Key West. That tropical paradise at the end of the road. The Southernmost City in the Continental United States. The closest thing the U.S. has to a Caribbean island. But how the heck do you get here?? Well, it’s easier than you might think! Choose from any number of daily flights, a scenic drive, or even a ferry boat ride.
By Air
Flying is typically the fastest and most convenient way to get to Key West. Key West International Airport serves major airline carriers, like Delta, American Airlines, Continental, US Airways, and more with daily flights. You can catch a direct flight to Key West from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and other major Florida airports, as well as from Atlanta’s Hartsfield Jackson Airport.
Nonstop flights from New York’s La Guardia Airport and Washington D.C.’s Reagan National Airport began with limited service to the island during its high season through April.
If you’re flying from any other airport, your flight will likely be routed through Miami or Fort Lauderdale with service to Key West.
By Land
For anyone who’s visiting or lives in South Florida, a drive down to Key West can be a cost effective and scenic option to get to paradise. It’s roughly 150 miles away and a three and a half hour drive from Miami on the Scenic Overseas Highway. You’ll drive through the coastal part of the Everglades in South Florida before reaching Key Largo and the rest of The Keys. Drive over floating bridges and feel like you’re driving on water with nothing but the aquamarine ocean and the distant mangrove islands in view.
From Miami, take I-95 South to Florida State Road 836 West and go South on the Florida Turnpike, which leads to US-1 and the Overseas Highway. From there, it’s a straight shot south to Key West and Mile Marker 0.
By Sea
If you’re in the Fort Myers area, the Key West Express offers fast cat ferry service to Key West daily. It’s a comfortable, stable, and spacious 170′ catamaran with air-conditioned interiors, as well as sun decks for taking in the sights on your journey. You can purchase either one way or round trip tickets and elect to return the same day or stay over night. It’s a three and a half hour journey with adult roundtrip fares starting at $147. The Key West Express is a great way to get into the water sports spirit before you even arrive to the island oasis that is Key West.