Yeah, it will be hot that time of year, but you're right, the town's oceanside setting makes it that much more bearable. As for the party-town vibe, I don't think you need to worry too much. Just stay away from Duval Street later at night and you'll be fine. My wife and I honeymooned here and managed to avoid the seedier, uglier stuff. That said, the atmosphere on the waterfront at Mallory Square is really fun; totally family-friendly, if a little crowded and overdone when the big cruise ships are in. That said, plenty of low-key places, beaches, and attractions in and around Key West to make this a good family vacation pick. If you haven't already booked, check out our family-travel expert's profile of the Beachside Resort (http://blogs.away.com/travel/2008/08/the-other-key-w.html).