Discover the real Key West, Florida (2024)

 The best time to visit Key West, FL depends on your priorities and interests. Here's a breakdown by season: 

Winter (December - February)

• Pros: Pleasant temperatures, little to no humidity, minimal rainfall, less crowded than peak seasons, ideal for outdoor activities like biking, fishing & kayaking
• Cons: Holiday crowds (specific to holiday breaks), higher prices due to holiday travel, and the potential for occasional cold fronts & colder ocean temperatures.
• Best for: Those seeking comfortable weather, smaller crowds, little to no humidity, and festive holiday celebrations.

Spring (March - May)

• Pros: Beautiful weather, numerous festivals and events, ideal for swimming and water sports.
• Cons: Higher prices, spring break crowds, occasional rain showers.
• Best for: Those seeking warm weather, enjoying outdoor activities, and participating in festivals and events.

 Summer (June - August)

• Pros: Hottest weather, longest daylight hours, ideal for sun bathers and water activities.
• Cons: Very hot and humid, highest prices, most crowded time to visit, potential for afternoon thunderstorms, & the beginning of hurricane season.
• Best for: Those seeking hot weather, enjoying water activities, and maximizing daylight hours.

Fall (September - November):

• Pros: Warm weather, less crowded than summer, temperatures & rain showers start to slow
• Cons: Hurricane season, occasional rain showers, and slightly unpredictable weather.
• Best for: Those seeking comfortable weather, smaller crowds, and enjoying outdoor activities without the intense summer heat.

Additional factors to consider:

• Events and festivals: Plan your trip around specific events to maximize your experience, especially if you are NOT a crowd person! Some of the largest annual Key West events are: Fantasy Fest, Conch Republic Independence Celebration, Hemingway Days, Key West Lobster Fest
• Personal preferences: Consider your tolerance for heat, crowds, and humidity.

Getting to Key West can be an adventure in itself! But luckily for you, we have made this trek multiple times & maybe we can give you some insight! Here are the best ways to get to Key West, Florida:

By Air: 

• Key West International Airport (EYW) is the closest option, with direct flights from many major cities. However, flights can be pricey, especially during peak season & significant holidays.
• Miami International Airport (MIA): A larger airport with more flight options and often cheaper fares than Key West International Airport. From Miami, you are roughly 160 miles from Key West (approximately 3.5 hours drive) 
• Fort Lauderdale International Airport (FLL): Also, a larger airport like MIA, but not as chaotic! Plus, flights tend to be the cheapest option when flying in and out of Fort Lauderdale. From Fort Lauderdale, you are roughly 180 miles from Key West (approximately a 4-hour drive).  *This is the airport we would choose to utilize personally*
• Seaplane - Keys By Seaplane is one of the most unique and quickest ways to get to Key West!

By Land:

• Rent a car and take the scenic Overseas Highway (US 1) down to Key West (roughly a 3-hour drive). If you get in on a late flight or want to island hop, we suggest making a pit stop at Islamorada because of the many things there are to do. Also, it's home to one of our bucket list adventures ➡ Alligator Reef Lighthouse!
• Shuttle Service: There are several shuttle services that you can schedule ahead of time; it just depends on whether you want it to be a private or shared transfer. Here are a few shuttle options to get to Key West:

1. Miami To Key West Shuttle
2. Grey Hound
3. Keys Shuttle

By Sea:

• Ferry: High-speed ferries like Key West Express operate from Fort Myers Beach and Marco Island, and takes about 3.5-hours ride.
• Cruise Ship: I only suggest taking a cruise if you don't plan to stay in Key West, but only want to 'experience' it. If we had to suggest a cruise to Key West, we suggest the one that sails to different latitudes - Margaritaville By Sea! Also, did you know we can book cruises for you as well? Click here & we can get started!

That's a tough question! Whether you need a car in Key West depends on your travel style and priorities! Here's a breakdown of the pros and cons to help you decide: 

Reasons to Rent a Car:

• Convenience: If you plan on exploring beyond Old Town, visiting other Key Islands, or going to further-flung beaches, a car provides independence and flexibility.
• Grocery shopping & errands: Carrying groceries or beach gear becomes easier with a car, especially if you're staying outside Duval Street.
• Day trips: Take spontaneous nature excursions to Big Pine to see the Key Deer or explore other Keys like Islamorada or Key Largo.
• Larger groups: If you're traveling with a large group, splitting the cost of a car can be more economical than taxis or shuttles.

Reasons to Go Car-Free:

• Walkability & bikeability: Key West is compact and easily walkable or even bikeable! Choose from guided bike tours, or even a private pedi-tiki tour, readily available for exploring further. If you plan to walk, make sure you have comfortable shoes! Just trust me!
• Parking challenges: Finding and paying for parking in Key West can be tricky, especially during peak season or during ANY festival.
• Cost-effectiveness: Renting a car adds to your vacation budget, while avoiding it allows for more spending on activities and food. 

Alternatives to a Car:

• FREE Hop On Hop Off Duval Loop Bus
• Conch Tour Train
• Taxis & ride-sharing
• Bicycle rentals
• Scooter rentals

Bonus Tip: Consider staying in a hotel or rental near Duval Street to minimize the need for transportation. Ultimately, the decision is yours! Weigh the pros and cons based on your travel plans and comfort level. Remember, Key West is a small island, and exploring car-free can enhance your experience by allowing you to soak in the atmosphere and connect with the locals.

Key West, Florida, isn't just about Duval Street sunsets and frozen margaritas (though those are pretty epic). This vibrant island paradise offers hidden gems and bucket list adventures waiting to be discovered. Here are a few ideas:

• Dry Tortugas National Park - Have you ever dreamed of stepping onto a Civil War-era fort amidst crystal-clear turquoise waters? Dry Tortugas National Park, a remote island chain 70 miles west of Key West, makes that dream a reality. 
• Reel in your dream catch - Cast your line for tarpon, snapper, grouper, or even that dream-catching Marlin during a deep-sea fishing excursion. 
• Dive into Hemingway's world - Explore the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, where the legendary author penned classics like "The Old Man and the Sea." 
• Go ghost hunting on a spooky tour: Uncover Key West's haunted past with a late-night ghost tour. Stroll through graveyards, visit haunted mansions, and listen to chilling tales of pirates, shipwrecks, and restless spirits.
• Catch a sunset sail: Cruise the calm waters on a romantic sunset sail, witnessing the sky transform into a vibrant spectacle of colors.