Getting There & Away: Key West

Air Travel

Major Airports & Routes

West International Airport (EYW) is directly on the island, handling domestic flights. Miami (MIA) and Fort Lauderdale (FLL) International Airports serve as major international hubs to the north.

EYW Flights

Airlines: American Airlines, Delta, United, JetBlue, Allegiant Air.
Direct routes to major U.S. Cities like Miami, Atlanta, Charlotte, Boston, New York.
No direct international flights to EYW; customs cleared at U.S. Gateway airports.

Airport Facilities & Transfers

EYW is a smaller regional airport with basic amenities. Transfers from EYW are straightforward, while transfers from MIA/FLL require more planning.

Transfer Options

From EYW: Taxis, rideshare (Uber/Lyft), hotel shuttles, car rental.
From MIA/FLL: Rental car, Keys Shuttle (shared-ride van), or Greyhound bus service.
Prices vary seasonally; check flight deal sites like Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner.

Seasonal Flight Impact

High season (Dec-May) sees more frequent flights but significantly higher prices. Low season (Jul-Oct) presents fewer flights but generally lower fares.

Rental Car from MIA/FLL

This is the most popular and flexible option. The journey takes 3.5-4 hours from MIA and 4-4.5 hours from FLL, without significant traffic. Use sites like DiscoverCars.com for bookings.

Departure Timing EYW

Allow 1.5-2 hours before domestic departure from EYW, especially during peak season or early mornings. Check with your airline for deadlines.

Land Transportation

Bus Services & Self-Driving

Greyhound: Connects Miami and other Florida cities to West (4.5-5 hours from Miami).
Self-Driving: Overseas Highway (US-1) is well-maintained, but traffic can be heavy.
Parking: Limited and expensive, especially in Old Town. Hotels often charge daily fees.
Tolls: Some Florida highways have tolls; consider a "toll pass" option with rental cars.

Road Conditions & Safety

Overseas Highway: Can have heavy traffic, limited passing, crosswinds on bridges.
Speed Limits: Strictly enforced, typically 25-35 mph on the island.
Wildlife: Be aware of deer, especially on Big Pine , at dawn/dusk.
Hurricane Season: Roads can become impassable. Mandatory evacuation traffic is one-way northbound.

Sea Arrivals

West Express Ferry

High-speed ferry from Fort Myers Beach and Marco Island (3.5-4 hours journey). Docks near Old Town, convenient for attractions.

Cruise Ship Port

Cruise ships regularly call on West for day visits. Passengers disembark directly into Old Town, near Duval Street and attractions.

Immigration & Connections

International cruise passengers clear customs onboard. No immigration for U.S. Domestic ferry arrivals. Taxis and pedicabs are available at terminals.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Air Departure

No specific exit fees or taxes upon departure from West or the United States for tourists. These are typically included in ticket prices.

EYW Departure Timing

Allow 1.5-2 hours before domestic departure.
Peak season and early mornings may need more time.
Check with your airline for specific check-in deadlines.

Ferry & Driving Departure

For ferry departures, check-in typically closes 30-45 minutes before. For driving, plan for potential traffic.

Recommendations

West Express: Arrive at terminal at least an hour before departure.
Driving: Allow ample time for the drive up the Keys, especially weekends/holidays.
Consider departing very early morning to avoid congestion.

Airport & Station Facilities

EYW Amenities

Provides limited food and beverage options, gift shops for souvenirs, restrooms, and free Wi-Fi.

Ferry Terminal

Offers a basic waiting area, restrooms, and ticketing services. Food and beverages are often available onboard the ferry.

Cruise Port

Passengers disembark into Old Town, offering immediate access to shops and dining. Basic facilities nearby.

Getting There & Away