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Key West sits at the southernmost tip of the continental United States, connected to the mainland by the legendary Overseas Highway — a 113-mile ribbon of road and bridge strung across the turquoise waters of the Florida Keys. It is a place unlike anywhere else in America: a former pirate haven and shipwrecking capital transformed into a literary haunt for Ernest Hemingway and Tennessee Williams, and today a destination that blends Caribbean color, deep-sea fishing, world-class snorkeling, and an eccentric, fiercely independent character. Direct and connecting flights from major U.S. cities make Key West accessible as a last-minute destination.
Duval Street and Old Town
Duval Street is Key West's legendary main drag — a mile-long corridor of bars, restaurants, galleries, and shops that runs from the Atlantic Ocean to the Gulf of Mexico. The entertainment never truly stops along Duval, and the Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square draws crowds each evening to watch street performers, artisans, and the spectacular Gulf sunsets that have made Key West famous worldwide. Old Town Key West, a National Historic Landmark District, preserves some of the finest examples of conch-style Victorian architecture in the country. Wandering the tree-lined residential streets of Old Town — past the Ernest Hemingway Home, the Key West Lighthouse, and the Southernmost Point buoy — is one of the most rewarding urban walks in Florida.
Water Sports and Marine Life
Key West sits at the heart of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, encompassing the third-largest coral reef system in the world. Snorkeling and scuba diving here are genuinely world-class, with shipwrecks, coral gardens, and extraordinary marine biodiversity within easy reach of the shore. Key West is also one of the premier sport fishing destinations in the hemisphere — tarpon, bonefish, permit, sailfish, and the legendary roosterfish are all targeted by visiting anglers. Glass-bottom boat tours, parasailing, jet ski rentals, kayaking through mangrove channels, and sunset sailing cruises round out an extraordinary on-water lineup.
Food, Drinks, and the Island Culture
Key West's culinary signature is the Key lime pie — a tart, creamy custard made from the small, aromatic limes that grow throughout the Keys, served in a graham cracker crust. Every restaurant and bakery in town has a version, and the debates about the best are spirited. Fresh seafood dominates menus — yellowtail snapper, hogfish, stone crab claws, and spiny lobster appear everywhere during season. The nightlife and bar culture are legendary: Sloppy Joe's Bar, where Hemingway famously drank, the Green Parrot, and the Rick's Complex all deliver the uninhibited, anything-goes island atmosphere that defines Key West at night.
Driving the Overseas Highway
For travelers who want the full Keys experience, renting a car in Miami and driving the Overseas Highway to Key West is one of the most memorable road trips in the United States. The Seven Mile Bridge — which replaced the original Flagler Railroad bridge — offers views that seem to place the vehicle in the middle of the open ocean. Along the way, stops at Islamorada (sport fishing capital), Marathon (Turtle Hospital), and Big Pine Key (Key deer wildlife refuge) add texture to a journey that is as memorable as the destination itself. The drive takes approximately 3.5 hours from Miami under normal conditions.
Popular Routes to Key West
Airlines Flying to Key West
Best Time to Book Flights to Key West
Best Months
November – April
Peak Season
December – April
Budget Season
June – August
Travel Tips for Key West
Nearest Airport
Key West International Airport (EYW)
Transportation
The island is best explored on foot, bicycle, scooter, or golf cart. Local taxis and ride-share serve the main corridors.
Weather
Tropical — warm and sunny year-round, averaging 75–90°F. Hurricane season runs June–November.
Frequently Asked Questions — Flights to Key West
How do I fly to Key West?
Key West International Airport (EYW) receives nonstop and connecting flights from Atlanta, Miami, Charlotte, New York, and other hubs. American Airlines, Delta, and United are the primary carriers.
Is it cheaper to fly to Miami and drive to Key West?
Often yes. Miami has significantly more flight options and often lower fares. The drive from Miami to Key West takes approximately 3.5 hours on the Overseas Highway — a scenic route in its own right.
What is the best time of year to visit Key West?
November through April offers the best weather — warm, sunny, and dry. Summer is hot and humid with hurricane risk, though prices drop considerably and the crowds thin.
Do I need a car in Key West?
Not necessarily. Old Town Key West is very walkable, and bicycles, scooters, and golf carts are widely available for rent. A car is only needed for day trips up the Keys.
What is Key West famous for?
Key West is famous for its extraordinary sunsets, Ernest Hemingway connections, vibrant nightlife on Duval Street, world-class fishing and diving, Key lime pie, and its eccentric, independent character.
Is Key West good for snorkeling?
Yes — Key West has some of the best snorkeling in the continental United States, with access to the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary's coral reefs, wrecks, and marine life.
How far is Key West from Miami?
Key West is approximately 160 miles from Miami by road via the Overseas Highway — about a 3.5-hour drive. It's also reachable by ferry or fast boat from Fort Lauderdale in approximately 3.5 hours.
Is Key West expensive?
Key West is one of the more expensive destinations in Florida due to its island location and high demand. However, budget accommodations, free beaches, and happy hour specials can make a trip manageable.
