The posts started popping up over the weekend. They boldly announced that AquaPlex is returning to Key West. Some people were cynical and skeptical, worried they were being trolled. But the news is true.

New co-owner Jill McDonald posted Saturday afternoon “What a journey!  Here we go again! Lease is signed and just pulled into Key West!”

McDonald used to own Aqua (long before the ‘Plex’ was added). Her post infers that the iconic venue is returning to its longtime home at 711 Duval St.

Posts on social media trumpet the bar is “Resurfacing,” “Making Waves Again,” and that the Aquanettes will return.

Online reaction was ebullient. “What a bold move,” Leigha Fox said. “I’m so glad it’s going to someone who truly cares what happens to the people that actually make the place what it is.”

Darren Parker said “I'm so happy to see this. It will be in excellent hands again.”

OutSFL has reached out to McDonald for more details, including any intellectual property rights (name, logos, etc.) and any liability held over from the previous tenant. The previous incarnation was owned by Pride Holdings Group, which quit paying rent, some taxes, and a mortgage on the liquor license. 

It will be a while before Aqua reopens, as the interior was stripped bare by the previous tenants.

Photo via AquaPlex Key West, Facebook.