, reached from Pier Approach in the town centre. The pier itself is flat and level the whole way, so the walk is easy with a pushchair or a wheelchair, and there is no toll to pay to get out there. It sits directly above Bournemouth Beach, which makes it a natural stop after a morning on the sand or a stroll through the Lower Gardens.
The pier is a popular destination in its own right, with amusements, fishing spots and stunning views along the way, so visiting Key West can be part of a full day out. There is no parking on the pier, but several pay-and-display car parks in the centre are a short walk away. If you are building a longer day of eating and drinking, our food and drink guide covers what else is nearby.
Public transport links to the town centre are good, with frequent buses and trains serving Bournemouth station, making it easy to reach the pier without a car. Walking from the town centre to the pier is a pleasant experience, passing through the lively shopping streets and the tranquil Lower Gardens.
Good to know
Dogs are welcome inside and on the terrace, with water bowls available on request, which makes it a rare find for a seafront sit-down meal. This dog-friendly policy means you can enjoy a meal or a drink without leaving your four-legged friend behind, a real bonus for pet owners.
Baby changing facilities are provided, and the entrance has a small ramp and wide doors at ground level, ensuring accessibility for families and those with mobility needs. The staff are friendly and accommodating, often going the extra mile to make sure all guests feel comfortable.
Booking ahead is sensible in summer and on event nights, and groups can usually reserve an area subject to availability. The restaurant can get busy, especially during weekends, holidays and when live entertainment is on, so planning ahead helps avoid disappointment.
Opening hours shift with the season and the weather, so check the venue's own listings before making the trip out along the pier. The restaurant adapts to the changing daylight hours and visitor patterns, often staying open later in summer to make the most of the long evenings.
Events and entertainment
Key West is not just a restaurant but also a vibrant entertainment venue. Throughout the year, it hosts a variety of live music events, including tribute acts that celebrate classic rock, pop and soul artists. Comedy nights bring local and touring comedians to the stage, offering a lively alternative to the usual dining experience.
On Sundays, DJ sessions provide a relaxed but upbeat soundtrack, perfect for a weekend brunch or afternoon drinks. These events add to the lively atmosphere and make Key West a popular choice for locals looking for a night out with a view.
The venue is also a sought-after location for private events such as birthdays, weddings and corporate gatherings. Its unique setting at the end of the pier, combined with excellent food and drink, makes it an unforgettable place to celebrate special occasions.
Seasonal highlights
Visiting Key West in different seasons offers distinct experiences. In summer, the terrace is the place to be, with long sunny afternoons and spectacular sunsets over the sea. The warm weather encourages a relaxed, holiday-like vibe, and the extended opening hours allow for late evening drinks.
In autumn and winter, the focus shifts indoors, where the cosy atmosphere and panoramic views create a perfect setting for a romantic dinner or a quiet catch-up with friends. The menu adapts to the seasons too, with heartier dishes and warming cocktails making an appearance.
Spring is a lovely time to visit as the weather improves and the pier starts to buzz again. Early season visitors can enjoy quieter times on the terrace before the summer crowds arrive, making it ideal for a peaceful lunch with a view.
Planning your visit
To make the most of your visit to Key West, consider timing your trip to coincide with a sunset or a live event. Arriving early in the day means you can enjoy a relaxed lunch and perhaps a stroll along the pier before settling in for drinks.
If you are visiting with children, the separate kids’ menu and the easy access to the beach make it a family-friendly option. For couples or groups looking for atmosphere, an evening visit with live music or a DJ session offers a lively and memorable experience.
Remember to check the weather forecast, especially if you want to sit on the terrace, as it can close in rough conditions. Booking ahead during busy periods is recommended to secure your preferred seating.
Nearby attractions and things to do
After dining at Key West, you might want to explore more of what Bournemouth has to offer. The pier itself is a great place for a walk, with amusements and fishing spots along the way. The nearby Lower Gardens provide a peaceful green space to relax and enjoy seasonal displays.
If you want to extend your day out, Bournemouth’s seven miles of sandy beaches are easily accessible from the pier, perfect for a swim or a beach walk. For a cultural fix, the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum is a short distance away and well worth a visit.
Public transport and parking options in the town centre make it easy to combine a visit to Key West with other local attractions, whether you are staying in Bournemouth or just passing through.
Key West Restaurant on Bournemouth Pier offers a unique combination of stunning sea views, relaxed coastal dining, and lively entertainment. Whether you are a local or a visitor, it is a must-visit spot for a meal or drinks with a difference.
For more ideas on things to do around Bournemouth Pier, see our guide to things to do Bournemouth from pier walks to gardens and beaches.